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Secunda Mall keeps customers safe during COVID-19

Michelle Nell, General Manager Secunda Mall, spoke to The Bulletin about the precautions the mall is taking during this time to ensure their customers stay safe and feel safe.

“We have supplied all the car guards with gloves and sanitiser,” said Michelle.

“At every entrance we have placed a person with a mask and gloves with Dettol sanitiser so that our customers can sanitise their hands. The security was also supplied with sanitiser and we have increased the cleaning times for seating areas, bathrooms and other much used areas.” Michelle continued.

Michelle added that all the cleaning staff were supplied with gloves and masks.

Unfortunately, the kids play area has been closed for the time being.

The following is a press release from Secunda Mall and is also available on their Facebook page:

In light of the hand sanitiser shortage we’ve got you covered.

Visit Secunda Mall and receive a warm welcome as well as a hygienic Dettol spritz when entering through any of our main entrances.

Secunda Mall uses disinfectant cleaning detergents as a rule and in light of recent circumstances we can assure all our customers that we will continue to work diligently to provide our customers with a safe and hygienic shopping experience.

Secunda Mall encourages everyone to follow the guidelines set out by the South African Department of Health as well as that of the World Health Organisation.

• Clean hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
• Cover nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or flexed elbow
• Disinfect frequently used surfaces
• Use sanitising wipes before using shopping carts

We are in this together

#SecundaMall #MyMallOurFuture

Michelle also informed us that the mall is following the guidelines that were set out by the government. No alcohol will be served after 18:00. The restaurants are following the 50-person requirement and have spaced their seating accordingly.

This should not deter any customer to order from their favourite restaurant because guess what… You can still order food from your favourite restaurant by reading how to below!

Secunda Mall has placed a selection of NEW blue cones close to our entrances in order to assist our restaurants & customers with a quick and easy way to CALL and COLLECT!

– Please note these are only for customers who have placed an order with one of our participating restaurants.
– Customers are limited to 10min MAX and may not exit their vehicle.

ORDER:
Phone your favourite restaurant – provide your name, order from menu and your car make & reg no.
Have the restaurant indicate how long your waiting period will be.
Collect at the nearest entrance.

Entrance 1
Spur: 017 634 3939
Panarottis: 017 634 3062
John Dory’s: 017 634 8085
Cappuccinos: 017 634 4134
The Daily Coffee Express: 082 878 2145

Entrance 2
Symphony’s: 079 921 9597

Entrance 3
Mugg & Bean: 017 634 1832
Chicken Licken: 017 631 2950

Entrance 4
Debonairs & Steers: 017 634 7370
Wimpy: 017 631 2087

Kindly look out for the reserved sign

All By-elections postponed!

All by-elections are now postponed.

All by-elections are now postponed.

The Bulletin reported on 16 March that The Electoral Commission will urgently approach the Electoral Court to postpone all scheduled by-elections as part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is particularly important to residents of Secunda. A vacancy arose when the councillor of ward 30, Cllr Tim Denny, resigned. He relocated to the Sasolburg area.

Several other by-elections were to be held across the country with one in Emalahleni as well.

The Electoral Commission was able to obtain an order in the Electoral Court of South Africa that postponed the by-elections by no more than 120 days from the date of the order. The order date is today, 19 March 2020.

The Bulletin spoke to Jane Sithole, DA Provincial Leader in Mpumalanga.

“The DA in Mpumalanga welcomes the decision by the Electoral Court to postpone all scheduled by-elections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jane, “In the face of increasing transmission risk of the Covid-19 virus, the Democratic Alliance has also taken the decision across the Province to pause all political activity which involves human-to-human contact or close proximity between people.”

“Given heightened awareness and concerns over the Covid-19 pandemic, significant numbers of voters might stay away from voting stations. This would have resulted in low participation levels, which will undermine the freeness and fairness of elections,” Jane continued.

The full court order is hereby attached.

All by-elections are now postponed.

The Bulletin reported on 16 March that The Electoral Commission will urgently approach the Electoral Court to postpone all scheduled by-elections as part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is particularly important to residents of Secunda. A vacancy arose when the councillor of ward 30, Cllr Tim Denny, resigned. He relocated to the Sasolburg area.

Several other by-elections were to be held across the country with one in Emalahleni as well.

The Electoral Commission was able to obtain an order in the Electoral Court of South Africa that postponed the by-elections by no more than 120 days from the date of the order. The order date is today, 19 March 2020.

The Bulletin spoke to Jane Sithole, DA Provincial Leader in Mpumalanga.

“The DA in Mpumalanga welcomes the decision by the Electoral Court to postpone all scheduled by-elections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jane, “In the face of increasing transmission risk of the Covid-19 virus, the Democratic Alliance has also taken the decision across the Province to pause all political activity which involves human-to-human contact or close proximity between people.”

“Given heightened awareness and concerns over the Covid-19 pandemic, significant numbers of voters might stay away from voting stations. This would have resulted in low participation levels, which will undermine the freeness and fairness of elections,” Jane continued.

The full court order is hereby attached.

