GroundUP
The Eastern Cape Health Department says a delay in procuring software licenses has led to the effective shutdown of the province’s emergency call centre in East London.
Department spokesperson, Sizwe Kupelo, said the MEC, Nomakosazana Meth, has ordered an investigation after some officials failed to renew expired licenses, despite a 14-day grace period given by the service provider, Microsoft.
“The collapse of the call centre is as a result of a delay to procure licenses which ensures effective functioning of it,” he said.
However, Kupelo said the public may still call the 08000 323 64 or call centre admin number 043 711 0699.
He said MEC Meth has instructed acting head of department Sindiswa Gede to report the matter to the director-general, and also refer the matter to the Public Service Commission.
The commission would be asked to investigate the failure of some senior managers to procure licenses required to ensure the call centre functions optimally.
“The department wishes to apologise all citizens who have been affected by this unfortunate development around the call centre services. This is viewed in a very serious light,” Kupelo said.
