National Assembly - 21 October 2008
TUESDAY, 21 OCTOBER 2008
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PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
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The House met at 14:03.
The Speaker took the Chair and requested members to observe a moment of silence for prayers or meditation.
ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS – see col 000.
MEDIUM-TERM BUDGET POLICY STATEMENT
ADJUSTMENTS APPROPRIATION BILL
(Introduction)
REVENUE LAWS AMENDMENT BILL
(Introduction) GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES PENSION FUND (CONDONATION OF INTERRUPTED SERVICE) BILL
(Introduction)
FINANCE BILL
(Introduction)
ESKOM SUBORDINATED LOAN SPECIAL APPROPRIATION BILL
(Introduction) The MINISTER OF FINANCE: Madam Speaker, Deputy President - may I congratulate both of you from the podium - Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Governor of the Reserve Bank, hon members, members of the diplomatic corps, friends who have taken the time to join us today, whether you are at home or at work, in tabling the Budget in February this year, I took a very strange initiative, and that was to do the first part of the Budget Speech in a weather station to try and communicate the sense of big storms and climate change ahead. We came here and actually shared a weather report with members of this House, which indicated that there were storm clouds on the horizon.
Indeed, for several years in this House, we noted the growing imbalances between the major trading partners of the global economy. We spoke about the scale of the adjustments required and the risk to the international community of associated financial disruptions. These imbalances have accumulated over more than a decade and are embedded in the global trade patterns, inequalities between and within nations, imprudent lending to households and the intricate mechanisms through which credit risks have been packaged and resold. The dimensions of these flows are staggering. The United States consumes some US$700 billion more than it produces every year. Now, pause for a moment and consider that in rands. It is R7 trillion that they consume more than they produce. This is financed mainly through surpluses in Japan, China and the oil-producing states.
Banks have become increasingly inventive in channelling foreign savings to American consumers and firms. For example, the market for credit default swaps, through which bad debt has been passed on to pension funds and other investors, grew from US$100 billion in the year 2000 to US$64 trillion last year. This is just one of the inventive and, as it turns out, exceedingly destructive and toxic financial innovations of the last decade, causing the implosion that the world now lives through.
Indeed, a structural correction was needed. But the ferocity of the financial crisis could not have been anticipated. Global stock exchanges have lost just over US$5 trillion in value over the past month. The oil price is down from its peak in May of US$145 a barrel to just US$70. I’ve made the point before, but it wasn’t much more than 10 years ago that oil traded at just US$10 a barrel. Earlier this year, people were talking of a US$200 a barrel reality. Recently, it was at US$145 and now it is US$70 a barrel. So, South Africans will applaud this and say, well, the petrol price will come down. But we are also a producer of all manner of other commodities. The platinum price has fallen from a high of US$2 254 to US$903 an ounce. I think we have also seen the prices of coal, copper and steel falling sharply. Manganese and aluminium stockpiles are mounting in ports and warehouses and, all across the world, industrial order books are shrinking. Several major banks and financial institutions have collapsed or have required direct support from their governments. The scale of fiscal interventions under way is historically unprecedented. But it is nonetheless expected that factories will close in industrial economies, unemployment will indeed rise and food stamp queues will lengthen.
We do not yet know how the crisis will be concluded or what its impact will be on output and employment, trade relations or the world’s financial system. What is clear is that the storm has arrived. This storm is fiercer than anyone could have imagined, and its course from here cannot be predicted with any certainty.
But, we saw the signs early, and we took appropriate action. We can say to our people, “Liduduma lidlule!” [Things come and go]. [Applause.] We can say to our people that our finances are in order, our banks are sound, our investment plans are in place, our course is firmly directed at our long- term growth and, of course, the development challenges. Whatever it takes, we will ride out this storm together on the strength of a vision and a plan of action that we can proudly share as South Africans.
We can say these things because this government, since 1994, took tough decisions early. Beginning with the balance articulated between meeting basic needs and promoting investment and growth in the Reconstruction and Development Programme, RDP, reprioritising spending and reducing the budget deficit in the 1990s – regardless of the nicknames that people give to this process – the adoption of an explicit target for inflation, our gradual approach to the relaxation of exchange controls, our strengthening of bank regulation and the steady accumulation of foreign reserves during the last five years, we kept our focus on the reforms required for long-term growth and development. We adopted a macroeconomic framework and a fiscal stance capable of withstanding tough times and protecting our economy and our people during times of global economic turbulence. Essentially, we started this process understanding that business cycles in the economy tend to create boom and bust. But this boom and bust creates enormous hardship in the lives of people. So, part of our responsibility in macroeconomic management must be to try and even this out so that we can minimise the impact thereof on the lives of people.
I am very aware that our policy decisions have sometimes been controversial. But if our economic policies were designed for their populist appeal, and if we tried to finance everything for everybody at once, then short-term gains would have quickly given way to long-term misery. Our policies are aimed, instead, at sustainable progress for workers in our factories and on our farms, support for families through steadily rising social services and income transfers, businesses that can invest in the confidence of a sound fiscal and financial environment and public services that will continue to serve our children and our children’s children.
Yet, there is no avoiding the coming storm. Global economic growth will be slow for several years, export earnings will, of course, be negatively affected, and it will be more difficult to finance all of our investment needs. Economic growth in the seven richest countries – the so-called G7 - which account for roughly half of the world’s economic output, is forecast to be zero or negative next year. Growth in the global economy is forecast to fall from over 5% in 2007 to 3,9% this year and perhaps less than 3% next year. But to get to this 3%, if you’ve deducted the output from half of the world’s output, then of course the growth has to be lifted by developing countries. Africa’s growth is forecast to be 6% next year. But the key engines that drive the global economy now - China and India - will also see their growth slow down as exports to their trading partners decline.
Following four years of economic expansion of 5% a year, the revised GDP growth estimate for South Africa for this year, 2008, is 3,7% - somewhat below the forecast of 4% that we tabled in February. Next year, we expect to grow by 3%, accelerating moderately in 2010 and beyond as the global economy begins to recover. Continuing investment in infrastructure contributes to the momentum of growth in South Africa. This is also reflected in our ongoing current account deficit on the balance of payments. This means that we need to continue to attract financial inflows from the rest of the world while improving our domestic savings performance as well.
There is this big number that we are talking about. The deficit on our current account is expected to be something in the order of R165 billion this year. This means that each week, we must try and attract R3,5 billion to cover this shortfall between what we are investing and what we have as savings. Navigating our way in this changed economic environment will of course be tougher. But we will continue to expand and improve public services and invest in the infrastructure required for future growth.
There is an aspect of South Africa’s interconnectedness with the global crisis that I need to emphasise. We will be negatively affected by the slowdown and the uncertainty ahead, but we have also benefited from the strong growth and high commodity prices of the recent past. Reflected in our favourable terms of trade in recent years and identified as a cyclical revenue component that should be saved and not spent – this was the debate at the time of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement last year – this gain accounts for the moderate budget surplus we were able to report last year. We recognised that the world has enjoyed a long period of unbalanced growth and that it could not persist indefinitely. That the imbalances lasted so long was made possible by excesses in the financial sector, bad loans dressed up as tradable securities, inadequate regulation and the presumption that bankers, because they earn such huge salaries and bonuses, must obviously understand what they are doing.
Such blind faith in unfettered markets is clearly misguided, and has got the world into the difficulties we now see. Our approach has been different. We have recognised that there is creative strength in markets and they do assist in mobilising resources, encouraging innovation and creating jobs. But, markets left without adequate supervision or regulation sometimes fail spectacularly.
The legal and regulatory framework within which markets operate is important, and governments have substantial responsibilities to intervene in support of economic and social stability, and also to ensure that the benefits of growth are both inclusive and broad-based.
This financial crisis invites all of us to revisit the critical questions of the relationship between market processes and their regulation, the balance between public service delivery and private sector development, and the appropriate arrangements for safeguarding the integrity of our financial institutions.
Countries that put the interests of their people first, above dogmas and ideologies, have been able to grow and prosper in the face of adversity over several decades. Macroeconomic policy is, after all, about ensuring that we sustain our growth rates as the international business cycle rises and falls by managing the cost of capital and how much we save and invest.
When we chose to budget for a surplus, it was not because of any particular ideological position. It was the right thing to do under the economic circumstances. And in time to come, and as the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement we announce today reflects, as we revert to a deficit along with several other countries in similar circumstances, it will not be because we have adopted a new economic creed but it will again be because it is the right thing for changed economic circumstances.
It is very important that we try and see this rationally. These are merely measures to cushion that rise and fall across the business cycle. Our fiscal stance is a considered one, putting the long-term interests of our people first, Batho Pele.
Our low level of debt, especially foreign debt, and our prudent approach to fiscal policy, provide us with the space to adjust our policies to cushion our economy against the worst effects of the global crisis.
Let me comment briefly on the oversight of our financial institutions in the present circumstances, and the special role that trust and integrity play in securing effective credit markets and financial peace of mind. The financial stability assessment was conducted by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank during April and May this year. And it concluded that the financial system in South Africa is fundamentally sound, and noted that our financial sector regulatory framework is sophisticated, modern and effective.
Every day, sometimes more than once a day, I receive a call from a gentleman, Mr Errol Kruger, who is the registrar of banks. He gives me an update on developments in our banking system. Mr Kruger, in turn, is in regular communication with the chief executives of all our banks. A constant flow of data and consultations keeps both the regulators and risk management teams of our credit institutions informed and alive to market developments.
I am also in very regular contact, almost daily, with the Governor of the Reserve Bank, Mr Tito Mboweni. I know he is in the audience somewhere. He is hiding. There must be photographers around here. This is because I think we have to discuss developments in the international environment and the wider financial sector. It is nice to talk to the governor but I think it is also something that the Constitution requires of us. If we want to manage the macroeconomy, then it is required of us to talk about these issues very regularly.
Then there is the Financial Services Board, which constantly has to review our insurance and pension fund industry, tracking the status of assets under management and reviewing fund governance, to ensure that the pension funds of workers are protected and prudently managed.
The task of the Financial Services Board is a bit more difficult because there are 14 000 registered pension funds in South Africa and they have to look after all of these funds. Banks are relatively easy. There are six large banks and some smaller banks but in the pension funds it requires a lot more oversight and supervision because it is a lot more difficult.
Now, these procedures and measures may seem technical and at times overly bureaucratic. But we proceed from the premise that this Parliament has entrusted us with the responsibility for licensing and oversight of our financial institutions. Licences to do business in the financial sector are granted on the understanding that the highest standards of financial responsibility and integrity will be maintained, and must be maintained.
If people don’t like the rules and the supervision, then they have to hand back their licences. It is a very important principle because we have to serve between the depositors in these institutions and the shareholders and that licence, we believe, is a very important tool in this regard.
One of the present features of this crisis internationally is that banks have lost trust in each other, and so interbank lending has collapsed. Deterioration in public confidence has also resulted in runs on some banks. In countries such as Hungary and Iceland, high levels of reliance on foreign capital has left the domestic banking system unprotected from these confidence failures.
In contrast, Madam Speaker, the balance sheets of our banks here in South Africa remain sound. They rely on rand-based capital and South African deposits, and the local interbank market remains fully functional and competitively priced. The World Competitiveness Report ranked the soundness of South Africa’s banks 15th in the world, above countries such as the United States and Switzerland. [Applause.]
Hon members, I give these assurances, not to suggest that nothing can go wrong, nor indeed to pretend that our banking sector is somehow unconnected from international financial flows, but to indicate that your government is vigilant. And our vigilance rests on a clear appreciation of the trusteeship obligations of our financial institutions for the deposits of our citizens, the savings of our workers, the pensions of our senior citizens and the security of our children’s future.
Allow me to add, Madam Speaker, that the strength of the capital structure of our financial sector is a necessary condition for its effective contribution to the broader social and developmental obligations recognised in our Financial Sector Charter. It is surely now clear that capital adequacy cannot be compromised in the interests of promoting unsound lending practices or for the pursuit of unrealistic equity participation in our banks.
Madam Speaker, since 2000 the measure of price trends that we have used for inflation targeting purposes has been the consumer price index minus mortgage costs, CPIX. The target excluded mortgage repayments from the inflation measure because of the direct impact of monetary policy on these household expenses.
However, interest on loans is not an adequate measure of the cost of housing, and so in line with international best practice, Statistics SA will shortly replace this component of the consumer price index with what is called “owners’ equivalent rent”, alongside with several other changes to the Consumer Price Index basket.
The inflation measure for policy purposes will therefore revert to the full Consumer Price Index for major urban areas. The target band for inflation remains 3% to 6% and we expect that CPI will fall into the target band in the third quarter of 2009.
During 2008, the world experienced an almost unprecedented increase in the prices of food and fuel. The world’s poor bore the brunt of these price increases with many countries experiencing social strife as a result of higher food prices. Partly as a result of higher food and fuel prices, inflation in South Africa increased during 2008, reaching 13,6% in August.
Oil prices are now falling and food prices have moderated. Taking into account the slowdown in consumer spending and the clear resolve of the monetary authorities, we expect consumer price inflation to fall during the remaining months of 2008 into next year. The government has taken several steps to mitigate the impact of higher food prices, and income support for the poor remains one of the fastest growing categories of our public expenditure.
The circumstances behind rising prices over the past year were exceptional and largely external, and the Monetary Policy Committee has taken appropriate steps to ensure that inflation will subside over the period ahead. Moderation of inflation must remain a central policy objective, particularly as we seek to expand investment and job creation under conditions of heightened business uncertainty.
Since 1994, this government has affirmed that budgets are not about markets or bonds or statistics. Budgets are about people, their lives and their wellbeing. We have the tools and the resources to protect our economy and our people from the worst effects of this crisis. It is a testimony to the strength of our economy and our policies that we can take these measures.
Over the past six years, our economy has enjoyed rapid growth, rising employment, rising household incomes, a major expansion in public services and significant income and asset transfers to the poorest South Africans.
Achieving our objective of reducing poverty and inequality, broadening opportunities and building a prosperous country remains our guiding light. In the period of slower growth ahead, our efforts need to focus on building stronger institutions and improving the quality of our investment in social and economic infrastructure and public services.
Amongst the economic challenges ahead, we need to lift our rate of national savings, we need to construct a more export-oriented economy and we need to create a more labour-intensive growth trajectory. We must ask ourselves repeatedly where South Africa will be when the storm has passed - as the Minister in the Presidency asked me the other day, where will South Africa be when the cycle turns? Will our economy be more diversified, more competitive and more inclusive? Without addressing these challenges, we are not likely to meet the legitimate expectations of our people for a better life for all.
While we have made progress in several areas of policy and service delivery over the past 14 years, there remain aspects of microeconomic policy where more clearly has to be done. These include trade and industrial policy, labour market policy, enhancing competition in our economy, improving our skills base and increasing the effectiveness of the state - areas where we have just not seen sufficient dynamism in the implementation of policy.
Stronger co-operation between government and the private sector and raising our level of investment in economic infrastructure are also imperative.
We live in a dynamic, rapidly changing world and the major changes that we are witnessing, the rise of India, China and Brazil as major industrial powers, is likely to be delayed only temporarily by the financial crisis. These countries are increasing output and incomes rapidly in contributing to a more balanced world and to substantial reductions in global poverty.
Several countries in Africa are also now expanding strongly and creating greater opportunities for the citizens. And so our own social and economic development is not a project undertaken in isolation and on terms we can dictate for ourselves. We do not have the option of rolling down the shutters through high tariff barriers or adoption of the policy of detachment. Progress in accelerating trade and industrial reforms focused on productivity and competitiveness is therefore critical.
A recent report on the South African economy by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, OECD, points out that although an impressive improvement in growth and productivity has been achieved in South Africa in recent years, many middle-income countries are advancing rapidly and South Africa still trails behind the most dynamic emerging economies. The OECD report puts the focus firmly on creating employment as the key medium-term priority. This is a challenge that needs intense scrutiny, perhaps under the auspices of Nedlac, so that we can give greater detail and substance to what more labour-intensive growth would mean in our circumstances.