Coronavirus and your pets and other animals

The Bulletin has received increasing reports of animals being dropped off at animal shelters. The reason for this is that people are scared that their pet/s or their animals will pass COVID-19 on to them.

According to the CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) they have not received any reports of pets or other animals that were infected with COVID-19. Further studies will have to be conducted to recognise if different animals could be affected by COVID-19 and also how.

What you should know is (taken from the CDC’s website):

  • Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people and others cause illness in certain types of animals.
  • Coronaviruses that infect animals can become able to infect people, but this is rare.
  • Do not know the exact source of the current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
  • Do not have evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19.
  • Do not have evidence to suggest that imported animals or animal products imported pose a risk for spreading the 2019 novel coronavirus.
  • There is still no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets, livestock, or wildlife, might be a source of COVID-19 infection at this time.

However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals.

  • Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste, or supplies.
  • Practice good pet hygiene and clean up after pets properly.
  • Take pets to the veterinarian regularly and talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your pet’s health.

If you do feel unwell limit your interaction with your pets and other animals. The same you would do with human interaction, self-isolate. Even though there has been no reports of pets or other animals contracting the COVID-19 VIRUS, be safe rather than sorry. This is just a precaution to keep you and your pets or animals healthy.

  • Ask another family member in your household to take care of your beloved pet or other animals.
  • Try to avoid contact with your pet or other animals i.e. no petting, snuggling, kissing, being licked or sharing food.
  • If you have to take care of you pet/s or other animals and you do not feel well, follow basic hygiene by washing your hands properly before and after you have been around or have been interacting with your pet/s or other animals.

Please remember that an animal is for life and part of your family. Please do not use the COVID-19 virus as an excuse to dispose of them.

Remember animals have feelings too!

Learners and teachers receive awards during the Top 3 awards ceremony

The Department of Education hosted an awards ceremony last week at Laerskool Hoëveld in honour of the Top 3 students in the Highveld Ridge West en Higveld Ridge East areas. The following 2019 Grade 9 students received awards:

Mathematics:

1. Jan-Hendrik Groenewald 100%
2. Olivia Joubert 96%

Natural Sciences

1. Jan-Hendrik Groenewald 97%
2. Masindi Nekhubvi 96%

Technology

1. Lianke de Vries 98%
1. Chenique van der Vyver 98%
2. Zelri de la Rey 97%
3. Emmarentia Viljoen 97%

English FAL

1. Cabous Harmse 94
2. Lianke de Vries 93
2. Chana Dunn 93
2. Chenique van der Vyver 93

English HL

1. Masindi Nekhubvi 94%
2. Mercy Ambat 89%

Recognition was also given to Grade 12 learners who were the top performers in 2019 in the Highveld Ridge West and East areas in their NSC exams.

The following 2019 Grade 12 learners received trophies and certificates from the Department of Education:

Kaylie Strydom Top performer overall. Top learner at the school. 93% average
Best performer in Physical Science 97%
Best performer in Accounting 96%
Best performer in Life Science 96%
Lize Smit One of the top performers at the school 91,5 % average
NInè Rudolph One of the top performers at the school 91% average
Best performer in Business Studies 83%
Best performer in English FAL 89%
Janine Orsmond Best performer in Agricultural Science 86%
Ferdi Janse van Rensburg Best performer in Math Literacy 78%

Nicole Maciel and Jean van der Merwe received certificates and trophies for 100% attendance.

Recognition was also given to the Grade 12 teachers for outstanding subject performances:

Elsabè Cilliers Accounting
JJ Hennop Agricultural Science
Stephnie Kroucamp Mathematics
Jan Koekemoer Life Science

Hoërskool Secunda received the award for the best perfoming school: 95,8% pass rate and also the awrd for quality results in the highest university exemption for Quintile 4 – 5 schools.

Fuel prices and levies for April

“Rand weakness against the US dollar has paled into insignificance against the fuel price bonanza caused by the massive retreat of international petroleum prices, setting the stage for large reductions in fuel prices at month-end,” according to the Automobile Association (AA) which was commenting on unaudited mid-month fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund.

Currently the data shows that petrol has decreased by R1.11 per litre and diesel by R1.10. But Finance Minister Tito Mboweni announced at the end of February that there will be a 25-cent increase to fuel levies, which will come into effect in April.

“As the spread of the COVID-19 virus accelerates across the globe, world financial markets have plunged, with capital fleeing to safe-haven assets. The Rand has been sharply weaker against the dollar on this trend,” said the AA.

The global oil price that tanked with 30% on Monday, 9 March, is also a huge contributor to the lower fuel prices. On the same Monday, the Rand also crashed to the lowest it has been in 4 years. This turned to about 23 cents p/l that was cut out from the benefit of lower oil prices.

Finance Minister Tito Mboweni said at the 2020 Budget Speech held in Parliament on Wednesday, 25 February, that fuel levies, the two major taxes – the General Fuel and Road Accident Fund levies, will increase by 25 cents a litre, 16 cents of the 25 cents will go to the General Fuel levy and 9 cents to the Road Accident Fund.

Fuel in South Africa already carries a substantial tax burden. Countries who border South Africa and buy fuel directly from South Africa do not add these taxes. This makes the fuel cheaper in neighbouring countries.

