Question NW3261 to the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
27 September 2022 - NW3261
Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
Whether he has been informed that at the High Court in Kimberley, Northern Cape, the administration for Letters of Authority only assists members of the public until 12h00, takes two-hour lunch breaks and knocks off at 15h00; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The allegations in the question are untrue. It should be noted that the Master’s Office: Kimberley is open for the public from 7h45 – 12h15 and again from 13h45 – 15h30. Officials however, have lunch break 13h00-13h45 and remain in the office until 16h15 (as per normal working hours).
The time between 12h15 and 13h00 as well as between 15h30 and 16h15, is utilized for attending to administrative, office work and attend to the members of the public that are still in the office.
No public is assisted during the lunch break period, as the office does not want a situation in the office, where a female official sits alone with members of the public during the lunch break (13h00 – 13h45), to avoid possible intimidation or harassment allegations.
Any complaints suggesting the contrary should be brought under the attention of the Head of the Office, Mr Craig Davids, and will be investigated immediately.