Standerton: The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the termination of employment contracts for 178 workers involved in the Vlakfontein Canal Rehabilitation Project. The department emphasized that the contract terminations do not represent a retrenchment process but are a direct result of the project's discontinuation.
According to South African Government News Agency, the affected workers were engaged on project-based contracts specifically for the Vlakfontein Canal Rehabilitation Project. These contracts are set to conclude on 30 June 2026 following the decision to halt and de-establish the project. The department addressed the issue due to public interest and concerns about the consequences for the workers and their families.
Launched in 2015, the Vlakfontein Canal Rehabilitation Project was a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing water conveyance and irrigation systems in Standerton. Initially employing 241 local workers, the workforce had reduced to 178 by 2026 due to retirements and resignations.
According to the department, the project faced significant delays attributed to operational, technical, and financial challenges, despite being scheduled for completion within 48 months. After a comprehensive assessment of the project's performance, progress, and sustainability, the department opted to discontinue the rehabilitation program.
The Vlakfontein Canal is crucial for supplying water to strategic users, including Eskom, Sasol, and regional municipalities. Rehabilitation efforts were timed with scheduled dry periods, supported by the Vaal River Eastern Sub-System Augmentation Project (VRESAP). However, operational issues within the VRESAP system hindered its capacity to reliably provide alternative water supply for extended periods, complicating the rehabilitation process without compromising water security.
The department stated, "The constrained use of VRESAP means that the Vlakfontein Canal cannot be shut down for rehabilitation for extended periods of time without detrimentally affecting the assurance of supply to users."
There remains a possibility for the rehabilitation project to resume once the VRESAP system achieves reliable operations. Should this occur, the department would consider reappointing workers on a project-based contractual basis.
The department conducted consultations with affected employees and organized labor through the Departmental Bargaining Chamber, providing information regarding the project's status and reasons for its discontinuation. Recognizing the impact on workers and their families, the department engaged with employees to provide clarity and support throughout the transition.
As of 22 June 2026, 61 affected employees collected and acknowledged receipt of their termination letters. The department assured that all contractual and legal obligations would be fulfilled, with benefit payments scheduled for processing by 31 July 2026.
The department expressed appreciation for the contributions of the employees during the project's lifespan and acknowledged their dedication and service. Support measures have been implemented to assist affected employees during the transition, with ongoing engagement through appropriate labor relations structures.