ENGEN has issued a response to the demands made by the South Durban Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) at a community cancer walk on Saturday, 11 October.
SDCEA co-ordinator, Desmond D’Sa addressed the hundreds of people gathered outside the Engen Refinery on Tara Road, calling for harsher punishments for chemical polluters in the local community.
Prior to the walk, SDCEA requested permission to gather outside the refinery entrance, but this was denied by Engen.
“Engen recognises and respects the constitutional right of every person to protest and organise a protest march. As such, Engen did not prevent Saturday’s march from going ahead. Engen had however voiced its objection to the march proceeding to the Engen Refinery. Such action would have implied that Engen was responsible for unfounded allegations of causing cancer and other ailments,” refinery public affairs manager, Thandeka Cele.
Despite the objection, the crowds still marched on the refinery and issued a list of demands for Engen and other South Durban chemical industries. “For many years, we as the residents have been victims of Engen’s toxic pollution,” said D’Sa in his speech outside the refinery, which called for the establishment of a 24-hour clinic and sanctions against polluters.
“The Engen Refinery is one of over 120 industries operating in the South Durban area. Without any credible scientific evidence to prove that Engen is indeed responsible, Engen regarded the march as an unlawful, wrongful and malicious act, intended to injure and defame the name of Engen.
Engen has a right to protect its assets and employees. In the past, violence had marred protest actions to the Engen Refinery. In March this year, a security guard was assaulted by protesters.
Engen is proud of its commitment to be a caring and responsible partner of the South Durban community. The company will continue to work together with the community in meaningful ways,” said Cele.
