12 August 2020 by CXpress

12 August 2020

Published every Wednesday by CXpress 2006 (Pty) Ltd - PO Box 1449, Plettenberg Bay 6600 - 6 Park Lane, Plettenberg Bay - Tel: 044 533 1004 - Fax: 044 533 0852 Email: editor@cxpress.co.za / advertising@cxpress.co.za Web page: www.cxpress.co.za Printed by Group Editors

This rare leopard seal caused quite a stir in marine mammal circles last week, when it spent enough time on Robberg Beach for a brief photo session - find out more on page 2

Photo: Danielle Conry

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NEWS & VIEWS

12 August 2020

Rare ‘leopard of the sea’ pays a special visit to Plett from the icy waters of Antarctica Words & photos: Danielle Conry

NEVER CHANGE YOUR SPOTS: The young male leopard seal, just over 2 metres in length and appearing very thin, was found on Robberg Beach last week and had marine experts guessing about an itinerary so far from its native Antarctica

N unfamiliar sight awaited beach walkers on Robberg 2 as dawn broke over Plett on August 3: a large unusual-looking seal, grey in colour, had settled just above the surfline. The Plettenberg Bay Stranding Network was quickly alerted to the unexpected arrival, and before long the first pictures revealed a very special find indeed. Upon their arrival at the scene, a young male leopard seal greeted the stranding response team. Usually occurring in the icy waters around Antarctica, the sight of this spotty, pack-ice inhabitant on Plett’s sunny shores defied the expectations of any expert on the subject of marine mammal migrations. Leopard seals breed on the Antarctic ice during summer and are formidable predators that feed on a wide variety of species, including fish, cephalopods, penguins, and even other seals. Krill makes up a large proportion of their diet, especial-

ly during the winter months when other food sources are less abundant. Pups are weaned after a month and adults can reach the age of 26 years, growing to a maximum length of 3.8 metres. Interestingly, male leopard seals vocalise underwater for long periods of time in an acoustic display thought to have a territorial and/or mate attraction function. With a handful of sightings each year, it is not uncommon to see vagrant seals from the sub-antarctic such as southern elephant and sub-antarctic fur seals. In fact, a large male southern elephant seal, named Solo, has annually returned to haul out and moult on Robberg Peninsula for the last few years. However, due to the great distance from Antarctica to South Africa, combined with the difficulty of passing through eastward-flowing currents, encountering vagrants from that southernmost continent is a much rarer affair. In fact, according to Dr Greg

Hofmeyr of the Port Elizabeth Museum, last week’s Plettenberg Bay sighting may possibly be only the 14th recording of this species along the South African coastline. The stranding response team quickly cordoned off the area around the seal to prevent it from being disturbed by people approaching too closely. It is believed that leopard seals haul out to rest, digest prey, or come ashore when they are injured or in poor condition. This young male was estimated at just over 2 metres in length and appeared very thin. Research shows that most of the extralimital records for this species appear to be of exhausted and emaciated juvenile males, and sighted between August and October. The northward dispersal of such individuals is thought to be facilitated by the northward extension of pack-ice in winter, as well as competition with krill-feeding specialists such as crabeater seals. After some time, he slowly

made his way into the water and swam out to sea. Unfortunately, it is unknown whether such individuals make it back to the waters of Antarctica or if they succumb. However, Plett’s Stranding Network will be on the lookout for any subsequent sightings. If you come across a seal or dolphin ashore, please report it to the stranding team immediately on 079 463 4837. Remember that live marine mammals can be dangerous so it is advised to keep a safe distance, and never attempt to touch the animal. • Danielle Conry (MSc Zoology) is a marine mammal biologist and a member of the Marion Island Marine Mammal Programme (MIMMP). She was supposed to accompany the team to Marion Island this year but the trip was postponed due to the Covid 19 pandemic. She has been living and working in Plettenberg Bay as a marine biologist and guide since 2017.