Hon members, the Budget framework we are tabling today, which draws on the work of the Ministers’ Committee on the Budget, shows that we have the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, to continue to forge ahead with our developmental mandate within a sustainable budget framework. Over the three year medium-term expenditure period, and that’s the period that we foresee to 31 March 2012, R171 billion is added to the spending plans tabled in February, taking total proposed spending including the social security fund over the next three years to R2,4 trillion. The Budget framework also draws on the extensive contributions of members of the Ministers’Committee on the Budget.
The additional allocations include adjustments amounting to R59 billion over the next three years for higher salaries and other costs associated with the rise in inflation. Over R60 billion is allocated to new programmes or expanded spending on key priorities. As indicated in February, an amount of R10 billion this year and the further R50 billion over the period ahead will be provided to Eskom to support its capital spending programme.
As a consequence of strong economic growth in the recent past, our revenue performance has exceeded expectations, providing additional revenue for capital investment, spending on public services to provide tax relief and to reduce our debt. Changes that we made to our tax system, including the introduction of capital gains tax, closing numerous loopholes, lowering tax rates and improving administration, have provided us with a fairer, more equitable and buoyant tax system. In particular, the share of corporate tax has increased significantly, due both to these reforms and to stronger economic growth.
For the period ahead, as our economy slows, revenue growth is also anticipated to slow. In particular the share of corporate tax is increasing significantly, due both to these reforms and to stronger economic growth. Revenue from corporate taxes and value added tax is likely to come under pressure. This is a natural consequence of the business cycle, and our adoption of a cyclically adjusted Budget balance makes provision for such cyclical effects.
The net effect of higher spending and lower revenue growth is that the Budget balance, including social security funds, shifts into a moderate deficit of 1,6% of GDP next year. It is the early decisions we took on fiscal management that allow us to adapt in the face of these more difficult circumstances to protect public spending, to support investments and to contribute towards higher growth in the future without eroding the sustainability of our Budget framework.
The central purpose of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement is to advise Parliament of the main spending priorities for the following year’s Budget. The Medium-Term Expenditure Framework contributes to a better informed public debate on public service delivery and informs the more detailed allocations to national and provincial departments and municipal budgets that will be tabled next year.
As I said earlier, the Budget framework also draws on the extensive contributions of members of the Minister’s Committee on the Budget. I want to highlight the most pressing priorities that Cabinet has approved for the period ahead: Firstly, improving education and skills development to broaden opportunities for our people and to raise our level of productivity. Secondly, improving provision of health care, with particular emphasis on reducing infant, child and maternal mortality and broadening the prevention and treatment programmes tackling Tuberculosis, HIV and Aids. Thirdly, investing in the criminal justice sector to reduce levels of crime and to enhance citizens’ safety. Key priorities here are to further expand police numbers and to invest in investigative capacity, forensic laboratories and enhance information technology network infrastructure. Fourthly, expanding investment in the built environment to improve public transport and meet universal access targets on water, sanitation, electricity and housing. Fifthly, decreasing rural poverty by taking steps to raise rural incomes and improve livelihoods by extending access to land and support for emerging farmers.
In addition to these key priorities, the framework makes good on the pledge we made in February to increase spending on energy efficiency, reducing electricity demand, supporting renewable energy sources and providing complementary funding for coal generation projects. After taking into account the need for timely adjustment of municipal and other electricity tariffs, the levy on electricity generation from nonrenewable sources we announced in February will be deferred to next July, and we will broaden its base to include other large industrial sources of greenhouse gas emissions.
It is recognised that the electricity outages in South Africa that we experienced in the first quarter of this year signal capacity constraints in several areas of infrastructure, including roads, rail, ports and most importantly in skills. These capacity constraints have also slowed economic activity and will restrict growth in the near term. To break these constraints we must obviously invest more.
Financing this investment in the period ahead will be challenging. Government will support our state-owned enterprises through providing selective guarantees on their borrowing and through increases in the capacity of our development finance institutions to contribute to funding major infrastructure projects. At the same time, it is essential to price utility services appropriately so that we can encourage more efficient use of these inputs and to generate the resources to fund greater expansion in capacity. We must also create a more amenable environment for the private sector to invest in economic and social infrastructure.
In tabling the 2008 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement, which I now want to do, Deputy President - you see I am doing this, I haven’t forgotten to do it - I invite this House and all South Africans to engage vigorously with the policy priorities this government has set itself, with the respective roles of the public and private sectors in accelerating economic growth and employment creation and with the challenge of financing development in an uncertain and rapidly changing global environment.
As you will have heard from the Table, I also table five separate Bills for further consideration in this House today. The first is the Finance Bill that regularises expenditure previously deemed unauthorised. These authorisations are made on the basis of recommendations of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, and approved by this House.
The second is the Bill that gives effect to a resolution of this House in response to a petition, on special grounds, for a deviation from the normal rules of the Government Employees Pension Fund.
The third is the Eskom Subordinated Loan Special Appropriation Bill, which requests Parliament to approve a subordinated loan of R60 billion to Eskom.
The fourth and fifth are the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill and the Revenue Laws Second Amendment Bill, which give effect to the revenue proposals announced in the Budget in February. I need to advise that it is not light reading.
And lastly, I have to table the Adjustments Appropriation Bill for 2008-09. Let me just touch on this last-mentioned Bill, the Adjustments Appropriation Bill, for a moment or two. As in the past, hon members, there are various categories of adjustments, including the R2,4 billion in unspent monies appropriated last year, 2007-08, which have been approved for rollover to the current year, for clearly identified purposes. I would like to draw the attention of this House to several additional allocations included in the Adjustments Appropriation Bill, as provided for in section 30(2) of the Public Finance Management Act. These include R2 billion to deal with a series of natural disasters and outbreaks of animal disease. They are floods, droughts, fires, classic swine fever and all of those kinds of things, R2 billion for that. There is a sum of R2,5 billion for the Road Accident Fund, R344 million for the School Nutrition Programme and an additional R390 million for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.
A sum of R1,4 billion is allocated to cover the cost overruns on 2010 Fifa World Cup stadium projects and R600 million for last mile Internet connectivity between the stadiums and the national backbone network.
A sum of R107 million goes to the Kha Ri Gude Mass Literacy Programme, which has exceeded expectations in its first full year of operation. I count 20% of members who are awake at this point, Madam Speaker.
There is a total of R5 billion for higher salaries, not for parliamentarians … [Laughter.] … due to high inflation, and R2,2 billion for other inflation-related adjustments to cover the high costs of fuel, textbooks, medicines, medical equipment and inflation-related adjustments to social grants.
For the benefit of certain members, R2,5 billion is recommended in the Adjustments Appropriation Bill as a once-off allocation for the Political Office Bearers Pension Fund on the basis of the recommendations made by the Commission on the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers, chaired by the distinguished Judge Dikgang Moseneke. [Applause.] The adjustments budget also makes provision for R300 million to assist in meeting Zimbabwe’s short-term food requirements, subject to acceptance of an appropriate role for international food relief agencies by a recognised multiparty government.
Including spending on social security funds, total spending in 2008-09 of R650 billion is proposed, R19 billion higher than the budgeted amount. Taking into account a R1,2 billion upward adjustment to revenue this year, a small Budget surplus of 0,1%, if you include the social security funds, is anticipated.
This year, government has taken several steps to mitigate the impact of higher food prices. Several of these programmes will continue over the medium term, and increased agricultural support should enhance our efforts to ensure food security for all.
Amongst the short-term interventions introduced, government is raising the value of the old age grant, child support grant, disability grant and care dependency grant by R20 with effect from October. [Applause.] That’s a smaller applause than the pension’s one, I observe … [Laughter.] This is so that grant beneficiaries don’t have to wait until April to see the buying power of their grants protected.
Extra resources have also gone to the school feeding programmes and for agricultural starter packs. In total, adjustments to deal with the short and longer-term implications of higher food prices amount to R11 billion over the next three years.
Alongside the Adjustments Appropriation Bill, we table the Adjusted Estimates of National Expenditure, which provide a breakdown of all adjustments for each national department.
Returning to the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework for the next three years, provinces will receive an additional allocation of R51,3 billion. In addition to accommodating higher inflation, key provincial priorities supported include: Expanding the no-fee schools to cover 60% of learners; increasing the school nutrition programme from R1,9 billion in this year to R4,6 billion in three years’ time; also increasing the number of teachers in poor schools and increasing spending on school infrastructure, including the necessary infrastructure for an increased intake in Grade R.
Additional resources for the health sector provide for the introduction of three new child vaccines to reduce deaths from pneumonia and diarrhoea; new proposed salary scales for doctors, dentists, pharmacists and related professionals; expanding TB track and trace teams and increased take-up of antiretroviral treatment programmes. The provincial priorities also include expanding resources investment in agriculture with a view to expanding extension services and providing better support for small-scale farmers, as well as increasing investment in housing, roads and other economic infrastructure. [Applause.]
Additional resources to the municipal sphere cover the higher costs of providing free basic services and over R4,3 billion more as a municipal infrastructure grant to accelerate the provision of basic services.
Next year, government will roll out the second phase of the Expanded Public Works Programme. Drawing on the successes and lessons of this programme over the past five years, R4 billion is added to this programme to incentivise the creation of longer-term, more stable employment in provinces, municipalities and nongovernmental organisations. [Applause.]
It is anticipated that this programme will be phased in to grow the number of full-time equivalent jobs from about 145 000 at present to over 300 000 a year.
In conclusion, this Budget framework gives effect to our commitment to put people first, to use the space that we have created to protect and expand those programmes that make a difference to the lives of the poorest in the short term, while also investing in the programmes that broaden opportunities and ensure higher economic growth in the longer term.
Our country faces a difficult period ahead. There is no telling how deep the global financial crisis will be, nor how severe and enduring its impact will be on incomes and economic activity.
We are obliged to table fiscal plans and spending proposals in a context of considerable economic uncertainty. Our economic and budgetary framework, constructed year by year since 1994, is built on solid policy foundations and provides fiscal space within which to respond to both global circumstances and domestic challenges.
Over the next three years, we will continue to step up investments in infrastructure that will drive long-term growth, and we will continue to expand and improve the quality of public services. And more importantly, we will continue to take the necessary steps to protect the poor and the most vulnerable.
We take these steps because we know that the storm will pass. “Liduduma lidlule!” [Things come and go.] We do this because we always put people first. [Applause.]
Permit me an opportunity to recognise the contributors to the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement. Firstly, the colleagues who serve on the Ministers’ Committee on the Budget. There are a number of members who are now to this task. We’ve had to thrust this task onto them. They arrived in office on one day, completely overwhelmed by the responsibilities of their own portfolio.
They were called into the Treasury the next day and had this responsibility thrust onto them. I think that we must say a very big thank you. [Applause.] And assure them that the hard work still lies ahead because over the next few weeks, once Parliament has approved this, we will have to sit down, take this global amount and allocate it to departments, and we will then have to deal with the complaints and gripes of colleagues who always say, “We don’t have enough”.
But that’s the task that the Ministers’ Committee on the Budget will undertake over the next few weeks. It would be entirely remiss of me not to mention the former members of the Ministers’ Committee on the Budget, who were involved until a month ago. And I would like to single out the former Deputy Minister, Jabu Moleketi.
Secondly, their Excellencies President Motlanthe and Deputy President Mbete, were also faced with this situation where they had this load dumped on them. We met with them, sat them down and just continued talking and hoped that they were listening - and obviously they were.
It’s also appropriate that I express my sincerest appreciation to former President Mbeki and former Deputy President Mlambo-Ngcuka, who supported us through the difficult period to evolve the Budget process and bring it onto an even keel.
South Africa is privileged to have the quality of public servants we have. I want to single out those in the departments with whom I work most closely and those who are most closely involved in the process of compilation of the Budget – the National Treasury, the South African Revenue Service and Statistics SA, but also, as we reflected on today, those involved at the Reserve Bank, especially in the bank supervision department and at the Financial Services Board, who allow us to sleep a bit more easily. Thanks for the dedication, the leadership and the quality of advice you offer.
I always tend to forget to mention the staff in the Ministry, a team of wonderfully supportive, chirpy, competent and, may I say, tolerant individuals. [Laughter.] And finally, to all of you, both here and elsewhere, for your patience in listening to me this afternoon. Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement referred to the Joint Budget Committee and the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration in accordance with their respective mandates.
Bills referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration and report.
COMPETITION AMENDMENT BILL
(Consideration of Bill)
Mr B A D MARTINS: Madam Speaker, hon members, the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry considered the Competition Amendment Bill, 2008, and the amendments proposed by the National Council of Provinces on 7 October 2008.
The amendments relate, firstly, to the complex monopoly provision. The Bill was amended to include the definition of conscious parallel conduct in order to provide certainty to business on its meaning. Secondly, it relates to the personal liability of directors and officers of firms. The Bill was amended to remove the subclause that seeks to hold directors and/or officers of firms criminally liable for negligence, even though they may not have actual knowledge of their firms’ involvement in cartel activities. This is intended to ensure fairness and avoid any potential constitutional challenges.
Another change in subsection (12)(5) of the Bill was the removal of the phrase which seeks to shift the burden of onus of proof from the state. Under number three, technical challenges, other changes are not substantive as they relate to numbering, proper reference, and replacement of certain words for consistency. I recommend the Bill to the House.
There was no debate.
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move that the Bill, as amended, be passed.
The SPEAKER: The motion is that the Bill, as amended, be passed. Are there any objections?
Motion agreed to.
Bill, as amended, accordingly passed.
The SPEAKER: Hon members, there are just too many meetings in the House this afternoon. We should have asked the Minister of Finance to omit some paragraphs because, after touching on that, we also lost some order in the House.
APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY PRESIDENT, MS B MBETE, AS LEADER OF GOVERNMENT
BUSINESS
(Announcement)
The SPEAKER: Hon members, I wish to announce that the President has informed me that he has appointed the Deputy President, Ms B Mbete, as Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly in terms of section 91(4) of the Constitution with effect from 6 October 2008. [Applause.] Congratulations, Madam.
NOTICE OF MOTION
The SPEAKER: Is daar enige lid wat kennis wil gee van ’n voorstel? [Is there any member who wishes to give notice of a motion?]
Mr G R MORGAN: Madam Speaker, I hereby move on behalf of the Democratic Alliance:
That the House –
1) notes that the securing of South Africa’s energy security is vital
for sustainable development and poverty alleviation;
2) further notes that decarbonising the economy is an imperative if we
are to mitigate climate change; and
3) debates the possible makeup of South Africa’s future energy supply,
with particular reference to both renewable and nuclear energy and
their associated costs and benefits. Thank you.
The SPEAKER: Is daar enige voorstelle sonder kennisgewing? [Are there any motions without notice?]
INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ERADICATION OF POVERTY
(Draft Resolution)
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move without notice:
That the House –
1) notes that 17 October was International Day for the Eradication of
Poverty;
2) further notes that poverty affects millions of people in the world
today, the majority of whom are women;
3) recalls that one of the UN Development Goals states, among others,
that poverty and hunger will remain wherever poor health and lack
of education deprive people of productive employment;
4) believes that the establishment of an open, rules-based trading and
financial system, debt relief, as well as more aid to countries
that are committed to eradicating poverty could make a meaningful
contribution to reducing poverty in the developing world in
particular; and
5) commits itself to prioritise efforts aimed at the eradication of
poverty.
Agreed to.
WORLD FOOD DAY
(Draft Resolution)
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move without notice:
That the House –
1) notes that Thursday, 16 October, was World Food Day;
2) further notes that this day is an occasion to highlight the plight
of more than a billion undernourished people in the world, most of
whom live in rural areas where their main source of income derives
from the agricultural sector;
3) recognises that the theme for this year is: World Food Security:
The Challenge of Climate Change and Bioenergy;
4) recalls that global warming, the biofuel boom and unemployment
threaten to push numbers of the hungry even higher in the decades
to come; and
5) urges all governments and the United Nations to intensify efforts
aimed at helping the poor to engage in agricultural and other food
production programmes.
Agreed to.
CONGRATULATIONS TO SOUTH AFRICAN YOUTH TEAM ON ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT 2008 COMMONWEALTH YOUTH GAMES
(Draft Resolution)
Mr M J ELLIS: Madam Speaker, I move without notice:
That the House –
1) notes that our South African team won 30 medals at the 2008
Commonwealth Youth Games in Pune, India;
2) further notes that the South African team won seven gold, 14 silver
and nine bronze medals and finished fourth on the overall medals
table;
3) recognises that this result demonstrates the large number of
exciting young talents we have in the country across a range of
sports who serve as an inspiration for all young athletes dreaming
of a career in the international arena;
4) acknowledges that these young people’s talents need to be nurtured
and honed so that the next generation of South African sportsmen
and women who will be able to compete at the highest levels is
produced; and
5) congratulates the team on their outstanding performance and wishes
all our young South African sportsmen and women well in their
future sports careers.
