CITY OF CAPE TOWN MEDIA RELEASE
23 NOVEMBER 2011

Residents must not be intimidated into giving 'Christmas boxes' to Solid Waste staff

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 behaviour from our own staff and have accordingly instructed all staff that soliciting for 'Christmas boxes' and donations is discouraged," says the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Utility Services, Councillor Shehaam Sims.

"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," added Councillor Sims.

It would be appreciated if residents could report any incidents of intimidation by City staff to the Call Centre on 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 should be provided so that the culprits can be identified.

Such reports will be investigated immediately and, where residents are willing to testify, the City will be able to prosecute offenders. Should you be aware of outsiders posing as City officials, the matter should be reported to the South African Police Services.

Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town

Media enquiries:
Councillor Shehaam Sims, Mayoral Committee Member: Utility Services, City of Cape Town
Tel: 021 400 1375 or Cell: 073 115 4447