NEWS & VIEWS

12 August 2020

CXPRESS

Suspect brought down within hour after shooting George traffic officer in the face APS members in George have opened an attempted-murder docket for investigation following an incident in which a female traffic officer was seriously injured after she was disarmed and allegedly shot with her service pistol on Friday. The suspect, in his early 30s, was apprehended within an hour after the incident happened when he fled on foot. Said Southern Cape police spokesman captain Malcolm Pojie: “Preliminary investigation reveals that the traffic officer pulled over a grey Audi A4 vehicle on the bridge in Beach Road, which crosses the N2 highway near Pacaltsdorp, around 9am on August 7. “She approached the vehicle to conduct a routine inspection when the driver overpowered and disarmed her by taking her service pistol from her holster. “The suspect then fired several shots at her, hitting her in the face.” The officer was transported to hospital per ambulance and is currently being treated for the serious injury sustained. Fellow traffic officials and George Law Enforcement

WILD SOUTH: Senior members of the SAPS and Provincial Traffic at the scene of the shooting, which resulted in members of Southern Cape-based specialised crime-fighting units giving chase GOING BALLISTIC: These firearms that were confiscated on the scene will be tested to determine whether they may have been used in other criminal activities

officers in close proximity witnessed the ordeal and acted swiftly. After firing the initial shots, the suspect left his car behind and fled on foot in the direction of the Pacaltsdorp industrial site along the N2, taking several shots at the officers in pursuit. “Rapid response by members of SAPS specialised units led to the tracing of the suspect. He was spotted on the highway before diverting to the nearby railway line,” said Pojie. “A shootout ensued in which the suspect was wounded in his right arm and left knee. Members found two firearms with loaded magazines in his possession, as well as an un-

disclosed amount of cash.” Pojie said the firearms were confiscated and sent for ballistic tests to determine whether they could have been used in other criminal incidents. “The vehicle was also confiscated as evidence,” he said, adding that the motive for the incident was yet to be established. The suspect is currently receiving medical attention under police guard. His first appearance in George Magistrates Court was scheduled for Tuesday August 11, once he had been charged with attempted murder, theft of a firearm, and the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

Garden Route

Western Cape Health minister embarks on Garden Route roadshow From August 11 to 14, provincial Health minister Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, at left, will visit various clinics and related sites throughout the Garden Route District. Along the way, she will be opening newly-refurbished facilities and address respective communities on the subject of her Behavioural Change Campaign, when she will also distribute masks to those in attendance. Her outreach itinerary kicked off at Kranshoek Clinic yesterday, followed by visits to Plettenberg Bay CBD and Kwano Clinic. Today, she is due to visit sites in Khayalethu, Hornlee, and Knysna CBD before departing for George, where she will address residents in Conville, Heatherlands and Pacaltsdorp on August 13. Dr Nbombo’s roadshow concludes in various Mossel Bay wards on Friday, her final stop being the Petro SA Isolation and Quarantine Facility, where she will address patients and staff at 12:30pm.

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12 August 2020

News from Knysna Municipality: Senza, NERSA, and new Hornlee clinic Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

NYSNA mayor Elrick van Aswegen on Friday announced that, during a council meeting held on August 6, it was resolved that the municipality would perform cosmetic upgrades to its apartment at Senza - the infamous restaurant [after years’ worth of court battles twixt the municipality and the eatery’s former owners over outstanding tax and related issues] located at The Heads. The unfurnished apartment will apparently be leased to acting municipal manager Dr Louis Scheepers at a market-related rental amount. “Aside from rendering the apartment habitable and capable of generating an income, it is important to maintain council property,” said Van Aswegen. “The flat at Senza was one of two properties under discussion, and proved to be the least expensive option to spruce up right now.” Dr Scheepers currently rents a flat in a block where three other residents have been tested positive for Covid-19. This has meant that he has already had to self-isolate for a total of four weeks. “While Dr Scheepers did work remotely during these periods of quarantine, it is important to have the head of the administration at the office,” Van Aswegen said. “Renting an apartment separate from other people greatly reduces the risk of

exposure to infected persons and the related potential need for self-isolation.” He concluded: “Council has a responsibility to maintain its properties and having someone living on site will add an element of security to an otherwise deserted site.” Electricity tariff amended in line with NERSA specs Municipal customers may have noted a higher than expected increase in electricity tariffs implemented at the end of July. “We had to raise the tariff by a few cents to fall in line with the directives of the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA),” said Dr Scheepers. “NERSA determines the electricity tariffs for South African municipalities, who must conform to these stipulations,” he explained. “Unfortunately, we only received NERSA’s approval on our application for rates after our municipal budget had been approved.” The municipality began a cost-supply study for electricity in 2018. Application for tariffs for the 2020/21 financial year was submitted to NERSA and motivated by this study. “The timing as specified by the MFMA versus the timing of applications to, and approval from NERSA, has created this conflict,” said Dr Scheepers. “The AuditorGeneral also raised this issue

