Question NW1660 to the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
29 June 2023 - NW1660
Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)What is the purpose of the Old Magistrate’s Court building in Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal; (2) whether the specified building is currently in use; if not, why not; if so, by what date will it be in use again; (3) whether regular maintenance is taking place at the building; if not, why not; if so, what are the full, relevant details of such maintenance; (4) whether the building has any debt with the municipality; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (5) (a) what is the total cost of maintenance of the building to his department in each of the past five years, (b) who is the most senior official stationed at the site and (c) what total number of employees are stationed at the building?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
1. The Old Magistrates Court in Underberg falls within and is known as Himeville Magistrates Court. This court is being used by the Department of Justice to provide court services to the community.
2. The building is in current use as magistrate’s court and is operational five days a week.
3. Regular maintenance is carried out on the building through day-to-day maintenance and covers all disciplines such as building, electrical and mechanical. The Department of Justice also carries out maintenance using their own delegation. The DPWI is also in the process of planning a complete repairs and renovations project including additional accommodation to the facility.
4.There is currently no debt with the municipality as the account is up to date.
5. (a) The total cost of maintenance to the building over the last 5 years amounts to R1.8m.
(b) The most senior official at the building is a magistrate and,
(c) There are 14 staff member employed by the Department of Justice.