The Premier of the Northern, Ms. Sylvia Lucas, joined by Members of her Provincial Executive, met with the General Manager of Eskom for Northern and Western Cape, Mr. Alwie Lester, today in order to seek out ways to come to an agreement that would not foresee any municipal electricity disconnections again. After a lengthy discussion a proposal was made by the Premier that Eskom allows Provincial Government to engage with the five municipalities so as to seek a lasting solution that ensures that Municipalities commit to pay Eskom an amount that is realistically affordable and that they hold to this payment plan. Ms. Lucas is of the view that if such an agreement can be reached we will not have any future disruptions in the power supply and it will result in a win-win solution for both parties.

The matter relating to electricity disconnections is not one that affects only the Northern Cape and for this reason Eskom requested an opportunity be granted to them to revert back to their senior management with the proposal of the Provincial Government. The result of these discussions will be made available towards the end of the week. The Premier stressed once more that the electricity consumers are our main priority and we want to facilitate a viable solution that is realistic and affordable for the Municipalities and that sees no parties losing out on the agreement. “As Provincial Government we have the responsibility to ensure that Municipalities must fulfill their obligation and that we emerge with an agreement that is mutually beneficial,” stated Ms. Lucas.      

Released by the Spokesperson to the Premier, Ms Bronwyn Thomas-Abrahams, 083 447 6586, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.