South Africa: Public Works to Study Final George Building Collapse Report

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) will study the final report on the George building collapse. This tragic incident occurred on May 6, 2024, killing 34 people and injuring 28 others. Minister Dean Macpherson received the report from the Council for the Built Environment (CBE). The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) was involved in this process.

The DPWI stated that this report is crucial for uncovering the truth. They aim to hold those responsible accountable for the disaster.

Minister Macpherson said they will carefully review the report. He wants to create a plan to prevent future tragedies like this one. After reviewing it, he will return to George to share findings with affected families directly. He believes they deserve clear communication about what went wrong.

The Minister noted that systemic failures caused the collapse. There was a lack of cooperation among key stakeholders and regulatory bodies. He stressed that accountability is essential when lives are lost due to human error.

The department will collaborate with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other relevant authorities. Their goal is to ensure accountability in this matter.

Last month marked one year since the building collapse. The Minister addressed the community at George Town Hall during this anniversary.

In April, an independent investigation revealed multiple systemic failures leading to the collapse. Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane presented these findings, which included procedural lapses and poor material quality. Violations of occupational health and safety protocols were also identified in the report.