Issued by: Ministry for Welfare and Population Development
STATEMENT BY WELFARE AND POPULATION DEVELOPMENT MINISTER GERALDINE FRASER-MOLEKETI ON THE PLETTENBURG BAY FIRE DISASTER
22 APRIL 1998
The Plettenburg Bay fire disaster in which at least six people were killed, 250 lost their homes, and at least 60 000 hectors of plantations were destroyed, should be regarded as a national tragedy.
As Minister for Welfare and Population Development, my condolences go to families of those killed in the inferno and to the homeless families - among them women and children. I also wish to applaud the swift intervention by volunteers, firefighters in the area who immediately assisted and are continuing to assist families. I am touched by bravery displayed by people like environmentalist Jenny Lawrence, Husband Earl and 15 other volunteers who helped evacuate residents.
The national Department of Welfare is investigating this disaster to evaluate how Government should assist affected Plettenburg Bay communities. We are awaiting the details of the investigation at this stage.
Issued: GERALDINE FRASER-MOLEKETI, MP Minister for Welfare and Population Development
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