Question NW1579 to the Minister of Tourism
08 June 2021 - NW1579
Winkler, Ms HS to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether her department has engaged with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs to address the issue of (a) sewage spills and water course pollution that is severely impacting tourism, for example the status of blue flag beaches, and (b) dam and river pollution that has an impact on sporting events such as the Duzi Canoe Marathon; if not, (i) why not and (ii) how does her department intend to address the specified problem; if so, what are the details of the plan to address the impact of water pollution on tourism?
Reply:
The management of water resources and water infrastructure is the competency of the relevant Local Authority and the Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation as well as the relevant Water Board. The matter of sewerage spills and water pollution are usually addressed by these competent authorities. Where these matters are raised directly with the Department of Tourism, they are then brought to the attention of the competent authorities for resolution. It is suggested that the Honourable member refers her question to the Minister of Water Affairs and Sanitation as well as the relevant Provincial and Local Authority.