GAUTENG PREMIER MUST KEEP HER PROMISES

The DA welcomes the job creation initiatives announced today by Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane.

The Township Enterprise Hubs are promising, but these will work to create jobs only if implemented properly without corruption.

Expanding broadband coverage is exciting, but the G-link Project has had many setbacks since first announced some years ago. Mokonyane has a poor record of keeping her promises, so we will need to wait and see on these projects.

It will be cruel if hopes are once again dashed because of poor implementation. Last year Mokonyane promised that all funded civil service posts will be filled, but 18% are still empty.

I welcome the streamlining measures in the Gauteng Health Department which are long overdue. But I am disappointed that top managers have not been fired at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, and managers at other failing hospitals also need to be replaced.

I hoped for a stronger line on the e-tolling of highways but it seems there will be an unsatisfactory adjustment rather than scrapped entirely.

I am concerned that no mention was made of the looming problem of Acid Mine Drainage which will harm health and economic development if not tackled comprehensively and soon.

It remains to be seen if all the announced measures can turn around a premiership that shows signs of running out of steam.

Statement issued by Jack Bloom MPL, DA Gauteng Caucus Leader, February 20 2012

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