Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has welcomed the completion of the Dome for National Assembly sittings ahead of the replies to the State of the Nation Address (SoNA) in Cape Town this week.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) transported and built the Dome, previously used for the funeral of former President Nelson Mandela, at the request of the National Assembly, to temporarily house sittings until the reconstruction of Parliament is completed.

“As the DPWI, we have successfully repurposed this structure, which had remained idle for many years, to help Parliament save millions in costs while the reconstruction of the National Assembly chambers continues.

“The structure, now equipped with a new roof sail and structural reinforcements, will allow the National Assembly to hold sittings uninterrupted in all weather conditions. Additionally, it will enable members of the public to observe proceedings in person for the first time in many years,” Macpherson said.

He mentioned that Public Works and Infrastructure director-general Sifiso Mdakane and his team worked through the December holiday period to ensure the project was completed on time for Parliamentary sittings.

Macpherson said the Dome would enable Parliament to fulfil its role of holding the executive accountable – a function that was severely hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic and the fire that damaged the National Assembly chambers.

“As a department, we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Parliament to ensure it can effectively serve the people of South Africa. The Dome project demonstrates that the DPWI can act with speed and precision when required.

“We are eager to build on this momentum as we work to turn South Africa into a construction site in the months ahead,” he said.