Macpherson vows to keep watchful eye on reconstruction of Parliament

CAPE TOWN - Minister of Public Works Dean Macpherson said he’s open to investigating any evidence that contractors involved in rebuilding Parliament are not up to the job.

The National Coloured Congress (NCC) recently claimed that the contractors appointed by the Development Bank of South Africa are not suited to prepare the site for construction.

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Macpherson inspected the fire-gutted buildings on Thursday.

He said despite the Development Bank of Southern Africa taking the lead on the reconstruction, he would be very hands-on in monitoring progress.

Macpherson said if there’s non-performance by contractors, they will be held accountable and made to pay penalties for poor performance and delays.

He’s expecting bi-weekly progress reports on the rebuilding.

Macpherson also encouraged those with evidence of impropriety to approach his office.

“I’m very comfortable and very happy to investigate any allegations. But I think it’s important that it is backed up by substantive evidence so we can look into it and investigate it. I can’t investigate rumours and allegations.”

Meanwhile, secretary to Parliament Xolile George has defended criticism that the rubble-removing process has been taking long.

“Earlier in May, we had rubble caused by the fire itself with water. As we go forward, when the building is dropped down, there will still be rubble. At every stage of the project, there will be rubble up until the end.”

The main contractor is expected to be appointed in October.