(Debate in Free State Legislature)
The Free State Department of Public Works and Infrastructure does not stimulate the Free State's economy and in reality, only contributes to the decline of the municipalities in the province.
An example demonstrating this is the fact that the Department owes a considerable amount to the Mangaung Metro Council. The Department's debt to the Metro contributes to the provincial government debt of approximately R1,5 billion and comprises 21% of the Metro's outstanding debtors.
If the Department were to fulfil its responsibility towards the Metro, it would bring great relief to the Metro's residents.
The FF Plus considers it an absolute shame that this Department’s poor planning and irresponsible financial management are affecting local government, which in turn, has a detrimental impact on residents.
This Department also fails to make use of opportunities to generate its own income. Projects in which millions of rand were invested, like the revolving restaurant in the Fidel Castro Building in Bloemfontein, must be managed in such a way that they contribute to the financial sustainability of the Department. This project was completed a number of years ago, but today it is a white elephant.
The Covid-19 pandemic may not be used as an excuse for the Department's failure to perform its duties.
The government owes itself money and the seemingly never-ending process of debt shifting from one level of government to the next must no longer be tolerated.
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