Parliament is planning to use the dome structure deployed as a venue for former president Nelson Mandelas funeral in 2013, says National Assembly speaker Thoko Didiza.
Last Friday I had a meeting with public works minister Dean Macpherson to explore the possibility of getting a dome that has been used by the state for big events previously, such as the funeral of late president Mandela, she told the National Assembly during debate on parliament's 2024/2025 budget vote.
The minister has indicated the dome is available and the department and parliament will meet again on Thursday to conclude this matter. Should we be successful, this step, while it is temporary, will go a long way in ensuring parliament undertakes its business effectively.
Macpherson confirmed to TimesLIVE the structure built for Madiba's funeral is in Pretoria.
Didiza said they appreciated issues raised by MPs towards the end of the sixth administration about looking for alternatives that will allow a full sitting of parliament until the rebuilding of the new chamber is completed.
