Update
OUDTSHOORN NEWS - Oudtshoorn Courant reported in December about local lifeguards who lodged grievances after they were apparently not paid for their services, evicted from their accommodation and left on the street.
The group was employed by Mzantsi Facilitators, which currently is the service provider that received the tender for lifesaving services from Oudtshoorn Municipality. The contract stretches from 3 June 2024 to 30 June 2027.
Questions were raised regarding the tender amount of R75 071 648 and why a service provider was selected to fulfil this important duty.
Aurelia Mle, media spokesperson, for Oudtshoorn Municipality commented that the lifeguards worked on contract for the external service provider, Msantsi Facilitators.
"Oudtshoorn Municipality cannot comment on this matter and all queries regarding this matter must be addressed by the service provider." Mle concluded that the correct tender process was followed with the appointment of this service provider.
Mzantsi Facilitators
Oudtshoorn Courant spoke to Ntuthuzelo Ngxola from Mzantsi Facilitators about the grievances. "The lifeguards were paid on 24 December 2024 and it was communicated to them that the next payment run will be done on 8 January."
According to Ngxolo they never communicated that they were not happy with the arrangement, but rather decided to stop working with no prior notice.
"The first time the company was made aware of these complaints was during a meeting held on 3 January, organised by Oudtshoorn Municipality. Payments were made the following day, but they still did not return to work."
Due to the service Mzantsi Facilitators tendered for being an essential service, lifeguards from outside Oudtshoorn were employed to ensure public safety of swimming patrons.
"The accommodation was organised by the company for working lifeguards at the company's cost. This meant that the accommodation was for working lifeguards."
Ngxola stressed that they were not put out on the streets. "Transportation was organised by the company to ensure their safe transport to their respective destinations, but they refused the offer and walked out."
In conclusion, he mentioned that Mzantsi Facilitators are also unhappy with the situation and are being misled.
"They seem to think that they can get whatever they want if they sway the public's opinion, even though they are wrong on how they are handling themselves in a thuggery manner by threatening working lifeguards, throwing stones and manhandling our staff.
According to Ngxola a case was opened at Oudtshoorn Police regarding this matter.
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