Fear lessl y the tr uth 29 January 2016
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POOLGATE
Tzaneen’s new R17-million state-of-the-art municipal swimming bath will remain closed to the general public indefinitely — because of the GTM’s failed exercise to train capable lifeguards two weeks ago. However, they do not admit to their failure; instead it is the GTM’s official stance that the candidates featured in the two-day assessment can be trained within six months to be considered legitimate lifesavers. Until such time, no member of the public can make use of this excellent facility, paid for by their rates and taxes. The cost of this embarrassment is shrouded in mystery too, as the GTM avoided the issue in Bulletin’s official enquiry on the matter. Not only was the question of cost completely ignored, but acting manager of communications for the GTM, Mr Neville Ndlala, shockingly also denied even the existence of a lifesaving programme. “We do not have such programme; it is something that we are planning for the next financial year.” However, later in the same document he rather confusingly stated that “the gentlemen from Ethekwini Municipality came to asses them (lifeguard candidates) and see if they were ready for the programme.” Ndlala also refuted reports of a local coach who had allegedly offered to train lifeguards free of charge, and denied any knowledge of meetings held to the contrary. The possibility of sourcing swimmers from local swimming clubs, or suggesting the applications be opened to competent individuals outside of the municipality, seems
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futile. “Due to internal issues, including salary disparities and a review of the organisational structure, we have been unable to appoint an external person considering the fact that we are busy with the process of job evaluation.” At R20 entrance per adult at the turnstiles, a closed swimming bath will be rather costly to any municipality. The GTM seems to be shifting its responsibilities in an effort to curb their loss of potential income and gain some benefits from the swimming bath in the interim. “The pool is, however, open to those who have their own lifesavers as well as schools and clubs that want to stage swimming competitions. This can only be done through application,” Ndlala said. Bulletin’s official media enquiry and Ndlala’s response to it, can be read on page 3. It is clear that despite the contradictory statements and unanswered questions there remains one shocking truth: the residents of Tzaneen and surroundings will not be enjoying the poolside soon. • Also read “Our Opinion” on page 6 — Joe Dreyer
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The heartbreaking face of the drought
Phidelia Rikhotso visited rural areas in the Mopani district during the past week. She was horrified by the impact of the drought and to see how desperate people dig into dry river beds for water. In next week’s Bulletin she will report in full on this tragedy.
joe@bulletin.us.com
‘n Oud-inwoner van Tzaneen wat hier aan die Hoërskool Merensky gematrikuleer het, Francois Maritz, is vinnig besig om die wêreld se topgewigopteller in sy gewigsklas te word. Hy het pas in Kanada van die wêreld se bestes uitgestof. Lees op bladsy 16 van sy sukses.
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