Premier David Makhura, on Monday 19 March 2018, welcomed the Redress Award for the Life Esidimeni victims that was announced by Retired Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke.

This morning retired Chief Justice Moseneke presented his final report on the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process which was concluded in February. The Premier accepts the findings and conclusion outlined in the report.

The arbitration process was established by Premier Makhura, following the recommendations made by the Health Ombudsman to determine a way forward such as mechanisms of redress and compensation for the families affected by the Life Esidimeni tragedy.

The affected families will each receive R20 000 for funeral expenses, R180 000 for shock and psychological trauma and R1 million in constitutional damages.

Government has been ordered to pay this amount in no later than 3 months from today.

“In respecting the outcomes of the arbitration process and in implementing its recommendations in full, we will honour the memory of the lives lost. Whilst nothing can bring back those who have lost their lives, the families of all patients deserve the truth and accountable redress needs to be made.

“We will continue to work with the families and we are committed to honouring all families by ensuring that the judgements listed in the report are actioned within the stated timelines”, said Premier Makhura.

In his State of the Province Address earlier this year, Premier Makhura noted that an independent curator will be appointed to ensure that this award is implemented without delay.

Issued by the Gauteng Provincial Government