Accountability battle continues

Following an article in George Herald, dated 21 August ("Go George bomb attack victims left in limbo"), and on georgeherald.com, George Link, the contracted operator of the Go George bus service, has stressed that it is not responsible for managing the public transport system or compensating passengers affected by incidents such as the 2023 petrol bomb attack in Pacaltsdorp.

- Kristy Kolberg

As operator, George Link said it provides drivers and operational staff, while the George Municipality, through its Go George division, is responsible for the overall management of the service, including matters relating to passengers. George Link emphasised that it is a private company, independent of the municipality, and should not be confused with Go George, which is part of the municipality.

Insurance and accountability questions

Despite this, George Link confirmed it had invited victims of the March 2023 attack, via Go George, to contact them if they wished to claim against the company's insurance, even though, under the contract, claims should fall under the municipality's insurance. According to the George Link's directors, the incident was registered with their insurer on 2 March 2023, the day after the attack.

Meetings

During a meeting with George Herald on Tuesday 26 August, George Link's directors confirmed various meetings had been held with the municipality following the incident, but said they were never made aware of any complaints, letters or meetings held between Go George and the bomb victims.