Lingcom Primary still a death trap

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - In a meeting held with representatives of the Department of Public Works last November, ward 5 Councillor, Glenda Mackelina, was assured that construction would resume on the new buildings for Lingcom Primary school in January this year.

The buildings are old and the structure is falling apart. However, no work has been done in the last year.

Construction on the new buildings started in March 2018, but in August last year, the contractors stopped working due to non-payment. Workers were laid off, leaving just one security guard on duty.

The construction area was initially fenced off, both to keep children away from danger, and to prevent theft, but a large part of the fencing has since been stolen.

A stretch of flimsy hoarding covers the gap, which catches the wind and causes the office area to shake in strong winds. The school was evacuated one windy day last month, out of fear that it would collapse.

Exposed electrical wiring, iron rods, and an empty concrete dam also pose a safety hazard for learners. Large concrete water pipes lie abandoned near the rugby field.

Security guard Moses Booysen points out where the fencing has been stolen.

Electricity supply is problematic, and the main water supply is regularly vandalised by baboons looking for water.

Mackelina said the Department of Education has failed to keep the school informed on the situation, which causes great frustration to the principal. His health is suffering due to stress, and he has applied to take early retirement at the end of this year.

Eastern Cape Education Department Spokesman Malibongwe Mtima told the Advertiser that funding has been granted by Treasury, but did not give a time frame for when building would recommence.

Councillor Glenda Mackelina points out the stacks of unused bricks.
Photos: Sue Shaw