National Council of Provinces - 16 February 2006
THURSDAY, 16 FEBRUARY 2006 __
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PROVINCES
____
The Council met at 14:08.
The Deputy Chairperson took the Chair and requested members to observe a moment of silence for prayers or meditation.
ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS – see col 000.
NOTICE OF MOTION
Mr M A MZIZI: Chairperson, I hereby give notice that on the next sitting day of the NCOP I shall move, on behalf of the IFP:
That the NCOP –
(1) notes, with shock, that after a protection order was obtained against him by his wife, Inspector Phillip Mlangeni killed his wife and injured her aunt by firing shots in the house where she was staying;
(2) further notes that yesterday Inspector Mlangeni was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for murdering his wife;
(3) acknowledges, with dismay, that while government is trying to rid our country of illegal firearms, many of which are used in crimes, there are still incidences whereby the firearms of police officials are used in heinous crimes such as the murder of Inspector Mlangeni’s wife.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Thank you, hon member. Before we proceed further, I would like to welcome the hon Minister, L B Hendricks, Minister of Minerals and Energy Affairs, in this House, and also the Deputy Minister of Education, hon E M Surty. Please feel welcome amongst us.
We will now proceed. Does any member wish to move a motion without notice?
RECTIFICATION OF DECISION
(Draft Resolution)
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE COUNCIL: Hon Deputy Chair, I move without notice –
That the decision adopted by the Joint Programme sub-committee on 15 February 2006, be ratified so that, in accordance with Joint Rule 216(2), the Division of Revenue Bill be fast-tracked, where necessary dispensing with any relevant House Rule or Joint Rule and shortening any period within which any step in the legislative process relating to the Bill must be completed, including the submission of the translated version of the Bill as introduced before the debate in the National Assembly takes place, as this process must be completed in order for the Bill to be enacted by 31 March 2006.
May I just say, in brief explanation, hon Deputy Chair, that this is to allow the National Assembly to fast-track the Bill on their side. In terms of us as the NCOP, we will still be taking it in the normal process of allowing even our provinces to have their hearings, and we will pass it, as scheduled, on 28 March, during our plenary in the Northern Cape.
This is just to operate and adhere in accordance to our joint Rules, which apply to both Houses in Parliament. Thank you.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
HOUSES HANDED OVER BY FREE STATE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT
(Draft Resolution) Mr C J VAN ROOYEN: Chairperson, I move without notice:
That the Council notes that –
(1) the Free State provincial government handed 9 523 houses over during last year;
(2) in an endeavour to improve the livelihoods of the rural poor in the Free State, 2 000 houses were allocated to the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality and 1 000 to the Thaba Nchu Municipality;
(3) during the 16 days of no violence against women and children last year, 16 units were allocated to women-headed households in the Free State; and
(4) the Premier announced during her state-of-the-province address on 10 February 2006, that a further 12 000 housing units will be built during this year.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
TEACHING AND LEARNING PLATFORM IN NTAMBANANA AND BONAMBI MUNICIPALITIES
(Draft Resolution) Ms A N T MCHUNU: Madam Chair, I hereby move without notice:
That the Council –
(1) notes that a teaching and learning platform was experienced by
the hon members during the NCOP’s visits to the Ntambanana and
Mbonambi Municipalities;
(2) further notes the collaboration between Uthungulu and Umhlathuze
City in order to ensure service delivery to the municipalities; and
(3) acknowledges and congratulates all the stakeholders who worked
jointly to ensure service delivery, especially the Ntambanana
Municipality and communities who worked together to build
classrooms.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE COUNCIL: Deputy Chair, may I request that I now also move another motion without notice, that is, with regard to Order 3 on our Order Paper? I have been reliably informed by the Deputy Chairperson of the Joint Monitoring Committee on the Quality of Life and Status of Women that there has been an incorrect publication. Instead of the actual report of that committee being published in the ATC, the minutes of that meeting were published. Hence they requested that they be given time to rectify that before this is tabled for a decision to be adopted by this particular House.
ORDER WITHHELD UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
(Draft Resolution)
I move without notice:
That Order No 3 be withheld until further notice.
Thank you.
Motion agreed to in terms of section 65 of the Constitution.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): We now come to the motion on the order paper, as printed in the name of the Chairperson of the Council.
NCOP SITTING IN NORTHERN CAPE
(Draft Resolution)
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE COUNCIL: Deputy Chair, I must say that I have no intention of taking over from the Chairperson. He is just engaged in very urgent work, dealing with the processing of the APRM. I thus would like to move the motion on his behalf:
That the Council –
(1) in terms of Rule 21(2) resolves that in the interest of enhancing public participation as provided for in section 72(1)(a) and (b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, as from 27 – 31 March 2006 will conduct public hearings, hold meetings, conduct oversight visits and will sit in plenary in the province of the Northern Cape on Tuesday, 28 March 2006, at 17:30 until approximately 19:30, and on Friday, 31 March 2006, at 10:00 until the conclusion of the business of the day.
2) notes that the estimated cost of effecting the change of venue and
maintaining it for the specified period is R1 576 000.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Thank you, Chief Whip. As there is no speakers’ list, I shall now put the question. The question is that the motion be agreed to. As the decision is dealt with in terms of section 65 of the Constitution, I shall first ascertain whether all the delegation heads are present in the Chamber to cast their provinces’ votes. Are all the delegation heads present? Yes.
In accordance with rule 71, I shall first give provinces the opportunity to make their declarations of vote, if they so wish. None. We shall now proceed to voting on the question. I shall do this in alphabetical order, per province. Delegation heads must please indicate to the Chair whether they vote in favour or against or abstain from voting. Eastern Cape?
Mr A T MANYOSI: Siyavuma. [We support.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Free State?
Mr C J VAN ROOYEN: Steun [Supports.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Gauteng?
Ms N F MAZIBUKO: In favour. The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms M P Hollander): KwaZulu-Natal?
Mr Z C NTULI: KwaZulu-Natal elethu. [KwaZulu-Natal supports.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Limpopo?
Mrs H F MATLANYANE: Steun. [Supports.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Mpumalanga?
Mrs M P THEMBA: Mpumalanga iyasekela. [Mpumalanga supports.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Northern Cape?
Mr M A SULLIMAN: Siyavuma. [We support.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): North West?
Mr Z S KOLWENI: Ke a rona. [We support.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Western Cape?
Mr N J MACK: Wes-Kaap Steun. [Western Cape supports.]
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
(Consideration OF Bill and of Report thereon.)
The MINISTER OF MINERALS AND ENERGY: Hon Chairperson, hon Deputy Ministers, hon Premiers, members of the House, I table before you the long-awaited Bill in the electricity sector of my department, namely the Electricity Regulation Bill.
Allow me to remind you that South Africa is well-endowed with energy resources which unfortunately were historically exploited for the benefit of a few, to the exclusion of the majority of our people. With a broad spectrum of our energy carriers, electricity is one energy carrier that has contributed and will continue to contribute to a large extent to the sustainability of our economical as well as social lives.
Our White Paper on Energy Policy, which was approved in 1998, was informed by the realisation that the apartheid system had bequeathed to us a legacy of an electricity industry that was characterised by chaotic regulatory regimes, poor and fragmented service delivery and a limited access to the privileged minority.
Subsequent to the promulgation of the energy policy, several Cabinet decisions were taken as part and parcel of the tools necessary to implement this energy policy. These decisions took into account the dynamic global environment impacting upon the electricity industry, such as the participation of the private sector in the electricity sector, the improvement of the efficiency of the industry, the improvement of the quality of supply and also balancing social and economic interests of the consumers and service providers.