last year and we hope that the relevant legislators will address this matter to avoid similar confusion in future.” Although only a few cents, every cent matters and we know how hard our residents work for their income,” Dr Scheepers concluded. “While this late change to the electricity tariff was not our decision, but a directive to comply with the national regulator, we do apologise for any inconvenience caused to our residents.” Property leased for new Hornlee Clinic Hornlee Taxi Rank will be leased to the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works for the establishment of a new clinic in Hornlee. The municipality is within its rights to negotiate directly with the Department, as it is an organ of state. The department will be responsible for the costs involved, as well as any and all other incidental costs. The municipality looks forward to this new partnership and will keep the community of Hornlee and Greater Knysna up to date with the progress of their new clinic. The Garden Route Taxi Association lodged the only comment/complaint received during the public participation process, but it must be noted that this rank had not been used since completion.

NEWS & VIEWS

12 August 2020

One hundred Bitou residents may benefit from council decision Bitou Municipality will be using the Extended Public Works Programme in an effort to mitigate the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the local community - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports recent decision by Bitou’s decision-makers is set to create an additional 100 opportunities for locals through the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP). Municipal spokesperson Andile Namntu said a special council meeting was held on August 5 to discuss the EPWP - especially the figures for the 2020/21 intake. “The council made consideration in terms of how Covid-19 has affected society. It also considered how the programme can be used to mitigate some of the challenges brought about by the pandemic. “The fact that the pandemic has led to the loss of jobs at a very large scale, means the programme has to be used to absorb more people than in previous

years,” Namntu said. He added, however, that the increase in numbers impacted on the budget, which had not increased significantly to accommodate the spike. Namntu said it was for this reason that the mayco approved a decrease in the daily rate earned by EPWP workers from R180 to R150 for the duration of the Covid-19 pandemic, as this would allow them to create more than 100 additional opportunities. “It was agreed that the programme should run for a full 12-month period to avoid logistical challenges and to deal with the effects of Covid-19. This will also allow for smooth transition at the end of the term. The intake for 2020/21 is

expected to commence on September 1.” He further said the pandemic would require officials to deploy EPWP workers in new fields. “The issue of food security has become crucial during these tough times. Some of the workers should be deployed to the programme of establishing food gardens. Other opportunities linked to Covid-19 include deploying EPWP workers as compliance officers at schools and businesses.” Namntu concluded that EPWP workers who had previously worked on the programme may be retained, but would likely be rotated among departments to ensure they acquired a wide variety of skills. Garden Route Media

Good news for wannabe flyers to and from the coming week. So we are Plett… and that’s direct! very hopeful that the minICOLENE Myburgh of CemAir, who used to live and work in Plett before relocating with her family to Canada, keeps a close eye on events and friends in her former hometown. On Friday August 7, she posted this positive message on Facebook:

“A bit of good news for a change! Plett Airport recently underwent the CAA [South Africa’s Civil Aviation Authority] inspection for Covid-19 readiness and compliance, and all went well. There were a few minor deficiencies, but these can easily be addressed during

ister will announce the reopening of Plett Airport within the next couple of weeks.” Nicolene promised to keep CXPRESS posted - as did Plett Tourism CEO Marius Venter, who has been doing everything in his power to ensure that local tourism gets back on track.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

12 August 2020

Paediatricians speak out against school closures during Covid-19 FTER only Grade 12s got the go-ahead to return to their desks last week, both the Paediatrician Management Group (PMG) and SA Paediatric Association (SAPA) urged government to open schools to all learners and so prevent fear or politics to harm the children of South Africa. Speaking out against government’s decision to close public schools again, paediatricians say the decision is not based on scientific evidence, and that benefits of attending school outweigh the risks to children as well as the broader community. With no clear evidence that closing schools significantly reduces community transmission or overall deaths, local paediatric doctors call for all grades to be allowed to return to school as soon as possible. A Covid-19 modelling study done in the UK, based on the previous H1N1 epidemic and the SARS outbreak, predicted that school closures alone would possibly prevent only 2-4% of deaths - much lower than the effect of other social distancing interventions. “Those school communities at risk, either due to high local transmission rates or poor infrastructure, should be identified and supported immediately to mitigate the risks so that they can reopen as soon as possible. “Where schools are unable to reopen, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) must ensure that all learners continue to have adequate academic material via radio, TV, cellphone apps and all other means necessary. “Educators must be held accountable for providing ongoing academic support and material at all times,” the paediatricians said. Children’s infection risk lower than adults Dr Fiona Kritzinger, a paediatric pulmonologist at Cape Town’s Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital, said children aged 0-18 in South Africa account for only 5% of Covid-19 cases. “Children and young people have a lower susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, with 56% lower odds of being an infected contact.” SA data on Covid-19 case distribution by age shows that kids aged five to nine have an incidence of 15 cases per 100,000 population; 10-14-yearolds have an incidence of 22 per 100,000 population, with 38 per 100,000 in kids aged 15-19. In comparison, the incidence in the 20-60-year-old groups varies between 94 and 228 per 100,000 population. A recent media statement released by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that only 0.1% of all learn-

