Update: Illegal bird farming
Article: Christo Vermaak, George Herald Journalist
The George Municipality is investigating an alleged illegal agricultural business in the George residential area. It’s alleged that at least two residents are doing business from their homes by illegally farming with birds.
Debra Sauer, communication liaison official at the George Municipality confirmed that the municipality received complaints of illegal farming with birds at residential homes in Heather Park and George South. Both addresses are known to the George Herald but, due to the investigation, this has been withheld from publication.
In connection with the George South incident, Sauer said: “The complaint has already been investigated by the building control section and a notice was issued for the illegal structures (bird cages) on the property. The complaint has also been investigated by the town planning section. It was established that the scale of the activities on site did not constitute normal residential use and that the occupant of the property is operating an agricultural business in contravention of town planning law. A notice will be sent to the owner in this regard.”
She said that the occupant also does not have a permit from the Environmental Services Department in terms of the municipal by-laws to keep these birds on the property.
In the Heather Park incident, Sauer said: “The municipal officials conducted an inspection of the property, but were not able to gain access. It was, however, evident that birds are being kept on the property. The owner will be contacted and a formal inspection date will be arranged. The Environmental Services Department has also not issued a permit for the keeping of birds on this pro-perty and will investigate the matter.”
* Die George-munisipaliteit ondersoek beweerde onwettige voël-boerderybedrywighede in twee residensiële areas, Heatherpark en George-Suid. In beide gevalle word opgetree teen die oortreders.
Source: George Herald