Cheques handed over to the NSRI and Lifesaving SA | Western Cape Government

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Cheques handed over to the NSRI and Lifesaving SA

4 December 2020

Statement by Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell.

The Western Cape Department of Local Government has provided funding of R380 000 to each of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and Western Cape Lifesaving institutes. The funding forms part of the department’s efforts in driving greater water safety in the province.

Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says the funding is an annual grant the province has been making over the past decade.

“Both Lifesaving WC and the NSRI are non-profit organisations dealing with disaster rescue activities in and around bodies of water. These organisations depend and operate purely on donations and sponsorships.  They are not only on the beaches but also at some dams in the Western Cape such as Clanwilliam and Theewaterskloof dam.  The Western Cape beaches are well known attraction destination for tourists and locals during the summer season and safety is of paramount importance. The critical role of the NSRI and Lifesaving Western Cape in keeping people safe cannot be over emphasized. We are proud to be associated with them and to be able to provide some small assistance again this year.”

The Head of the Department, Graham Paulse, says drowning prevention strategies and support is important to the Department. 

“We must do what we can to prevent tragedies like the recent drownings of three children in the Olifants River in the Matzikama region. Closer to home we just heard of the tragic passing of 23-year old Thokozani Mthethwa, a young City of Cape Town seasonal lifeguard who lost his life while attempting to assist someone in need.” 

Bredell urged members of the public to take great care over the upcoming holiday season when in and around water and to contact disaster management entities immediately in times of distress.

“We have some of the best people standing by to help.”