The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Namaqualand has called on the district office of the Northern Cape Department of Education to urgently conclude its investigation and release the findings into the learner transport accident near Kommagas last month.
We are relieved that the seventeen learners from Soebatsfontein, who were travelling to school in Kommagas, were not seriously injured when the bus they were travelling in overturned on 19 January. The incident, however, could easily have ended in tragedy.
Although alternative transport has since been arranged, this does not absolve the department or the bus contractor of accountability for the incident.
Serious questions must be answered, including why the Department of Education approved the use of a bus believed to be more than 30 years old on gravel roads that are known to be in a very poor condition. See photo here. The community also deserves clarity on whether the bus had a valid roadworthy certificate, when it last underwent safety inspections, and whether the driver was in possession of a valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
Reports alleging a lack of seatbelts must also be fully addressed.
The DA has been in contact with the SAPS investigating officer, who confirmed that the investigation is well underway. We are further appealing to the district manager of Education to share the findings in an open and transparent manner with the affected community.
The DA will continue to monitor this matter closely and will maintain pressure on the department and all relevant stakeholders until clear answers are provided and every possible measure has been implemented to ensure the safety of our learners.