Issued by: Department of Public Works
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
FUTURE OPERATIONAL COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Following the initiative taken by the Department of Public Works in the beginning of 1996 to engage with thew Construction Industry on future cooperation within an enabling environment, the beginnings of the creation of a Construction Industry Forum is underway.
It is envisaged that such a Construction Industry Forum will oversee the development of strategy and monitor delivery in joint efforts. This Forum will not replace any existing structures, but serve as a vehicle for the promotion of greater unity and commonality of purpose in the industry. The primary objective of the Forum shall be to oversee the transformation process within the Industry, as well as assist in a programme of Capacity Building within the Department.
At a meeting attended by some of the leading role players within the Construction Industry and officials from Department of Public Works it was agreed that the Forum should be fully representative, including Government, Industry and Labour, and that sone should move into the position within the shortest possible time.
An interim task team was established to develop recommendations in respect of obtaining inclusivity of the Forum to ensure full representivity; to synergise key initiatives within the construction sector; and to identify key milestones, activities and priorities for collaboration through the Forum.
Members of the Interim task team are: (i) Mr S Hodgson Department of Public Works (ii) Dr P Viljoen African Engineering International (iii) Mr Con Roux Jnr Sunflower Projects/Murray & Roberts Construction (iv) Mr Josh Nkosi Consultant to Department of Public Works (v) Mr Andrew Merrifield Consultant to Department of Public Works
This Task Team will table its recommendations to the full meeting to be held before the end of March 1996.
The importance of this kind of collaboration between private and public sector was stressed, emphasising the breakthrough in this particular instance, where issues are being operationalised to achieve what is intended by the RDP on the basis of a sound partnership between the public and the private sector.
Issued by the Communication component of the Department of Public Works, Pretoria, 4 March 1996.
Enquiries: Mr Sivi Gounden, Tel. (012) 205-2002