As was stated in the energy policy, various legal instruments were required to give effect to a number of objectives that were outlined in our policy. The Bill that I table before you today is one such instrument designed to weave together the various aspects of our plan to restructure the electricity industry and to provide for oversight by an independent national regulatory authority.
The limitations of the existing electricity regulation legislation, namely the Electricity Act of 1987, as amended, are well known and include inadequate regulatory oversight, separation of power between the Minister and the regulator, lack of enabling environment for the restructuring of the industry, not being in line with the recent local government legislation, not being compliant with the Constitution.
You will recall that this Electricity Act, as amended, predates the Constitution. So, after the Constitution was passed there is a whole lot of things that, in terms of this Act, do not comply with the Constitution as it exists today.
In that regard, one of the greatest challenges we face is to ensure that our new legislative framework is in line with the prevailing constitutional framework and provisions of other related and prevailing subordinate legislation.
This Bill seeks to empower the National Electricity Regulator (NER) and its successor, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa), to regulate this industry efficiently and effectively. The Bill also seeks to regulate the total electricity value chain, starting from generation to transmission, distribution and finally to the trading of electricity.
In that context, the powers of the regulator to address concerns such as the blackouts that we have been seeing in many of our major cities like Johannesburg, Tshwane and Cape Town as well as in other smaller municipalities, are reinforced. It is critical for this industry that we are able to give assurances that these blackouts and brownouts will be addressed.
In line with the energy policy, Cabinet decided on a need to revamp the role of the regulatory system in 2001, which includes the reform of the legal framework defining the role of the NER and NERSA, the development of a new licensing framework, adaptation of the predictable price setting regime, creation of capacity to monitor the effectiveness of the electricity industry and to ensure the security of supply. With a view to giving effect to the above objectives, this Bill bestows upon the regulator various powers, which I hope hon members will dwell on. The Bill also sets penalties in the event of noncompliance.
What we are presenting here today is a section of the electricity regulatory regime that complies with the provisions of section 75 of the Constitution as passed by the National Assembly.
There are of course issues pertaining to electricity reticulation that are very important, not only to hon members but also to people at home and more particularly to municipalities. There are issues pertaining to electricity reticulation as an area of competence of the local sphere of government that have been excluded from this Bill and will be subjects of another Bill, which will be introduced in due course.
Also to be introduced in due course will be the Electricity Distribution Industry Restructuring Bill, which will enable us to accelerate the reformation of the EDI in a manner that attains the objectives of our energy policy.
It is a well-known fact that South Africa has been enjoying the cheapest electricity prices in the world at wholesale level. It is also known that domestic tariffs in most local government cases do not reflect these low prices for a number of reasons. If we are to address poverty and facilitate the improvement of the quality of life of our communities, we need to have control over electricity prices to ensure that the end-users do not bear the brand of high cost of electricity but instead benefit from the very fact that we are the cheapest producers of electricity in the world. So, that needs to be translated to the end-users, and with the measures that we are putting into place, we should be in a position to do that, but creating a balance without stifling the industry.
Let me briefly present to you what I consider critical issues in this Bill. The first issue is the clarification of roles between the Minister and the regulator. In terms of the governance framework, the Minister remains the custodian of government policy and the Minister drafts regulations to facilitate the implementation of powers and functions of the regulator. The regulator, on the other hand, will be responsible for administrative functions, which will include overseeing adherence to regulations. The regulator will again be responsible for the execution of such regulations and drafting of rules and procedures pursuant to such regulations. In addition, the regulator will draft directives as provided for under the regulations.
The second issue is the facilitation of renewable energy and independent power producers (IPPs). We have taken an opportunity through this legislation to ensure that we take Cabinet decision forward, where the Cabinet decided that we must have a split between independent power producers and Eskom in terms of electricity generation. So, we are expecting at least 30% of our electricity to be generated by the private sector in the future. What the Bill seeks to do is to ensure that whatever electricity generated by the independent power producers, they have access to Eskom networks. Given the significant capital requirements, estimated to be R240 billion over the next 20 years, it has become inevitable that public-private partnerships be considered to attain our objective of attracting new investment in this energy sector. Government strategy therefore includes the facilitation of foreign direct investment and black economic empowerment, which will contribute towards our efforts of creating jobs.
The third issue is the legislation of key performance indicators. As alluded to earlier, the Bill will allow government to address the current quality of supply problems of the magnitude that have been experienced across the country recently. It will empower the Minister to formulate regulations relating to the norms and standards regarding the level of investment in infrastructure relating to new assets, creation and rehabilitation of existing infrastructure. One of the major problems cited, not only by analysts and commentators but also by Eskom itself, is the fact that in the area where municipalities were responsible for providing electricity, there has not been maintenance of infrastructure. So, there has been a lack of investment in infrastructure and, as a result, the infrastructure that we have is failing us, as it cannot deal with the growth of the economy - the phenomenal growth of the economy that we see and the resultant absorption of huge amounts of energy that were not budgeted for. So, we are going to ensure that through the setting of norms and standards, the level of infrastructure that is required is accomplished. Again, the norms and standards will help us with the quality of supply, other key performance indicators and penalties.
We believe that this would significantly enhance our ability as government to address the problems that we are experiencing at the moment.
The benefit of the new legislation and having information on these indicators will improve the quality of supply, and hence our ability to continue to attract FDI in other sectors of the economy.
If we achieve higher levels of efficiency in the electricity sector, it will make a significant contribution to us attaining the 6% economic growth target and achieving the objectives of the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa, Asgisa.
Higher levels of growth and improvements in the electricity sector are critical in supporting social development programmes such as the Integrated National Electrification Programme. We are acutely aware of how such programmes improve the lives of the poor, and, to quote our President from his recent state of the nation address, ``such programmes provide a cushion of support to those exposed to the threat of abject poverty’’.
I am looking forward to all hon members supporting this very important piece of legislation coming right after the Budget debate, which indicated major spending on infrastructure. We hope that through passing this legislation we will be assisting the objective of growing the economy and ensuring that our people have electricity and that poor people get employment created through the use of this electricity and energy in their areas so that we can halve poverty and unemployment by 2014. I thank you, House Chairperson. [Applause.]
Ms M P THEMBA: Deputy Chair, I am standing in for the hon Chairperson of the Select Committee on Economic Affairs, Nosipho Ntwanambi, who suddenly took ill and is in hospital.
Chair, hon Minister, hon Deputy Ministers, one of the aims of the Department of Minerals and Energy is to develop energy resources and to promote their optimum use to maximise their contribution to social and economic development.
Eyona ndlela yokuphumeza oku kukuba kungenziwa zinto zininzi zingahlangananga, koko kwenziwe into enye equka ezininzi. Xa loo msebenzi uphantsi kwesandla esinye, loo nto iya kulukhulisa uqoqosho lwethu.
Nanjengoko sisazi, umbane ulawulwa zizindlu ngezindlu, nguEskom kunye noomasipala. Nakubeni ngaphambili oku kwakusenziwa ngempumelelo, kweli xesha siphila kulo loo nto ayisebenzi ngempumelelo. (Translation of isiXhosa paragraphs follows.) [The best way we could consider matters in order to realise that is to integrate all the resources under one national Regulator. That would encourage growth of the country’s economy.
As we know, electricity distribution is scattered between individual households, Eskom and municipalities. Although this was done successfully previously, nowadays it does not work well.]