Let’s see what the future in fuel prices holds for us. Will South Africans buckle under financial constraints or will we rise triumphantly?

Sources: https://www.aa.co.za/insights/oil-plunge-counters-crashing-rand / https://businesstech.co.za/news/energy/380369/heres-how-much-the-massive-oil-crash-took-off-the-price-of-fuel-products-in-south-africa/ https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/budget-speech-2020-fuel-levy-hike-means-more-pain-at-the-pumps-from-april-43517318

National State of Disaster now a reality.

A National State of Disaster is now a reality. The minister announced the State of Disaster a few days ago and it was published in the Government Gazette dated 18 March 2020.03.19

This placed several severe restrictions on the citizens of South Africa.

The first case of the Coronavirus has been confirmed in Secunda amidst calls that it was fake news.

Here are a few graphics to help readers understand the restrictions etc. in the regulations as well as the full regulations.

SCHEDULE

Definitions

1. In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise indicates—

‘adequate space’ means not more than one person per square meter of floor space;

‘COVID-19’ means the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCov) which is an infectious disease

caused by a virus, which emerged during 2019 and was declared a global pandemic by the

WHO during the year 2020 that has previously not been scientifically identified in humans;

‘Criminal Procedure Act’ means the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act No. 51 of 1977);

‘enforcement officer’ includes a member of the South African Police Service, the South

African National Defence Force and a peace officer as defined in section 1 of the Criminal

Procedure Act;

‘donor’ means an individual, corporation or organisation that is a contributor of cash, kind

and/or other assets;

‘gathering’ means any assembly, concourse or procession of more than 100 persons,

wholly or partially in open air or in a building or premises;

‘isolation’ means separating a sick individual with a contagious disease from healthy

individuals without that contagious disease in such a manner as to prevent the spread of

infection or contamination;

‘liquor’ means—

(a) any liquor product, as defined in section 1 of the Liquor Products Act, 1979 (Act No.

60 of 1989);

(b) beer or traditional African beer; or

(c) any other substance or drink declared to be liquor under the Liquor Act, 2003 (Act

No. 59 of 2003), but does not include methylated spirits;

‘national state of disaster’ means the national state of disaster declared by Government

Notice No. R. 313 of 15 March 2020;

‘partial care facility’ means a facility offering partial care as defined in section 1 of the

Children’s Act, 2005 (Act No. 38 of 2005);

‘quarantine’ means separating asymptomatic individuals potentially exposed to a disease

from non-exposed individuals in such a manner as to prevent the possible spread of

infection or contamination;

‘school’ means a school as defined in section 1 of the South African Schools Act, 1984 (Act

No. 84 of 1996); and

‘the Act’ means the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002).

‘WHO’ means the World Health Organisation.

Release of resources

2. (1) The Department of Defence must, for the duration of the declared

national state of disaster, within its available resources—

(a) release and mobilise any available resources, including human resources, stores,

equipment, ships, aircraft platforms, vehicles and facilities; and

(b) ensure the delivery of essential services,

as may be required, to prevent, limit, contain, combat and manage the spread of COVID19.

(2) National organs of state must, within their available resources release

their personnel for the rendering of emergency services, as contemplated in section 27(2)(b)

of the Act.

(3) Institutions within national, provincial and local government must make

resources, other than funding, available to implement these Regulations or directions issued

in terms of section 27(2) of the Act regarding the national state of disaster.

(4) Institutions within national, provincial and local government must—

(a) make funding available; and

(b) as far as possible, without affecting service delivery in relation to the realisation of the

rights contemplated in sections 26 to 29 of the Constitution of the Republic of South

Africa, 1996, shift funding,

within its budget to implement these Regulations or directions issued in terms of section

27(2) of the Act, regarding the national state of disaster.

(5) The National Treasury and provincial treasuries must take the

necessary steps in terms of applicable legislation to implement these Regulations or

directions issued in terms of section 27(2) of the Act, in relation to the national state of

disaster.

(6) Donor funding received to assist with the national state of disaster must

be—

 (a) paid into the Reconstruction and Development Fund, established by the

Reconstruction and Development Fund Act, 1994 (Act No. 7 of 1994); and

(b) used strictly for purposes of implementing these Regulations and directions issued in

terms of section 27(2) of the Act in relation to the national state of disaster.

Prevention and prohibition of gatherings

3. (1) In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, a gathering is prohibited.

(2) An enforcement officer must, where a gathering takes place—

(a) order the persons at the gathering to disperse immediately; and

(b) if they refuse to disperse, take appropriate action, which may, subject to the Criminal

Procedure Act include arrest and detention.

(3) The assembly of more than 50 persons at premises where liquor is sold

and consumed is prohibited.

