Closure of ‘unsafe’ Mpumalanga High Court evaded

She said the suspension of the implementation of the prohibition notice will provide an opportunity for the department to address the issues raised in the prohibition notice, which include ensuring proper ventilation, provision of a report confirming the integrity of the structure and provision of the occupancy certificate.

“The departments provided extensive feedback to DEL (department of employment and labour) on matters relating to the prohibition notice and progress thereof. It is based on the above that the extension was granted. The department remains committed to resolving the issues raised by DEL including ensuring the safety of staff, judiciary and members of the public.

“The discussions are still ongoing between the parties including the exchange of expert and technical reports to find a long-term solution to matters that were raised.”

Masibi said the court will remain open on Monday.

The department of labour’s deputy director-general Aggy Moiloa said the inspection was conducted after they received several complaints about the condition of the court.

“The reason we ended up prohibiting the building is because the ceiling is collapsing and this causes immediate danger to anyone who is in and around that area,” she said in an interview with the SABC.

“We also found that there is poor plumbing work done. The pipes were leaking… and because of that, it is damaging the structure of the building.”

Masibi said the matter was being attended to by the department with the urgency it deserves.

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