Agreed to.
EXTENSION OF DEADLINE FOR REPORT ON LEGISLATION ON THE NATIONAL YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT AGENCY
(Draft Resolution)
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move: That the House, notwithstanding the resolution adopted by the House on 23 September 2008 which, inter alia determined that the Ad Hoc Committee on Legislation on the National Youth Development Agency had to report by 20 October 2008, extends the deadline for reporting by the Committee to 20 November 2008.
Agreed to.
SUSPENSION OF RULE 253(1)
(Draft Resolution)
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move:
That Rule 253(1), which provides inter alia that the debate on the Second Reading of a Bill may not commence before at least three working days have elapsed since the committee’s report was tabled, be suspended for the purposes of conducting the Second Reading on 22 October 2008 on the Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill [B 42B – 2008] (National Assembly – sec 75) and the Judicial Matters Amendment Bill [B 48B – 2008] (National Assembly – sec 75).
Agreed to.
INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR OLDER PERSONS
(Draft Resolution)
Mrs S V KALYAN: Madam Speaker, I move without notice:
That the House –
1) notes that Wednesday, 1 October, was International Day for Older
Persons;
2) further notes that the theme for this year was the ``Rights of
Older Persons’’ which was chosen to commemorate the 60th
anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights;
3) acknowledges that the recognition of the rights of older persons
should not be confined to one day but should be recognised every
day so that the dignity of older persons is respected at all times;
4) recognises that the rights of many older persons are marginalised
and ignored on a daily basis in many countries, including ours, and
that this violation includes incidences of neglect, abuse and
violence against older persons;
5) further recognises that in South Africa, due to a number of
socioeconomic factors, including HIV/Aids, many older persons have
not only had to care for their children but have also taken over
the responsibility of caring for their orphaned grandchildren;
6) further acknowledges and respects the authority, wisdom and divers’
skills older persons possess that can be utilised to benefit our
society in many ways; and
7) calls on all South Africans to recognise that older persons should
enjoy a life of fulfilment, health and security and should not be
socially, culturally, economically or politically discriminated
against in any aspect of their lives and that all forms of neglect,
abuse and violence against older persons must be eliminated.
Agreed to.
ELECTION OF MEMBERS TO MEDIATION COMMITTEE ON MANDATING PROCEDURES OF
PROVINCES BILL
(Draft Resolution)
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move the motion as it appears on the Order Paper:
That the House - 1) notes that the National Council of Provinces rejected the Mandating Procedures of Provinces Bill [B 8D – 2007] (National Council of Provinces – sec 76(2)) on 23 September 2008; and
2) elects the following members, as nominated by their respective
parties, as the Assembly representatives to the Mediation Committee
on the Mandating Procedures of Provinces Bill [B 8D – 2007]
(National Council of Provinces – sec 76(2)): Carrim, Y I (ANC);
Johnson, C B (ANC); Joubert, L K (DA); Landers, L T (ANC);
Magwanishe, G B (ANC); Mahlawe, N M (ANC); Ngaleka, E (ANC);
Seaton, S A (IFP); Sibanyoni, J B (ANC).
Agreed to.
EXTENSION OF REPORTING BY AD HOC COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE LEGISLATION
(Draft Resolution)
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move the motion as it stands on the Order Paper:
That the House -
1) notes that the Ad Hoc Committee on Intelligence Legislation had
been given until 9 October 2008 to report on its mandate, but has
yet to table its report;
2) notwithstanding Rule 214(6)(c), condones the continued existence of
and the work conducted by the committee after its term had expired;
and
3) further extends the date by which the committee must report on the
legislation before it to 21 November 2008.
Agreed to.
SOME PARTIES’ OPPOSITION TO THE ANC
(Member’s Statement)
Ms T V TOBIAS (ANC): Madam Speaker, emboldened by the activities of a few individuals who have come to see themselves as bigger than the organisation that made them, today most right-wing opposition parties in our country, your Das, UDMs and the conventions of this country’s sore losers, young and old - those still struggling to see the light of day - appear to speak in one voice in their opposition to the ANC. [Interjections.]
The ANC is a movement with a rich political tradition and an unparalleled legacy. We have a vision, a plan and best policies to ensure the creation of a better life for all. Our commitment and adherence to the goals of the Freedom Charter and the Constitution are unshakeable. Our democratic dispensation, among others, guarantees the right to freedom of speech and association.
The ANC respects the democratic right of individuals to express their views on any issue and, if they so desire, to form political parties to advance their goals. Throughout our history we have fought for these rights, and now that they are secured we shall defend them resolutely. The ANC will not be deterred for one moment from our strategic objective to fight poverty, create employment and improve access to quality education. [Time expired.] [Applause.]
NATIONAL CONVENTION IN BLOEMFONTEIN
(Member’s Statement)
Die LEIER VAN DIE OPPOSISIE (DA): Voorsitter, op 2 November vind daar in Bloemfontein ‘n nasionale konvensie plaas. Politieke gebeure op Bloemfontein het telkemale in die verlede hulle merk op die geskiedenis gemaak: Die stigting van die ANC, die stigting van die Nasionale Party en die stigting van die Progressiewe Party.
Die persone wat hierdie konvensie lei, was tot onlangs baie gesiene lede van die ANC en dit is duidelik dat hulle diep gekrenk is deur verwikkellinge in die regerende party; soveel so dat hulle bereid is om uit die knus kussings van die regering op te staan en in die koue daar buite ’n nuwe heenkome te gaan soek.
Dit kan ’n baie positiewe wending vir demokrasie wees, mits dit die belang van die bevolking in sy geheel nastreef en ’n oop, geleentheidsgedrewe gemeenskap vir almal tot gevolg het. Dit sal nie deug as dit slegs ‘n alliansie van verontregtes is nie, soos dit die geval was met die herskikking van lojaliteite wat in die ANC plaasgevind het en dit nou moeilik maak om die regerende party met ’n morele visie te vereenselwig.
Die DA praat al lankal in hierdie Huis van die nodigheid vir so ’n politieke herskikking, maar dit moet plaasvind met ’n onbetwisbare verbintenis tot die Grondwet en sy individuele waarborge en ’n langtermynvisie vir sosiale kohesie en welvaart vir almal in die land, ongeag hulle politieke verbintenisse. Die DA sal hierdie nuwe verwikkelinge met belangstelling dophou. [Applous.] (Translation of Afrikaans member’s statement follows.)
[The LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION (DA): Chairperson, on 2 November a national convention will be held in Bloemfontein. Political events in Bloemfontein have time and again made their mark on history in the past: The founding of the ANC, the founding of the National Party and the founding of the Progressive Party.
The people leading this convention were, until recently, highly esteemed members of the ANC and it is clear that they are deeply hurt by developments in the ruling party; so much so that they are prepared to leave the cosy cushions of government and seek a new livelihood in the cold out there.
This could be a very positive turn for democracy, provided it is in the interests of the population as a whole and leads to an open, opportunity- driven community for all. It will not work, however, if it is merely an alliance of the aggrieved, as was the case with the rearrangement of loyalties that took place in the ANC and has subsequently made it difficult to associate the ruling party with a moral vision.
For a long time the DA has advocated the necessity of such a political rearrangement in this House, but this should happen with an undisputed commitment to the Constitution and its individual guarantees and a long- term vision for social cohesion and prosperity for everyone in the country, regardless of their political affiliation. The DA will be following these new developments with keen interest. [Applause.]]
ROAD ACCIDENT FUND’S DELAYS IN HANDLING CASES
(Member’s Statement)
Mr E J LUCAS (IFP): Chairperson, the Mission of the Road Accident Fund, the RAF, states that the fund exists to administer the system of compensation, as defined in the RAF Act, in a manner that is timeous, cost-effective and appropriately delivers on its mandate.
Sibisi Hlatswayo was involved in a terrible accident in December, 1995, which resulted in his arm being amputated. He was only 11 years old at the time. More than 12 years after the unfortunate incident that forever changed his life, he is still waiting for compensation from the RAF, despite pursuing the matter with an attorney and submitting the required documents, including three medical reports to prove his condition.
The fact that the RAF has delayed in handling the case is unacceptable, and is certainly not in line with their mission and objectives. I am sure that this is not an isolated incident and that they have many other complaints against the RAF.
Instead of treating accident victims with respect and dignity, as stated in their core values, their actions of inefficiency in dealing with cases just add to the misery of victims. The way in which the RAF operates and deals with cases must be reviewed. Accident victims are to be treated with respect and dignity and officials must be held accountable for their role in the delays. We cannot allow cases to drag on for years, with little or no progress being made, while the victims continue to suffer.
ANC ECONOMIC SUMMIT OF THE
(Member’s Statement)
Ms J L FUBBS (ANC): Chairperson, the ANC and its alliance partners recently held a two-day alliance economic summit to concretise and consolidate the economic policy perspectives. This ANC economic summit occurred during a time of global financial turbulence, and was underpinned by our commitment to halve the unemployment rate and to overcome poverty.
Many South Africans have a common vision to create a nonracial, nonsexist, democratic and prosperous country. At the centre of these developmental priorities is the creation of decent work for all and the re-emphasis on the industrial and trade policy that includes a shared accelerated economic growth and a radical transformation of the justice system to ensure that democracy remains vibrant. The ANC economic policy recognises that a continuing element of democratic transformation is the systematic programme to overcome historical injustice. [Time expired.]
INFLAMMATORY STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS OF ANC
(Member’s Statement)
Rev K R J MESHOE (ACDP): Chairperson, the ACDP is very concerned about the continuing inflammatory statements and insults that are directed at people who have a different opinion about politics and the future of this country. We must appeal to the majority party to instruct their members to refrain from using derogatory terms to insult those they dislike, for whatever reason. Calling people “donkeys” and “dogs” is totally unacceptable and it is not helpful in a country that is supposed to be a success story that has proven that national reconciliation is possible, even in a country with a cruel and oppressive history such as ours.
The ACDP does not want to see a violent reaction resulting from the unabating attacks on the integrity and person of some members of the public, particularly those who are unhappy with what’s happening in the ruling party. To sustain our young democracy, there needs to be respect amongst leaders and followers, even when they disagree and differ on issues.
The ACDP warns against stoking instability and violence, which will come with a high price. If political violence does break out over the next few months, then the privilege of hosting the 2010 Fifa World Cup will be lost, which would be a great loss, not only for our country, but for the entire African continent. In spite of the many assurances that have been given by the president of Fifa, the Soccer World Cup will be hosted by a country that is seen to be peaceful and stable economically and politically.
The ACDP therefore calls on politicians to help promote healing, reconciliation, respect and tolerance and not war talk, insults and instability. If divorce has to take place within the ANC, let it be peaceful and not violent. [Time expired.]
DISSOLUTION OF SCORPIONS
(Member’s Statement)
Mnr P J GROENEWALD (VF Plus): Agb Voorsitter, die aanvaarding van die wysigingswetsontwerpe op die SA Polisiediens en die Nasionale Vervolgingsgesag deur die Portefeuljekomitees oor Justisie en Staatkundige Ontwikkeling, en oor Veiligheid en Sekuriteit gee beslag aan die politieke besluit van die ANC by Polokwane om die Skerpioene te ontbind.
Hierdie besluit is ’n miskenning van die kundigheid en suksesse van toegewyde ondersoekers en aanklaers in die stryd teen misdaad, en spesifiek in die stryd teen georganiseerde misdaad. Daar kon nie eens waarborge aan lede van die Skerpioene gegee word vir die voortsetting van hulle dienste by die te stigte Direktoraat vir die Ondersoek van Prioriteitsmisdaad nie.
Hoogs gekwalifiseerde en kundige lede van die Skerpioene is nou onseker oor hulle toekoms. Lede kan kies of hulle lid wil word van die polisie of enige ander staatsdepartement. Die gekoördineerde kollektiewe kundige optrede van die Skerpioene word hierdeur effektief vernietig.
Baie van hierdie lede is in aanvraag in die private sektor en sal nou verlore raak vir misdaadbekamping. Die uittog van kundiges gaan ook bestaande ondersoeke benadeel en selfs laat skipbreuk ly. Die Jackie Selebi- saak is ’n sprekende voorbeeld hiervan. Die aanvaarding van die wysigingswetsontwerpe is ’n oorwinning vir misdadigers. Die publiek van Suid-Afrika is die verloorders en die misdadigers is die wenners. (Translation of Afrikaans member’s statement follows.)
[Mr P J GROENEWALD (FF Plus): Hon Chairperson, the acceptance of the amending Bills on the SA Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority by the Portfolio Committees on Justice and Constitutional Development, and on Safety and Security settled the matter that was informed by the political decision that was taken by the ANC at Polokwane to disband the Scorpions.
This decision shows disregard for the expertise and successes of dedicated investigators and prosecutors in the fight against crime, and specifically in the fight against organised crime. Assurances could not even be given to members of the Scorpions for the continuation of their services at the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation that will be established.
Highly qualified and capable members of the Scorpions are now uncertain about their future. Members can decide whether they want to become members of the police or any other government department. The co-ordinated collective skilful action of the Scorpions is hereby effectively destroyed.
Many of these members are in demand in the private sector and will now be lost to the fight against crime. The exodus of experts will also harm existing investigations and even contribute to their failure. The Jackie Selebi case is a striking example of this. The acceptance of the amending Bills is a victory for criminals. The South African public are the losers and the criminals are the winners.]
INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT COUNCIL MEETING
(Member’s Statement)
Ms D M RAMODIBE (ANC): Chairperson, over the weekend the International Investment Council met at Mossel Bay. The meeting encouraged South Africans to communicate vigorously its economic achievements to the global investor community, especially its economic potential and attractiveness as an investment destination. The International Investment Council expressed its continued confidence in our country. It noted that South Africa’s regulatory environment and policy choices have, to a large extent, shielded the economy from the turmoil that has swept across financial markets around the world.
Before 1994, economic growth had ground to a halt. Since then, our economy has grown on average by 2,8% per year. It has become more competitive with increasing volume, diversity and destinations of exports and it has created more and more jobs.
The ANC recognises that poverty is still a reality for millions as many do not have appropriate skills, while others cannot access credit to start or improve their small and medium-sized businesses. The ANC remains committed to the eradication of poverty and to economic development, comprehensive social security, land reform and improved household and community assets. Thank you. [Time expired.]
TAKING STOCK OF SERVICE DELIVERY
(Member’s Statement)
Mr P H K DITSHETELO (UCDP): Chairperson, I think it is high time we took stock of service delivery. For instance, parts of Lehurutshe have been without water for months.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): Is your microphone not working?
Mr P H K DITSHETELO: It is working.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): Could you please raise your voice a bit?
Mr P H K DITSHETELO: I think it is high time we took stock of service delivery. For instance, parts of Lehurutshe have been without water for months. All relevant institutions have been approached for help and assistance, without success. This has led to utter frustration and impatience, which resulted in upheavals such as roadblocks accompanied by the burning of tyres and the damaging of vehicles. Officials from concerned municipalities intervened to no avail, causing paralysis between officials and the community. This state of affairs is barbaric and cannot be tolerated in a democratic South Africa.
Still on the same subject, a stone’s throw away from Lehurutshe in Mafikeng, the capital of North West, the community is supplied with unhygienical, stinking and unpalatably dirty water, which cannot even be drunk by animals. To confirm this state of affairs an announcement is made through the local radio station to the effect that this water must not be used for consumption without boiling it first. What kind of service delivery is this? Tlogelang go gora lefetlho. [Stop procrastinating.] [Time expired.]
