Cracks in City's approach to controversial homeless shelter in Strandfontein

Cape Town – The City’s decision to shelter about 2 000 homeless people at the Strandfontein Sports Ground has shown cracks in its leadership structure, with DA ward councillor Elton Jansen saying he did not support the decision and had not been consulted by his colleagues.

Jansen's comments came as the treatment of the vulnerable by Mayco member for transport Felicity Purchase came under the spotlight, with comments on social media slating her for a Facebook post she made that left some feeling she was infringing the rights of the homeless. Jansen said four homeless people in Strandfontein had jumped over the fence at the sports field where they were sheltered in tents. Three were caught and arrested and one got away.In a statement earlier this week, the Strandfontein Ratepayers Association said: “We can assure the community that despite the blocking of information, consultation and involvement, this will not deter us pushing ahead.

Jonty Cogger, attorney at social justice activist group Ndifuna Ukwazi Law Centre, said the scale of the homeless shelter operation made it impossible to prevent the transmission of the Covid-19 virus, and the City’s decision to accommodate up to 300 people in a single tent showed a failure to appreciate the serious risks involved.

“The ongoing nature of this law-enforcement operation poses a risk to every person involved in the Strandfontein shelter, including City employees, contractors and volunteer NGO workers.”“They will remain on site only for the initial screening. After screening, the site will be serviced by a once-a-week mobile clinic for health promotion, TB medication, ART medication, Chronic Dispensing Unit, family planning and immunisation for infants.

CapeTimesSA A more honest journalist might have mentioned that President Ramaphosa promised National Govt land to assist with accommodating these vulnerable people. Then cabinet dropped the ball and now its just up to the City.

CapeTimesSA Occupational health and safety legislation specifies 1 toilet for every 30 people and separate facilities for men and women. Although the homeless are not workers should they be treated any less?

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