Parliament House Matters

Parliament House Vandalism

The SPEAKER (11:47): Members, I rise to make a short statement regarding vandalism of the parliament's building. Shortly before 5pm on Wednesday 13 November, a large number of demonstrators arrived at Parliament House. Upon arrival, many of the protesters used red paint to make handprints on the facade, stairs and columns of Parliament House.

Parliament House staff are currently engaged in a dialogue with SAPOL. No charges have been laid. Cleaning is underway by a DPTI prequalified contractor; however, due to the nature of the building, this may be a lengthy and potentially costly process. There is no guarantee that further specialist work will not be required.

While the right to protest on the steps of Parliament House is respected, vandalism of the house is completely unacceptable.