MEDIA RELEASE 14 December 2006 Joburg warns residents about slum buildings One person was killed and numerous others injured during a fire which gutted a house in Mayfair on Tuesday night. Cause of the fire and property status are under investigation. But early indications are suggesting that the property had been illegally occupied and there excluded from the City's database used for provision of official services such as water and lights. One death is too many and the City of Johannesburg sends condolences to the families, friends and relatives of the deceased and wishing a speedy recovery to those recovering in hospital. The City of Johannesburg would like to use this opportunity to again call for the judiciary, human rights lawyers, church leaders, civil society, property owners and any other interested stakeholder to join hands with government in urgently finding a lasting solution to the plight of the poor and the homeless. Cooperation in this will help to improve the quality of life of every individual in the City and avoid further loss of life. Government is committed to enforce efforts to bring a solution to the challenges of illegal occupation of property and unauthorized access to essential services provided to registered residents. On average, the Development Planning Department's law enforcement unit conducts 30 to 40 inspections daily. Of these inspections, at least 10 notices of non-compliance to City rules and regulations are issued. Residents are also urged to refrain from illegally occupying abandoned buildings. The most common problem at these buildings are: poor maintenance, no water or/and electricity, overcrowding, inadequate fire-fighting equipment, leaking roofs and pealing paint. Members of the public can also play a positive role to safe lives sure compliance to rules and regulations by reporting any illegal occupations, by calling 375-5911. This will assist the city in its efforts to put an end to the invasion of private or public open land and property. Ends. Issued by: Nthatisi Modingoane Media Liaison Officer CITY OF JOHANNESBURG Tel: (011) 407 7354 Fax: 403 3494 Cell: 082 467 9228 E-mail: nthatisem@joburg.org.za