Question NW258 to the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
08 March 2023 - NW258
Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
Considering the world heritage status and political history of Robben Island, (a) which stakeholders were consulted, given the political sensitivity around the event of the Robben Island Museum (RIM) silent disco party, (b) what were the main objections received that led to the cancellation of the event and (c) what future events are in the 2023-24 annual performance plan to promote the mandate of RIM?
Reply:
Consultation took place with internal stakeholders (RIM’s Ferries Department, Infrastructure and Facilities Management Department, Operations Department, and Heritage Department that includes the Environmental Unit) as well as external stakeholders, however, discussions were underway with the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).
There were no formal objections received. However, after Silent Events advertised their event before RIM’s internal processes and consultations with relevant stakeholders was concluded, negative publicity was received from the public. This led to the cancellation of the event by Silent Events cancelled their event.
Future events which are captured in the RIM APP for 2023/2024, include the following:
- Coastal clean ups
- Events relating to engage with issues related to Archiving and Collections
- Various academic seminars and workshops
- Educational camps
- Training and educational sessions
- Tourism trade familiarization trip