Distributors are often insufficient in number, and tariffs vary widely across the country. That is why we have this Bill before us today, to make sure that no services are scattered unnecessarily and to try and have one national regulator.
The Regulator will regulate the industry to meet the requirements of existing and future customers. Its key functions will be to approve prices at which electricity is sold, set standards for the quality of supply and service, and to monitor these.
The Regulator is the custodian of enforcement of the regulatory framework that is provided in the National Energy Regulator Act. It will consider licences, regulate tariffs and register people who are required to be registered.
The Regulator has to enforce performance and compliance, and shall take appropriate steps in the case of nonperformance. It may also establish customer or end-user forums, consisting of as many regulator licences as possible, which will advise on matters affecting the regulator. It must also require a licensee to establish and fund a customer or end-user forum in the manner set out in the licensee held by such an individual.
The Regulator is empowered to deal with the transparency of licence applications and procedures. An applicant for a licence is required to make a notice of application in newspapers, as one would do with a liquor licence. The Regulator approves tariffs for generator transmission and distribution, which exclude reticulation.
Section 15 of the Bill outlines licence conditions relating to generation, transmission and distribution. The Regulator shall not be obliged to settle disputes, but if required to do so, its decision shall be binding on parties concerned. It may appoint suitable persons to settle disputes on its behalf.
Osesihlalweni, ikomiti yethu ithe emva kokwenza izihlomelo ezithile yavuma ukuba iyahambisana nalo Mthetho uYilwayo kunye nezihlomelo esizenzileyo. Enkosi. [Kwaqhwatywa.] [Chairperson, after proposing certain recommendations, our committee has taken the decision to support the Bill with its amendments. [Applause.]]
Ms S H CHEN: Hon Minister, hon Deputy Minister and all my hon colleagues, this Bill is necessary because experience has shown the provision of electricity by municipalities to be erratic. This Bill attempts to address this by granting the National Energy Regulator the powers to consider and issue licences set up advisory forums as well as customer and end-user forums in order to ensure the development and operation of the electricity supply infrastructure, ensure that the interests and needs of present and future electricity customers are safeguarded, and facilitate investment and universal access to electricity as well as to promote competitiveness and customer choice in creating a fair balance between the interests of customers, licensees, investors in the electricity supply industry and the public.
The contentious issues relating to the right of municipalities to reticulate electricity have been acknowledged by the Bill. Schedule 4B of the Constitution states that the municipalities have the inherent power to reticulate electricity, whilst this Bill attempts to regulate that right of municipalities to ensure that the objectives of the electricity industry are met.
The roles of the Regulator and that of the Minister have been clearly defined to enhance economic regulation, and the roles and responsibilities in determining the Regulator as the regulatory entity and the Minister as the policy-making authority have been separated.
In so far as this Bill encourages competition in energy supply, this Bill is supported. It should, furthermore, encourage efficient use of electricity and meet social objectives such as electrification by providing for the energy requirements of the most needy section of our society. The DA supports this Bill. I thank you.
Ms A N T MCHUNU: Hon Chairperson, hon Ministers present and hon Deputy Ministers, MECs from the provinces, Chairperson of the Select Committee, hon members, electricity is a form of energy that is clean and easy to use and is available as quickly as one needs it. It is a need rather than a luxury. But as it is centrally distributed, it turns to be costly to the unemployed and the poor. The Bill, therefore, is long overdue and since it is dealing with the very important yet scarce commodity, I very much concur with our hon Minister when she said that this should have been done long ago.
Electricity distribution as an industry needs to be regulated and that is where the importance of this Bill is realised. All precautions have to be taken in issuing licences, regulating prices and tariffs and ensuring proper use and control.
The government has tried its best to make provision for basic electricity supply of six kilowatts, but that does not go very far. So, the IFP concurs with the NGOs and other stakeholders who have made an input into other forms of saving electricity or of providing energy like using a wonder box for cooking and keeping food warm, solar heating systems, gas and recommended biogas energy, because this will save the electricity that will be available, particularly to the poor people.
I’ve got information that at Khayelitsha some of these energy alternatives are being used. It is good if the government and political leaders are realistic about problems of accessing electricity and let people come up with other lighting and energy providers to ease the lives of those who cannot afford centralised electricity. The Soya group, and this is my favourite, is going to come up with biogas, which will also be part of the 30% that will produce electricity.
Bahlobo bami abahle, kungakuhle-ke uma thina sonke lapha singeke sipolitike ngogesi ngoba siyabona ukuthi zikhona izinkinga. Asingafuni amovoti ngokuthi: “Laba bahlulekile ukunifakela ugesi,” kanti inkinga isezweni lonke. Sonke kufuneka sibambisane, siyixazulule. (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[Good friends, it will be appreciated if we do not engage in electricity cut-offs politics, because we all know that there are problems. Let us not canvass votes by saying: “These people have failed to supply electricity”, yet we know that this is a national problem. We need to work together in order to solve this problem.]
The Bill is supported by the IFP.
Mr S W MXOLOSE (Salga): Hon Chairperson, hon Minister, Deputy Ministers, special delegates, hon members, indeed it is an honour for us as Salga to have been involved in the legislative processes on the Electricity Regulation Bill. The distribution of electricity has traditionally been a local government function and indeed, even before 1996, distribution of electricity was performed by municipalities.
However, a difficulty arose with local government being managed along racial lines. Municipalities, which at the time were confined to cities, towns and the immediate surrounding areas, only served their own areas, whilst former black local authorities, including the former Bantustans, were serviced by Eskom.
With the creation of wall-to-wall municipalities under our new Constitution in 1996, covering the whole territory of the Republic, and our allocation of electricity reticulation as a local government function, a question mark was placed behind Eskom’s involvement in the electricity distribution industry.
Currently the electricity distribution industry is fragmented between the national and local spheres of government in that a substantial part of the industry is managed by Eskom and the remainder by municipalities. It is this very fragmentation that results in reduced efficiencies and inequitable variations in electricity tariffs within and across municipalities. This difficult scenario called for a review of the electricity distribution industry, specifically around the roles and functions of the different role-players in the sector.
Salga welcomes and supports the Electricity Regulation Bill, which is intended to replace the Electricity Act of 1997, as amended, and represent the framework and enabling legislation for the National Energy Regulator to regulate electricity supply in South Africa satisfactorily.
The Bill will have implications for the way in which the Regional Electricity Distributors, known as the REDs, should be regulated after the Bill has been enacted. Of critical importance is that the Bill provides for a specific legal framework for the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity to individuals, communities and the business sector.
From the local government point of view it is the reticulation part of the Bill, which is still to be introduced to this House under the section 76 legislative processes, that will be of key interest to local government. Local government eagerly awaits the introduction of this critical component. We thank you very much, Chairperson. [Applause.]
Mr D G MKONO: Deputy Chairperson, Ministers, hon members, it is imperative for this House to note the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Freedom Charter, and the Charter’s centrality to this fledgling democracy.
The Electricity Regulation Bill serves as a yardstick to the realisation of the RDP pronouncement of electricity for all. This legislative development seeks to consolidate and integrate the regulation of the energy industry. This Bill advocates central regulation of the energy industry, and this will ensure uniformity and control in the regulation of the industry. Central to the essence of the Bill is the strengthening of the Regulator’s ability to ensure improved quality of service provision.
The Bill provides for dispute resolution mechanisms that allow the Regulator to mediate only when requested to do so by disputing parties. In terms of the Bill, the Energy Regulator is not obliged to settle disputes – the Regulator can only settle disputes when requested. The decision taken by the regulator in dispute resolution shall be binding on any partly concerned. It is imperative to note that the Bill allows the Regulator to appoint a suitable person to mediate on its behalf in dispute resolution.
