Question NW142 to the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
23 July 2019 - NW142
Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
Whether he has been informed of the chaotic situation resulting from the renovations of the Durban High Court which are being undertaken while court proceedings are in progress, causing disruptions that may lead to justice being delayed and ultimately denied; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether he has been in consultation with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure in order to look for alternative premises to ensure that an efficient process is followed; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) Whether there is a time frame in place for the completion of the renovations of the specified high court edifice; if not, why not; if so, by what date will the renovations be completed?
Reply:
1. The construction activity happening is in fact not at the Durban High Court, but in the adjacent building at the Department of Labour Masonic Grove Building (which is a separate stand-alone building across the street). There renovations at the Durban High Court itself are planned for later and the project is still on the preparatory phase.
2. Yes there has been consultation with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and co-incidentally the DPWI responded to similar question asked by Honourable Nxumalo of the IFP. The consultation culminated to an arrangement with the Contractor who is revising the work schedule in order for the construction work to be performed after hours and at night. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is in the processes of facilitating a meeting between the contractor and the Judge President of the High Court, Judge President Jappie to confirm the agreement reached regarding the shifting of times for the on-going construction work.
3. The department of Labour Masonic Grove Building renovations are scheduled to be completed in May 2020.
NW1100E