Question NW720 to the Minister of Transport
22 May 2020 - NW720
Van Minnen, Ms BM to ask the Minister of Transport
(1) (a) What plans does the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) have for when the remainder of the AFRO4000 locomotives, which are deemed unsuitable for the rail network, are delivered to the Republic and (b) which entity would take ownership of the locomotives; (2) (a) whether Prasa has already paid R2,6 billion for the locomotives; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, why is Prasa negotiating to purchase the locomotives; (3) what (a) is the relationship between Prasa and certain companies (names furnished) and (b) steps is Prasa taking to ensure restitution of the R2,6 billion?
Reply:
PRASA has commenced exploratory talks under the guidance of the Department of Transport with the Liquidators of Swifambo contract as well as Stadler Rail the Company that acquired Vossloh Espana. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the discussions have been suspended will resume at a later stage. PRASA is looking at the best deal on this contract and what will be resolved will certainly protect the interest of PRASA.