DA highlights challenges of Rustenburg Veterinary Clinic

Issued by Ilse Edwards – DA Councillor, Rustenburg Local Municipality
07 Oct 2024 in Press Statements
Note to broadcasters: Please find linked soundbites in English and Afrikaans by cllr Ilse Edwards
DA Constituency Head in Rustenburg, Freddy Sonakile (MPL) along with Cllrs Nelio Nhachuangue and Ilse Edwards, conducted an oversight visit to the Rustenburg Veterinary Clinic last week.  (See pictures herehere and here).
The visit revealed improvements in cleanliness, but the clinic still faces challenges, particularly due to registration issues that limit its operations with regards to basic consultations and rabies prevention.
The clinic also lacks a surgical facility and struggles to meet the rising demand, increasing pressure on the Brits and Mogwase Veterinary Clinics.
Rising incidences of theft and break-ins, compromise staff and patient safety. The clinic also suffers from staff shortages, with key administrative and technical positions that remain unfilled.
The DA, through MPL Sonakile in the North West Provincial Legislature, will request the provincial Department of Agriculture to assist in meeting registration requirements and improving security. Additionally, the department must urgently fill vacant positions to restore the clinic’s full functionality.
The importance of animal health must never be underestimated.  The DA will keep a close eye on the situation to ensure that this Clinic operates at its full potential.