3.1.1 The delegation was particularly perturbed by astonishing claims that builders' holidays, which could be predicted and factored into planning, were listed among the unforeseen causes of delay. The DPW explained that the contract period was calculated in working days, and included the builders' holidays. Once a contract extends over a builders' holiday, that time is added to the contract, because extensions too are calculated in working days. 3.1.2 The contractor claimed that, because the Ceres and Vanrhynsdorp projects were basically Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) projects, delays were caused by the use of about 500 inexperienced and "unsophisticated" labourers who, prior to their involvement in the project, were "nothing more than farm-workers". In a written response to the Committee's initial observations, the contractor added that, whilst it supported the aims and objectives of the National Youth Service (NYS), those it had to employ on the project in terms of its contract with the DPW, "have not always been beneficial" to the project, mainly owing to lack of motivation, absenteeism and lack of experience. The DPW denied most of the claims regarding the extent to which labour-related challenges had contributed to the delays. The value of the EPWP/NYS initiative totaled only 1% of the anticipated final cost of the Ceres and Vanrhynsdorp projects. The contractor was not prevented from employing additional, qualified artisans and/or labourers. The contractor had been aware at tender stage that the NYS initiative was a mandatory component of the contract and could have made due allowance for it.