Broad-based approach
SAPREF believes that a proactive and consistent process of engaging with stakeholders is as enriching as it is instructive. In this vein, SAPREF also believes in a broad-based approach to stakeholder engagement. A formal stakeholder engagement plan guides all engagement with our stakeholders. During 2010 meetings were held with key stakeholder groups as per our engagement plan. Among these are local residents, neighbourhood schools, community organisations, representatives of all levels of government and business organisations.
SAPREF Community Liaison Forum (CLF)
Central to SAPREF’s engagement with the community is the SAPREF Community Liaison Forum (CLF) which is regularly attended by more than 25 community organisations from South Durban and by representatives of eThekwini Municipality. Under the chairmanship of an independent facilitator and operating according to an agreed set of principles, the CLF provides a platform for constructive dialogue between SAPREF and interested stakeholders. A social task team and an environmental task team meet before every CLF meeting.
Island View CLF
In addition to the refinery CLF, SAPREF also participates in a similar structure for Island View. This independently facilitated forum meets quarterly with industry, residents, NGOs and local authorities to discuss issues pertaining to the Island View chemical storage area. Topics discussed relate mainly to odour complaints, traffic congestion around the port and emergency response and communication.
Engagement with government
One of SAPREF’s key stakeholders is the government. As part of its stakeholder engagement plan SAPREF makes an effort to engage with all three tiers of government on a range of issues.