NUMBER OF NONWHITE PLAYERS IN CURRIE CUP FINAL
(Member’s Statement)
Mr S SIMMONS (NA): Chairperson, I wish to ask the hon Komphela and Frolick to count the number of nonwhite players on Saturday during the Currie Cup Final. All these players will not only play to win the Currie Cup, but also to become Springboks. The overwhelming number of players, if not all nonwhite rugby players, want to become Springboks, rendering the hon Komphela and Frolick’s comments ill-founded. I have on a previous occasion asked these two hon members to resign. Today I again call on the ANC to get these hon members to resign. Surely the ANC must have members who are interested in protecting and promoting solidarity among all communities. The hon Komphela and Frolick are countering this opportunity for unity among rugby communities. These two hon members are exactly what we don’t need in our country.
The ACTING CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Chairperson, on a point of order: Mr Simmons persistently uses the term “nonwhite” in his statement. I think that we’ve outgrown that language as a nation. Could he please withdraw and reformulate it?
Mr S SIMMONS: Chairperson, that is the term that these hon two members normally use, white and nonwhite. These two hon members are exactly what we don’t need in our country.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): Hon member, because that was a point of order contesting that statement, I’m not saying it’s unparliamentary, I’m simply saying that we will rule on it once we’ve dealt with this, but you can continue.
Mr S SIMMONS: These two hon members are exactly what we don’t need in our country for the sake of solidarity, reconciliation and nation-building. Thank you.
DA MEMBERS ATTACKED BY ALLEGED ANC SUPPORTERS
(Member’s Statement)
Mr M WATERS (DA): Chairperson, yesterday, two Democratic Alliance activists, namely, Collen Mdluli and Thokazani Nhleko, were attacked by a gang of men known to be ANC members and supporters in the Mogobo informal settlement in Ekurhuleni. They were hurt with axes and hit with shovels outside Mdhluli’s home. Their attackers burned the shack to the ground, leaving Mdluli, his wife and children homeless.
This violent attack is a brutal reminder of the ruling party’s intolerance of opposition and is one of the many acts of intimidation recently perpetrated against DA activists working in ANC strongholds around the country. These attacks indicate that the ANC feels threatened by the DA’s growing presence in areas traditionally supportive of the ruling party.
As the ANC comes under increasing electoral pressure, such violent intimidation - if left unchecked - will escalate. We need to take urgent steps now before next year’s election, when political competition will intensify.
The DA leader, Helen Zille, has therefore called the President in order to request an urgent meeting with him and the Minister of Safety and Security to discuss the recent increasing political violence and intimidation. The DA will also propose that a multi-party task team be established to make recommendations, with inputs from the South African Police Service and the Independent Electoral Commission, to prevent political violence and intimidation inside and outside the election periods.
The DA will not stand by while our activists are threatened and attacked. If the government and the ANC believe in democracy and the principle of freedom of association, they won’t either. It is time for the few voices of conscience that remain in the ANC to speak out against the culture of violence that now permeates the ruling party from top to bottom. I thank you, Chairperson. [Applause.]
DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE ELECTION CAMPAIGN
(Member’s Statement)
Mr P J GERBER (ANC): Chairperson, the ANC has noted a plan by the Democratic Alliance to court the electorate for their votes by inviting people to submit applications in the false hope that they will become the party’s public representatives after the 2009 elections. The DA have placed advertisements in various newspapers in which members of the public are invited to submit applications to become Members of Parliament or provincial legislatures.
This can exploit the country’s unemployment situation. The advert is deceptive. Firstly, the chance that the so-called successful applicant who only becomes a party candidate a couple of months before the elections can be referred for the position as a Member of Parliament ahead of a long- standing party member is remote, if not nonexistent.
Secondly, given the party’s representation in the national and provincial legislatures and its failure in elections to improve its representation, it is inconsiderable that successful applicants will even make it to the first draft of the party elections list. This is both an act of desperation and unethical conduct. That the party could not find within its present pool of membership the best possible and dynamic public representatives who can at least read or write is a serious indictment on its credibility. The ANC cautions people against this job adverts scam. I thank you.
COLLAPSE OF OFFICE BUILDING
(Member’s Statement)
Mr H J BEKKER (IFP): Hon Chairperson, the IFP notes with great sadness the devastating effects as a result of the collapse of the Roodepoort office building under construction. We hereby express our condolences to the families of the three men who died, as well as our wishes for the speedy recovery of those who were left injured.
South African employers are not only obliged to guarantee the safety of working environments, but are expected to observe all workers’ rights and freedoms entrenched in our Constitution. The Department of Labour must ensure that there is a speedy investigation so that the construction bosses are brought to book, if there is indeed a prima facie case of negligence.
We further believe that such negligence leading to the death and injury of innocent workers should serve as a wake-up call for many employers who take worker rights for granted. The scene of this horrendous accident is relatively close to my residence and I had an opportunity to notice the devastation. I also would like to thank the hon Minister Mdladlana for visiting the accident scene and personally expressing his condolences to the victims and deep concern about the sad and unnecessary occurrence. Thank you.
DEATH OF MS ESTHER BARSEL
(Member’s Statement)
Mr T M MASUTHA (ANC): Chairperson, on 6 October 2008, our country lost one of its servants for social justice, peace and democracy, Comrade Esther Barsel, with whom I happened to share a branch, which is the Wynberg branch, in the Northeast of Johannesburg.
Comrade Barsel was a stalwart of the ANC and SACP who was unwavering in her commitment and dedication to the struggle for a democratic and just South Africa. She was a member of the SACP since the 1940s and was a tireless political activist who remained engaged in struggle until the end of her life.
The ANC salutes Comrade Esther Barsel and will forever treasure the contributions she made in the struggle for liberation, the building and the deepening of our democracy. We extend our condolences to her family, friends, comrades and the SACP. I thank you. [Applause.]
NONPAYMENT OF APPROVED CLAIMS
(Member’s Statement)
Ms A M DREYER (DA): Chairperson, the main aim of the Compensation Fund is to provide compensation to injured or disabled workers or to their dependants in the case of death. The fund has an annual income of R4 billion and reserves of R18 billion in its bank account. It is indeed flush with money.
However, the fund is not paying out approved claims. Doctors, chemists, physiotherapists and other medical service providers often wait for years to receive payments for their services, but worse, people have died because of complications arising out of delayed medical treatment. The reason for this shameful state of affairs is administrative bungling, poor management, poor information technology systems and no political will.
Further, the fund does not comply with the Public Finance Management Act or the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act. Further misbehaviours include materially incorrect assessments, and a lack of appropriate record-keeping and filing systems. This has compelled the Auditor–General to once again give the fund a disclaimer of opinion.
In the past, when confronted with problems of the Compensation Fund, the Minister for Labour has asked for details of actual cases. I shall now, in the absence of the Minister of Labour, hand over to one of his colleagues in the Cabinet account details to the value of R76 million, some of them dating back to 1993, of 69 887 approved but unpaid claims. [Applause.]
MEETING ON TRANSFORMATION IN SOUTH AFRICA
(Member’s Statement)
Mr B M SOLO (ANC): Chairperson, on 9 and 10 October 2008, stakeholders in sport gathered in Durban to review the progress made in transforming sport in the country since the unity process of the 1990s.[Interjections.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): Order! Hon member, what are you doing? [Laughter.] Hon member, seeing that the Minister who needs to receive your documents is not here, try to do it outside the Chamber as the Minister is not here at the moment.
Ms S P RWEXANA: Chairperson, on a point of order, is it parliamentary for a member to sit in the seat of the Deputy President when she is absent? [Laughter.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): Continue, hon member. Mr B M SOLO: Thank you, Chairperson. The administrators from federations, politicians, sport activists, sport scientists and coaches deliberated for two days on matters affecting sport in our country. The gathering was significant in that it succeeded in bringing together stakeholders for the first time in 10 years, to map out a common vision and action plan for sport.
The indaba discussed a range of important matters and adopted key resolutions on the following issues: The reconstruction of the SA Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee, Sascoc, with amendments to its constitution to make it more representative of the sportspeople in our country; a new approach to school sport, whereby teachers become the key drivers of the programme; enforcement of the King Protea as the only emblem for national teams; endorsement of scientific approaches to prepare athletes for international participation, including the Olympic games; and promoting the participation of women in sport.
The ANC supports the resolution taken at the indaba as a big step forward towards nation-building, fostering social cohesion and the forging of a national identity built on the foundation of human dignity, equality and excellence. I thank you.
UNPARLIAMENTARY LANGUAGE
(Ruling) The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): Before I go to Ministerial responses that conclude Members’ Statements, I need to rule that the description of a group of Springbok players by the hon Simmons as “nonwhite” is not unparliamentary. Are there any Ministerial responses? [Applause.]
TAKING STOCK OF SERVICE DELIVERY
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE AND ADMINISTRATION: Chairperson, in a democratic South Africa with a responsive government and a clear policy of service delivery and redress, it is unfortunate to have people taking to the streets in demand of service delivery, indicating that they have exhausted all platforms when in actual fact they have not. It is also opportunistic for a public representative to believe that all avenues have been exhausted before he actually takes a step to meet one of the readily available Ministers.
On the issue reported about at Lehurutshe, I undertake, as I would have undertaken had the member approached our offices, to investigate that issue together with the Minister of Water Affairs. We will be able to engage with the member concerned about this issue. Thank you very much.
DISSOLUTION OF SCORPIONS
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY: The relocation of the Directorate for Special Operations into the South African Police Service will strengthen our resolve to fight against the scourge of crime. A new unit will deal with priority crime in a fair, impartial and apolitical manner. The so- called exodus of DSO personnel to the private sector is a scarecrow, hon member, which is just being used, or perhaps the member knows what we do not know. But what we do know is that, as part our obligation which we’ll have to meet in the Constitution of South Africa, this is one step towards the creation of a single police system in the country. I thank you, Chairperson.
DA MEMBERS ATTACKED BY ALLEGED ANC SUPPORTERS
(Minister’s Response)
The DEPUTY MINISTER FOR JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: The hon Waters has made allegations about certain ANC members that have committed violence against some of their members. If that is so, of course, we absolutely condemn from the ANC’s side any such actions by an ANC member. However, we would also expect that, as a citizen of South Africa, if crimes are being committed you would go and report them immediately to the police. So we do hope that they have been reported. If they have been reported, we would appreciate it if we could see the case number. If they have not been reported, then clearly this could be a publicity stunt. So please… [Interjections.] You know, Ms Kohler-Barnard, you are only more foolish than you are arrogant. You take stupidity to higher levels.
Now, Mr Waters, as I was saying, as far as the ANC is concerned, if there are ANC members that have committed crimes, please give us the number and we will follow it up. We will make sure that the law takes its course. [Applause.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): Hon Minister, with due respect, I should have recognised the Minister of Home Affairs earlier but I couldn’t see her hand.
VICTORIOUS FUTURE FOR ANC
DEATH OF MS ESTHER BARSEL
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS: Chairperson, if I am going to comment on two statements, are you going to give more time? How much time do you give me?
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): So far, we have three responses from three Ministers. You are the fourth one. We still have two more left.
The MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS: Chairperson, I think it is quite early to celebrate the demise of the ANC. I do want to say that the ANC will weather the storm. It will because it is the oldest liberation movement on the African continent. It has a wealth of experience and cadres who are capable of resolving their internal problems. It belongs to the people of South Africa, and I think it would be odd for the ANC, as it is undergoing transformation from a liberation movement to a political party, not to have the kind of challenges that it has. It has challenges now, and I believe that this is a temporary inconvenience. It is the ANC of Dube, of Luthuli, of Tambo and of Mandela, and yes, it has challenges but this ANC will rise. It is early for you to celebrate. [Applause.]
The ANC will emerge victorious – it will emerge victorious. I also believe that, yes, you do see something being formed but you still don’t know what it is.
My second comment relates to Esther Barsel, a comrade who must be honoured; a white lady who stood for the truth in South Africa, long before it was fashionable to talk about the needs of the majority of the oppressed South Africans. [Interjections.] Just hold on, please, because we are paying our respects to a decent human being who talked about democracy before it was fashionable to do so; who spoke on behalf of the majority of oppressed South Africans when it was still dangerous and risky to do so; who spoke on behalf of the people on the ground before we could teach some of you what it meant to talk on behalf of people on the ground.
Right now, it is fashionable to do that, but we are talking here about a person who risked detention, death, losing her family, her children and her all on behalf of South African people, the majority who were disadvantaged, who are black people, and this is whom we are talking about. May her soul rest in peace! [Applause.] [Interjections.]
Mr M J ELLIS: On a point of order: Mr Chairman, I am just having a problem with the sentiments expressed by the hon Minister. What statement was she talking about? I don’t understand what she was talking about. Why was she raising that under the reply to statements? In other words, which statement was she referring to?
The MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS: Chairperson, there was a statement on the death of Esther Barsel and I am paying tribute on behalf of the government to Esther Barsel, the stalwart of the African National Congress and the South African Communist Party.
Mr T M MASUTHA: Chairperson, I made the statement!
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr M B Skosana): The hon Minister was responding to the statement by hon Masutha.
NATIONAL CONVENTION IN BLOEMFONTEIN
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT: Chairperson, may I just comment on the statement made by the leader from the DA, hon Botha. Generally, I had expected from the first time I entered here today that there would be such a statement, specifically from the DA. I think I was not surprised when she said so.
It is quite obvious that some of my former comrades who have decided to take the Mutambara option, have pleased hon Botha, and I think they should listen to that very carefully. They have that right to move and go wherever they want to go. The right to free association within our Constitution is entrenched, and this issue basically is an issue that the ANC is looking into and I think the comrades should be allowed to move in whatever way they want to without any hindrances. It is a pity that the Reverend has gone. I just want to tell him, there would be no hindrances - but we will talk to them. It is not something to be pleased about. Of course, the DA must be very pleased, but we are not. Thank you.
The House adjourned at 15:43. ____
ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
MONDAY, 29 SEPTEMBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly
The Speaker
Membership of the Assembly
-
Resignation of Members
1) Mrs A T Didiza resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 26 September 2008. 2) Mr A Erwin resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 26 September 2008. 3) Ms G J Fraser-Moleketi resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 25 September 2008. 4) Ms M E George resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 23 September 2008. 5) Mr R Kasrils resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 25 September 2008. 6) Mr M G P Lekota resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 25 September 2008. 7) Ms P G Mlambo-Ngcuka resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 25 September 2008. 8) Mr P J Moleketi resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 25 September 2008. 9) Mr F S Mufamadi resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 25 September 2008.10) Dr E G Pahad resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 25 September 2008.
11) Mr A G H Pahad resigned as Member of the National Assembly with effect from 24 September 2008.
-
Swearing-in of Members
(a) The vacancy which occurred in the National Assembly owing to the passing on of Mr P J Gomomo on 22 January 2008, has been filled with effect from 23 September 2008 by the nomination of Mr P S Sizani.
(b) The vacancy which occurred in the National Assembly owing to the resignation of Mr P J Moleketi with effect from 25 September 2008, has been filled with effect from 25 September 2008 by the nomination of Mr S Shiceka.
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister for the Public Service and Administration
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 9 – Department of Public Service and Administration for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 9 for 2007-2008 [RP 218-2008].
Please Note: The following 2 items replaces item 1(a) and (b) under Tablings of the Announcements, Tablings and Committee Reports of 25 September 2008, as published on page 1784.b) Report and Financial Statements of the State Information Technology Agency (Proprietary) Limited (SITA) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 236- 2008].
c) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 11 – South African Management Development Institute (SAMDI) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 12 for 2007-2008.
-
The Minister of Minerals and Energy
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Central Energy Fund Group of Companies (CEF) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General and the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of the Central Energy Fund Group of Companies for 2007-2008 [RP 155-2008].
b) Annual Review of the Central Energy Fund CEF (Pty) Ltd for 2007- 2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of the Central Energy Fund CEF (Pty) Ltd for 2007-2008.
c) Report and Financial Statements of the Council for Geoscience (CGE) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007- 2008 [RP 106-2008].
-
The Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 24 – Department of Agriculture for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 24 for 2007-2008 [RP 248-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 227-2008].
TUESDAY, 30 SEPTEMBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
-
Assent by President in respect of Bills
1) Special Pensions Amendment Bill [B 29B – 2008] – Act No 13 of 2008 (assented to and signed by President on 17 September 2008).
2) Agricultural Debt Management Repeal Bill [B 24 – 2008] – Act No 15 of 2008 (assented to and signed by President on 17 September 2008).
3) Human Sciences Research Council Bill [B 16D – 2007] – Act No 17 of 2008 (assented to and signed by President on 23 September 2008).
