Public works spends millions on high-profile renovations

01 Feb 2016 | Admin Author

The department of public works has confirmed that it did spend R65m on renovating ministers' houses.

Spokeswoman Mandisa Fatyela-Lindie says approximately 27 properties were involved with varying degrees of work being done.

She said spending money on houses of ministers was within the department's "core function".

The renovation bills reportedly included: R15m on a Cape Town house allocated to Rural Development Minister Gugile Nkwinti, R10.67m to overhaul a house earmarked for use by Transport Deputy Minister Lydia Chikunga, and just under R5m to upgrade a house for Agriculture Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson.

In its reaction, Cosatu said it was shocked at the revelation.

Spokesman Patrick Craven said when unemployment is high and millions live on less than R10 p/d - there can be no justification for spending vast amounts on renovating ministers homes.