The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The Joint Standing Committee on the Financial Management of Parliament has noted and welcomed the work done so far on the Nieuwmeester dome, which will serve as Parliament’s temporary chamber while the reconstruction of the fire-damaged precinct continues.

The debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) is expected to take place in the dome next week.

On Friday, committee members conducted a site visit to assess the readiness of the dome. The Director-General of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), Mr Sifiso Mdakane, assured the committee that the dome will be ready for the debate. Members were informed that the dome is at 90% readiness.

The committee heard that the electrical works were done based on generator power, with distribution boards, wireways, concealed cabling, and floor-mounted sockets installed to facilitate the use of electronic devices during sittings. According to the department, the second phase of the dome installation costs about R25 million, well below the budgeted R31 million. The committee was encouraged that the project is projected to be completed under budget. Noting the potential for the dome to be used as a conference venue in the inner city, the committee requested the department and Parliament to develop a utilisation plan for the dome once the fire-damaged parliament buildings have been refurbished. Members noted this use of the dome could help recover funds spent on its installation.
 
Members also noted the mechanical works, comprising fresh air ducting and heating and cooling installations. Other completed work includes fire compliance measures, such as fire detection and firefighting equipment, as well as the submission of a fire risk plan to the City of Cape Town for approval. The committee was informed that commissioning was planned over the weekend to secure compliance certification.

During the visit, members viewed the ablution facilities, the Speaker’s podium, the public gallery, which can accommodate approximately 165 guests, and the VIP holding rooms. The chamber currently accommodates approximately 506 seats.

While members appreciated the progress made since the previous site visit in December last year, they also raised several operational concerns. These included the noise generated by both the generators and air conditioning systems, which some members felt could affect proceedings. Concerns were also raised about the long-term financial implications of relying on generators and whether all outstanding work will be completed in time for the debate.

The co-Chairperson of the committee, Ms Sanny Ndhlovu, said it is important that Members and the public understand the context and constraints within which decisions were made, particularly regarding electricity supply and cost considerations. Ms Ndhlovu emphasised that some factors, such as weather conditions in Cape Town, are beyond anyone’s control, but practical mitigation measures, such as temporary shelter or umbrellas at entrances, could be considered to improve comfort during security screening and entry.

The co-Chairperson appealed for a constructive approach rather than focusing solely on shortcomings. “Members should think about solutions and how to assist in resolving the remaining concerns. The aim is to ensure that the dome functions effectively as a working parliamentary space and that Members, staff and visitors are accommodated with dignity,” she said.

A further inspection is scheduled for Monday, after which Members will determine collectively whether the dome is ready for use on Tuesday.

Issued by the Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on the Financial Management of Parliament, Sanny Ndhlovu