This came out during this morning's group discussions at the AHi congress workshop on the theme of the role of business in local government and local economic development.
A delegate from the Agulhas Business Chamber said many talk shops are being held about how red tape at government institutions can be reduced, but nothing is done about it. "We have to get these institutions around a table and find solutions," he said.
Another concern expressed was about large shopping centres that are taking business away from local small enterprises and the question was asked what the AHi can do about it.
In an interview with the George Herald, Trix Holtzhausen executive head of Eden District Municipality's strategic services, said local authorities and business chambers are functioning too much in an isolated way. "We have to start talking to each other to get to understand each other's worlds. Officials have to attend the Business Chambers' meetings, for example."
George municipal Local Economic Development head, Carli Bunding-Venter said a municipality as a whole should work towards economic development. "It is not only the economic development department's function. All resources spent should be regarded from the perspective of their impact on economic development."
The outcome of the group sessions will be discussed at the AGM that starts at 14:00 at the Transport Museum where the new president will also be elected.
Real-life experience for students
Students from the Seda Work for Skills programme are getting first real-life mass catering experience at the congress.
Isabel van Rooyen, owner of Meade Café, says 10 students from this government sponsorship programme are part of her staff to receive in-service training.
The restaurant is tasked with all the catering for the congress.
