News 08:00

BULLETIN 14 December 8 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Minister Creecy appoints expert panel to investigate Air Traffic and Navigation Services challenges
# No load-shedding expected after Matla Power Station explosion [SOUND]
# And, Rugby: Five South African teams are in action in European club competitions again this weekend

# Transport minister Barbara Creecy has appointed a Committee of Aviation Experts to address operational issues plaguing Air Traffic and Navigation Services. The entity faces challenges in maintaining flight instrument procedures, recruitment, and infrastructure investment. The committee, led by prominent aviation figures, will deliver a preliminary report by January 2025. Creecy emphasised the ATNS’ critical role in aviation safety and tourism growth. She also highlighted the need for sustainable solutions to mitigate delays and ensure operational efficiency.

# Electricity and Energy minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has assured no load-shedding following an explosion at the Matla power station in Mpumalanga. Nine employees were hospitalised, one critically injured, and two were discharged. Ramokgopa confirmed unit 6 was damaged, and unit 5 was taken offline for the safety of employees. He says that investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing:

Meanwhile Eskom Group CEO, Dan Marokane says the power utility is waiting for the approval from the Department of Labour to access the area of the explosion at Matla Power Station in Mpumalanga for further investigations. Addressing the media, Marokane said that an energy loss could have caused the explosion however it is inconclusive:

# Russia hammered Ukrainian energy facilities in a massive aerial attack yesterday. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said it was one of the largest yet on the ailing grid. He said it is evidence of why Kyiv needed more Western support before any peace with Russia. According to media reports, the 12th major assault on the energy system this year damaged power facilities in several Ukrainian regions and forced authorities to impose even longer electricity cuts for millions of civilians. Zelenskiy said Russia launched 93 missiles and nearly 200 drones during the attack.

# And, Rugby: Five South African teams are in action in European club competitions again this weekend. In the Champions Cup, the Bulls will welcome Northampton Saints to Loftus this afternoon. Then the Sharks will visit England to meet Leicester Tigers from 7.30 this evening. The Stormers are also away, facing Harlequins in London later tonight. The Lions host Section Paloise in Johannesburg in the European Challenge Cup tomorrow, and the Cheetahs will be away to Cardiff in the Welsh capital later in the evening.

Stay tuned for more news………….