MyPE

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Absent by-law takes the life of an innocent teenager

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Dear MyPE

Without a dedicated by-law that deals with derelict and structurally unsound buildings, more innocent people are going to die.

Having visited the site of Renaldo Burgess’ death yesterday afternoon, (click here for image) I am even more determined to introduce by-laws which will reduce the danger and risk posed by derelict municipal buildings.

The DA recently proposed a by-law in council to deal with these dangerous structures, which was rejected by the ANC. Political arrogance of this nature only paralyses any progress towards solving the ongoing broken buildings crisis, which has now taken an innocent life.

Another motion will be tabled in Council in a determined effort to introduce a by-law which will solve this disaster, before more people die.

The DA will remain steadfast in its commitment to hold this government to account, so that the people of this Metro can live safely in our communities.

In government, the DA will introduce a Problem Buildings By-Law that will be enforced by a dedicated team of municipal rangers and a dedicated local law enforcement unit.

This by-law will work towards:

  • Ensuring community safety.
  • Eradicating crime hotspots.
  • Restoring investor confidence in our Metro.

I am deeply saddened by the death of 14-year-old Renaldo Burgess, which could have been avoided had the municipality listened to DA ward councillor, Isaac Adams. Councillor Adams had been asking for the demolition of the building and sale of the land long before it tragically collapsed, killing the young teenager.

A Caring Metro must be close to its people, because when it ignores residents, people die.

The DA is committed to caring for our most vulnerable residents who are sadly forced to earn a living by scavenging around abandoned buildings.

The DA is set on winning Nelson Mandela Bay in next year’s elections so that we can end this tragic state of affairs by starting real delivery, stopping corruption and creating thousands of jobs.

Regards

Athol Trollip

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Port Elizabethan

This author is a 'catch-all' for occasional articles and letters written to MyPE. The Author of each article can be found in the signature at the bottom of each individual article.