PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - As the new R300-million Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court takes shape, the massive project continues to add value to local communities.
Since the start of the project a year ago, construction company GVK-Siya Zama has not only provided employment to more than 270 residents in and around the New Horizons community – where the building is being constructed – but has also provided training to 48 residents in the area.
“Almost all of the local employees joined us on this project as general workers.
"Seeing their potential, however, inspired us to supply them with training to help them gain certified skills and experience that will assist them in finding future employment,” the company’s senior contracts manager Jaco Kotze said.
The employees underwent training in 13 areas ranging from tower crane operation, scaffold erection and basic firefighting, to first aid, explosive tool operation and hazard identification.
“Most of the training was health and safety oriented, which qualifies trainees to identify hazards in the workplace, control risk and provide a safe environment for their coworkers.
"Having this ability, along with being certified in certain aspects of the industry – in line with the country’s construction regulations – will enable them to apply for skilled positions and be attractive to future employers.
"It also gives us peace of mind, knowing that we have legally compliant, competent employees on site.”
Kotze said that although all 48 employees had shown exceptional promise, one stood out in particular.
Aviwe Mabudle impressed GVK-Siya Zama’s safety officer Andre Hansen so much that he is now permanently employed in the company’s safety department.
The company has also since helped him to attain his matric certificate and enrolled him for a three-year safety in society course.
“When the project commenced, we set ourselves a target to spend 20% of the project budget on local subcontractors and workers.
"We are proud to report that we have already doubled this and predict that we will exceed the initial target threefold by the time the project is completed in the early part of next year.
"What’s more, we eclipsed our target for using community labour by 303%. It has been extremely fulfilling for us to have played a part in enhancing the growth and performance of the Plettenberg Bay economy in the critical areas of skills development and job creation,” Kotze said.
The Plett court will boast 10 courtrooms including two sexual offences courtrooms, four criminal, two regional and two family courtrooms as well a civil and an equality court.
The building will feature state-of-the-art security systems; a secure area for accused people to be offloaded, leading to the courtrooms; offices for magistrates and prosecutors; child maintenance and domestic violence facilities; ample public waiting areas and parking facilities.
The building will also include 17 cells for accused.
The construction, done with the Independent Development Trust (IDT), started in October last year and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
ARTICLE: YOLANDE STANDER, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD CORRESPONDENT
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