ers who had returned to school tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, and no deaths of learners were reported to the WCED. Dr Kritzinger said although this percentage is affected by the current Western Cape testing strategy, “it is nonetheless reassuring that the reopening of schools has not resulted in any significant outbreaks at a population level”. Children’s risk to transmit is lower than adults Family cluster and household studies showed that kids are rarely the index case and that they seldom cause outbreaks; they were only responsible for transmission in 9.7% of households. Low school and community outbreak contribution Dr Kritzinger said evidence points towards very limited spread between children. “There are no reported large outbreaks in schools in any country. This supports the argument that asymptomatic children attending school are unlikely to be significant spreaders of the disease. “In the Western Cape more than half of the schools have not reported a single positive case despite very high community transmission in the province at the time of the reopening of schools. “Where learners tested positive, 72% of schools reported only one or two cases. As of July 16, there were only 333 (0.8%) active Covid-19 cases amongst WCED staff, indicating that teachers are not at greater risk than other essential workers.” Extremely low risk of serious disease or death Dr Kritzinger said studies from China, Italy, the UK, and USA all reported very low numbers of critically ill children and deaths in under-19s, with children experiencing a much milder disease than adults; deaths are extremely rare. “By June 9, only 2.6% of all Covid-19 admissions in South Africa were for children aged 0-18 years, who accounted for only 0.4% of all reported deaths. “SARS-CoV-2 has caused less childhood deaths compared to influenza since the onset of the pandemic. Research from seven highincome countries on 42,846 confirmed paediatric Covid-19 cases showed 44 deaths versus 107 influenza paediatric deaths during the current pandemic.” Major disadvantages of school closure The paediatricians argue that with basic education being a basic human right in the country’s constitution, the majority of learners would have missed half of the school year by the end of August, depriving them of this right.

“Only about 20% of school children have access to online schooling according to the DBE and it is estimated that only 10% of households have internet access. This lack of access to education is disproportionally affecting vulnerable and disadvantaged children. “The knowledge and skills gap between those with access and those without will only increase and this loss of education will have longterm and far-reaching economic effects. “The DBE has not implemented any meaningful strategies to mitigate any of these effects and a significant percentage of learners have not received any educational material since March.” Dr Kritzinger mentioned the immense emotional and psychological effects on children during and after lockdown. Several international reviews show that lockdowns, school closures and natural disasters raise levels of substance abuse, depression, domestic violence and child abuse. A recent study in Hubei in China reported that 25% of 8-12-year-olds had developed depression during lockdown. “In South Africa, many learners are already under substantial emotional and psychological stress due to poverty, malnutrition, crowded living conditions, abuse, gender-based violence and other violent crime. “In addition, school closures increase childcare obligations, especially of healthcare and other essential workers. It has been estimated that if mortality rates for Covid-19 increased from 2-2.35% as a result of healthcare worker shortages, school closures would result in more deaths than the lives gained due to slower Covid-19 spread. “By reopening the economy while keeping schools closed, many parents/caregivers are forced to leave their children at home unattended. Less than one-third of children live in households where both parents are present, and in almost 42% of cases, the mother is the only parent. “It is estimated that more than 2-million children aged 0-15 will be left at home unattended, increasing their risks for accidental injury, abuse, fear, anxiety and isolation.” Dr Kritzinger concluded: “It seems illogical to close all schools in all provinces and districts if community transmission rates vary so significantly. Allowing school communities to monitor and manage their risks based on local transmission would enable more schools to continue with activities and limit interruptions over the next 12 months.”

