I wish to raise a few concerns about the decrepit condition of the Tambo Memorial Hospital building which has fallen into disrepair due to poor maintenance over a number of years.
There are numerous water leaks seeping from the walls and roof which have caused fungus and patches of mildew on the walls – seriously weakening the bricks and mortar structure.
The fungus and mould caused by dampness could cause serious illnesses to already weak and ill patients.
The weaken mortar and bricks wall can result in structure risks, and South Africa cannot afford another disaster and tragedy which was just seen at the school where children were killed and maimed due to structural defects.
The extensive costs of water leaks would have had an effect on the expenditure. Repairing the water leaks could have saved further repairs and costs, which could have been applied to maintenance and upgrading of the building and medicines or more staff which is required by this over utilised medical centre.
Water wasted due to leaks and running down the property and into the adjacent roads contradicts the efforts of various institutions that are promoting and educating residents to use water sparingly. The hospital has wasted water due to their negligence for years.
This issue has been taken up with Marius de Vos of the DA who has forwarded me his correspondence with Jack Bloom and relevant parties with whom he has had meetings and site visits regarding the issues of the hospital, but has been told that there is no budget to replace this hospital.
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