Ms Sybil Seaton MP

Madam Speaker,

A storage tank containing more 7.5 million litres of refined fuel caught fire at the Engen refinery in Tara Road south Durban yesterday, causing confusion and fear amongst residents. This is the second major fire in the area in two months, in September a tank fire at the Island View petro-chemical and bulk liquids storage facility also caught alight. A thorough investigation must be conducted to determine the reason for the fire.  

The refinery is situated in the heart of a residential area where residents have for many years expressed their concerns over issues such as pollution, health and safety. These two recent fires highlight the hazards that residents are confronted with and the need for vigilance and open communication between the refinery, the residents and the relevant city authorities. It is obvious that the activities of the refinery do pose a threat to residents and therefore a well drawn up clearly communicated emergency plan must be in place to ensure that residents are prepared for any eventuality.  

I thank you.