The Gauteng MEC for Environmental Affairs, Shyla Peters, has revealed that critical fire prevention work at provincial nature reserves has been neglected due to the prolonged suspension of two junior officials. The suspended employees have been paid R1,341,979 while on suspension since July 2022, leaving essential maintenance tasks, including crucial firebreak construction, unattended.
Firebreaks, which are vital for preventing the spread of fires between nature reserves and residential areas, have not been maintained during this period, putting both wildlife and surrounding communities at risk.
This concerning information emerged in response to questions raised in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL).
According to MEC Peters, the two junior officials were suspended for allegedly assaulting someone at department premises and bringing the department into disrepute, violating the public service code of conduct.
While the employees successfully challenged their suspension at the bargaining council and were awarded compensation, the department has taken the matter to the Labour Court for review. Meanwhile, taxpayers continue to fund their salaries during this extended suspension period, which has now stretched to almost two years.
The situation exemplifies a broader crisis within the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG), where staff suspensions regularly exceed the mandated 30-day resolution period. These prolonged suspensions not only hamper essential government services but also drain public resources through continued salary payments.
The DA is demanding that the department expedite the Labour Court review process and ensure all disciplinary actions are completed within the prescribed 30-day timeframe. Each day of delay compromises service delivery and creates mounting backlogs in critical government functions.
The department’s leadership has displayed serious management failures by allowing the suspension of two junior employees to halt essential conservation work. This situation demonstrates unacceptable organizational planning and resource management.
A DA-led Gauteng provincial government would implement strict timelines for disciplinary proceedings and ensure swift filling of vacancies following dismissals. The public deserves efficient administration that maintains consistent service delivery while managing internal matters effectively.