Mbombela: The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJandCD) has advised the public that the Mpumalanga High Court will be open for business on Monday. The Mpumalanga High Court was recently closed after an inspection by the Department of Labour and the subsequent findings that highlighted health and safety issues with the building.

According to South African Government News Agency, on Saturday, the DOJandCD met with the Departments of Employment and Labour (DEL), Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), Independent Development Trust (IDT), and the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) to determine a course of action in response to issues identified during a recent inspection of the Mpumalanga High Court conducted by DEL. The prohibition notice was issued on 30 October 2024.

Following representations made by the departments concerning the identified areas needing attention, it was resolved that the prohibition notice would be suspended for seven working days starting Monday, 04 November 2024. Th
is suspension allows the department to address the issues raised in the prohibition notice, according to DOJandCD.

The concerns raised by DEL focused on three specific areas: ensuring proper ventilation, provision of a report confirming the integrity of the structure, and provision of the occupancy certificate. The departments provided extensive feedback to DEL on matters relating to the prohibition notice and progress thereof.

Based on the feedback, the extension was granted. The department remains committed to resolving the issues raised by DEL, including ensuring the safety of staff, judiciary, and members of the public. Discussions continue between the parties, including the exchange of expert and technical reports to find a long-term solution to the matters raised. During the suspension period, the department assures the public that the court will remain open on Monday, 04 November 2024.