The DA calls on KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza and her department to ensure the provision of more funding to government-subsidised facilities for the aged in the province.
The appeal comes as KZN’s elderly continue to be targeted by criminals and a recent horrific incident involving a Klaarwater pensioner, who was allegedly sexually assaulted while alone in her home.
The DA is disgusted by this act of violence. We extend our deepest sympathies to the victim of this horrendous crime.
It is clear that not enough is being done to protect our most vulnerable members of society. As much as communities should mobilise, government intervention must come first. Handing out a grant and then leaving the elderly to fend for themselves is not acceptable.
The issue demands greater oversight by the MEC and the Department of Social Development (DSD) on existing old age facilities, increased funding to assist them and ensuring their safety. It also requires facilities for the aged, in different districts, so that they are more accessible to wider groups of communities.
The issue of stigma must also be addressed as taking the elderly to old age homes is still seen as neglecting or dumping them within some communities. In this regard, government must ensure community education programmes outlining the benefits of properly run facilities.
The DA will today submit a written parliamentary question to DSD requesting detailed information on the number of government old age facilities in the province, the subsidies they receive and the level of oversight by this department.
We remain committed to monitoring this issue and to ensuring oversight when it comes to our most vulnerable members of society.