GAUTENG CABINET BACKS DRAFT POLICY ON TOURISM

Issued by: Gauteng Provincial Government

MEDIA STATEMENT

The Gauteng Cabinet today (13 March 1996) endorsed a proposal by Safety and Security MEC Jessie Durate that a campaign to declare Government buildings gun-free zones be embarked upon.

According to a draft document presented to the Cabinet, the declaration of gun-free zones si one way in which the Gauteng Provincial Government can show its commitment to a peaceful, secure and better life for all.

The aim of the campaign is to:

• Enable government, individuals, and communities to reclaim their public space, which is free from gun violence;
• Encourage people who do not own weapons to be bold enough to make a stand against weapons - both in their community and their workplace;
• Create awareness of the dangers of carrying firearms; and
• Raise public awareness.

The first phase of the campaign will involve the offices of the MECs, all provincial government buildings, excluding schools and hospitals, the Johannesburg's Library Gardens as well as Jeppe and Braamfontein Post Offices. These buildings will bear signs saying they are gun-free zones and there will be safes at their entrances where guns will be deposited for safekeeping.

The second phase will be more comprehensive and will involve all Government buildings, including schools and hospitals. "In order for this concept to really take root, creative and imaginative ideas must be generated at all levels of civil society. A culture must begin to be created that weapons are forbidden in all public institutions within Gauteng," says the document.

The second phase will be implemented after thorough consultation will all role players.

13 March 1996 Issued by the Communications Directorate, Office of the Premier