MINISTER DEAN MACPHERSON EMBARKS ON MINISTERIAL VISIT TO ELANDS BAY

Article by Fanisa Makhubela, Pictures by Mahlogonolo Makwela

06 February 2026

The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), Dean Macpherson, today formally handed over the refurbished Nieuwmeester Dome to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza. The handover marks a critical step in ensuring the continuity of parliamentary sittings while the National Assembly building is rebuilt following the 2022 fire at the Parliamentary Precinct.

The refurbishment of the Dome was undertaken at the request of Parliament and delivered through a collaborative partnership between Parliament and DPWI, with costs shared between the two institutions. Refurbishment work commenced following the site handover to the contractor on 12 November 2025 and was completed within a 10-week period, demonstrating the Department’s ability to deliver quality infrastructure under tight timeframes.

The upgrades ensure that the structure is weather-resilient, safe and fully suitable for parliamentary use, including improved soundproofing and compliance with operational standards required for parliamentary proceedings.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Minister Macpherson spoke on the importance of continuity in democratic institutions. “This handover is not simply about a structure. It is about continuity. It is about ensuring that, even in the face of unexpected disruption, the work of the National Assembly continues in a manner that is safe, dignified and fit for purpose,” he said.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, expressed appreciation for the role played by the Department in restoring Parliament’s capacity to function effectively. She noted that the Dome now officially forms part of the Parliamentary precinct and carries full parliamentary powers and privileges.

The handover enables Parliament to proceed with preparations for upcoming parliamentary business, including the State of the Nation Address, and underscores government’s commitment to safeguarding democratic processes during the ongoing reconstruction of the permanent parliamentary buildings.