Refusal of medical examination, prophylaxis, treatment, isolation and quarantine

4. (1) No person who has been clinically, or by a laboratory, confirmed as having

COVID-19, or who is suspected of having contracted COVID-19, or who has been in contact

with a person who is a carrier of COVID–19, may refuse consent to an enforcement officer

for—

(a) submission of that person to a medical examination, including but not limited to the

taking of any bodily sample by a person authorised in law to do so;

(b) admission of that person to a health establishment or a quarantine or isolation site; or

(c) submission of that person to mandatory prophylaxis, treatment, isolation or quarantine

or isolation in order to prevent transmission:

Provided that if a person does not comply with the instruction or order of the enforcement

officer, that person must be placed in isolation or quarantine for a period of 48 hours, as the

case may be, pending a warrant being issued by a magistrate, on application by an

enforcement officer for the medical examination contemplated in paragraph (a).

(2) A warrant contemplated in sub regulation (1) may be issued by a magistrate, if

it appears from information on oath or affirmation by an enforcement officer —

(a) that a person is confirmed as having been infected with COVID-19;

 (b) who is on reasonable grounds suspected of having contracted COVID-19, or who has

been in contact with, or on reasonable grounds suspected to have been in contact

with a person who is a carrier or infected with COVID–19.

(3) The warrant may impose restrictions on the powers of the enforcement officer

as the magistrate may deem fit.

(4) A warrant issued in terms of this regulation remains in force until —

(a) it is executed;

(b) it is cancelled by the person who issued it or, if such person is not available, by any

person with like authority;

(c) the expiry of ninety days from the date of its issue; or

(d) the purpose for the issuing of the warrant has lapsed,

whichever occurs first.

(5) No person is entitled to compensation for any loss or damage arising out of

any bona fide action or omission by an enforcement officer under this regulation.

Places of quarantine and isolation

5. (1) The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure must identify and make

available sites to be used as isolation and quarantine facilities as the need arises.

(2) The Members of the Executive Council responsible for public works must

identify and make available sites to be used as isolation and quarantine facilities within each

province, as the need arises.

(3) The accounting officers of municipalities must identify and make available

sites to be used as isolation and quarantine facilities within their local areas and provide the

list to the Department of Health for resourcing.

Closure of schools and partial care facilities

6. Schools and partial care facilities must be closed by 18 March 2020 until 15 April

2020, which period may be extended for the duration of the national state of disaster by the

cabinet member responsible.

Suspension of visits

7. All visits by members of the public to—

(a) Correctional Centres;

 (b) Remand Detention Facilities;

(c) Holding Cells;

(d) Military Detention Facilities; and

(e) Department of Social Development facilities, including Child and Youth Care Centres,

shelters, One Stop Centres and Treatment Centres,

are suspended for a period of 30 days from the date of publication of this Notice, which

period may be extended for any period, but not beyond the duration of the national state of

disaster by the cabinet member responsible.

Limitation on the sale, dispensing or transportation of liquor

8. (1) All on-consumption premises selling liquor, including taverns, restaurants and

clubs, must be closed with immediate effect, or must accommodate no more than 50 persons

at any time: Provided that adequate space is available and that all directions in respect of

hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with COVID-19, are adhered to.

 (2) All premises selling liquor which provide accommodation must implement

measures to stop the spread of COVID-19: Provided that adequate space is available and

that all directions in respect of hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with

COVID-19 are adhered to.

(3) No special or events liquor licenses may be considered for approval during

the duration of the national state of disaster.

(4) All on-consumption premises selling liquor referred to in sub regulation (1)

must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

(5) All off-consumption premises selling liquor must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

Emergency Procurement Procedures

9. Emergency procurement for institutions is subject to —

 (a) the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999) and the applicable

emergency provisions in the Regulations or Instructions made under section 76 of

that Act; and

(b) the Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act No. 56 of 2003) and the

applicable emergency provisions in the Regulations made under that Act.

Authority to issue directions

10. (1) The Minister of Health may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in any area

of the Republic of South Africa, which directions may include the—

(i) recruitment and training of human resources from the Department of Health

and other entities responsible for the handling of COVID-19 mortal remains;

(ii) deployment of human resources from the Department of Health to identified

sites to render services;

(iii) sourcing of human resources from the Expanded Public Works Programme

retired health professionals and Non-Governmental Organisations to render

services in identified sites;

(iv) provision of health equipment, sanitation materials and medical supplies;

(v) identification and establishment of mortuaries that will accommodate all

COVID-19 mortal remains;

(vi) disposal of COVID-19 mortal remains; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(2) The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all

Correctional Centres and Remand Detention Facilities in the Republic of South Africa;

(b) after consultation with the Chief Justice, where appropriate, issue directions to

address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all courts and court precincts

in the Republic of South Africa; and

(c) vary the directions referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) as the circumstances require.

(3) The Ministers of Basic and Higher Education may —

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all

schools and institutions of higher learning; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in (a) as the circumstances require.

(4) The Minister of Police may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all police

stations, police precincts and holding cells; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(5) The Minister of Social Development may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all

Department of Social Development facilities; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(6) The Minister of Trade and Industry may —

(a) issue directions to—

(i) protect consumers from excessive, unfair, unreasonable or unjust pricing of

goods and services during the national state of disaster; and

(ii) maintain security and availability of the supply of goods and services during

the national state of disaster;

(b) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19; and

(c) vary the directions referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) as the circumstances require.