4) Financial Services Laws General Amendment Bill [B 21B – 2008] – Act No 22 of 2008 (assented to and signed by President on 23 September 2008). 5) Housing Development Agency Bill [B 1F – 2008] – Act No 23 of 2008 (assented to and signed by President on 23 September 2008).
National Assembly
The Speaker
- Message from National Council of Provinces to National Assembly in respect of Bills passed by Council and returned to Assembly
Please note: The following item amends item 2(c) under the entry
“Announcements – The Speaker”, published on page 1784 of the
Announcements, Tablings and Committee Reports of 25 September 2008:
(1) Bills, subject to proposed amendments, passed by National
Council of Provinces on 25 September 2008 and returned for
consideration of Council’s proposed amendments:
a) Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research
and Development Bill [B 46B – 2008] (National Assembly – sec
75) (for proposed amendments, see Announcements, Tablings and
Committee Reports, 4 September 2008, p 1668).
The Bill has been referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Science and Technology of the National Assembly for a report on
the amendments proposed by the Council.
TABLINGS National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The President of the Republic
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 1 – The Presidency for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 1 for 2007-2008.
-
The Minister of Defence
(a) Report and Financial Statements of the Castle of Good Hope for
2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP
165-2008].
- The Minister of Finance
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 8 – National Treasury
for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements of Vote 8 for 2006-2007 [RP 123-2008].
b) Annual Financial Statements of the Project Development Facility
(PDF) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements Ltd for 2007-2008 [RP 123-2008].
c) Report and Financial Statements of the Financial Intelligence
Centre for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General
on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-
2008 [RP 167-2008].
d) Report and Financial Statements of the Public Investment
Corporation Limited for 2007-2008, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2007-2008 [RP 223-
2008].
e) Report and Financial Statements of the Office of the Ombud for
Financial Services Providers for 2007-2008, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-2008.
f) Report and Financial Statements of the Land and Agricultural
Development Bank of South Africa (Land Bank) for 2007-2008,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements for 2007-2008 [RP 159-2008].
g) Address of the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank – 18
September 2008.
- The Minister for Provincial and Local Government
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 5 – Department of
Provincial and Local Government for 2007-2008, including the Report
of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information of Vote 5 for 2007-2008 [RP 255-2008].
(b) Report and Financial Statements of the Municipal Demarcation
Board for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008
[RP 191-2008].
(c) Report and Financial Statements of the Commission for the
Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and
Linguistic Communities (CRL) for 2007-2008, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-2008 [RP 237-2008].
- The Minister of Transport
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 33 – Department of
Transport for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of
Vote 33 for 2007-2008 [RP 252-2008].
(b) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Civil
Aviation Authority (SACAA) for 2007-2008, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-2008 [RP 150-2008].
(c) Report and Financial Statements of the Urban Transport Fund
(UTF) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008
[RP 216-2008].
- The Minister for Public Enterprises
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Denel (Proprietary) Limited
for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on
the Financial Statements for 2007-2008.
-
The Minister of Public Works
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 6 – Department of Public Works for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 6 for 2007-2008 [RP 249-2008].
(b) Report and Financial Statements of the Council for the Built Environment (CBE) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008.
(c) Report and Financial Statements of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008.
-
The Minister of Health
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 16 – Department of Health for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 16 for 2007-2008 [RP 129-2008].
-
The Minister of Housing
(a) Report and Financial Statements of the National Housing Finance Corporation Ltd (NHFC) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-2008.
-
The Minister of Safety and Security
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 21 – Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 21 for 2007-2008 [RP 259-2008].
-
The Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development
(a) Report and Financial Statements of National Prosecuting Authority for 2007-2008, including the Reports of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 and on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of the Criminal Assets Recovery Account for 2007-2008 [RP 225-2008].
-
The Minister of Science and Technology
(a) Report and Financial Statements of the Africa Institute of South Africa for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007- 2008 [RP 215-2007].
(b) Report and Financial Statements of the National Advisory Council on Innovation for 2007-2008.
(c) Report and Financial Statements of the National Research Foundation (NRF) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements for 2007-2008.
(d) Report and Financial Statements of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance information for 2007-2008 [RP 147-2008].
(e) Report and Financial Statements of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 112-2008].
(f) Report and Financial Statements of the Tshumisano Trust for 2007- 2008, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-2008.
(g) Report and Financial Statements of Academy of Science of South Africa for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-2008.
-
The Minister of Home Affairs
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 4 – Department of Home Affairs for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 4 for 2007-2008 [RP 258-2008].
(b) Report and Financial Statements of the Film and Publication Board for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 176-2008].
-
The Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry
(a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 34 – Department of Water Affairs and Forestry for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 34 for 2007-2008 [RP 246-2008].
(b) Report and Financial Statements of the Water Research Commission for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 180-2008].
-
The Minister in The Presidency
(a) Report and Financial Statements of the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2007.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
National Assembly
-
Report of the Portfolio Committee on Water Affairs and Forestry on the South African National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency Bill [B36 – 2008] (National Assembly – sec 75), dated 11 September 2008.
The Bill was referred to the Committee on 10 June 2008. In the course of inquiring into the subject of the Bill, the Committee, on 25 June 2008, took a decision to request the Minister to withdraw the Bill due to the following: • Lack of consultation on the Bill with the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry before it was introduced to Parliament. The Committee considers the Bill to be an instrument containing significant changes to social and economic policy. The Memorandum on the Objects of the Bill states that NEDLAC was consulted before the Bill was introduced to Parliament. The Committee is not however satisfied that section 5 of the National Economic Development and Labour Council Act, 1994 (Act No. 35 of 1994), relating to consultation with NEDLAC, has been complied with. The Committee, therefore recommends that the Bill be rejected due to non- compliance with Section 5 of the NEDLAC Act. Report to be considered. -
Report of the Portfolio Committee on Communications on the appointment of members to the Board of the Media Development and Diversity Agency, dated 30 September 2008:
The Portfolio Committee on Communications, having considered the matter of the appointment of members to the Board of the Media Development and Diversity Agency, referred to it in terms of section 4(1) of the Media Development and Diversity Agency Act, (No 14 of 2002), reports as follows: The Committee invited the public, by means of advertisements in the print media, to nominate persons for consideration and recommendation for appointment to the Board. The following candidates were interviewed in an open meeting in Parliament on 30 September 2008, namely: Dr T Bosch, Dr A Haupt, Mr MK Jara, Ms SC Kananda, Mr S Molefe, Prof S Mmusi, Ms P Ntombela-Nzimande, Ms K Skinner and Mr N Woudberg. The Committee recommends that the House, in accordance with section 4(1)(b) of the Act, make a recommendation to the President that the following persons be appointed as Board members: Dr T Bosch and Ms P Ntombela-Nzimande. Report to be considered. FRIDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2008
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister of Sport and Recreation
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 18 – Department of Sport and Recreation South Africa for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 18 for 2007-2008 [RP 250-2008].
-
The Minister of Science and Technology
(a) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007- 2008.
(b) Report and Financial Statements of the South African National Energy Research Institute (Pty) Ltd for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008.
-
The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
(a) General Notice No 1052 published in Government Gazette No 31367 dated 27 August 2008: Nominations for appointment of suitable persons to serve as members of the Board of South African National Parks, in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No 57 of 2003)
(b) Government Notice No 916 published in Government Gazette No 31360 dated 29 August 2008: Threatened or Protected Species: Second Amendments Regulation – 2008, in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No 10 of 2004).
(c) Government Notice No 917 published in Government Gazette No 31360 dated 29 August 2008: Threatened or Protected Species: Second Amendments Regulation – 2008, in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No 10 of 2004).
(d) Government Notice No 949 published in Government Gazette No 31380 dated 5 September 2008: Declaration of intention to propose extensions from, and a buffer zone for the fossil hominid sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai and the environs (Cradle of Humankind), in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No 57 of 2003) and the World Heritage Convention Act, 1999 (Act No 49 of 1999).
(e) General Notice No 1138 published in Government Gazette No 31415 dated 15 September 2008: Second Edition Environmental Implementation and Management Plan (EIMP).
-
The Minister of Minerals and Energy
(a) Report and Financial Statements of the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 36-2008].
Please Note: The above entry is amending item 4(b) under Tablings of the Announcements, Tablings and Committee Reports of 25 September 2008, as published on page 1785.
National Assembly
- The Speaker
a) Letter from the Minister of Transport, dated 29 September 2008, to
the Speaker of the National Assembly, in terms of section 65(2)(a)
of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999),
explaining the delay in the tabling of the Annual Reports of South
African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), the Cross-Border Road
Transport Agency (C-BRTA) and the Ports Regulator of South Africa
for 2007-2008.
Dear Madam Speaker
I write to inform Parliament that in terms of section 65(1)(a) of
the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999), as
amended (PFMA), I am unfortunately not able to table the Annual
Reports and audited Financial Statements for the year ended 31
March 2008 of the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA),
the Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA) and the Ports
Regulator of South Africa before the deadline of 30 September
2008.10.03
Section 65(2)(a) of the PFMA stipulates that if an Executive
Authority fails to table, in accordance with subsection 65(1)(a),
the Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Department or
Public Entity, and the Audit Report on those Statements, in
Parliament within six months after the end of the financial year to
which those Statements relate, i.e. 30-09-2008, the Executive
Authority must table a written explanation in Parliament setting
out the reasons why such an Annual Report was not tabled.
The purpose of this communication is therefore to furnish
Parliament with the following reasons for the late tabling of the
Annual Reports in respect of the Public Entities listed below:-
South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA)
SAMSA’s Financial Statements were submitted timeously on 31 May
2008 to the Auditor-General. However, these Financial Statements
were materially misstated. As a result, the Financial Statements
had to be rectified and SAMSA had to resubmit the amended Financial
Statements to the Auditor-General for audit. It is anticipated that
the audit of the amended Financial Statements will begin in early
October 2008 and should be finalised by the end of October 2008.
Shortly thereafter the 2007/08 Annual Report should be finalised
and available for tabling in Parliament.
Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA)
The C-BRTA’s final Financial Statements were originally approved
and submitted to the Auditor-General on 31 May 2008. However, these
Financial Statements were materially misstated and as a result the
Financial Statements had to be rectified and the C-BRTA had to
resubmit the amended Financial Statements to the Auditor-General
for audit. It is anticipated that the audit of the amended
Financial Statements will begin in mid-November 2008. Shortly
thereafter the 2007/08 Annual Report should be finalised and
available for tabling in Parliament
Ports Regulator of South Africa
The Ports Regulator of South Africa is a new Public Entity and the
2007/08 Financial Statements is presently being finalised and will
be submitted by the Accounting Authority to the Auditor-General for
auditing during mid-October 2008. Thereafter it is anticipated that
the audit finalisation processes and Audit Report by the Office of
the Auditor-General should be completed within a short space of
time. The Ports Regulator’s 2007/08 Annual Report will be finalised
subsequently and available for tabling in Parliament.
Arrangements will, however, be made for the above-mentioned Public
Entities’ Annual Reports to be tabled in Parliament as soon as it
becomes available.
I trust that this will be in order.
Kind regards
signed
MR J T RADEBE, MP
MINISTER OF TRANSPORT
b) Letter from the Minister of Science and Technology, dated 1 October
2008, to the Speaker of the National Assembly, in terms of section
65(2)(a) of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of
1999), explaining the delay in the tabling of the Annual Report of
the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions for
2007-2008.
LATE TABLING OF SOUTH AFRICAN COUNCIL FOR NATURAL SCIENTIFIC
PROFESSIONS
Dear Madam Speaker
I acknowledge that the Department of Science and Technology failed
to comply with section 65(1) of the Public Finance Management Act,
1999 (Act No 1 of 1999) which stipulates that the Executive
Authority must table annual reports within one month after
receiving them from public entities.
The South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions
(SACNASP) Annual Report could not be tabled on time due to the
unavailability of key personnel in the Department to check the
accuracy and validity of the information in the annual reports
before submitting them for tabling.
In support of the information above, it should be noted that
SACNASP is not a listed public entity. Hence it does not receive
any funding from government. However, the SACNASP Act requires it
to table its Annual Report to Parliament. It is for that reason
that officials found it difficult to assess its performance as it
does not have business plan.
I confirm I will be able to table the Annual Report before the 3rd
of October 2008.
Yours sincerely
MOSIBUDI MANGENA
MINISTER
c) Letter from the Minister of Science and Technology, dated 1 October
2008, to the Speaker of the National Assembly, in terms of section
65(2)(a) of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of
1999), explaining the delay in the tabling of the Annual Report of
the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions and
South African National Energy Research Institute for 2007-2008.
LATE TABLING OF SOUTH AFRICAN COUNCIL FOR NATURAL SCIENTIFIC
PROFESSIONS AND SOTUH AFRICAN NATIONAL ENERGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
Dear Madam Speaker
I acknowledge that the Department of Science and Technology failed
to comply with section 65(1) of the Public Finance Management Act,
1999 (Act No 1 of 1999) which stipulates that the Executive
Authority must table annual reports within one month after
receiving them from public entities.
The South African Council National Energy Research Institute
(SANERI) annual report could not be tabled on time due to the
unavailability of key personnel in the Department to check the
accuracy and validity of the information in the annual report
before submitting it for tabling.
In support of the information above, it should be noted that SANERI
annual report could not be tabled on time due to unavailability of
key personnel in the Department to check the accuracy and validity
of the information in the annual report before submitting it for
tabling.
In support of the information above, it should be noted that SANERI
is a joint responsibility of the Department of Science and
Technology and Minerals and Energy.
I confirm that I will be able to table the Annual Report before the
3rd of October 2008.
Yours sincerely
MOSIBUDI MANGENA
MINISTER
FRIDAY, 10 OCTOBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
- Classification of Bill by Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM)
(1) The JTM in terms of Joint Rule 160(6) classified the following
Bill as a section 75 Bill:
a) Civil Aviation Bill [B 73 – 2008] (National Assembly – sec
75).
National Assembly
The Speaker
-
Membership of Committees
1) Ad Hoc Committee on the Filling of the Vacancy on the South African Human Rights Commission
(a) The following members have been nominated for appointment to the Ad Hoc Committee on the Filling of the Vacancy on the South African Human Rights Commission ANC Johnson, Adv C Burgess, Mr CV Ngaleka, Ms E Sibanyoni, Mr JB Mothusiemang, Ms M Mahlawe, Ms NM Dithebe, Mr S Masutha, Adv TM DA Smuts, Ms D Joubert, Adv L IFP Seaton, Ms S NADECO Woods, Dr G UPSA Simmons, Mr S (b) Adv C Johnson has been elected as Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Filling of the Vacancy on the South African Human Rights Commission with effect from 7 October 2008
TABLINGS National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister of Finance
Municipal Budgets for the 2008 Medium-Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework (MTREF).
-
The Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs
The Report and Financial Statements of Onderstepoort Biological Products Limited for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-2008.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
National Assembly
CREDA INSERT REPORT - T081010e-insert1 – PAGES 1814-1819
MONDAY, 13 OCTOBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
-
Introduction of Bill (1) The Portfolio Committee on Finance
a) Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Bill [B 75 – 2008] (National Assembly – proposed sec 75) [Draft Bill and memorandum setting out its objects published in Government Gazette No 31238 of 10 July 2008.] Bill initiated by the Portfolio Committee on Finance of the National Assembly, and referred to the Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM) for classification in terms of Joint Rule 160. In terms of Joint Rule 154 written views on the classification of the Bills may be submitted to the JTM within three parliamentary working days. TUESDAY, 14 OCTOBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
- Assent by President in respect of Bills
(1) Prohibition or Restriction of Certain Conventional Weapons Bill
[B 7D – 2007] – Act No 18 of 2008 (assented to and signed by
President on 9 October 2008).
2) Local Government Laws Amendment Bill [B 28D – 2007 (Reprint)] – Act
No 19 of 2008 (assented to and signed by President on 9 October
2008).
