JOHANNESBURG – The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng is calling for health and safety checks to be conducted at facilities housing elderly, people living with disabilities and mental health patients.
The call comes at the back of a fire which broke out at an old age home in Germiston on Thursday.
One person was killed in the blaze with another four elderly residents rushed to hospital.
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.
The EFF in Gauteng has slammed what is described as the neglect of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the province.
The party said it was unacceptable that facilities which cater to the most vulnerable are not prioritised.
In recent years, non-profit organisations in Gauteng have been battling to navigate through funding cuts.
Shortly after taking office, new Social Development MEC Faith Mazibuko committed to mending the relationship with the NGOs.
The EFF says its representatives will keep a close eye on investigations into the fire in Germiston to determine if the tragic incident could have been avoided.
EWN
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