Members Statement
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Every year many people in our country, especially the poor, are exposed to, and suffer from, the harsh conditions that the winter months bring. This causes much discomfort, suffering, displacement and in some cases even death. Parts of the Western Cape have recently been exposed to these harsh realities as heavy rains have resulted in flooding and the displacement of thousands of people. The homes of thousands of residents have been flooded and those in informal settlements have been especially adversely affected. According to the province's Disaster Risk Management spokesperson, 18 areas were severely affected by the recent rains, with Gugulethu the worst hit with more than 2000 residents struggling to waterproof their homes with plastic sheets. An unfortunate aspect of these floodings is that some residents have become accustomed to them as they experience the same hardships every year. This is totally unacceptable as the government, together with the relevant authorities, should plan in advance for these eventualities and put plans and programmes in place that will lessen or even prevent these people from suffering the same hardships every year. I thank you. |