(7) The Minister of Transport may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in matters

falling within his mandate; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(8) Any Minister may issue and vary directions, as required, within his or

her mandate, to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19, from time to

time, as may be required, including—

(a) disseminating information required for dealing with the national state of disaster;

(b) implementing emergency procurement procedures;

(c) taking any other steps that may be necessary to prevent an escalation of the national

state of disaster, or to alleviate, contain and minimise the effects of the national state

of disaster; or

(d) taking steps to facilitate international assistance.

Offences and penalties

11. (1) For purposes of regulation 3, any person who—

(a) convenes a gathering;

(b) permits more than 50 persons at premises where liquor is sold and consumed; or

(c) hinders, interferes with, or obstructs an enforcement officer in the exercise of his or

her powers, or the performance of his or her duties in terms of these Regulations,

is guilty of an offence and, on conviction, liable to a fine or to imprisonment for a period not

exceeding six months or to both such fine and imprisonment.

(2) A person is guilty of an offence if that person fails to comply with or

contravenes the provisions of regulations 6 and 9 of these Regulations.

(3) A person convicted of an offence mentioned in sub regulation (2) liable on

conviction to a fine or to imprisonment not exceeding six months or to both a fine and

imprisonment.

(4) Any person who intentionally misrepresents that he, she or any other person

is infected with COVID-19 is guilty of an offence and on conviction liable to a fine or to

imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and imprisonment.

(5) Any person who publishes any statement, through any medium, including

social media, with the intention to deceive any other person about—

(a) COVID-19;

(b) COVID-19 infection status of any person; or

(c) any measure taken by the Government to address COVID-19,

commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment for a period not

exceeding six months, or both such fine and imprisonment.

(6) Any person who intentionally exposes another person to COVID-19 may be

prosecuted for an offence, including assault, attempted murder or murder.

Commencement

12. These Regulations come into operation on the date of publication.

National State of Disaster now a reality.

A National State of Disaster is now a reality. The minister announced the State of Disaster a few days ago and it was published in the Government Gazette dated 18 March 2020.03.19

This placed several severe restrictions on the citizens of South Africa.

The first case of the Coronavirus has been confirmed in Secunda amidst calls that it was fake news.

Here are a few graphics to help readers understand the restrictions etc. in the regulations as well as the full regulations.

SCHEDULE

Definitions

1. In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise indicates—

‘adequate space’ means not more than one person per square meter of floor space;

‘COVID-19’ means the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCov) which is an infectious disease

caused by a virus, which emerged during 2019 and was declared a global pandemic by the

WHO during the year 2020 that has previously not been scientifically identified in humans;

‘Criminal Procedure Act’ means the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act No. 51 of 1977);

‘enforcement officer’ includes a member of the South African Police Service, the South

African National Defence Force and a peace officer as defined in section 1 of the Criminal

Procedure Act;

‘donor’ means an individual, corporation or organisation that is a contributor of cash, kind

and/or other assets;

‘gathering’ means any assembly, concourse or procession of more than 100 persons,

wholly or partially in open air or in a building or premises;

‘isolation’ means separating a sick individual with a contagious disease from healthy

individuals without that contagious disease in such a manner as to prevent the spread of

infection or contamination;

‘liquor’ means—

(a) any liquor product, as defined in section 1 of the Liquor Products Act, 1979 (Act No.

60 of 1989);

(b) beer or traditional African beer; or

(c) any other substance or drink declared to be liquor under the Liquor Act, 2003 (Act

No. 59 of 2003), but does not include methylated spirits;

‘national state of disaster’ means the national state of disaster declared by Government

Notice No. R. 313 of 15 March 2020;

‘partial care facility’ means a facility offering partial care as defined in section 1 of the

Children’s Act, 2005 (Act No. 38 of 2005);

‘quarantine’ means separating asymptomatic individuals potentially exposed to a disease

from non-exposed individuals in such a manner as to prevent the possible spread of

infection or contamination;

‘school’ means a school as defined in section 1 of the South African Schools Act, 1984 (Act

No. 84 of 1996); and

‘the Act’ means the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002).

‘WHO’ means the World Health Organisation.

Release of resources

2. (1) The Department of Defence must, for the duration of the declared

national state of disaster, within its available resources—

(a) release and mobilise any available resources, including human resources, stores,

equipment, ships, aircraft platforms, vehicles and facilities; and

(b) ensure the delivery of essential services,

as may be required, to prevent, limit, contain, combat and manage the spread of COVID19.

(2) National organs of state must, within their available resources release

their personnel for the rendering of emergency services, as contemplated in section 27(2)(b)

of the Act.

(3) Institutions within national, provincial and local government must make

resources, other than funding, available to implement these Regulations or directions issued

in terms of section 27(2) of the Act regarding the national state of disaster.

(4) Institutions within national, provincial and local government must—

(a) make funding available; and

(b) as far as possible, without affecting service delivery in relation to the realisation of the

rights contemplated in sections 26 to 29 of the Constitution of the Republic of South

Africa, 1996, shift funding,

within its budget to implement these Regulations or directions issued in terms of section

27(2) of the Act, regarding the national state of disaster.

(5) The National Treasury and provincial treasuries must take the

necessary steps in terms of applicable legislation to implement these Regulations or

directions issued in terms of section 27(2) of the Act, in relation to the national state of

disaster.

