GEORGE NEWS - One single confidential matter was debated during a special council meeting last Friday, 9 December, and is set to continue later this week - allegations against George Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz which had never been tabled in Council.
Allegations against Gratz found their way to George Mayor Leon van Wyk through a letter by the municipal workers union Samwu at the end of October.
One of the matters Samwu asked to be investigated - the reasons leading to the resignations of two labour relations officers - was also driven by the PBI, who allegedly sent the mayor the sworn affidavits by these officers, containing allegations against Gratz. Neither Samwu's letter, nor the affidavits by the officers, were tabled before Council.
Although Samwu's letter had been answered in full by the mayor, many feel that whatever the accusations might be, the mayor should, according to regulations, table any accusations against the MM or for that matter, any director, before Council within seven days of receipt.
Apparently there had been a disagreement about the interpretation of the law during Friday's meeting and the mayor was asked to obtain further information about the matter.
The PBI threatened with an urgent interdict should the case be handled procedurally incorrectly.
Van Wyk said, on a request for comment, that the issue is currently before Council and, because it is confidential, cannot be discussed in the media.
Provincial Secretary of Samwu John Mcanjana Photo: Michelle Pienaar
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