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[FILE IMAGE]: A multi-story building under construction in George, collapsed last year, leading to the death of 34 workers and the injury of another 28.
Cosatu has welcomed the decision by Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, for criminal charges to be laid against those responsible for the disaster in George, that led to the death of 34 construction workers and injured 28 others.
The multi-story building on Victoria Lane collapsed while under construction in May last year.
Cosatu National spokesperson, Zanele Sabela, says according to the minister, the final report released by the Engineering Council of South Africa, details a picture of preventable errors, regulatory failures and professional negligence.
Sabela says the council will brief the public on the outcomes after meeting with the families of the deceased and the injured.
“Cosatu has consistently called for those responsible to be fully held to account. The federation is pleased they will face criminal charges, because we cannot stand by while workers’ lives are sacrificed, when unscrupulous employers do not comply with laws that are meant to safeguard lives. The federation will ensure that those who flout the laws of the country face stringent sanctions and penalties as per the provisions of the Housing Consumer Protection Act, passed by President Cyril Ramaphosa in January,” says Sabela.
Meanwhile, findings contained in the report led to the suspension of five officials from the National Home Builders Registration Council.
Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane says the final report has been referred to authorities to determine who should be held liable for the deaths.
George Building Collapse | 5 NHBRC officials suspended:
