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Media Release

25 June, 2009

WCED counts the cost of storm damage

Statement by Donald Grant, MEC for Education in the Western Cape

The WCED is currently counting the cost of flood and storm damage at schools across the Western Cape.

MEC for education Donald Grant said that twelve schools had reported damage so far.

"The schools that were hardest hit by the weather are situated in the Cape Winelands and West Coast districts. Strong winds caused significant roof damage in many of the schools," he said.

Iingcinga Zethu Secondary, Riebeeck Wes Primary, Smuts Malan High, Dirkie Uys High, FD Conradie Primary, Wanganella Primary, Bella Vista Primary and Attie van Wyk Primary, all experienced roof damage.

Steynville Primary and Villiersdorp Secondary experienced structural damage, while Tulbagh High, and Wyssersdrift Primary experienced flooding.

Grant said that the WCED had yet to determine the cost of the damages and that Department of Public Works had been requested to assess the damage at some of the schools. Schools that had experienced minor damages were requested to approach several contractors for quotes and report these back to the Department.

"Obviously we want the repair work to start as soon as possible," he said.

Repair work paid for the by the Department would come from the Department's Emergency Maintenance Fund. The Emergency Maintenance Fund had been allocated R7.3 million for the 2009/10 financial year.

"Our primary concern though is the learners and staff. We are relieved that none of them are in immediate danger," said Grant.

"Bella Vista Primary closed early yesterday due to safety concerns, however, the area has since been cleared and secured. Classes have now resumed."

"We cannot control the weather, but we will ensure that every effort is made so that our learners can return from their holidays in July to classrooms that are safe and dry."

For enquiries, contact Bronagh Casey:  072 724 1422 or brcasey@pgwc.gov.za.


Issued by:
Bronagh Casey
Media Liaison Officer
Office of the MEC for Education
Western Cape
Tel: 021 467 2377
Fax: 021 425 5689

Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za


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