The IFP is deeply concerned about the delay in resolving the major challenge of harmful air pollution from Mondi paper mill plant and refineries in Durban as well as Sasol in Secunda.

"The delay in resolving this problem is affecting the communities living around these plants and refineries. The communities of Bluff, Wentworth, Merebank and Secunda are suffering, with increased cases of ill-health such as asthma, cancer and skin problems. Children attending schools next to these factories and refineries are especially vulnerable to the affects", said Mrs Connie Zikalala, IFP Spokesperson for Water and Environmental Affairs in Parliament.

Zikalala further questioned why it is taking so long to resolve this problem adding that, "We have had many site visits to these factories as a Portfolio Committee for Environmental Affairs, but nothing has happened. The management of these companies have been promising that they will resolve this problem as soon as possible. This laissez-faire attitude is a clear indication that these companies are not concerned about people lives, or any other kind of social responsibility but rather only concerned about the profits they make. This is simply unacceptable!"

The IFP therefore calls on the Department of Environmental Affairs to urgently intervene in resolving this problem and to begin issuing penalties against any company which causes harmful air pollution levels.

IFP spokesperson on Water and Environmental Affairs.