Residents Must not be Intimidated into Giving 'Christmas Boxes' to Solid Waste Staff | Western Cape Government

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Residents Must not be Intimidated into Giving 'Christmas Boxes' to Solid Waste Staff

12 December 2010

Residents are advised that the City of Cape Town has a policy that strictly forbids Solid Waste collection personnel and other service personnel from asking residents for 'Christmas boxes' and 'donations'.

"Problems have also arisen where people posing as City staff have asked for money, sometimes rudely and aggressively. They have also threatened that waste will not be collected if the demand is not met. The City will not tolerate such forceful behaviour, even among our own staff and have accordingly instructed all staff that soliciting for 'Christmas boxes' and donations is discouraged", says Alderman Clive Justus, Mayoral Committee Member for Utility Services.

"If residents believe that excellent service has been provided, they are of course at liberty to give a voluntary donation to staff as a gesture of thanks and goodwill, but under no circumstances should they be approached or solicited for money. City staff are well paid by industry standards, and all permanent staff receive a 13th cheque at the end of November", Justus added.

It would be appreciated if residents could report any incidents of intimidatory behaviour by City staff on the call centre number 0860 103 089 during office hours, 08:00 - 16:30. Apart from the date, time and place, the staff identity number and/or vehicle registration number must be provided so that the culprits can be identified.

Such reports will be investigated immediately and, where residents are willing to testify, we will be able to prosecute offenders. If it is a person posing as a City official, please report this to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Issued by:
Communication Department
City of Cape Town

Media Enquiries: 

Alderman Clive Justus
Mayco Member for Utility Services
Tel: 021 400 1206
Cell: 083 628 4136