(6) Donor funding received to assist with the national state of disaster must

be—

 (a) paid into the Reconstruction and Development Fund, established by the

Reconstruction and Development Fund Act, 1994 (Act No. 7 of 1994); and

(b) used strictly for purposes of implementing these Regulations and directions issued in

terms of section 27(2) of the Act in relation to the national state of disaster.

Prevention and prohibition of gatherings

3. (1) In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, a gathering is prohibited.

(2) An enforcement officer must, where a gathering takes place—

(a) order the persons at the gathering to disperse immediately; and

(b) if they refuse to disperse, take appropriate action, which may, subject to the Criminal

Procedure Act include arrest and detention.

(3) The assembly of more than 50 persons at premises where liquor is sold

and consumed is prohibited.

Refusal of medical examination, prophylaxis, treatment, isolation and quarantine

4. (1) No person who has been clinically, or by a laboratory, confirmed as having

COVID-19, or who is suspected of having contracted COVID-19, or who has been in contact

with a person who is a carrier of COVID–19, may refuse consent to an enforcement officer

for—

(a) submission of that person to a medical examination, including but not limited to the

taking of any bodily sample by a person authorised in law to do so;

(b) admission of that person to a health establishment or a quarantine or isolation site; or

(c) submission of that person to mandatory prophylaxis, treatment, isolation or quarantine

or isolation in order to prevent transmission:

Provided that if a person does not comply with the instruction or order of the enforcement

officer, that person must be placed in isolation or quarantine for a period of 48 hours, as the

case may be, pending a warrant being issued by a magistrate, on application by an

enforcement officer for the medical examination contemplated in paragraph (a).

(2) A warrant contemplated in sub regulation (1) may be issued by a magistrate, if

it appears from information on oath or affirmation by an enforcement officer —

(a) that a person is confirmed as having been infected with COVID-19;

 (b) who is on reasonable grounds suspected of having contracted COVID-19, or who has

been in contact with, or on reasonable grounds suspected to have been in contact

with a person who is a carrier or infected with COVID–19.

(3) The warrant may impose restrictions on the powers of the enforcement officer

as the magistrate may deem fit.

(4) A warrant issued in terms of this regulation remains in force until —

(a) it is executed;

(b) it is cancelled by the person who issued it or, if such person is not available, by any

person with like authority;

(c) the expiry of ninety days from the date of its issue; or

(d) the purpose for the issuing of the warrant has lapsed,

whichever occurs first.

(5) No person is entitled to compensation for any loss or damage arising out of

any bona fide action or omission by an enforcement officer under this regulation.

Places of quarantine and isolation

5. (1) The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure must identify and make

available sites to be used as isolation and quarantine facilities as the need arises.

(2) The Members of the Executive Council responsible for public works must

identify and make available sites to be used as isolation and quarantine facilities within each

province, as the need arises.

(3) The accounting officers of municipalities must identify and make available

sites to be used as isolation and quarantine facilities within their local areas and provide the

list to the Department of Health for resourcing.

Closure of schools and partial care facilities

6. Schools and partial care facilities must be closed by 18 March 2020 until 15 April

2020, which period may be extended for the duration of the national state of disaster by the

cabinet member responsible.

Suspension of visits

7. All visits by members of the public to—

(a) Correctional Centres;

 (b) Remand Detention Facilities;

(c) Holding Cells;

(d) Military Detention Facilities; and

(e) Department of Social Development facilities, including Child and Youth Care Centres,

shelters, One Stop Centres and Treatment Centres,

are suspended for a period of 30 days from the date of publication of this Notice, which

period may be extended for any period, but not beyond the duration of the national state of

disaster by the cabinet member responsible.

Limitation on the sale, dispensing or transportation of liquor

8. (1) All on-consumption premises selling liquor, including taverns, restaurants and

clubs, must be closed with immediate effect, or must accommodate no more than 50 persons

at any time: Provided that adequate space is available and that all directions in respect of

hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with COVID-19, are adhered to.

 (2) All premises selling liquor which provide accommodation must implement

measures to stop the spread of COVID-19: Provided that adequate space is available and

that all directions in respect of hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with

COVID-19 are adhered to.

(3) No special or events liquor licenses may be considered for approval during

the duration of the national state of disaster.

(4) All on-consumption premises selling liquor referred to in sub regulation (1)

must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

(5) All off-consumption premises selling liquor must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

Emergency Procurement Procedures

9. Emergency procurement for institutions is subject to —

 (a) the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999) and the applicable

emergency provisions in the Regulations or Instructions made under section 76 of

that Act; and

(b) the Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act No. 56 of 2003) and the

applicable emergency provisions in the Regulations made under that Act.

