Macpherson calls for accountability over Ormonde building collapse – SABC News

Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson has called on the developer of the building which collapsed in Ormonde, Johannesburg, to immediately come forward and take responsibility.
Nine people died when a concrete slab between floors of a two-storey building which was under construction collapsed.
In a statement released earlier Tuesday, New Order Investments confirmed that property is owned by them and that it has appointed an independent team of structural engineers, health and safety practitioners and other specialists to investigate.
Macpherson says the owner of the building must be held responsible.
“When these systems do not operate in a fully coordinated manner, gaps emerge in comments and accountability, particularly where unlawful construction occurs or where buildings are occupied without approval. With that being said, I want to call on the company that constructed this building, New Order INV, to come forward and to take accountability for what has gone on here, or if any member of the public knows where the owner of this company is, to immediately contact the SAPS or local law enforcement.”
Ormonde Building Collapse | Minister Dean McPherson is addressing the media:

Macpherson says a thorough investigation into the building collapse in Ormonde, Johannesburg, will be implemented once all the facts have been established.
The exact cause of the incident is still unclear at this stage. However, the City of Johannesburg has confirmed that there were no approved plans for the construction of the building.
Macpherson says that the exact cause of the incident will be revealed once the investigation is completed.
“At this stage our focus firmly remains on supporting family members. It would be premature to speculate on the causes of the collapse or the next steps while those are still grieving. There will be a time for the premier and deputy mayor for a thorough investigation and accountability once all of the facts have been established.”
 

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