The Forestry and Fisheries Environment Agency (DFFE) has reiterated that it maintains a zero-tolerance approach to fraud “affecting work and related conditions” at its current research base at Sanae IV, the current research base in Antarctica.
This appeared after allegations of attacks and threats in the media over the weekend.
The report alleged that one of nine team members assaulted another team and threatened to kill them.
The department said in a statement Monday that no incidents would require the team to return from base.
“The department is confirming that there was no incident in which one of the nine wintering team members had to be brought back to Cape Town.
“If such an incident occurred, the department’s management team would have immediately and effectively replaced members of such wintering teams, as DFFE’s position on this issue is clear.
The alleged assault was reported to the department last month, revitalizing response plans to address the issue, and “involving stakeholders through trained experts to mediate and restore relationships at the base.”
“This process continues almost every day to ensure that the people at the base are cooperative and motivated by what the department needs to restore interpersonal relationships and what it takes to address issues of discipline.
“Dion George, Minister of Forest, Fisheries and the Environment, is personally responsible for the management process along with Nomfund Tsabalala, Director of the Department.
“This is especially important given the fact that the majority of normal operations on all other scientific foundations in Antarctica have ceased due to winter onset and unpredictable weather conditions,” the statement read.
The alleged perpetrator was “happily involved in further psychological assessments.”
“(He) shows regret and is willing to cooperate in following any recommended intervention. He has written a formal apology to the victim and is willing to apologise verbally to all members of the base.
“The department also implemented a long-term, sustainable intervention process through trained and professional counseling services to restore relationships and create a healthy working environment.
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“In parallel, the DFFE has activated labor-related processes to address issues related to alleged physical assault. Alleged sexual harassment is also being investigated. Reports of sexual assault are incorrect,” the statement said.
Furthermore, Minister George said “will be involved in the team to reassure the team of their support and their commitment to happiness.”
“He emphasizes the need for careful management to provide comfort to the people and families of the base, as well as the willingness for the team to engage in wellness program interventions, as well as professional and independent counseling, which will help create solutions.
“The ultimate goal is to ensure everything at Sanae IV is safe and healthy and work together as a team to carry out the extremely important work that is being done in Antarctica,” the statement said.