NEWS & VIEWS

12 August 2020

CXPRESS

CareChamp shares its findings after field research on senior isolation HE share of South African adults, aged 65+ and living alone, has been steadily increasing in the past years to reach roughly 20% in 2020, according to Statistics SA and a recent study conducted by the UN. That’s close to 1-million seniors ageing alone. When you couple that with studies confirming that seniors who live alone have a lower life satisfaction, it’s a crisis we can’t afford to ignore. What causes loneliness in old age? As we get older, it’s not uncommon for social circles to get smaller; we retire and loved ones move abroad or pass away. Add to that logistical challenges such as the loss of mobility and the

inability to drive, and opportunities for socialising tend to decrease. Regardless of the causes of senior loneliness, the outcomes can be worrying and damaging. Effects on lonely seniors Feeling lonely can leave seniors vulnerable to not only physical but also mental health issues. Studies found evidence to link social isolation and loneliness to an increased risk for early mortality, chronic illness, and deteriorating mental health. Adults who report feeling lonely are at higher risk for high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, anxiety, and depression. Loneliness scale Based on qualitative research, CareChamp field workers found that elderly

A legend in his own time

HENDRIK VAN HUYSSTEEN (31 March 1940 - 1 August 2020): Pictured with son Gerhard, Hendrik had a lifelong association with Plett, and revered Robberg Beach

clients scored an average of 22, which puts them in the second-highest isolation bracket. A score of 0-14 indicates little to no loneliness; 15-21 normal loneliness; 22-29 moderate loneliness; and 30+ extreme loneliness. So what’s being done? CareChamp companion services and the Befriend a Grandparent initiative have been created to strengthen seniors’ social ties and improve their wellbeing. It aims to: • Make seniors feel much less alone; • Help maintain and extend social relationships; • Allow seniors to use technology as a tool to communicate; and • Bring together those with similar interests. Get online T was with great melancholy and infinite sadness that CXPRESS content editor Esther de Villiers, husband Gerhard van Huyssteen, their children, family and friends said their final goodbyes to Gerhard’s dad Hendrik van Huyssteen last week. An incurable academic and true connoisseur of the arts, Hendrik was also an educator and expert in child psychology who,

Take advantage of all the technology out there: Befriend a Grandparent makes it easy to video call your elderly loved one - all you need is access to a phone or computer. CareChamp will find a match, complete all the necessary safety checks, and arrange a call. Listen and learn The next time you call your elderly friend or relative, try really listening to them and making them feel valued and important. The more meaningful your interaction, the more beneficial the health effects. Spend a few hours per week being a friend and engaging in intellectually stimulating conversation. Google CareChamp to find out more. along with wife Elsa, was responsible for the care of countless vulnerable, neglected and orphaned kids throughout the country. His memorial service at Tafelberg NGK in Cape Town on August 6 paid apt tribute to a man revered by many, but mostly by his beloved wife of 55 years, children Gerhard and Elsa, and grandkids Karolien, Isabella, Franceska, Henri, and Ella.

U3A now ready to Zoom you hours of entertainment Lynette Timme - U3A Plett programme coordinator

FTER a very promising start in February, the Covid-19 lockdown stopped all U3A activities, and members must be wondering when and how we will get going again. Our U3A committee has had several meetings, some in-house and others with members from U3A branches in George and Knysna, as well as the SA national U3A committee. Everyone is trying to ensure that we can again provide interesting and stimulating programmes, albeit in a somewhat different manner.

These committee meetings have taken place on Zoom - a program that allows participants to ‘meet’ online, enjoy seeing and hearing from each other, watch a presentation, and share in a discussion. What are we offering? Firstly, and most importantly for new-Zoomers, are sessions in which the program is explained so everyone can learn the basics. It goes without saying that good internet connectivity, computer hardware with microphone and video camera, as well as familiarisation with the program will be required. Secondly, we offer a variety of topics and discus-

sions. Knysna U3A has many small groups running on Zoom and they are happy to include interested Plett members. There are also many films and documentaries on the internet that could form the basis for our own discussion groups. These can be viewed in advance, and then discussed in a small Zoom group at a time convenient to all. Our electronic newsletter this month is accompanied by two attachments, the first being the programme offered by Cape Town U3A, and the second a list of suggestions for internet programmes that you can watch on

your own. Email me at u3aplett@ gmail.com to request either of these documents. Alternatively, this is where your participation could come in useful as part of a discussion group: let us know what subjects are of interest to you. We can then either organise a meeting on that topic for discussion, or you may want to host such a meeting yourself. If you have computer access and time, familiarise yourself with Zoom, and then try one of the programmes. This will entail getting into contact so we can organise the groups and the dates.

