Issued by: Gauteng MEC for Health
23rd June 1999
As the Gauteng MEC for Health, I am aware of the situation in the Johannesburg central hospitals and that if not attended to urgently, may lead to a potential crisis.
I want to assure all of our people that neither the ANC government nor I will allow the health services in Central Johannesburg hospitals to collapse. The Premier and I have been fully briefed by the top management of my Department and we are satisfied with the steps that have been taken by the Department to address situation. These measures include ensuring that critical positions that will be vacant with effect from July 1st 1999 are filled. If need be I will have to re-deploy personnel from other areas so that these critical services are staffed.
Should all these measures proof to be inadequate, I will not hesitate to approach the provincial treasury and the national ministry of health for assistance.
The sound health status of the citizens of Gauteng is my priority. I will do whatever it takes to ensure that the lives and healthcare of our people are not compromised. I appeal to all men and women working in these institutions to continue serving our people with dedication while we are urgently addressing these problems.
Gauteng MEC for Health
Dr Gwen Ramokgopa
Inquiries: Popo Maja - 082-373-1169
Media Liaison Officer
Office of the MEC for Health.