National Assembly
The Speaker
1. Membership of Committees
(1) Ad Hoc Committee to consider legislation on the National Youth
Development Agency
(a) The following members have been nominated for appointment
to the Ad Hoc Committee to consider legislation on the
National Youth Development Agency
ANC
Combrink, Mr J
Kholwane, Mr E
Johnson, Mr L
Mkongi, Mr B
Mokoto, Ms P
Newhoudt-Druchen, Ms W
Tobias, Ms T
Wang, Mr C
DA
Swathe, Mr M
Van der Walt, Mrs D
IFP
Lebenya, Ms SP
ID
Greyling, Mr L
UDM
Madikiza, Mr G
(b) Mr L Johnson has been elected as Chairperson of the Ad Hoc
Committee to consider legislation on the National Youth
Development Agency with effect from 14 October 2008.
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister of Finance (a) Government Notice No R.954 published in Government Gazette No 31397, dated 3 September 2008: Draft regulations for the adjustment of prescribed fees in terms of section 36, read with section 40C, of the Pension Funds Act, 1956 (Act No 24 of 1956).
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration. -
The Minister of Communications
a) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Broadcasting Corporation Limited (SABC) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007- 2008.
-
The Minister of Labour
(a) Report and Financial Statements of the Media, Advertising, Publishing, Printing and Packaging Sector Education and Training Authority (MAPPP-Seta) for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 81-2008].
National Assembly
-
The Speaker
(a) A letter from the Minister of Finance, dated 6 October 2008, containing a report to the National Assembly on the use of R1,3 billion from the National Revenue Fund to defray claims expenditure by the Road Accident Fund, authorised and tabled in terms of section 16 of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999).
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration and to the Portfolio Committee on Transport. WEDNESDAY, 16 OCTOBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
-
A copy of the report containing the adjusted recommendations of the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers in respect of salaries, allowances and benefits of public office-bearers for the fiscal year commencing 1 April 2008 was submitted to Parliament on 14 October 2008 in accordance with section 8(5) of the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers Act, 1997 (No 92 of 1997).
FRIDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and Council of Provinces
-
Referral to Committees of papers tabled
1) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor- General and the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 are referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 55- 2008]. b) Report and Financial Statements of the Compensation Fund for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 64-2008]. c) Report and Financial Statements of the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 201-2008]. d) Report and Financial Statements of the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08.2) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and report and to the Portfolio Committee on Minerals and Energy. The Reports of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information are referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration: a) Report and Financial Statements of the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (Chieta) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 69- 2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of the Energy Sector Education and Training Authority (Eseta) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 73-2008].3) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and report and to the Portfolio Committee on Provincial and Local Government. The Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 80-2008].4) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and report and to the Portfolio Committee on Health and Portfolio Committee on Social Development. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 77-2008].5) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and report and to the Portfolio Committee on Education. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Education Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007- 08 [RP 72-2008].6) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and report and to the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs and Tourism and Portfolio Committee Sport and Recreation. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Education and Training Authority (Theta) for 2007- 08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 128-2008].7) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and report and to the Portfolio Committee on Science and Technology. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Information Systems, Electronics and Telecommunications Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (ISETT-Seta) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 78- 2008].8) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises for consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor-General and the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 are referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 30 – Department of Public Enterprises for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 30 for 2007-08 [RP 156-2008]. b) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Forestry Company Limited (Safcol) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007- 08. c) Report and Financial Statements of South African Airways (Proprietary) Limited (SAA) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08. d) Report and Financial Statements of the Broadband Infraco (Pty) Limited for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08.9) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Communications for consideration and report and to the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry, Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture and Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs and Tourism. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the International Marketing Council of South Africa (IMC) for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 144-2007].
10) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Communications for consideration and report. The Reports of the
Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information are referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for
consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of Sentech Limited for 2007-
08, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the
Financial Statements for 2007-08.
b) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Post
Office Limited for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08.
11) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Environmental Affairs and Tourism for consideration and report. The
Reports of the Auditor-General and of the Independent Auditors on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information are referred
to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 26 – Department of
Environmental Affairs and Tourism for 2007-08, including the
Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information of Vote 26 for 2007-08 [RP 53-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of South African Tourism for
2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08.
c) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Weather
Service (SAWS) for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 197-2008].
d) Report and Financial Statements of the South African National
Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) for 2007-08, including the
Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08.
e) Report and Financial Statements of the Marine Living Resources
Fund for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General
on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for
2007-08 [RP 190-2008].
f) Report and Financial Statements of the National Environmental
Advisory Forum (NEAF) for 2007-08 [RP 101-2008].
g) Report and Financial Statements of the Air Traffic and
Navigation Services Company Limited (ATNS) for 2007-08,
including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the
Financial Statements for 2007-08.
12) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Justice and Constitutional Development for consideration and
report. The Reports of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements and Performance Information are referred to the
Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Office of the Public
Protector for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 211-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of Parliament of the South
African Human Rights Commission for 2007-08, including the
Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 89-2008].
c) Report and Financial Statements of the Legal Aid Board for
2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08
[RP 97-2008].
13) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Correctional Services for consideration:
a) Report of the Public Protector on an Investigation into the
Causes of Delays in the Administration of Criminal Appeals
Lodged by Prisoners [Report No 10 of 2008-09].
14) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Correctional Services for consideration and report. The Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for
consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 19 – Department of
Correctional Services for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information of Vote 19 for 2007-08 [RP 217-2007].
15) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Provincial and Local Government for consideration:
a) Report of the Public Protector on an Investigation into an
Allegation of the Misappropriation of Public Funds by the
Kungwini Local Municipality in the Gauteng Province [Report No
12 of 2008-09].
16) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Home
Affairs for consideration:
a) Annual Performance Plan (Revised) of the Department of Home
Affairs for 2007-08.
17) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Home
Affairs for consideration and report. The Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is
referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Electoral Commission
for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-
08.
18) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Education for consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information are
referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of Vote 14 - Department of
Education for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 220-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of the National Student
Financial Aid Scheme for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08.
c) Report and Financial Statements of the Council on Higher
Education for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08.
19) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Education for consideration and report and to the Portfolio
Committee on Labour. The Reports of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information are referred to
the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the South African
Qualifications Authority for 2007-08, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 149-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of the Education Labour
Relations Council for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 and the Report of the Auditor-General
on the Transformation Fund of the Education Labour Relations
Council for 2007-08 [RP 136-2008].
20) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Arts and Culture for consideration and report. The Reports of the
Auditor-General and the Independent Auditors on the Financial
Statements and Performance Information are referred to the
Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the South African State
Theatre for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 224-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of the Msunduzi/Voortrekker
and Ncome Museums for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [PR 160-2008].
c) Report and Financial Statements of the National English
Literary Museum for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08.
d) Report and Financial Statements of the Market Theatre
Foundation for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 102-2008].
e) Report and Financial Statements of the National Museum –
Bloemfontein for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08.
f) Report and Financial Statements of Iziko Museums of Cape Town
for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-
08 [RP 185-2008].
g) Report and Financial Statements of the War Museum of the Boer
Republics for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements for 2007-08.
h) Report and Financial Statements of the National Film and Video
Foundation (NFVF) for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 176-2008].
i) Report and Financial Statements of Artscape for 2007-08,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 189-
2008].
j) Report and Financial Statements of The Freedom Park Trust for
2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08.
k) Report and Financial Statements of the William Humphreys Art
Gallery for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08.
l) Report and Financial Statements of Business and Arts South
Africa (Basa) for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08
[RP 166-2008].
m) Report and Financial Statements of the Natal Museum for 2007-
08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements for 2007-08 [RP 158-2008].
n) Report and Financial Statements of the Pan South African
Language Board (PanSalb) for 2007-08, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 137-2008].
o) Report and Financial Statements of the National Heritage
Council for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 203-2008].
p) Report and Financial Statements of The Playhouse Company for
2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08.
q) Report and Financial Statements of the Nelson Mandela National
Museum for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 202-2008].
r) Report and Financial Statements of the Afrikaans Language
Museum and Language Monument for 2007-08, including the Report
of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 161-2008].
s) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Heritage
Resources Agency (SAHRA) for 2007-08, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 192-2008].
t) Report and Financial Statements of the Northern Flagship
Institution for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 164-2008].
u) Report and Financial Statements of the Windybrow Centre for
the Arts for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08.
v) Report and Financial Statements of the National Library of
South Africa for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 222-2008].
w) Report and Financial Statements of the Luthuli Museum for 2007-
08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08
[RP 181-2008].
21) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Arts and Culture for consideration and report and to the Joint
Monitoring Committee on Children, Youth and the Disabled. The
Reports of the Auditor-General and the Independent Auditors on the
Financial Statements and Performance Information are referred to
the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of Blind SA for 2007-08,
including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the
Financial Statements for 2007-08.
b) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Library
for the Blind for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08.
22) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Public Service and Administration for consideration:
a) Report of the Public Service Commission (PSC) on the Fifth
Consolidated Public Service Monitoring and Evaluation System
Report: Research Cycle 2007-08 – July 2008 [RP 134-2008].
b) Report of the Public Service Commission (PSC) on the
Evaluation of the Consistency of Sanctions Imposed for
Misconduct in the Public Service – April 2008 [RP 135-2008].
23) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Public Service and Administration for consideration and to the
Joint Monitoring Committee on Children, Youth and the Disabled:
a) Report of the Public Service Commission (PSC) on an Assessment
of Disability Equity in the Public Service – January 2008 [RP
50-2008].
24) The following paper is referred to the Joint Monitoring Committee
on Children, Youth and the Disabled for consideration and report:
a) African Youth Charter, tabled in terms of section 231(2) of the
Constitution, 1996.
25) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Finance for consideration and report. The Reports of the
Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements are referred to
the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Annual Financial Statements of the Corporation for Public
Deposits for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent
Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08.
b) Report and Financial Statements of the Accounting Standards
Board for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent
Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 109-2008].
26) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Finance:
a) Government Notice No 871 published in Government Gazette No
31336, dated 15 August 2008: Appointment of board members of
the Co-operative Banks Development Agency in terms of section
58 of the Co-operative Banks Act, 2007 (Act No 40 of 2007).
b) Government Notice No 887 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Designation of institution of
which the activities do not fall within the meaning of “the
business of a bank” (“Financial Service Co-operative”) in
terms of the Banks Act, 1990 (Act No 94 of 1990).
c) Government Notice No 880 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 1 (No
1/1/1360) in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act No
91 of 1964).
d) Government Notice No 881 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 2 (No
2/305) in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act No 91
of 1964).
e) Government Notice No 882 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 3 (No
3/634), in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act No
91 of 1964).
f) Government Notice No 883 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 3 (No
3/635), in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act No
91 of 1964).
g) Government Notice No 884 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 4 (No
4/314), in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act No
91 of 1964).
h) Government Notice No 885 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 1 (No
1/1/1359), in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act
No 91 of 1964).
i) Government Notice No 886 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 3 (No
3/633), in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act No
91 of 1964).
j) Government Notice No 895 published in Government Gazette No
31342, dated 22 August 2008: Amendment of Schedule No 1 (No
1/1/1361), in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964 (Act
No 91 of 1964).
27) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Finance for consideration and to the Portfolio Committee on
Provincial and Local Government:
a) Government Notice No 878 published in Government Gazette No
31346, dated 22 August 2008: Municipal Asset Transfer
Regulations made in terms of section 168 of the Local
Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act No 56
of 2003).
28) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Trade and Industry for consideration and report. The Reports of the
Auditor-General and the Independent Auditors on the Financial
Statements and Performance Information are referred to the
Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Competition Tribunal
for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-
08 [RP 183-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of the National Consumer
Tribunal for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 217-2008].
c) Report and Financial Statements of the Export Credit Insurance
Corporation of South Africa Limited for 2007-08, including the
Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements
for 2007-08.
d) Report and Financial Statements of the South African National
Accreditation System (Sanas) for 2007-08, including the Report
of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for
2007-08 [RP 199-2008].
e) Report and Financial Statements of the National Credit
Regulator (NCR) for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 140-2008].
f) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Bureau of
Standards for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 208-2008].
g) Report and Financial Statements of the South African
Microfinance Apex Fund for 2007-08, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 111-2008].
h) Report and Financial Statements of the Companies and
Intellectual Property Registration Office for 2007-08,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 187-
2008].
i) Report and Financial Statements of the National Metrology
Institute of South Africa for 2007-08, including the Report of
the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements and
Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 221-2008].
j) Report and Financial Statements of the National Gambling Board
for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-
08 [RP 125-2008].
k) Report and Financial Statements of the Industrial Development
Corporation of South Africa Limited (IDC) for 2007-08,
including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the
Financial Statements for 2007-08.
l) Report and Financial Statements of Khula Enterprise Finance
Limited for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent
Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08 [RP 210-
2008].
m) Report and Financial Statements of the Competition Commission
for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-
08 [RP 107-2008].
n) Report and Financial Statements of the National Lotteries
Board for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-General
on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for
2007-08.
o) Report and Financial Statements of the Support Programme for
Industrial Innovation (SPII) for 2007-08, including the
Reports of the Independent Auditors on the Financial
Statements for 2007-08.
p) Report and Financial Statements of the International Trade
Administration Commission of South Africa for 2007-08,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements and Performance Information for 2007-08 [RP 207-
2008].
q) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Quality
Institute for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent
Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-08.
29) The following paper is referred to the Committee on the Auditor-
General for consideration and report. The Report of the Independent
Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance Information is
referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Office of the Auditor-
General for 2007-08, including the Report of the Independent
Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 235-2008].
30) The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Health for consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information are
referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the Council for Medical
Schemes for 2007-08, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 96-2008].
b) Report and Financial Statements of the National Health
Laboratory Service (NHLS) for 2007-08, including the Report of
the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 2007-
08.
c) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Medical
Research Council (MRC) for 2007-08, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2007-08
[RP 173-2008].
31) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Social Development for consideration and report. The Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information is referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for
consideration:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the South African Social
Security Agency for 2007-08, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance
Information for 2007-08 [RP 108-2008].
32) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Public Service and Administration and the Portfolio Committee on
Finance for consideration:
a) Report of the Public Protector on a Systematic Investigation
into the Deficiencies with the Processing of Pension Benefits
Payable to Former Government Employees and Their Dependants
[Report No 11 of 2008-09].
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister of Finance
(a) Proclamation No 818 published in Government Gazette No 31292 dated 1 August 2008: Commencement dates in terms of the Co- operatives Banks Act, 2007 (Act No 40 of 2007).
(b) Government Notice No 929 published in Government Gazette No 31381 dated 29 August 2008: Appointment and re-appointment of chairpersons of the Tax Board for the hearing of income tax appeals, in terms of the Income Tax Act, 1962 (Act No 58 of 1962).
(c) Government Notice No 930 published in Government Gazette No 31381 dated 29 August 2008: Determination of interest rate for purpose of paragraph (a) of the definition of “official rate”, in terms of the Income Tax Act, 1962 (Act No 58 of 1962).
(d) Government Notice No 931 published in Government Gazette No 31381 dated 29 August 2008: Determination of a date upon which section 22(1)(b) of the Taxation Laws Second Amendment Act, 2008 (Act No 4 of 2008). (e) Government Notice No 929 published in Government Gazette No 31381 dated 29 August 2008: Determination of amounts for purposes of the Military Pensions Act, 1976 (Act No 84 of 1976).
-
The Minister of Arts and Culture
a) Report and Financial Statements of the National Arts Council of South Africa for 2007-2008, including the Report of the Auditor- General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2007-2008 [RP 188-2008].
National Assembly
-
The Speaker
(a) Report of the Public Service Commission (PSC) on Strategic Issues Emanating from the Evaluation of Heads of Departments – June 2008 [RP 133-2008].
(b) Report of the Public Service Commission (PSC) on The Turn-over Rate of Heads of department and its Implications for the Public Service – June 2008 [RP 146-2008].
COMMITTEE REPORTS
National Assembly
- Report of the Portfolio Committee on Education on it’s oversight visit to the Vaal University of Technology on the 18-19 may 2008:
1.1 Background:
The Portfolio Committee on Education mandated a multi-party delegation that conducted an oversight visit to the Vaal University of Technology on the 19 May 2008. During the visit, the Committee interacted with top management of the university, unions and the various student organisations. The procedure in which the meetings were conducted was that, the various stakeholders were given an opportunity to express their opinions, and the delegation would comment and raise question that needed clarity. The programme of the visit was drafted in a manner that accommodated the different stakeholders an opportunity to express their opinions on the situation that prevailed at the University then.
