Press Release - EUCCI view on Estcourt Land grab

Saturday, 09 January 2010 11:50

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As a representative of local businesses in Estcourt / Umtshezi, EUCCI must express its concern over the recent land invasions. Whilst we empathise that people are struggling in this tough economic climate and may be opportunistic, the land distribution processes cannot be undermined. If the perception is that processes are not being handled properly, there are channels available that lead to national government who must be held to account.

We firmly believe in the protection of property rights, which is fundamental to the functionality of our legal system. If property owners do not have trust in the judicial system to help protect their assets, they will be discouraged to continue doing business in our area. This will also negatively impact our town’s local economic development and therefore discourage external investments into Estcourt.

According to a study done by the Property Rights Alliance based in Washington DC who are in partnership with over 50 property-related think tanks from around the world, there is a direct correlation between private property rights and economic development of a country. “The economic growth of a country has its foundation in a strong system of property rights which ensures the protection of private property and the recognition of intellectual property rights.”

The EUCCI would like to commend the community and the Umtshezi Municipality for their prompt action to avert the land invasion thus far. It is however imperative for the Umtshezi Municipality to resolve the situation completely to satisfy business confidence, therefore restoring business retention and expansion in Estcourt.

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Steven Haggard: President EUCCI