Furthermore, the Bill allows the Minister to prescribe the procedure to be followed in the mediation and the settlement of disputes and fees to be paid.
Section 44 of the Bill requires the Regulator to appoint a person to make enquiries in situations where a complaint has been received related to electricity supply. The appointed person is expected to submit a report to the Regulator. On receipt of the report, the Regulator has prerogative powers to institute a formal investigation. On completion of the investigation the Regulator might refer the outcomes to the Director of Public Prosecutions for his or her consideration.
The Bill allows any person authorised by the Regulator to enter any property in which the supply of electricity is taking place and inspect the facility, equipment, machinery, books or any other document related to electricity supply, and that person must show his or her authorisation.
This Bill allows that, in consultation with the Regulator, the Minister determines that new generation capacity is needed, determines the types of energy sources from electricity that should be generated. This legislative development caters for a fair and transparent tendering procedure for new generation capacity. Most of all, this Bill encourages foreign direct investment through independent power producers.
The underlying logic behind the Electricity Regulation Bill is the improvement of the quality of service in the electricity and that efficiency should predominate electricity supply. As the ANC-led government, we are committed to ensuring that the masses of our people become beneficiaries of quality service.
In this instance, I think we should congratulate the opposition in that it behaved very well; I think this piece of legislation is very important.
Andazi ke, Mam’ uMchunu, le-biogas othetha ngayo siza kukhe sijonge ukuba singenza ntoni na ngayo. [I do not know Mrs Mchunu, but we will think about what we can do with regard to biogas.]
The committee supports the Bill. Thank you, Chairperson. [Applause.]
The MINISTER OF MINERALS AND ENERGY: Deputy Chairperson, I would like to thank the hon Themba at the outset for always being there and for standing in for the chairperson of the select committee. We heard that the chairperson took ill earlier today, so we wish her a speedy recovery. We hope it is nothing serious.
Sekela Sihlalo, ngifuna ukubonga amalungu ale Ndlu onke ngokuthi avumelane nalo Mthetho obaluleke kangaka. Ngifuna ukuvumelana nomama uMchunu ngokuthi ngempela, ngempela ugesi akuyona into yokupolitika. Ugesi yisidingo esifunwa ngabantu bonke. Noma ngabe uyi-ANC, uyi-IFP noma uyi-DA, sonke siyawufuna ugesi ngakho-ke akuyona into esingapolitika ngayo.
Ngifuna ukuvumelana naye lapho kakhulu. Ngifuna ukuvumelana naye futhi uma ethi kufanele noma abantu bewuthola kodwa kube khona izinto abazenzayo ukuthi ugesi bawonge bangawumosi.
Uma ungase ubheke nje into eyenzekayo lapha eNtshona-Koloni lapha sikhona, u-Eskom uthi kuzodingeka ukuthi senze izinto ezithile kwenzela ukuthi ugesi singawumosi, ngenxa yesimo esenzeke laphaya e-Koeberg. Ngakho lama cebo abewanika lapha okuthi abantu bonge ugesi, ekhuluma ngalokhu okubizwa nge- solar heating, ekhuluma nangezinye izinto ezingasetshenziswa zokusiza ukuthi ugesi singawumosi kodwa siwonge siyavumelana nazo zonke lezo zinto ebelikhuluma ngazo ilungu lomkhandlu uMchunu.
Kule nyanga ezoqala kaMashi, siwumnyango sizobe sinengqungquthela ezobe igxile ekutholakaleni kwamandla kagesi ngokusebenzisa amanzi lapho sizobe sinamazwe ngamazwe azobe eze lapha kithina eNingizimu Afrika. Ngesikhathi saleyo ngqungquthela, sizokwenza umkhankaso ozobe ubheke ukuthi wenze ngqo lento abekhuluma ngayo umama uMnchunu. (Translation of isiZulu paragraphs follows.)
[Deputy Chairperson, I would like to thank the hon members of this House for agreeing upon this important Bill. I want to agree with the hon Mchunu that the electricity cut-off is not something about which we need to conduct political debates. Electricity is a necessity for everybody. There is nothing that we can start political debates about because we all need electricity, whether you are ANC, IFP or DA. I want to agree with her in that respect.
I also want to agree with her when she said that those who have electricity supply must make some effort to avoid a waste of electricity.
Let us have a look at the Western Cape, where we stay. Eskom says we must save electricity because of the problem at Koeberg. That was a warning from Eskom to advise the people that they should save electricity, and we also heard the hon Mchunu talking about solar heating and other means of saving electricity.
In March this year we, as the department, are going to hold an international conference here in South Africa to discuss energy issues. During the conference we are going to launch a campaign that will directly address the issues that the hon Mchunu spoke about.]
We will be launching Energy Efficiency Week. Throughout that week we will be talking to South Africans, helping them and giving them tips around the issues of saving energy, because energy is indeed very critical to all of our livelihoods.
I would like to say that I have heard all hon members - some talked about the powers of the regulators; some raised the issues of very inefficient distributors and fragmented distribution, amongst other things. As I said in my main speech, this is but one tool that’s going to assist us to ensure that we restructure the electricity distribution industry in South Africa.
There are, of course, several pieces of legislation that are not before us, which will take this process forward. We know that we have the rates in terms of which we are trying to formulate the rates per metro. That’s also a process of ensuring that we restructure the electricity distribution industry. Several other pieces of legislature will be coming before the House, which we hope will also be supported.
With those few words, I would like to thank all hon members and all parties for actually realising that this is a very important intervention that will better the lives of different people irrespective of race, colour or creed, and that they have gone all out to support this Bill. Hon Chen of the DA and our hon members of the IFP - I thank you all. [Applause.]
Debate concluded.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Thank you, hon Minister, and we also thank you for being with us today also.
Question put: That the Bill be agreed to subject to proposed amendments. Bill, subject to proposed amendments, agreed to in terms of section 75 of the Constitution.
VISIT TO LIMPOPO IN TERMS OF THE PROGRAMME OF TAKING PARLIAMENT TO THE PEOPLE (Consideration of Report)
USIHLALO WOMKHANDLU KAZWELONKE WEZIFUNDAZWE: Ngiyabonga Mgcinisihlalo ukunginikeza leli thuba lokuba ngethule umbiko waseLimpopo ngokuhlanganyela kwethu nabantu baseLimpopo ngenkathi sivakashele bona ukuthi bakhulume nathi. (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: Thank you, Chairperson, for affording me this opportunity to present the report on the discussions held with the people of Limpopo on the occasion of our consultation visit to them.]
The President correctly located the place that the NCOP plays in our system of co-operative governance when he said during his annual address in Limpopo on 4 November last year:
The NCOP occupies a unique position with our constitutional system of governance. This derives from the fact that it is the only institution within this system that straddles all these three spheres of government, which consist of the national government, the provincial government and the local government.
He then went on to say:
This places the NCOP in a very strategic oversight position. It has a possibility and the mandate to keep a constant eye on the processes that must integrate legislative and executive decisions in all spheres of government, and ensure the practical implementation of these decisions especially to the extent that they impact directly on the lives of the people.
That is what the President said. So, we have a clear mandate; we know what we should be doing; we even have a constitutional mandate. I am very sure that hon members would agree with me that through the programme of Taking Parliament to the People the NCOP has begun to give an expression to the comments made by the President and which can be traced back to our Constitution.
