Durban - The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has detailed steps that are being taken to clamp down on corruption and wrongdoing within the department.
MEC Martin Meyer revealed that these steps include the implementation of recommendations based on forensic investigation reports that have been compiled within the department.
Briefing members of the media on Tuesday, Meyer expressed his commitment to addressing wrongdoing.
The department held a wide-ranging briefing on a number of matters, including an upcoming conference.
Meyer said, “You may read about the number of suspensions and various actions taken against corruption-accused individuals. Despite attempts by some to defend the wrongdoings by calling this a witch-hunt, as KZN Public Works, we cannot turn a blind eye if we want to make this department work for the people of KZN and turn this province into one big construction site.
“With that said, the Department has successfully implemented the recommendations from 10 forensic investigations conducted by the Office of the Premier (OTP).”
He said that 35 disciplinary actions have been taken, ranging from written warnings to suspensions without pay. Four disciplinary matters are ongoing, and six additional forensic investigations are currently underway under the Office of the Premier, with final reports pending.
“Due to the sensitive nature of these cases, which have become legal matters, we cannot elaborate any further than what we have shared up to this point.
“However, in light of public interest, I have taken the decision that when the time is right and all these matters have been concluded, I will be declassifying those files and making them available to the public,” said the MEC.
Meyer stated that his administration remains committed to making KZN Public Works and Infrastructure work for the public once again.