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CXPRESS

12 August 2020

NEWS & VIEWS

12 August 2020

Province’s fight against ‘pandemic of unemployment’ offers solutions Premier ALAN WINDE released this statement on August 7, announcing the Western Cape Government’s position on the safe opening of all businesses URING a Bosberaad on August 6, the cabinet of the Western Cape Government met to discuss the second, equally serious pandemic of unemployment spreading across our province. During this special meeting of ministers and provincial Heads of Department, the cabinet made it clear that we need to fight this second pandemic with equal resolve if we are going to save lives and prevent a catastrophic humanitarian disaster. Western Cape health platform capacitated for Covid-19 response We didn’t waste a day of the hard lockdown to prepare our healthcare systems for the peak of infections. We have taken our response seriously, ensuring that we have additional field hospitals upand-running in time for our peak, adequate stock of PPE and other medical supplies such as oxygen, and we have done this transparently, accounting for every cent spent. As a government, we have been following an evidence-based, data-led approach to our health response, and we have used worst-case scenario planning to ensure that we always have adequate provisions. While our healthcare system has been under pressure throughout this time, we have always had capacity to care for our residents. Latest data indicate that we have passed our peak and that our metro hospitals are 69% full, down from 71% the week before (all patients). We can also reveal that: • The Hospital of Hope, which has a capacity of over 800 beds, has 91 patients admitted; • The Brackengate Field Hospital with its capacity of over 330 beds, has 47 patients admitted; • The Thusong Centre, which has a capacity of 60 beds, has 20 patients admitted. We manage a well-run, integrated health platform and have the ability to provide support to all regions across the province. We are also adding addi-

tional capacity in rural areas, with beds at Sonstraal Hospital and in municipalities such as George. In fact, the Western Cape Government has now reached a point where we have to carefully consider whether all our field hospitals need to stay open, given these statistics and the scenario provisioning projections. But the economic disaster is gaining momentum as thousands of jobs are being lost. Businesses that employ tens of thousands of people are buckling under continued restrictions on economic activity, low confidence, and reduced demand. It is estimated that we will lose 10.2% in Gross Value Add, R720-million in revenue, and a staggering 167,000 jobs. Nearly 200,000 people, many in vulnerable communities, will no longer have an income to put food on the table so their dependents and children will suffer too. This should give every decision-maker in this country sleepless nights. For many people in our province and country, a job is the difference between food on the table and starvation. This is not an exaggeration, but a harsh reality. International organisation Oxfam has identified South Africa as an emerging hunger hotspot, saying many of the country’s poor would be “tipped over the edge” by the inability to earn or job losses as a result of the pandemic. This is corroborated by what we are seeing in our Western Cape communities. Higher levels of unemployment will impact food security, the nutrition of adults and children, and violent crime, thus costing lives now and in the future. That is why we have maintained that we should not view our response to Covid-19 as a zero-sum game. We can ready our healthcare systems to respond and provide care while opening our economy safely at the same time. WC Cabinet’s take on safe

opening of all businesses The Western Cape Cabinet considered these factors and agreed that we need to prevent as many job losses as possible. The only way to do this is to allow all businesses to open safely. We accordingly adopted the following position: For as long as the Western Cape can assure access to health facilities for all Covid-19 patients, all businesses should be allowed to open safely, following clear health guidelines designed to slow the spread of Covid-19. Our departments of Economic Development and Tourism and Health have worked on detailed health and safety guidelines for businesses so that there is clarity on what is expected of them in our fight against Covid-19. We have responded to 3,972 direct inquiries for assistance from businesses in the Western Cape and have begun the process of rolling out 11,000 Covid-19 Business Safety Kits to ensure that businesses are properly supported. We have also created a platform where employees can report businesses where these health and safety guidelines are not being followed. To date we have resolved 1,122 complaints relating to workplace safety. Given our capacity to respond to Covid-19, the fact that we have passed our peak, and that we have put measures in place to support businesses so that they can reopen safely, there remains no rational reason to keep businesses closed. Position on the domestic sale of alcohol When considering the continued suspension of alcohol sales, we fully agree that alcohol-related harms are a major problem in our province and country. When the domestic sale of alcohol was first suspended, and then again recently, the number of trauma cases dropped immediately. But we cannot view this in isolation of the other consequences of a continued ‘ban’ on the sale of alcohol is causing. SA is one of the top