Through this programme we have been able to provide a platform for public participation on issues that affect provinces. We have begun to involve our people in finding solutions to service-delivery challenges that face our people. More important is that through this programme we have been able to raise public awareness around government policies and the laws that we pass. We have provided an opportunity to government to explain its programmes directly to the people of our country.
More heartening was the acknowledgement by all the provincial delegates during the debate of the President’s address from different political persuasions that the visit to Limpopo was a resounding success. Nobody can argue about that. For this I would like to extend a word of thanks and appreciation to the people of Limpopo - especially those from the Tzaneen area - traditional leaders, religious leaders and educators, the leadership and staff of the provincial legislature, Ministers, mayors, premiers, ward councillors, members of the executive committees and the national and provincial officials, the SA Police Service, all traffic departments that provided excellent security service and researchers who made sure that they followed up the work of the NCOP.
The huge success of this programme, especially when looked at in relation to the latest visit to Limpopo, places a responsibility on us to ensure that as we continue to roll out the programme, we must make sure that it has the desired impact.
As we listen to the people in Limpopo talking directly to the public representatives, we could hear them raising a number of issues. They raised issues that they commonly agreed needed to be attended to. Among these issues are the provision of water, sanitation and electricity.
Thank you, Mr Minister. I am glad I am talking about news relating to the Bill you have just introduced and passed. I have listened to you carefully though I was not in the House, and heard when you said that everybody needed electricity. These are the things that our people raised again and this is the action the government and Parliament have taken to speed up the delivery of electricity to our people down there.
With regard to housing, including the poor quality of the building of houses, service delivery by municipalities, land reform and land restitution and educational matters I am very confident that you would agree with me that although there might be some different dimensions in respect of these areas of need in a particular community, these are certainly not new things. This means that we must sharpen our strategies to respond to these issues. We must also make our people aware and empower them to use the structures that they have in their communities to provide solutions to the problems that they have.
I must at the same time congratulate the Limpopo government for strategically addressing the challenges raised by the people. It showed us that they were not waiting for the NCOP to arrive before they could act, that they actually know the challenges that the people face and are doing their best to utilise the available resources.
We are also aware that the resolution of the challenges facing the people of Limpopo need a joint and co-ordinated effort by all spheres of government. This would be carried out fully and be informed by what the province itself is going to do to follow up on these issues.
At this point I would like to state that over and above the issues raised by the people, that are contained in the report we are considering today, my office has received about 150 written submissions from the six districts in the province. These were canvassed before and during the time of our visit by the Public Affairs department. At the moment the submissions are being processed, including translation, so that they can be referred to the relevant structures for consideration.
Whilst there, I would like to add one point which I think was very important which the President raised when we were in Limpopo. You would remember, all of you are witnesses, that the President posed a question to us. He said to me: Chairperson, can you tell me, when you say you are dealing with the executive on these issues, which executive are you talking to? Do you all remember that? And none of you could respond to that question. Do you remember that? I had to respond from the podium and I said to the President: The executive that we should be speaking to is yourself because you are the head of the executive.
All I am saying is that all these reports on Taking Parliament to the People will now land on the desk of the President as the head of the executive and the head of the country. This is going to assist at the executive level because then the President will be able to play an oversight role on the issues that our people shall have raised so that each portfolio systematically develops a plan to follow up an action on those issues that have been raised by our people on the ground. I want to thank the President for challenging us by saying: Bring that report here; I would like to see it.
I can assure this House that we will respond to each and every person or group that have taken the time to write to the NCOP. As the House, we have looked at some of the mechanisms we have which should assist us to follow up on issues raised by the people of Limpopo and other provinces, such as the revision of the guiding document, Programme 209, which is before this House today. I am sure you will accept that programme. Once you have adopted it, it becomes the programme of the House and it belongs to you. You must act upon it, you must implement it to make sure that all the things that I am talking about are then implemented on the ground. It is a programme that we will own and that we will from time to time negotiate with the provinces and take them on board as we implement it. I think it is very crucial.
We have deliberated at length on that programme. There are clear objectives set by government, clear actions that should be taken by the National Council of Provinces and, Chairperson of Committees, I rely on you to drive that process with your members and make sure that at the end of the year you will come and stand up in this House again to report back and tell the House what you will have done with that programme which you yourself has adopted. We would like to hear that report from you, not next year, but before you go on long recess in November 2006. Every chairperson will have to present a report in this House. We will have to dedicate the whole day for those reports and discuss them. That is what we should do.
The presidium of the NCOP will also consider a discussion document on the framework of follow-up to Taking Parliament to the People. I hope that when we have finalised the document it will assist everybody in responding appropriately to the issues raised by our people. The input we receive from the people during our visit to provinces does require us to have a structured feedback mechanism so that we can be able to measure the impact of this programme. This is an issue that I keep raising in the NCOP. We go down to the people and when we get there people are very excited, they say the NCOP is here, it has put the national leadership together, the provincial leadership together and the local government leadership together; but then what next?
We therefore need to come up with a mechanism that will then feed back to the people, because we do follow up on these visits by Parliament to the people so that we do not create this anxiety about service delivery, and then go away. We must be able to say at the end of the year, as I have said earlier: This is what we have achieved. We must also go back and report to those people and say: Since we left, this is what we have achieved. We must go back and report to those people and say: Since we left this is what has happened, this has not happened but it is in the plan of the departments, they are working on it. That is how you deal with the public that has elected you the positions where you are today.
Hon members, allow me to commend the report to the House and invite everybody to engage seriously with the report and come up with some ideas if you think we have erred so that we can improve from time to time.
I want to welcome the hon the Deputy Minister of Education who also supported us in Limpopo for coming here to participate in this debate today. It is encouraging to the NCOP when we see the executive supporting us in the work that we are doing.
I want to thank all those who are here today and those who have put up this report. Thank you very much. I now put the report before you. [Applause.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mrs M N Oliphant): Thank you, hon Chairperson. Chairperson, I just want to bring to your attention and to that of the House that for the first time in this House, I think since we arrived in the NCOP, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry has broken a record for just coming in and listening to the debates in this House. [Applause.]
We appreciate your presence, Madam, and of course you have fulfilled your commitment in that you said you would come and just listen to the debate in this House. I think the Deputy Minister of Education is also going to continue to be with us, but he has to beat the record of the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry.
I will now call upon the hon L J Lepulane, special delegate from Limpopo. [Applause.]
Mr L J LEPULANE (Limpopo): Hon Chairperson of the NCOP, hon members of the NCOP and hon members of provincial legislatures, on behalf of the Limpopo Legislature and the people of Limpopo I wish to express my appreciatione to the NCOP for their decision to prioritise and visit Limpopo between 31 October to 4 November 2005.
Ka segagešo, le rile ge le se na go goroga, ra re ``Mme o tlile, tlala o. . . .” [Disego.] [As soon as you arrived here, we thought that our problems would be sorted out.]
The report before us does indeed indicate the correctness of initiating and implementing this initiative. The objectives of promoting public participation in parliamentary affairs and assisting the NCOP in carrying out its oversight functions are commendable. The NCOP programme was indeed in line with principles of participatory democracy and popular participation process as envisaged in the Freedom Charter.
The NCOP had met with a significant number of stakeholders during the visit. This encounter included meetings with traditional leaders, the women’s sector, the youth sector, the business sector, farmers and workers. This process occurred during an appropriate year – during the anniversary of the Freedom Charter.
