“Besides the huge risk that this poses to residents who will not have access to Emergency Services or EMPD protection, rubbish is already piling high in Kempton Park where there has been no refuse removal since Tuesday, July 22,” says DA shadow MMC for Roads and Transport, Bill Rundle.
He warned of the deteriorating situation reaching crisis point months ago.
Rundle claims metro staff confirms that supplies have run out at Kempton Park, Edenvale, Bedfordview and the only depot with stock was Boksburg.
“Further information has come to hand that the Central Depot in Germiston has now also run out of supplies.”
The matter has allegedly been ongoing from December 2013, and been reported on extensively.
Rundle says the metro has denied that there is a problem, but according to him, it is clear that the poor payment record of the metro has alienated many suppliers.
“The continued late payment of suppliers, which is in contravention of directives from no less than the President, the MFMA (Municipal Finance Management) and the National Treasury, appears to confirm that corrective measures have not been actioned by the metro.”
The essential services of Law Enforcement, Waste Removal and Emergency Services – including Standby Emergency Services for water and electricity – which all require staff being transported to work areas, will allegedly no longer be possible.
“The newly appointed supplier has apparently refused to commence with deliveries unless the metro makes advance payments.”
Rundle continues by saying the situation has come about due to bad planning and incompetence. “Payment arrangements must be part of the supply agreement and be finalised before the awarding of the supply contract.
“It is unacceptable that this becomes a bone of contention.
“While the MFMA may place restrictions on advance payments, a simple arrangement of a performance guarantee, arranged with the metro’s bankers, would ensure certainty of payment subject to compliance with the terms and conditions of the supply agreement.”
Rundle says the safety, security and clean working and living environment for citizens guaranteed by the constitution are under threat. – @IschkeBoksburg