wine-producing countries of the world, and that sector is predominantly located in our province. We are the country’s wine and agri-processing capital, with the sector supporting thousands of livelihoods across a value chain. The impact on this temporary ban is not just felt in our agricultural and farming communities, but also in our tourism and hospitality sector. Indeed, we are also the tourism and hospitality capital of SA, with over 200,000 jobs supported by tourism in our province. The reality of this sector is that restaurants rely on alcohol sales to remain profitable. If properly licensed establishments are not allowed to sell alcohol on site, they will not be able to remain financially viable. We therefore have a complex situation to address in our province, where the continued suspension on the sale of alcohol will result in a jobs blood bath - mainly in our poorer, rural communities. We must also remember that the suspension of alcohol was not just because it provided harm in general; rather, the stated reason is that alcohol-related cases were undermining the ability of healthcare systems to provide care to Covid-19 patients. This is not the case in the Western Cape; we have passed the peak with adequate platform capacity, to the extent that we will soon be considering whether all our field hospitals need to remain open. Given this fact, and the dire consequences of this ban on the livelihoods of our people, we can no longer support the continued suspension on the domestic sale of alcohol. As long as the Western Cape can assure access to health facilities for all Covid-19 patients, the temporary ban on the sale of alcohol should be lifted immediately, in conjunction with the implementation of smart interventions to curb the negative impacts of alcohol over the medium to long term.

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

12 August 2020

Multiple giggles rebel, coloured the duck in a bright fire-truck red. After seeing this, the teacher asked him: “Little Johnny, how many times have you seen a red duck?” Little Johnny replied: “The same number of times I’ve seen a duck holding an umbrella.” --Please don’t answer The famous Olympic skier Picabo (pronounced Peek-A-Boo) Street is not just an athlete, but also a nurse. She currently works at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a large metropolitan hospital. She is, however, not permitted to answer the telephone, as it is simply causing too much confusion when she answers: “Picabo, ICU...”

Rare, very rare… The cowboy ordered a steak at a restaurant and it was served rare, very rare. He looked at it and asked that it be returned to the kitchen and cooked. The chef came out to inform the cowboy that the steak was cooked. “Cooked? You call this cooked? I’ve seen cows hurt worse than this and they get well.” --Colour the duck A kindergarten teacher handed out a colouring page to her class. On it was a picture of a duck holding an umbrella. The teacher told her class to colour the duck in yellow and the umbrella in green. Little Johnny, the class

If women didn’t exist

all the money in the world would have no meaning

Mother called NTON answers the phone and has the following conversation: “Yes, Mother, I’ve had a hard day. Colleen has been very difficult - I know I ought to be more firm, but it is hard. Well, you know how she is. Yes, I know you warned me. I remember you told

me that she was evil and would make my life miserable and you begged me not to marry her. I should have listened to you. You want to speak with her? All right.” He looks up and calls to his wife in the next room: “Colleen, your mother wants to talk to you!”

How blind! ASON gets off the elevator on the 50th floor and nervously knocks on his blind date’s door. She opens it and is very beautiful and charming. “I’ll be ready in a few minutes,” she says. “Why don’t you play with Spot, my dog, while you’re waiting? He does wonderful tricks. He rolls over, shakes hands, sits up, and if you make a hoop with your arms,

he’ll jump through.” The dog follows Jason onto the balcony and starts rolling over. Jason makes a hoop with his arms and Spot jumps through, over the balcony railing… Just then, Jason’s date walks out. “Isn’t Spot the cutest, happiest dog you’ve ever seen?” “To tell the truth,” he replies, “Spot seemed a little depressed to me!”

My mouse, Elvis, died today. He was caught in a trap. 1

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C H E D A R Y S U P O N T P G L O T O U T O R T R E E T S L R U E D B S R A M I N E R L V S D L E S S

F A R F E T R A Y G O R M L E S N P D T R A P B G E F L E E T S O C B R I S K E T C A T V E R B E X D R R R E G A R

ON THE SOAPBOX

12 August 2020

Letters to the Editor

Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600

Social ills and intimidation abound but local Covid-19 protocols blatantly ignored We are facing many changes brought on by Covid-19. One which we, as residents and businesses in Crescent, High and Church Streets, regard as negative and unacceptable, is the growing number of vagrants and unlicensed hawkers. At any one time during the day, there are a number (sometimes as many as six) illegal cigarette sellers plying their trade along the pavements. Illegal cigarettes are probably here to stay, given the explosion in the black market, which avoids any form of tax or, it would appear, policing. The guards who are employed by Shoprite maintain some sort of order within the parking areas. However, vagrants loitering at the entrance to the covered parking, wanting to push/recover trolleys,