The monitoring and evaluation component of the programme was critical. We often do not have sufficient opportunity to assess the impact of various pieces of legislation and policies in terms of eradicating poverty and underdevelopment.
The visit had also created an opportunity to collectively evaluate programmes and projects that are implemented. This included various delegations to health centres, farms and projects.
The report captures a number of observations and recommendations that should guide all spheres of governance’s efforts to accelerate service delivery,delivery, eradicate poverty and facilitate a sustainable economic development. These areas include the following: the mainstreaming of co- operative governance and popular participation in decision-making; constraints and challenges related to service delivery and sustainable development; programme management; implementation of special focus programmes across the spheres of governance; and the imperatives of building a developmental local government.
I would like to take this opportunity to share with you some reflections and proposals on some areas, including the following. With regard to co- operative governance, as indicated in the report, we concur with the report that:
By visiting rural communities, the NCOP gives a voice to those who would not necessarily have the opportunity to discuss issues with their representatives. Our visit to Tzaneen in the Limpopo Province,Province has provided an opportunity to our people to comment and recommend on a variety of issues affecting their lives.
This has provided an opportunity for systematic interaction on service delivery and institutional transformation that affect various spheres of governance. These lessons should be considered during the implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Act.
This view was echoed by the input of the Premier of Limpopo, Comrade hon Sello Moloto. He said that the sitting of the NCOP in the province provided a rare opportunity to share the best practices and insights on service delivery and intergovernmental practices.
With regard to the service delivery issues and municipal transformation, it is commendable to note that both the national and the provincial spheres of governance have developed a concerted interest and effort to support the local spheres of governance. The most visible initiative is Project Consolidate that intends to build capacity in municipal governments.
It is apparent that we require an effective and efficient local government as a condition to accelerate provision of basic services, facilitate economic development and poverty eradication. The report captures various challenges that need to be attended to. These include limited revenue base; limited financial management skills; strengthening of public participation programmes; provision of free basic services; unfinished or poorly constructed RDP houses; water scarcity and electricity.
These challenges require a comprehensive intervention from all spheres of governance. In line with this recognition, it is commendable to indicate the sState- of- the- Limpopo Province aAddress presented by the hon Premier Sello Moloto in his dealing with some critical interventions to address these issues.
On water shortages, the Premier indicated that there are great prospects of overcoming these constraints because the building of De Hoop Dam has been approved through the national programme of Asgisa, the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative of South Africa. He further pronounced that this intervention willwould go a long way in addressing the water needs for both domestic household consumption and industrial use in the whole of Greater Sekhukhune and beyond.
On the development and strengthening of municipal governance, the Premier noted that the commitment to pursue creative and innovative ways of improving the financial, administrative and service delivery in our municipalities has gained the required momentum. He further indicated that in this financial year 75% of our municipalities were able to prepare and table their multi-year budgets within the stipulated timeframes, as compared to only 31% in the previous financial year. Ke a leboga. [Thank you.] [Nako e fedile.] [Time expired.]]
Mr C J VAN ROOYEN: Chairperson, hon Deputy Ministers, hon members, special delegates here today, as we celebrated the ninth anniversary of this House on 6 February this year and reflected on its achievements, taking Parliament to the people should be seen as one of the most successful programmes of this House since its inception.
The ANC has always combined the wishes of the people with the necessary strategic direction and policies. This is in line with the historic mission of the ANC, which centres round our continuing obligation to advance the national democratic revolution and to achieve our goal of true national liberation through bettering the lives of all.
In celebrating the Freedom Charter, the emphasis during the fourth quarter of 2005 was focused on activities that build the people’s power through izimbizos, the People’s Parliament and other forums where the people are able to directly interact with their government. Therefore, taking Parliament to the people of Limpopo is directly in line with the aims of the Freedom Charter that states that the people shall govern.
I would like to pay special tribute to the positive and constructive role that members of the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders played by sharing with us their invaluable wisdom and local knowledge during our discussions and site visits in our combined effort to push back the frontiers of poverty and to deliver on the people’s contract.
Let me comment on statements made by some members of this House who argued that taking Parliament to the people is nothing other than, and I quote, “political tourism”, a “political holiday” and a “political road show”. Comments like these are an insult to the dignity and aspirations of the people of Limpopo – and of the country – who have the right to a better life.
How dare they pretend that they have the interests of the people at heart, when making such statements, which, in essence, are an attempt to deny the people the opportunity to speak to their elected representatives, an opportunity they otherwise would not have had.
How dare they pretend that they are the guardians of the people’s rights if they are not prepared to let the people talk? How dare they pretend that the ANC is a racist organisation, when they themselves find it difficult to go to the people of Limpopo? How dare they deny the people of Limpopo the right to speak?
I am of the opinion that the people of Limpopo could make a strong case of hate speech against these people and should consider taking this matter to the Human Rights Commission. Furthermore, it is further interesting to note that during our discussions on Tuesday, on the follow-up visits to KwaZulu- Natal and the North West Province, only three members of the party who made these remarks were in this House, and one of these members also left early. The same thing happened today: there were only two members here at one stage.
During our visit we heard stories of hardship caused by the lack of water, electricity and housing. However, I would like to ensure the people of Limpopo that they are in the hands of a caring and progressive ANC government that have taken note of their cry for help.
The Premier of Limpopo, in his address to the NCOP, raised some challenges, and I quote: “The health of our people is affected by factors such as proper housing, sanitation and access to safe drinking water”. At the same time he also announced that 1,3 million people were already provided with water in the province. He further announced that the provincial government would allocate R100 million for drought relief and water provision, and R100 million towards electricity. In the current financial year the Limpopo Province has already completed 4 244 houses, and is planning to build 12 000 houses during the next financial year.
The exploitation of farmworkers in the province remains a very serious concern to everybody, and I would like to request all the relevant role- players in the province to jointly explore ways to curb this inhumane practice, which is clearly unacceptable 12 years after democracy.
Perhaps the time has come for government to seriously consider putting the necessary legislation in place that will criminalise illegal farm evictions, a matter that cannot be tolerated any longer. The perpetrators should be behind bars.
Ek wil vandag na twee belangrike aangeleenthede verwys, naamlik beplanning en finansiële bestuur. Gedurende een van ons besoeke aan ’n skool is ons in kennis gestel van ’n padbouprojek van 22 km waarvoor daar slegs R10 miljoen beskikbaar gestel is. Ons is verder deur die kontrakteur meegedeel dat as gevolg van die ontoereikende bedrag geld wat beskikbaar gestel is vir die projek, die kwaliteit van die pad van so ’n aard is dat die pad ’n verwagte lewensduurte van slegs vyf jaar het. (Translation of Afrikaans paragraph follows.)
[Today I would like to refer to two important issues, namely planning and financial management. During one of our visits to a school we were informed of a 22 km road construction project for which only R10 million had been made available. Furthermore, the contractor informed us that because of the insufficient amount of money that had been made available for this project, the quality of the road was such that it only had a life expectancy of five years.]
Clearly this is a classic case of lack of planning by officials of the department and should not be tolerated.
What is of particular concern is that, up to date, only 27% of the MIG funds have been spent by the province. I contribute this to the lack of planning and capacity within the department. One of the direct results of the low level of spending in the department is the roll-over of funds and/or fiscal dumping.
Fiscal dumping, again, results in a chain of bad management practices, which include bad planning and the development of poor quality business plans that, again, result in bad quality service delivery and, in the final instance, deprives the community of quality goods and services. This should not be tolerated any longer since it is only the people who suffer as a result.
