George building collapse: Final report expected by end of May

At a solemn commemoration in George on Tuesday, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson announced that the final report into last year’s fatal building collapse will be completed by the end of May.

Marking one year since the five-storey building collapsed, killing 34 people and seriously injuring 28, Macpherson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding those responsible accountable, whether in the public or private sector.

Widespread systemic failures

An independent forensic investigation conducted earlier revealed widespread systemic failures.

These included poor oversight, non-compliance with building regulations, and a breakdown in safety standards.

Critical lapses were identified in the planning, inspection, and construction phases of the project.

The investigation found that the building, initially approved as a single-storey structure, had been expanded to five storeys without undergoing the necessary technical reviews.

It also highlighted poor construction materials, irregular project enrolment, and a disregard for occupational health and safety protocols.

At the commemoration event, Minister Macpherson paid tribute to the victims, their families, and the rescue workers who spent 11 days searching the rubble for survivors.

Pain and trauma

He said the pain and trauma experienced by survivors and bereaved families must drive efforts to reform the construction industry.

Families of victims and survivors called for justice and long-term support, expressing ongoing hardship in the aftermath of the disaster.

Some survivors continue to struggle with physical injuries and loss of income, underscoring the human toll of the tragedy.

The upcoming report is expected to recommend decisive action, including legal steps against those found negligent.

Authorities have pledged that the findings will first be shared with affected families before being made public.