Question NW761 to the Minister of Tourism
30 September 2024 - NW761
Beesley, Mr AD to ask the Minister of Tourism
Considering the failure of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality to address the sewage crisis which has led to the closure of beaches in eThekwini and the collapse of the hospitality industry to the point where the 7,9 million annual tourist visits in 2015 have declined to 800 000 annual tourist visits in 2023, and given the impact upon the constitutional rights of the residents of eThekwini to health, dignity and a clean environment, what steps is her department taking to address the specified crisis?
Reply:
It is important to distinguish between the functions and mandates of the various National Departments, Provincial Departments and Local Governments. Tourism is a concurrent function with clear roles and responsibilities for each sphere of government.
The management of water resources and infrastructure is the competency of the relevant local municipality, the Department of Water and Sanitation, and the relevant Water Boards. Sewerage spills and water pollution, although they impact tourism facilities, are addressed by these competent authorities. Beaches fall within the responsibility of local government.
In the event that the Honourable member wishes to obtain information on such matters, it would only be prudent for the member to directly engage with the relevant authorities.
END