However, the picture in Limpopo Province is not only one of doom and gloom. There are various areas of pronounced improvements that are visible. [Time expired.][Applause.]
Mnr L H FIELDING: Agb Voorsitter, agb Minister, agb lede van die Huis, besoekers, dames en here, met wat betrefbetrekking tot die besoek aan die Limpopo-provinsie in 2005 het dit duidelik geword dat die plaaslike regering nie die vermoëns het om dienste aan die gemeenskap op grondvlak te lewer nie. Ek verwys hier na swak gesondheidsdienste, ’n tekort aan skoon drinkwater op sekere persele, en swak kommunikasie met die gemeenskap. Dan verwys ek ook na die landbouprojekte waaraan so baie geld bestee is, maar waarvoor geen marknavorsing gedoen is nie, en waar die vrugte letterlik op die grond lê en verrot en nie bemark kan word nie.
Dit is baie duidelik dat wanneer ons na dié aspekte kyk dat ons regering op plaaslike vlak . . . [Tussenwerpsels.] (Translation of Afrikaans paragraphs follows.) [Mr L H FIELDING: Hon Chairperson, hon Minister, hon members of the House, visitors, ladies and gentlemen, as far as the visit to the Limpopo province in 2005 is concerned, it has become clear that local government does not have the ability to deliver services to people at the grass-roots level. Here I am referring to poor health services, a lack of clean drinking water on certain premises, and poor communication with the community. I also wish to refer to the agricultural projects on which so much money was spent, but for which no market research was done, and where the fruit is literally rotting on the ground and cannot be marketed.
When we look at these aspects it is very clear that at local level our government … [Interjections.]]
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE COUNCIL: Chairperson, there isn’t any interpreting and I am afraid we will miss the good or the bad things the member is saying. If there could be some interpreting?
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mrs M N Oliphant): Could the procedural staff please check on the interpreting? Hon member, could you please wait a minute? We will give you your time.
Hon member, continue in Afrikaans in order for us to ascertain if there is interpreting.
Mnr L H FIELDING: Agb Voorsitter, ek wil ook verwys na die skool waar ons besoek afgelê het, waar daar geen drinkwater of toiletgeriewe vir die kinders was nie. Ek wil ook verwys na wat die vorige spreker, mnr van Rooyen, gesê het, dat op dieselfde besoek aan die skool daar ook verwys is na uitgebreide openbare werkeprojekte-gelde wat bedoel is vir werkskepping en nie vir dié doel aangewend is nie, maar wel aan ’n kontrakteur gegee is.
Daarbenewens voel ek dat distriksrade nie regtig in lyn werk met die kriteria wat die regering voorhou nie, dat ’n begroting en besigheidsplan saamgestel moet word vir die gebruik van dié gelde, sodat dié gelde nie in die hande van kontrakteurs beland nie.
El wil dit ook baie duidelik stel dat ons deur die jare geleer het dat kontrakteurs en konsultante die meerderheid of die grootste persentasiedeel van dié bedrae wat toegeken word aan gemeenskappe gebruik vir hul eie doeleindes en dat dit nooit regtig by die mense uitkom nie.
Ek wil ook verder sê, Limpopo is een van die provinsies van dié wat ons besoek het wat die pragtigste is, maar die behandeling teenoor ons mense op grondvlak is nie so pragtig nie. Vir my, uit die ondervinding van plaaslike regering oor 20 jaar heen, omskryf ek dit duidelik as baie swak en beledigend van die regering aan die bewind wanneer mense op grondvlak veronderstel was om dienste te lewer. Ek het werklik, as oud-leier van 22 jaar, vir die eerste maal trane gestort, in daardie saal, vir daardie mense. Dit skrei ten hemel om ná 11 jaar van demokrasie te sien dat mense in sekere dele van ons land nog so swaar moet kry. Dankie, Voorsitter. (Translation of Afrikaans paragraphs follows.)
[Mr L H FIELDING: Hon Chairperson, I also want to refer to the school that we visited, where there was no drinking water or toilet facilities for the children. I also want to refer to what the previous speaker, Mr Van Rooyen, said, that during the same visit to the school reference was also made to money for extended public works projects that was not utilised for this purpose, but was in fact given to a contractor.
In addition, I am of the opinion that district councils are not really working in line with the criteria set by the government, that a budget and business plan relating to the expenditure of this money should be drawn up, so that this money does not end up in the hands of contractors.
I also want to make it very clear that we have learned over the years that contractors and consultants use the largest percentage of the amounts allocated to communities for their own purposes and that this money never really reaches the people.
Furthermore I want to say that Limpopo is one of the provinces, of those which we visited, that is the most beautiful, but that the way in which our people at the grass-roots level are treated there is less than beautiful. Based on my experience of local government over 20 years, I regard the ruling government’s behaviour as atrocious and insulting, when people at the grass-roots level are supposed to deliver services. As a former leader of 22 years’ standing, I truly cried for the first time, in that hall, for those people. It is a disgrace to see, after 11 years of democracy, that people in certain parts of our country still have to struggle so much. Thank you, Chairperson.] “National Council of Provinces Main”,Unrevised Hansard,20 Feb 2006,”Take 18 [National Council of Provinces].doc”
“National Council of Provinces Main”,Unrevised Hansard,16 Feb 2006,”[Take- 18] [National Council of Provinces Main][NCOP-Logger][tm].doc”
The DEPUTY MINISTER OF EDUCATION: Hon Chairperson, hon Deputy Minister Elizabeth Thabethe, and hon members of this House, it is always a great privilege to be here. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the invitation that has been extended to me. I heard the words of the hon Fielding with dismay, and quite true to the character and the hypocrisy of the DA, they only complain bitterly about challenges that we face as a government, but fail to mention the wonderful achievements.
When the President addressed this nation, he spoke about the confidence that this country had in the government, and the confidence that the people had in the future. He spoke at length about the singing through the hills and the valleys, and the very soon and imminent possibility of the trees and the forests clapping their hands. He did so affirming and reaffirming the hope of the people of this country.
He spoke about the thousand of classrooms that were provided and built, and this was re-emphasised by the hon the Minister of Finance. He spoke about the thousand of clinics that were established and erected. He spoke about the neglect of the past, but the commitment to make today better than yesterday, and tomorrow better than today. Indeed, hon Chairperson, today is better than yesterday, and tomorrow shall be better than today. [Applause.]
The hon member failed to advise or inform or convey to this House the gross neglect of the apartheid regime, in terms of its provision of education; the poor and desolate and paltry conditions under which our learners had to go to school; the fact that less than 50% of learners who were eligible to go to school were in school, and that today we can proudly say that more than 90% of our learners are in school. Indeed, that is a wonderful accomplishment. [Applause.]
He failed to talk about the inferiority of the system of education where the whites were privileged and the blacks were neglected, including himself. He will fail to realise and remind us about the fact that he could not go to the university of his choice, and that he was confined to the University of the Western Cape as a tribal institution for coloured people.
Today we can celebrate and say that we have the right, the liberty and the access to every institution of learning, and indeed, today is better than yesterday.
He has failed to tell us that no bursaries or resources were allocated to the poorest of the poor, to the African, to the Coloured and to the Indian, by that government, and that the privileges were extended exclusively to the whites.
Today we can say that R1,2,2 billion has been set aside for bursaries for historically disadvantaged learners who had previously been excluded from the institutions of learning. Therefore today has been better than yesterday, and we can celebrate it. This hypocrisy reminds me of not only of what Isaiah had said that the President has quoted, but reminds me of what the Qur’an says about those who are deaf, dumb and blind, and cannot see and refuse to see.
