It has been four years since the psychiatric ward in Charlotte Maxeke Hospital was scheduled to be upgraded at an amount of R12.5 million, but the condition remains poor.
According to the [DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health Jack Bloom, @JackBloomDA] R1.2 million was spent on a contractor that failed to finish the project.
“Chryselda Building Construction was engaged in 2011 to upgrade the psychiatric ward but the contract was terminated because they could not do the job,” said Bloom.
He complained that the conditions at the ward were highly unsatisfactory for patients, as shown by a YouTube video that was circulated earlier this year by a relative of one of the patients.
“The video showed bare walls, cockroaches and a crude lock on the security gate,” he said.
Bloom reckoned the toilets were in bad condition, male and female patients were not properly separated, and there were only 20 beds.
“The plan is to expand to 40 beds and ensure a congenial environment for psychiatric patients,” said Bloom.
He said it was inexcusable that improvement plans were delayed by a poor choice of a contractor. “Why does the department appoint incompetent companies so often,” asked Bloom.
He concluded that appointment of incompetent contractors happened often and companies that were politically connected were appointed.
“The department has advertised the tender to upgrade and improve the ward. I hope that a good company is appointed so that this long-overdue project is completed as soon as possible,” concluded Bloom.
Questions were sent to the Department of Health spokesperson Steve Mabona and comment is awaited.
Details: DA Shadow MEC for Health Jack Bloom 082 333 4222; Gauteng Department of Health spokesperson Steve Mabona 011 355 3469.
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