Vagrants situation persists in the residential areas
Even though the situation with the beggars has drastically improved in the CBD, residents in the suburban parts of the town are still plagued by beggars in every intersection
In its response, the Newcastle Municipality commented, “We have seen a reduction in the number of traders and beggars at crossroads. This has been validated by the arrest of regulars on July 27, as well as subsequent ad hoc occasions,” said the municipality.
The municipality further underlined the involvement of citizens in exacerbating the situation, as many are still seen leaning out of their automobiles to offer money to beggars.
The topic of beggars causes division in opinions especially in the social media space with residents however the majority seem to be in agreement with the municipality’s stance.
We can’t complain about motorist safety while also rewarding beggars for being there,” said an anonymous Hutten Heights homeowner.
The Newcastle Advertiser spoke to local councillor Bertie Meiring who stated that we all have to abide by the rules and regulations. “It is also a concern that some people are feeling unsafe with the beggars looking in their cars and emotionally ‘putting pressure’ on them to give them money or food, he continued.
Long term solutions to the vagrant issue are needed which are the responsibility of the Department of Social Development and other relevant stakeholders.
“If a person or organisation wishes to help, they should do so with follow-up actions or education to help them acquire skills that will help them get out of their circumstances,” concurs Meiring.
“If you give a man a fish, you only feed him for a day, If you teach a man to fish, you’ll feed him for a lifetime.” he concludes.
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