Authority to issue directions

10. (1) The Minister of Health may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in any area

of the Republic of South Africa, which directions may include the—

(i) recruitment and training of human resources from the Department of Health

and other entities responsible for the handling of COVID-19 mortal remains;

(ii) deployment of human resources from the Department of Health to identified

sites to render services;

(iii) sourcing of human resources from the Expanded Public Works Programme

retired health professionals and Non-Governmental Organisations to render

services in identified sites;

(iv) provision of health equipment, sanitation materials and medical supplies;

(v) identification and establishment of mortuaries that will accommodate all

COVID-19 mortal remains;

(vi) disposal of COVID-19 mortal remains; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(2) The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all

Correctional Centres and Remand Detention Facilities in the Republic of South Africa;

(b) after consultation with the Chief Justice, where appropriate, issue directions to

address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all courts and court precincts

in the Republic of South Africa; and

(c) vary the directions referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) as the circumstances require.

(3) The Ministers of Basic and Higher Education may —

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all

schools and institutions of higher learning; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in (a) as the circumstances require.

(4) The Minister of Police may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all police

stations, police precincts and holding cells; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(5) The Minister of Social Development may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in all

Department of Social Development facilities; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(6) The Minister of Trade and Industry may —

(a) issue directions to—

(i) protect consumers from excessive, unfair, unreasonable or unjust pricing of

goods and services during the national state of disaster; and

(ii) maintain security and availability of the supply of goods and services during

the national state of disaster;

(b) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19; and

(c) vary the directions referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) as the circumstances require.

(7) The Minister of Transport may—

(a) issue directions to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 in matters

falling within his mandate; and

(b) vary the directions referred to in paragraph (a) as the circumstances require.

(8) Any Minister may issue and vary directions, as required, within his or

her mandate, to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19, from time to

time, as may be required, including—

(a) disseminating information required for dealing with the national state of disaster;

(b) implementing emergency procurement procedures;

(c) taking any other steps that may be necessary to prevent an escalation of the national

state of disaster, or to alleviate, contain and minimise the effects of the national state

of disaster; or

(d) taking steps to facilitate international assistance.

Offences and penalties

11. (1) For purposes of regulation 3, any person who—

(a) convenes a gathering;

(b) permits more than 50 persons at premises where liquor is sold and consumed; or

(c) hinders, interferes with, or obstructs an enforcement officer in the exercise of his or

her powers, or the performance of his or her duties in terms of these Regulations,

is guilty of an offence and, on conviction, liable to a fine or to imprisonment for a period not

exceeding six months or to both such fine and imprisonment.

(2) A person is guilty of an offence if that person fails to comply with or

contravenes the provisions of regulations 6 and 9 of these Regulations.

(3) A person convicted of an offence mentioned in sub regulation (2) liable on

conviction to a fine or to imprisonment not exceeding six months or to both a fine and

imprisonment.

(4) Any person who intentionally misrepresents that he, she or any other person

is infected with COVID-19 is guilty of an offence and on conviction liable to a fine or to

imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and imprisonment.

(5) Any person who publishes any statement, through any medium, including

social media, with the intention to deceive any other person about—

(a) COVID-19;

(b) COVID-19 infection status of any person; or

(c) any measure taken by the Government to address COVID-19,

commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment for a period not

exceeding six months, or both such fine and imprisonment.

(6) Any person who intentionally exposes another person to COVID-19 may be

prosecuted for an offence, including assault, attempted murder or murder.

Commencement

12. These Regulations come into operation on the date of publication.

Restaurants continue under strict measures during the State of Disaster

0

The restrictions of the State of Disaster have far reaching consequences for several industries.

One such industry is the food and beverage industry. Restaurants will have to restrict their patrons to 50 unless certain conditions are met.

The minister published in the Government Gazette; regulations that need to be followed until the end of the State of Disaster.

Here is the preamble of the regulations as published in the Government Gazette dated 18 March 2020

REGULATIONS ISSUED IN TERMS OF SECTION 27(2)0 OF THE DISASTER MANAGEMENT ACT, 2002.

I, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, designated under Section 3 of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002) ( “the Act “), having declared a national state of disaster, published in Government Gazette No. 43096 on 15 March 2020, in terms of Section 27(2) of the Act, after consulting the relevant Cabinet members, hereby make the Regulations set out in the schedule hereto regarding the steps necessary to prevent an escalation of the disaster or to alleviate, contain and minimise the effects of the disaster

The restaurant industry had severe restrictions imposed that meant all restaurants selling liquor must close from 18H00 until 09H00 the next day. This meant that the industry would suffer tremendous financial setbacks.

The Restaurant Association of South Africa on Monday said restaurants would not close amid the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

The association said it had been advised by Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane to stay open for business by following the necessary precautionary measures.

The association’s Wendy Alberts said they would follow all health guidelines.

Listen to her voice clip here:

Wendy Alberts from The Restaurant Association of South Africa

The regulations are very strict regarding the selling of alcohol. No alcohol after 6 at night. Taverns and pubs are also not allowed to sell any liquor after 18H00.

Here are the full regulations on restaurants as Gazetted.

Limitation on the sale, dispensing or transportation of liquor

8. (1) All on-consumption premises selling liquor, including taverns, restaurants and

clubs, must be closed with immediate effect, or must accommodate no more than 50 persons

at any time: Provided that adequate space is available and that all directions in respect of

hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with COVID-19, are adhered to.