The programme of the visit was drafted as follows: ▪ Meeting with top management; (Presentation by the Vice-Chancellor Prof I Moutlana) ▪ Meeting with the two unions, (National Education and Health Allied Workers Union (Nehawu) & National Union of Tertiary Educators of South Africa (Nutesa) ▪ Meeting with the various Student Leadership of the University ▪ Feedback to management
1.2 Delegation:
The delegation was led by the Chairperson of the Committee, Prof S Mayatula (ANC), accompanied by Mr B Mthembu (ANC), Mr R Ntuli (ANC), Mr R van den Heever (ANC), Mr G Boinamo (DA), Ms C Dudley (ACDP), and Mr I Mfundisi (UCDP). The members of the support staff were Mr Anele Kabingesi (Committee Secretary), Mr Andile Mphunga (Committee Researcher), Mrs Nocawe Mxinwa (Party Researcher), Mr Vuyisile Mfuniselwa (Committee Assistant) and Ms Khanyisa Ndyondya (Parliamentary Media).
VUT Members:
Prof I Moutlana: Vice-Chancellor, Prof G Zide: Deputy Vice-Chancellor Institutional Support, Prof A Louw: Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof P Naidoo: Deputy Vice-Chancellor Resource & Planning, Mr K Kasankola: Senior Director Human Resources, Mr F Tsieane: Executive Director Finance, Mr T Mokoena: Registrar Academic Support
1.3 Terms of Reference/ Purpose of the meeting:
The purpose of the oversight visit was to interact with the various stakeholders of the university including top management on the following issues: NSFAS bursary, student drop-out, transformation plan and, the situation that prevailed at the university then. The Committee also felt very strong to be briefed on the resolutions of the violence that hit the university at the beginning of the year.
1.4 Findings:
The delegation of the Portfolio Committee on Education, having conducted an oversight visit to the Vaal University of Technology, discovered the following key issues:
▪ There was consensus that VUT is emerging from a culture that was
characterised by policy void, unyielding power of students
(particularly the Student Representative Council), ad hoc appointment
of staff and low productivity.
▪ The University did not have a transformation plan. The process of
crafting a transformation plan was in progress as there was currently
a process of stakeholder engagement to develop the terms of reference
for the facilitator.
▪ The succession plan of VUT had not been implemented in the past,
leading to low staff retention. High staff turnover was also caused by
the competition between industry and institutions of higher learning,
largely related to competitive salaries.
▪ Various student leadership formations did not trust the management
and had a fear of being victimised due to their participation in
student leadership activities.
▪ The provision of transport to students attending lecturers was a
cause for concern to students.
▪ Students complained about the lack of transparency in the
utilisation of the university’s funds
▪ Legitimacy of the Council was highly questionable by both the Unions
and student leadership organizations.
▪ There was an allegation from both students and unions that the
closure of the Klerksdorp Campus was not properly communicated to the
university population.
- Meeting at the VUT Chambers:
Prof Irene Moutlana welcomed the delegation of the PC on Education and other special guest to the meeting. She acknowledged that, the visit of the PC on Education was highly appreciated by management and other stakeholders of the institution. She handed over to the Chairperson and leader of the delegation Prof. S. Mayatula to introduce the delegation and, brief the meeting about the purpose of the visit. Prof. S. Mayatula, the Chairperson and leader of the delegation of the PC on Education briefly introduced the delegation together with the support staff. The Chairperson briefly outlined the mandate of the committee as conducting oversight from Grade R to the highest institutions of learning and, responsibility of considering all legislation that affects education. He mentioned that, as part of its oversight function, the committee visits institutions of higher learning to obtain a broader perspective of the situation of the institution from its various stakeholders. He indicated that, the committee was not visiting the institution to make any judgements. However, the purpose of the visit was to be briefed by management and relevant stakeholders about key issues that affected the institution and, given the institution’s policies, what has been done to address those critical issues.
2.1 Presentation by Prof I Moutlana: Vice-Chancellor
Prof. Irene Moutlana, the Vice-Chancellor VUT, welcomed the opportunity to present to the delegation of the Portfolio Committee on Education. She appreciated the Committee’s willingness to help the VUT. Her presentation focused on matters that took place in 2007 and the progress made in 2008.
The VC indicated that, in 2006 the former VC Mr A Mokadi’s services were terminated due to allegations of mismanagement of the institution. In 2007, Prof. I. Moutlana was appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor of VUT. On her arrival, the institution was much disorganized. There were no policies in the institution. The SRC was occupying 16 offices of the institution. The SRC members were receiving prestige awards and free meals. The open door policy was abused. There were many ad hoc appointments and many people holding acting positions. The students had significant power and overlooked senior management for their interest. Restructuring of staff was happening willy-nilly, without any order. The image of the institution had been shattered by poor academic results and low throughput. The partnership of the institution and its donors was affected negatively. It was discovered that, one student had been doing a Diplomas for over 10 years and some more than 6 years. External sources were thinking that, the institution was to be degraded from a university of technology to a college.
In 2008, the institution approached the Department of Education to assist it with the Institutional Operational Plan (IOP). Through this IOP a number of focus areas were identified. The institution submitted a remedial plan to the Higher Education Qualifications Committee (HEQC) for recommendations. A meeting with the Minister of Education was organized to improve teaching outputs and issues around student accommodation. The risk assessment and 2nd phase of Disaster Recovery plan had been completed. The institution established a whistle blowing facility that was aimed at reducing misconduct of both students and staff members. After a long process of consultation with the DoE and the institution’s stakeholders, the Klerksdorp Campus was finally phased out. The institution managed to accommodate students from the Klersdorp Campus to continue with their studies effectively. A resolution was implemented that resulted in the creation of thirty new lecturing posts and six others in key support positions to boost the institutions productivity.
Current challenges:
▪ Some members of the unions are closely aligned to outside persons
determined to undermine the success of VUT under a new leadership
▪ Lack of good communication between students and management
▪ Poor academic results in human and management sciences
▪ Decreased enrolment rate due to funding caps
▪ Poor transport service for students
▪ Resistance from the student leadership in complying with new
policies of the institution
▪ Unions complaining about the poor dispensation of support staff
▪ Students not satisfied with the function and legitimacy of the
Council
▪ Logo of the institution too old
▪ Filling of the vacant posts
Achievements:
▪ Four SRC Members suspended from SRC in May for alleged fraud
▪ Whistle blowing facility very effective
▪ Development of a five-year marketing plan to attract donors
▪ Eradication of bad practises that existed in students and staff
members
▪ Unqualified audit report
▪ Improved graduate pass rate
▪ Good management of the NSFAS bursary
▪ Positive accreditation received from South African Qualifications
Authority (SAQA)
▪ Good working relationship with DoE
2.4 Concluding remarks:
In concluding the presentation, Prof I Moutlana indicated that with the appointment of the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the institution has developed a five-year marketing plan and, employed experts in marketing in order to attract more donors to the institution. Management was proposing to change the logo of the institution because it was too old and not in line with the mandate of the institution. The events that took place at the beginning of the year erupted as a result that student demanded extension on the registration period. However, after that incident the situation of the institution had been calm and academic activities were normal. The institution would like the committee to assist it by ensuring that additional resources are provided from government to bring the institution on the same infrastructure and capacity levels as that of other higher education institutions.
- Meeting with the Unions:
Prof S Mayatula welcomed the Unions to the meeting. He mentioned that, the committee was in the institution as part of its oversight function over institutions of higher learning. He indicated that the committee had invited the Unions in order for them to express their opinions on the situation of the institution and, later give feedback to management. After this visit, the committee would compile a report with recommendations and, that report will be presented to National Assembly. The Minister of Education would then implement the resolution taken from the report.
National Union of Tertiary Educators of South Africa (NUTESA) Mr Martin Joubert, the Chairperson of Nutesa led the presentation. His presentation highlighted the following key issues:
▪ The university is loosing valuable staff to industries which are
offering higher salaries.
▪ Nutesa is concerned with the succession plan of the university
because it favours outside people versus the internal ones.
▪ The Nutesa represents academic staff’s interests
NEHAWU:
Mr Stone Liphoko, the Chairperson of Nehawu, welcomed the opportunity to present the input of Nehawu. His presentation highlighted the following key issues:
▪ Majority employees of the institution are employed on contract
basis, and this threatens their job security.
▪ There was no transparency in the utilisation of the institution’s
finances.
▪ There was no policy in place for promotion of support staff, and as
a result support staff employees remained in same position for several
years.
▪ Applied Science’s and Engineering department was dominated by white
academic staff and, the institution should consider employment of
black lecturers in that department to reflect the demography of the
province.
▪ There was racism in the dispensation of academic staff. White
lecturers received more salaries than black lecturers that are at the
same level.
▪ Alleged unfair dismissal of the former Vice-Chancellor.
▪ Institutional Forum (IF) should be given an opportunity to influence
appointment of senior managers.
3.1 Questions and comments raised by Members:
It emerged that, there was racism in the dispensation of lecturers. The committee wanted to know, whether remuneration of lecturers was based on race.
A point was raised earlier concerning the union’s dissatisfaction in the dismissal of the former Vice-Chancellor. The delegation wanted to know, whether this case was not being handled by the labour court. The committee was very concerned with the role played by both Unions in the institution. The committee was shocked to notice that Nehawu was presented by majority black representatives while Nutesa was entirely white representatives. The committee wanted to know whether there was integration of race within the Unions.
It emerged that the unions were dissatisfied with the departure of qualified lecturers to industries. The committee informed the Unions that, this was a national problem that affected other higher education institutions. The committee further elaborated that, lecturers were being attracted by good remuneration / package that is offered by industries.
It emerged from Nehawu that, workers rights especially the support staff were not recognized. A question was asked whether the unions did inform management concerning this issue.
3.2 Responses from the Unions:
The Unions play a very important role in representing labour rights in the institution. Nehawu represents the majority of support staff while Nutesa represents the academic staff. There is integration of race in both Unions because, they consist of both races.
The institution does not have a policy in place that looked after the interest of workers. The support staff were not valued by management of the institution since promotion was only given to academic staff. The budget allocated to pay salaries to the support staff should be increased because currently the dispensation of support staff is unacceptable.
The unions were not properly consulted in regard to the dismissal of the former Vice-Chancellor. The only information they received was that, the former VC was charged with criminal offences and the case was before the labour court.
- Meeting with Student Leadership:
Prof S Mayatula welcomed the students to the meeting. He briefly introduced the mandate of the committee as passing all legislation affecting education and oversight responsibility over institutions of higher learning and even schools. He further indicated that the Committee invited student leadership to express its opinion on the critical issues that affects the institution. He indicated that management was to be informed of the issues raised by students.
a) Presentation by the Young Communist League (YCL):
Mr T Mbengeni, the Secretary of the YCL highlighted the following key issues:
▪ The YCL declares a motion of no confidence in management of the
institution
▪ Poor service delivery in the residential areas and cafeteria.
▪ The closure of Klerksdorp Campus was done without proper
consultation.
▪ Poor transport service affects the mobility of students.
▪ Lack of transparency in the utilisation of the institution’s funds.
▪ Victimization of student leadership should stop immediately.
▪ Departure of lectures is affecting the academic performance of
students
b) Presentation by the South African Students Congress (SASCO): Mr Sedimo Thabani, the Secretary of SASCO highlighted the following key issues:
▪ The output of the institution is poor.
▪ Utilisation of the international levy is not clear.
▪ There is a problem with the quality of the institution’s lecturers.
▪ Students should be subsidized to buy bus tickets.
▪ Returning of funds to NSFAS while there are students that are
struggling should stop.
▪ Security guards of the Campus should stop threatening student
leaders.
c) Presentation by Black Management Forum - Student Chapter:
Mr. Tsepo Marumule highlighted the following issues:
▪ Lack of transformation.
▪ Suppression of student leadership.
▪ Problem with the Council of the institution, especially the
Chairperson.
d) Presentation by the Student’s Representative Council (SRC):
Mr Donald Manganye, the President of SRC highlighted the following key issues:
▪ The University Council is not looking after students interests.
▪ Legitimacy of the University Council is highly questionable.
▪ No intervention from the Department of Education to observe problems
in the institution.
▪ The institution does not have a system to check academic fraud.
▪ The SRC demands that, the institution should be an environment in
which excellence is achieved.
Mr. David Tsotetsi, Member of the SRC:
▪ Students were not happy with the appointment of both the Vice-
Chancellor and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
▪ Though one of the DVC is being investigated, he has not been
suspended.
▪ The victimisation of students is rife.
e) Presentation by the Student Christian Organization (SCO):
Mr Progress Sandlane, the Secretary of SCO highlighted the following key issues: ▪ The NSFAS office in Sebokeng Campus cannot accommodate all students but funds are returned. ▪ The students have a problem of having to pay for transport to the main campus. ▪ Student’s leadership is not given freedom to express its opinion to the Council. ▪ There is misuse of power by senior management of the institution to oppress student’s leadership. ▪ A member of the institution’s senior management is under investigation for fraud.
4.1 Questions and comments raised by Members:
It was observed that, the students were questioning the legitimacy and role played by the Council in the institution. The committee wanted more clarity on this issue. Members asked, whether there was evidence regarding allegations towards the institution with allegation of fraud.
It was evident that, students were very afraid to raise their opinions to management because of the fear of being punished. A question was asked, whether management was victimizing students leaders.
It emerged from all student leaders that, the manner in which the institution was utilising its finances was highly questionable. The committee wanted more clarity on this issue.
4.2 Responses:
The SRC offices were indeed 16 and the SRC representatives liaised with the Council in requesting these offices and the Council approved the request. The money that is paid to SRC leader goes to their fees and, it is not for personal gain or interest.
International students paid a levy of R1800 per annum and, there was no transparency to what was being done with that money. The conditions in the residential areas and cafeteria are not good. However, institution receives funds from the Department of Education and, there is no transparency in the utilisation of the institution’s finances.
The management of the institution was victimizing the political structures of the institution. Political leaders were threatened for expressing their views to management and, some of them were being told that, they will never finish their Degree’s or Diplomas.
The strike that took place at the beginning of the year occurred for a valid reason. Students were striking to be registered as some of them were in a waiting list for a very long time. There was no intention for requesting bashes as claimed by the Vice-Chancellor.
The selection procedure of members of the Council was not constitutional. The Council had a very close working relationship with the Department of Education which is questionable. The Council was not looking after students interests as their voices are not being recognized by it.
The memorandum that was written to the Minister of Education by student leadership of the institution never got a response. The department did not respond to the request of the students in appealing against the closure of the Klerksdorp Campus. Students were never consulted about the closure of this Campus and, they feel that, they are being excluded in the activities of the institution. Students demanded that, there should be honesty and transparency in the utilisation of the institutional funds.
- Feedback to management:
The committee, having conducted meetings with both the unions and student leadership reported the following observations to management:
▪ It emerged from all bodies of student leadership that, management
had a very close working relationship that was highly questionable
with the Department of Education.
▪ It was observe that, both the unions and student leadership were not
properly consulted with the closing of the Klerksdorp Campus. In
addition to that, the committee discovered that, management was not
attentive to opinions from student leadership.
▪ Members questioned management on its negative attitude towards
student leadership. It further elaborated that, student leaders were
very afraid of management. The committee emphasized that, if this
statement was indeed valid, then management was very unfair towards
students.
▪ It emerged from both unions that high staff turn-over was affecting
the productivity of the institution. The committee wanted to know,
whether the institution had mechanisms in place to address that issue.
▪ The unions outlined that, the Institutional Forum (IF) was not given
a say in the appointment of academic staff. In addition to that, the
Unions complained that, there was no policy that supported non
academic’s interests.
▪ It emerged that racism in some of the department’s of the
institution existed. The unions indicated that, some faculties
especially the Science and Engineering consisted of entirely white
lecturers. In addition, racism in the dispensations of lecturers was
also highlighted.
▪ Based on the memorandum dated 14 April on from Prof. G.N. Zide, the
DVC, Institutional Support, entitled, “Discussion Document –
Transformation and Change Management” the Committee observed that the
institution was still at the planning stage for transformation.
5.1 Responses: Students of this institution had a free access to the office of the former Vice-Chancellor. Since the arrival of the new Vice-Chancellor, that was completely stopped and students had to follow a proper procedure when requesting for a meeting with management. Management did not exclude student leadership in its meetings. However, the problem with the students was that, they demanded meetings whenever they wanted without following procedures.
