He said 11 months after writing to the SAHRC about asbestos classrooms at Charlotte Maxeke Secondary School in Phomolong, he had received a report from the SAHRC.
“The SAHRC reported back that after taking the matter up with the Gauteng Education Department (GED), they were informed that 30 schools across the province still have asbestos classrooms. This comes on the back of another complaint I laid with the SAHRC with regard to asbestos classrooms at Chloorkop Primary School.

“I was informed that the Department of Labour, being responsible for health and safety standards at all workplaces, had referred the matter to their legal department for action since the GED had not addressed the issue,” Waters said. “This too comes on the back of questions I’d asked to the Department of Labour with regards to asbestos classrooms at the school.

“Asbestos pose a risk to the health of children and teachers and should not be anywhere near schools. The GED must ensure they fulfill their obligations to replace all asbestos classrooms in order for our children and teachers to have a safe learning and working environment.
The DA will keep the pressure on the GED through all means possible,” said Waters.

Source: Tembisan