Siyavuya Mzantsi
HANOVER Park residents have criticised the City for “failing to consult” them about when the clinic in their area will be reopened.
This came after the City’s health directorate said it was working with other City departments to finalise an internal safety plan before reopening the health facility.
The clinic was shut down on November 5 amid gang violence and fears for the safety of clinic staff and clients.
It was due to reopen in January.
Residents had been referred to the Newfields clinic for health services.
Hanover Park resident Ayesha Rademeyer said some community members have had to use taxis to travel to the Newfields clinic.
“It’s very awkward to travel to Newfields while we have our clinic.
“We are not happy. We thought the clinic would not be closed for this long.
“Sometimes it (the Newfields clinic) is very full when you get there and you are told to come back the following day,” said Rademeyer.
Another resident, Ricardo Sedres, said the gang shootings were not as bad as last year and “crime was just crime” in Hanover Park as it has been in the past.
“The City has not given us any feedback about when they will open the clinic. This would not have happened if this was a white area.
“They would have found an alternative for them and not send people far.
“They do not speak to the people; they only speak to the politicians in this area,” he said.
Sedres said community leaders have been in talks with gangs to try and resolve their dispute.
Mayco member for Health Siyabulela Mamkeli said the City was considering regular patrols in the vicinity of the clinic throughout the day and the installation of security measures like bullet-proof windows and handheld metal scanners.
“Our staff members have received counselling and have continued to provide the best service possible to the community from the Newfields Satellite Clinic.
“They have since indicated a willingness to return to the main clinic, provided that a plan is devised and implemented to ensure their safety and the safety of the clients,” said Mamkeli.
He said the City’s health directorate had a combined operational and capital budget of just under R12 million for security in this financial year.
“On behalf of City Health, I would once again like to apologise to the affected clients for any inconvenience caused by the closure and would like to reassure them that we are committed to providing an environment that is conducive to service delivery and that takes into account everyone’s safety and well-being,” he said.
Police spokesperson Nas-iphi Same said a 33-year-old man was arrested for being in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition in Hanover Park on Sunday.