are usually unmasked beggars behaving aggressively towards pedestrians, particularly women, in this area. There is going to be an incident soon. Shoprite should consider appointing a limited number of designated trolley jockeys, and then enforce Covid-19 sanitisation. The current situation flies in the face of Covid-10 prevention and severely impacts businesses in the area, one of which is a pre-school for toddlers. Both customers and parents are complaining and avoiding these businesses. Residents in the area are now forced to drive to and from destinations in town, however close. Some vagrants have created hideaway spots - for example the area behind the municipal transformer in Crescent Street is

used as a toilet. One would expect to see Bitou Law Enforcement officers patrolling here, particularly as their vigorous inspection of deferred car licences seems to carry on regardless. Perhaps it’s because there is no solution to a problem that has grown quickly out of proportion. This open letter from a growing group of activists aims to enquire whether there is a bylaw that deals with this issue and if so, whether we can have ‘No loitering’ signs erected. This would mean that law enforcers can remove vagrants and unlicensed hawkers from the area, and fine repeat offenders. If no such bylaw exists, it should be promulgated by Bitou without delay. If it does exist, we would expect to see a reaction. This issue has the po-

tential to become an organised challenge on rates and taxes, as business and residential values are compromised. We have kind permission to collect all evidence (photographs, letters, emails and affidavits) in this regard through plett. watch2@gmail.com, so we request that anyone with similar sentiments or experiences report it to that email address. ‘Concerned for Crescent Street’, Plett (This letter was forwarded to the relevant department at Bitou Municipality for a response, which we hope to include in a near-future edition. Visit www.cxpress.co.za and view page 5 of the August 5 edition for another letter on the subject of cigarette sellers in Knysna operating with impunity. - Eds.)

UNSIGHTLY, UNHEALTHY, UNACCEPTABLE: Some vagrants use the area behind the municipal transformer in Crescent Street as a toilet and rubbish dump

Drs Berning and Whiteman rule at Plumb House Rooms I would like to advise CXPRESS readers that Dr Nicola Whiteman and I are practising independently and in cooperation from 3 Plettenberg Street in Plett. Contrary to various rumours, I have not retired and continue to see patients at these premises, as has been the case since 2000. However, Dr Peter Honeywill retired at the end of May due to the downturn and danger caused by the Covid-19 scourge. This brings to

an end our association as partners, colleagues - and as each other’s patients! which we’ve enjoyed for more than 30 years. Ours was the most amicable working relationship, characterised by frequent medical discussions on numerous topics and much humour thrown in. My wife, Joan, and staff, Joanna and Jennifer, join me in wishing Peter many more years of enjoying Plett and the ample time he can now spend with family and friends.

Last year I completed a Diploma in Translational Nutrigenomics which enables me to advise patients on the appropriate dietary lifestyle and supplementary needs according to their personal genetic profile. My other interests, skills, and abilities remain the same. Dr Nicola Whiteman is a general medical practitioner with a special interest in integrative medicine, which focuses on identifying the root cause of illness while optimising health through

lifestyle change. Through her experience, she has proven that the optimisation of gut health is fundamental to managing any patient’s every affliction. Our contact number for appointments remains the same. Dr Peter Berning, Plett (We shall surely miss Dr Honeywill and his keen sense of humour, which made many of us feel so much better over the years - all of the very best, Doc! See the advert on this page for relevant contact details. - Eds.)

Ebony, ivory and the case for an olive-skinned saviour How dismal it is to read in the media that the Dean of St Albans Cathedral in England has succumbed to pressure from the Black Lives Matter group and has had Jesus portrayed as a black man in a painting of the famous ‘Last Supper’.

For someone who is so steeped in theology and Bible knowledge as the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, it is simply ludicrous to call for a “rethink regarding the portrayal of Jesus as white”. How many Christians really think that Jesus was of European descent?

Surely, all Christians worth their salt will know that Jesus was a devout Jew (which may still surprise some people) who lived in what is now Israel. He would thus have had a swarthy complexion or what is sometimes referred to as an olive skin.

Thus, Jesus would have been neither white as in the European sense nor black as in the Negroid sense. It is appalling that supposedly learned clergy have allowed Jesus to be dragged into the political arena. Kevin Meineke, Plett

CXPRESS

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CXPRESS

12 August 2020

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Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

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