 (2) All premises selling liquor which provide accommodation must implement

measures to stop the spread of COVID-19: Provided that adequate space is available and

that all directions in respect of hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with

COVID-19 are adhered to.

(3) No special or events liquor licenses may be considered for approval during

the duration of the national state of disaster.

(4) All on-consumption premises selling liquor referred to in sub regulation (1)

must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

(5) All off-consumption premises selling liquor must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

Restaurants continue under strict measures during the State of Disaster

0

The restrictions of the State of Disaster have far reaching consequences for several industries.

One such industry is the food and beverage industry. Restaurants will have to restrict their patrons to 50 unless certain conditions are met.

The minister published in the Government Gazette; regulations that need to be followed until the end of the State of Disaster.

Here is the preamble of the regulations as published in the Government Gazette dated 18 March 2020

REGULATIONS ISSUED IN TERMS OF SECTION 27(2)0 OF THE DISASTER MANAGEMENT ACT, 2002.

I, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, designated under Section 3 of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002) ( “the Act “), having declared a national state of disaster, published in Government Gazette No. 43096 on 15 March 2020, in terms of Section 27(2) of the Act, after consulting the relevant Cabinet members, hereby make the Regulations set out in the schedule hereto regarding the steps necessary to prevent an escalation of the disaster or to alleviate, contain and minimise the effects of the disaster

The restaurant industry had severe restrictions imposed that meant all restaurants selling liquor must close from 18H00 until 09H00 the next day. This meant that the industry would suffer tremendous financial setbacks.

The Restaurant Association of South Africa on Monday said restaurants would not close amid the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

The association said it had been advised by Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane to stay open for business by following the necessary precautionary measures.

The association’s Wendy Alberts said they would follow all health guidelines.

Listen to her voice clip here:

Wendy Alberts from The Restaurant Association of South Africa

The regulations are very strict regarding the selling of alcohol. No alcohol after 6 at night. Taverns and pubs are also not allowed to sell any liquor after 18H00.

Here are the full regulations on restaurants as Gazetted.

Limitation on the sale, dispensing or transportation of liquor

8. (1) All on-consumption premises selling liquor, including taverns, restaurants and

clubs, must be closed with immediate effect, or must accommodate no more than 50 persons

at any time: Provided that adequate space is available and that all directions in respect of

hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with COVID-19, are adhered to.

 (2) All premises selling liquor which provide accommodation must implement

measures to stop the spread of COVID-19: Provided that adequate space is available and

that all directions in respect of hygienic conditions and limitation of exposure to persons with

COVID-19 are adhered to.

(3) No special or events liquor licenses may be considered for approval during

the duration of the national state of disaster.

(4) All on-consumption premises selling liquor referred to in sub regulation (1)

must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

(5) All off-consumption premises selling liquor must be closed —

(i) between 18:00 and 09:00 the next morning on weekdays and Saturdays; and

(ii) from 13:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

COVID-19: A shift for Zebra Lounge

This blog was written by Lize Van Niekerk.

Lize is an easy-going freelance content writer with a BA Visual Communication and Masters in Fashion Merchandising. She is always pushing the boundaries of knowledge and experience; with writing experience in the USA and currently pursuing an MBA she adds some flair to all her written work.

Since the pandemic outbreak in November, COVID-19 has taken its toll on the world. From the South African economy on the verge of collapsing, to doomsday bulk shopping and the worst, thousands of deaths across the world, this is one for the books and something humanity was not prepared for.

The impact of COVID-19

On a more personal level we have seen the changes happening amongst us, here in Secunda, Mpumalanga, as a result of corona (COVID-19). Hand sanitiser has become a luxury, schools are closed until Easter weekend, our favourite music festival was postponed to August (check out Misty Waters’ new date), the Cosmos Festival was cancelled and just when Zebra Lounge thought they were immune, the government brings in a new regulation – all bars and restaurants that serve alcohol have to be closed by 18h00.

Zebra Lounge, known for only opening at 16h00, must now close 2 hours later… We respect the government’s decision and will follow any regulations in order to keep our employees, customers and community safe. However, when the government hands you lemons as a result of a pandemic, you start selling tequila at 10am.

With this new regulation put into place we would like to let everyone know that, for the time being, Zebra Lounge will be open from 9h00 until 18h00. If you are wondering “what does one do at a bar that early in the morning?” It is an easy answer, there’s more at Zebra Lounge than just alcohol. Come and put your feet up in our lovely lounge, enjoy a nice hot coffee and a cigarette or cigar indoors, as our days are growing colder while autumn approaches. We offer FREE WIFI, so if you are getting antsy from staying inside your house all day, bring your laptop and get some work done at Zebra’s.

If all of that has still not convinced you to spend your days at Zebra Lounge, maybe cards and board games will. Zebra Lounge has various board games, from Catan and Monopoly, to Rummikub and Uno. Bring all your friends and challenge them to a settler’s journey.

We have to find ways to adjust to this temporary new way of life and Zebra Lounge is doing the same by modifying trading hours and thinking of new and exciting ideas to keep our spirits lifted during these troubling times.

Wash your hands, stay safe and come to Zebra’s for a strong drink when you feel like life is overwhelming.

For more information you can visit the Lake Umuzi website.