The appointment of Council members was legitimate and constitutional. The statues were followed properly in the appointment of the all Council members. The students were complaining because most of the times they would not be present in the sub-council meetings.
Students were never victimized by management of this institution. However, the problem with the students was that, they did not follow the statutes and constitutionality with regards to their presentation to the sub-council meetings where major decisions are made.
The funeral levy was established to support the family of the deceased student with funds at the time of despair. However, the students wished that, the money of the funeral policy that remains at the end of be used for something else.
The institution was aware of the transport problem experienced by students and, a transport committee was established to address this issue. However, some students did not bother to buy a bus ticket and, this had negative impact on the service provider.
- Conclusion:
Prof S Mayatula expressed his gratitude to the management of the VUT for the meeting. He indicated that, the meetings with various stakeholders of the institution gave the committee an in-depth understanding of the situation of the institution. He mentioned that, the committee was going to make recommendations and, present those recommendations to Parliament for the executive to implement.
- Recommendations:
The committee recommends that the University give consideration to the following:
▪ The management of the VUT needs to restore, inculcate and reinforce
a sound culture of leadership to rebuild the image of the institution.
▪ The university needs to intensify the process of developing a
transformation plan, in line with the relevant legislation on higher
education.
▪ The retention fund should be utilised effectively to prevent the
exodus of skilled staff. The University should learn from best
practice approaches implemented by other institutions of higher
learning.
▪ Management needs to develop mechanisms to encourage open
communication and cordial relationship with student leaders.
▪ The study that is said to be investigating the provision of
transport for students across campuses needs to be prioritised to
allow for an efficient and cost-effective provision of transport fro
students.
▪ The institution should prioritise academic productivity as its key
function to attract prospective students to the institution.
Report to be considered MONDAY, 20 OCTOBER 2008
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development
(a) Draft amendment regulations made in terms of Public Funding of Represented Political Parties Act, 1997 (Act No. 103 of 1997), and submitted to Parliament in terms of section 10 of the Act.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
National Assembly
-
Report of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development on the National Prosecuting Authority Amendment Bill [B23 – 2008] (National Assembly – sec 75), dated 20 October 2008:
The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, having considered the National Prosecuting Authority Amendment Bill [B23 – 2008] (National Assembly – sec 75) referred to it and classified by the Joint Tagging Mechanism as a section 75 Bill, reports the Bill with amendments [B23A – 2008].
The Committee further reports as follows:
Introduction
1.1 The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Amendment Bill was referred to the Portfolio Committee on Justice & Constitutional Development, which was required to confer with the Portfolio Committee on Safety & Security. The South African Police Service Amendment Bill [B30 – 2008] was referred to the Portfolio Committee on Safety & Security, which was required to confer with the Portfolio Committee on Justice & Constitutional Development. As the two Bills are interrelated, the two Committees worked together on both Bills.
1.2 To make fuller sense of this report, it should be read with the report on the South African Police Service Amendment Bill [B30 – 2008].
- Public Participation
2.1 Although the South African Police Service (SAPS) Amendment Bill and the NPA Amendment Bill are section 75 Bills, the Committee decided that, in view of the importance of and public interest in the Bills, we should organise extensive public hearings, not just in the National Assembly, but the provinces as well, in co- operation with the NCOP Security and Constitutional Affairs Select Committee. The hearings were not just on the Bills, but on the proposed new integrated criminal justice system (CJS) as well.
2.2 However, very few people commented on the proposed new CJS. The Committee proposes to undertake further public hearings on the new CJS and report back to the public on progress regarding what has come to be known as the “Scorpions Bills”before the end of the year.
- Visit to the DSO and SAPS
3.1 The Committee also visited the Directorate of Special Operations (DSO) and the SAPS organised crime-fighting units to report on progress on the Bills, hear their views, and encourage them to co-operate in implementing the Bills and ensure that the new organised crime fighting unit to be located within the SAPS works effectively. The Committee appreciates the concerns of the DSO staff about moving into the new unit. The Committee feels that the DSO staff should not prejudge the new unit but give it a chance to develop. We suggested to the staff who do not wish to move to consider going into the unit for a year or so before making a final decision.
-
Processing the Bill
-
The Parliamentary Research Unit and Committee Content Advisor presented a comprehensive report on every submission received and the Committees went through the report fully.
4.2 The Committee drew in two representatives each of NPA and SAPS, and two technical advisors from civil society organisations to assist in the processing of the Bills. We express our appreciation for their participation.
-
As the NPA Amendment Bill emanates from, and is closely linked to, the provisions of the South African Police Services Bill, the Committee identified the broad principles or characteristics of an effective crime-fighting unit which would impact on both Bills. The principles and the 5 different models are set out in an earlier report and are also summarised in the report on the South African Police Services Amendment Bill.
-
Investigating Directorates
5.1 The Bill provides for the deletion of section 7 which established an Investigating Directorate, known as the DSO. A decision was taken to delete all provisions relating to the DSO and to effect all consequential amendments.
5.2 The newly substituted section 7 simply reverts to the previous position, i.e. as it was prior to the establishment of the DSO. The section provides that the President may establish two Investigating Directorates in the office of the National Director, by way of proclamation.
5.3 The Committee is of the view that the Department of Justice & Constitutional Development should seriously investigate whether there is any need to allow for these two Investigating Directorates, and the Department should report back to the Portfolio Committee on Justice & Constitutional Development within 6 months from the commencement of the new term of Parliament in 2009.
- Transitional Provisions
6.1 The transitional provisions provide that as from the fixed date Special Investigators are transferred to the SAPS and become members of the SAPS. Other administrative and support personnel of the DSO may be transferred to the SAPS, as agreed upon between the National Directorate and the National Commissioner.
6.2 Employees may only be transferred to the SAPS with their consent. Those who do not want to be transferred may be offered a transfer to a reasonable alternative post or position in any government department, in the NPA (but in a post other than that of special investigator), or be offered a severance package.
6.3 Those employees who are transferred to SAPS will remain entitled to all rights and benefits and continuity of their employment.
6.4 Pending investigations must be transferred to and continued by the new unit, in accordance with a mechanism determined by the Minister of Justice & Constitutional Development and Minister of Safety & Security.
6.5 The Committee will ensure that it exercises effective oversight over the implementation of the transitional provisions and monitors the progress made in this regard.
Report to be considered.
CREDA INSERT REPORT - T081020e-insert2 – PAGES 1926-1936
TUESDAY, 21 OCTOBER 2008
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
- Draft Bill submitted in terms of Joint Rule 159
(a) Revenue Laws Second Amendment Bill, 2008, submitted by the
Minister of Finance. Referred to the Portfolio Committee on
Finance and the Select Committee on Finance.
-
Introduction of Bills
1) The Minister of Finance
a) Adjustments Appropriation Bill [B 76 – 2008] (National Assembly – proposed sec 77) b) Eskom Subordinated Loan Special Appropriation Bill [B 77 – 2008] (National Assembly – proposed sec 77) c) Finance Bill [B 78 – 2008] (National Assembly – proposed sec 77) d) Government Employees Pension Fund (Condonation of Interrupted Service) Bill [B 79 – 2008] (National Assembly – proposed sec 77) e) Revenue Laws Amendment Bill [B 80 – 2008] (National Assembly – proposed sec 77) f) Revenue Laws Second Amendment Bill [B 81 – 2008] (National Assembly – proposed sec 75) [Explanatory summary of Bill and prior notice of its introduction published in Government Gazette No 31511 of 13 October 2008.] Introduction and referral to the Portfolio Committee on Finance of the National Assembly, as well as referral to the Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM) for classification in terms of Joint Rule 160. In terms of Joint Rule 154 written views on the classification of the Bills may be submitted to the Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM) within three parliamentary working days. -
Bill passed by Houses – to be submitted to President for assent
(1) Bill passed by National Assembly on 21 October 2008:
a) Competition Amendment Bill [B 31D – 2008] (National Assembly –
sec 75).
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- The Minister of Finance
a) Medium Term Budget Policy Statement 2008 [RP 267-2008].
Referred to the Joint Budget Committee and the Portfolio Committee
on Finance for consideration and report, in accordance with their
respective mandates.
b) Adjustments Appropriation Bill, 2008 [B76-2008].
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration
and report.
c) Eskom Subordinated Loan Special Appropriation Bill, 2008 (2008/09-
2010/11 Financial Years) [B77-2008].
d) Finance Bill, 2008 [B78-2008].
e) Government Employees Pension Fund (Condonation of Interrupted
Service) Bill, 2008 [B79-2008].
f) Revenue Laws Amendment Bill, 2008 [B80-2008].
g) Revenue Laws Second Amendment Bill, 2008 [B81-2008].
h) Adjusted Estimates of National Expenditure 2008 [RP 266-2008],
which includes:
1. Memorandum on Vote No 1 - "The Presidency", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
2. Memorandum on Vote No 2 - "Parliament", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
3. Memorandum on Vote No 3 - "Foreign Affairs", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
4. Memorandum on Vote No 4 - "Home Affairs", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
5. Memorandum on Vote No 5 - "Public Works", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
6. Memorandum on Vote No 6 - " Government Communications and
Information System", Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
7. Memorandum on Vote No 7 - "National Treasury", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
8. Memorandum on Vote No 8 - "Public Service and
Administration", Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
9. Memorandum on Vote No 9 - "Public Service Commission",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
10. Memorandum on Vote No 10 - "Public Administration
Leadership and Management Academy", Adjustments Estimates,
2008-2009;
11. Memorandum on Vote No 11 - "Statistics South Africa",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
12. Memorandum on Vote No 12 - "Arts and Culture", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
13. Memorandum on Vote No 13 - "Education", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
14. Memorandum on Vote No 14 - "Health", Adjustments Estimates,
2008-2009;
15. Memorandum on Vote No 15 - "Labour", Adjustments Estimates,
2008-2009;
16. Memorandum on Vote No 16 - "Social Development",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
17. Memorandum on Vote No 17 - "Sport and Recreation South
Africa", Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
18. Memorandum on Vote No 18 - " Correctional Services",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
19. Memorandum on Vote No 19 - "Defence", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
20. Memorandum on Vote No 20 - " Independent Complaints
Directorate", Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
21. Memorandum on Vote No 21 - " Justice and Constitutional
Development", Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
22. Memorandum on Vote No 22 - "Safety and Security”,
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
23. Memorandum on Vote No 23 - "Agriculture", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
24. Memorandum on Vote No 24 - "Communications", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
25. Memorandum on Vote No 25 - " Environmental Affairs and
Tourism", Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
26. Memorandum on Vote No 26 - "Housing", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
27. Memorandum on Vote No 27 - "Land Affairs", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
28. Memorandum on Vote No 28 - "Minerals and Energy",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
29. Memorandum on Vote No 29 - "Provincial and Local
Government", Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
30. Memorandum on Vote No 30 - "Public Enterprises",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
31. Memorandum on Vote No 31 - "Science and Technology",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
32. Memorandum on Vote No 32 - "Trade and Industry",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
33. Memorandum on Vote No 33 - "Transport", Adjustments
Estimates, 2008-2009;
34. Memorandum on Vote No 34 - "Water Affairs and Forestry",
Adjustments Estimates, 2008-2009;
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration
and report.
i) Report and Financial Statements of the Financial Services Board on
the Registrar of Collective Investment Schemes for the year ended
31 December 2007 [RP 145-2008].
j) Government Notice No R.952 published in Government Gazette No
31395 dated 5 September 2008: Amendment of the Regulations made
under section 72 of the Long-Term Insurance Act, 1998 (Act No 52
of 1998).
k) Proclamation No 37 published in Government Gazette No 31410 dated
5 September 2008: Coming into operation of sections 12(1) and
33(1) in terms of the Revenue Laws Second Amendment Act, 2006 (Act
No 21 of 2006): Coming into operation of section 11(1) of the
Taxation Laws Second Amendment Act, 2007 (Act No 9 of 2007).
l) Government Notice No 1000 published in Government Gazette No 31417
dated 19 September 2008: Listing and delisting of public entities
for Schedule 3 Part A, in terms of sections 47 and 48 of the
Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999).
m) Government Notice No 1002 published in Government Gazette No 31417
dated 19 September 2008: Listing and delisting of public entities
for Schedule 3 Part D, in terms of sections 47 and 48 of the
Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999).
n) Government Notice No 1003 published in Government Gazette No 31417
dated 19 September 2008: Listing and delisting of public entities:
Amend Schedule 3 Part A, in terms of sections 47 and 48 of the
Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999).
-
The Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development
Legal Aid Guide for 2008: 11th Edition in terms of section 3A of the Legal Aid Amendment Act, 1996 (Act No 20 of 1996).
National Assembly
-
The Speaker
a) Letter dated 4 March 2008 from the Office of the Auditor-General to provide reasons for the delay in completing the audit of the financial statements of the Kannaland Municipality, tabled in terms of section 126(4) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act No 56 of 2003).
Referred to the Committee on Public Accounts for consideration and to the Portfolio Committee on Provincial and Local Government.
b) Letter from the Minister of Finance, dated 2 October 2008, to the Speaker of the National Assembly explaining the delay in the tabling of the Annual Financial Statements of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) fund for 2007-2008.
ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME ((RDP)
I wish to inform you that the Annual Financial Statements (AFS) of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) fund for the financial year ending 31 March 2008 will be tabled with the 2007/08 financial year Consolidated Financial Statements on 31 October 2008.
Since its inception, the RDP Fund has always tabled its AFS at the end of September each year. It has, however, always been qualified as follows: - “In terms of section 5 of the RDP Act, money transferred from the RDP Fund and not spent by the end of each financial year, in the absence of any provision to the contrary in a technical assistance agreement, is required to be paid into the RDP Fund. As the Fund had not implemented sufficient systems for the follow-up of such monies, I was unable to determine the completeness of the unspent money refunded to the RDP Fund” Please note that this is a technical qualification since the information needed to address this matter is only available once all the departments’ audits have been concluded by the Auditor- General (AG). In order to obviate this, the audit of the RDP fund has had to lag behind that of the departments to allow for the conclusion of the audits. This invariably results in the necessity of tabling the RDP fund at the end of October, during the same period in which the consolidated information is tabled.
I trust that you will find this to be in order.
Kind regards
signed TREVOR A MANUEL, MP MINISTER OF FINANCE c) Letter from the Minister of Social Development, dated 3 October 2008, to the Speaker of the National Assembly, in terms of section 65(2)(a) of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No 1 of 1999), explaining the delay in the tabling of the Annual Report of the Central Drug Authority for 2006-2007.
TABLING OF THE CENTRAL DRUG AUTHORITY 2006/07 ANNUAL REPORT IN PARLIAMENT
In terms of section 2(11) (a) (b) of the Prevention and Treatment of Drug Dependency Amendment Act (Act 20 of 1992) and Section, 65 (1)(a) of the PFMA, I am required to table the Central Drug Authority Annual Report in the National Assembly. Subsection (2)(a) further requires me to table a written explanation to Parliament on the circumstances that prevented me from tabling such a report within six months from the end of the financial year.
In this regard I would like to report that the Department of Social Development was unable to table the said report, in June 2007, due to the following reasons:
- There was a delay in the finalization of the 2006/07 CDA Annual Report due to late receipt of reports from various departments. As a result, this report was only approved by the CDA Executive in September 2007 and adopted by its General Meeting in November 2007.
- The delay was exacerbated by two service providers who were appointed on the basis of cost effectiveness, including the Government Printers, who failed to complete the task. The printing was finally assigned to Shick Designs who were only able to complete the printing in the middle of August 2008.
In view of the fact that the CDA is reliant on various stakeholders, such as government departments, provincial substance abuse forums, etc, to submit reports that must be collated into the annual report by the CDA, the Prevention and Treatment for Substance Abuse Bill, proposes that the CDA Annual Report be tabled in September each year. This will be more realistic time to ensure compliance by the CDA.
The Department and the CDA would like to appeal to the Speaker to accept the CDA Annual Report for 2006/07 for tabling, please.
Kind regards
signed DR Z S T SKWEYIYA, MP MINISTER
COMMITTEE REPORTS
National Assembly
CREDA INSERT REPORTS - T081021e-insert1 – PAGES 1948-1957.