Mbombela (Ex-Nelspruit) – The prohibition notice issued against the Mpumalanga High Court building in Mbombela has been suspended for a week.
“Following representation made by the departments in relation to the areas identified to be addressed, it was resolved that the prohibition notice shall be suspended for a period of seven working days commencing on Monday, (4 November 2024),” the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development in a statement on Sunday.
The statement said the suspension of the implementation of the prohibition notice will provide an opportunity for the department to address the issues raised in the prohibition notice.
Just over a week ago, inspectors from the Departments of Employment and Labour swooped on the high court building to probe complaints from workers about a poor and unsafe working environment.
During the inspection of courtrooms, the judge’s chambers, and the judge president’s office, inspectors discovered the working conditions were so bad an immediate order was issued to evacuate affected floors of the court building.
The lack of ventilation and broken toilets were among the reasons, the Department of Labour found that the court building does not comply with the regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993.
The concerns raised by the Department of Employment and Labour relate to the following specific three areas:
- 1. Ensuring proper ventilation
- 2. Provision of a report confirming the integrity of the structure
- 3. Provision of the occupancy certificate.
On Saturday, (2 November 2024), the Department of Justice met with the Departments of Employment and Labour, Public Works and Infrastructure, Independent Development Trust, and the Office of the Chief Justice to determine a course of action in response to issues identified during a recent inspection of the Mpumalanga High Court that resulted in a prohibition notice being issued on 30 October 2024.
The Justice Department said it provided extensive feedback to the Departments of Employment and Labour on matters relating to the prohibition notice and progress.
“It is on the basis of the above that the extension was granted,” the department said.
The Justice Department said it remains committed to resolving the issues raised including ensuring the safety of staff, judiciary, and members of the public.
“The discussions are still ongoing between the parties including the exchange of expert and technical reports to find a long-term solution to matters that were raised,” said the Justice Department.
“During the suspension period, the department wishes to advise the public that the court will remain open on Monday, (4 November 2024).”
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