They will pretend that that there is no change when indeed there is change, and when you go through the beautiful valleys and the hills of the Limpopo Province, and as you approach Tzaneen, you see before you the wonderful serenity, tranquillity and the beauty of this place, and immediately you say to yourself: Here is opportunity, here is a tomorrow that can be better than today.
I am glad that the hon Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry is here, because through the wonderful forestry that you see here, the possibilities of beneficiation are enormous, and the possibility of small, medium and micro enterprises is enormous.
The commitment that we have made is not an empty commitment. We can boast, but we do not do so with any arrogance, that we have provided water to more than 6 million of our people in a short space of 12 years; that we have provided electricity to more than 8 million people in a short space of less than 12 years; that we have improved the system of education, and that we have created opportunity and access for our people.
That is wonderful, that is different and today has to be better than yesterday. Indeed, if the DA had any commitment to the institutions of governance, then certainly their presence would have been more visible and noticeable in this Chamber.
The mere fact that they disregard the importance of an important debate of this nature, which speaks to the needs and the cries and the hopes of the people from a poor rural community, where they themselves had gone, probably to tour and not to listen, speaks of that kind of hypocrisy that I spoke about earlier.
The Reconstruction and Development Programme speaks about, and I quote:
Our people, with their aspirations and collective determination, are our most important resources in linking democracy, development, human rights and a people-centred approach. We are paving the way for a new democratic order, the thoroughgoing democratisation of our society that must transform, build the state and civil society. It is therefore an active process enabling everybody to contribute.
The initiative by this Chamber, the NCOP, to reach out to the people in the rural hinterland is indicative of the commitment of this institution and the ANC-led government to its commitment to a participatory democracy, which is people-centred. Yes, indeed, Mr Fielding must pay particular attention to the fact that we make promises but we also keep them. When we went to Limpopo, I was not the only Minister who had gone out there. Many of us had gone out there, because we recognise the importance of our responsibility to interact with our people.
We have indicated that given the abject poverty of certain communities in certain areas, it becomes critical and necessary to enhance access, and that we declare certain schools no-fee schools. That promise was made last year. Today we can proudly say that the provinces are going to implement it. [Applause.]
How does it affect a province like Limpopo? In terms of the presentation made by the MEC for Education to the select committee of this very Chamber, it is indicated that all schools that fall under quintile one and two, that is the poorest and the very poor schools, would be exempt.
Effectively, this translates into 1 000 027 learners who would receive the benefit of attending a no-fee school. [Applause.] The total learner population is 1 976 570. That means that more than 50% of the learner population of the Limpopo province will be the beneficiaries of a policy which will be implemented from 1 April, in terms of which they will be attending a no-fee school and, therefore, they will have better access and the opportunity to achieve quality education. [Interjections.] Moet ek dit vertaal? Ek sal dit . . . [Do I have to translate it? I will . . . ]
You have heard the pride with which the President spoke about the confidence of our people and his commitment to a united South Africa. You have heard him speak with hope and confidence about the future. This confidence resonated also in the speech of the Minister of Finance.
In a decade of commitment, in a decade of transformation, in a decade of sincerity, biased towards the poorest of the poor, he has indicated once again how he intends to make a difference in the quality of the lives of our people.
The commitment by this government, by an ANC-led government, to eradicate the bucket system, is indeed a genuine one. It is not something that is going to occur 10 years from now; it is something that is going to occur within the next two years. The problem of sanitation in Limpopo, in terms of its commitment, will be eradicated within the next two years.
The commitment to water is not a commitment that is remote in a distant future beyond our reach and grasp. It is a commitment that will be realised by 2010, and when we celebrate the arrival of teams from all over the world in our country, we will be able to say that each of our households has clean water. The Minister of Energy was here earlier and she spoke about the Electricity Regulation Bill, but she also spoke about the infrastructure that will be provided to this country, and to this nation, to ensure that we are able to sustain and maintain the energy resources.
By 2012, this government, this ANC-led government, will ensure that no household is without electricity. Now that is the commitment that the ANC has made, is making currently, has made, and has been able to fulfil.
Yes, indeed, there are challenges. We are neither arrogant nor overconfident. We say that the road ahead is a difficult one, but it is one about which we are filled with confidence, given the fact that we have succeeded in changing, in a very significant way, the quality of the lives of our people.
Let me deal, with your permission, Chairperson, with the issues closer to my heart, given the fact that I am now the Deputy Minister of Education. One of the key challenges that we face in our country, given the legacy of colonialism and apartheid, is the fact that we have to ensure that we accelerate development amongst our young learners. Therefore we have initiated and established an Early Childhood Development Programme, led by the Department of Education, supported by the Departments of Health and Social Development in terms whereof children from birth to 5 years of age would have the opportunity of accelerated growth and development. We have already trained 4 000 educators to ensure that, qualitatively, they will be able to provide our learners with this opportunity.
Today we can stand here proudly and say more, Mr Fielding, that more than 400 000 children in this country are doing Grade R. The intention is that, by 2010, a million children will be in Grade R. It is a wonderful accomplishment. There is hope. There is a future. There is promise, and there has been delivery.
With regard to literacy, which is central to the performance and the cognitive development of learners, we believe that, especially visiting schools such as you have, given the result of decades of neglect, Mr Fielding, it is important that we provide them with books so that we can enhance and improve and accelerate literacy.
More than 5 000 schools will be the beneficiaries of at least 100 fiction books so that we can say that there are resources in those schools, in addition to other resources to enhance and accelerate development in this regard.
Now one of the key challenges that we have in this country, given its enormous opportunity and potential to improve and to sustain development, is the fact that we require skills desperately. The reality is, and I have listened very carefully to what the hon member from the SA Local Government Association spoke about, that the challenge we face is the challenge of capacity. There I can certainly agree with Mr Fielding that we have to recognise that we have to promote and improve our capacity, and therefore we have initiated already, before he had spoken, Project Consolidate. They tend to listen very attentively to the ANC, and when it is said that these are the interventions that we are going to make and we indeed make them, then the DA would say: ``Well, if we were you, we would do exactly what you are doing right now’’, and pretend that those are their own ideas.
But in any event, in terms of this particular aspect, you will notice and this is what Mr Fielding forgets to remember, that for the 284 municipalities, every municipality requires a water engineer. How many water engineers do you think there are in this country who are black? There are three; two of them have been poached by the private sector. So there is one African water engineer in this entire country. It means that we have a critical responsibility and need to ensure that we develop skills as quickly as possible.
This country needs thousands upon thousands of engineers. It needs project managers. It needs town planners. It needs actuaries. It needs people managers in the service sector, and indeed, the intention is that, in order to achieve accelerated shared growth, we have to ensure that we pay particular attention to skills development. Therefore government has allocated resources for this particular purpose.
Further education and training colleges create an important pathway. I want members to listen very attentively. This country does not only require professionals, it also requires intermediate skills, skills in the form and shape of artisans, be they welders, builders, fitters and turners, not by the hundreds but by the thousands. The FET colleges have been recapitalised and will be recapitalised to the extent of R1,9 billion to ensure that we provide quality programmes for development, accelerated development, in the provinces in order to ensure that we are able to respond through the skills that are critical to the developmental challenges of our country.
In this regard I can announce that I am going to Limpopo again. I am going to speak to the youth, speak about the youth in democracy, and speak to them about the importance of FET colleges, and what an important avenue of development it provides for our learners. They would not have to travel thousands upon thousands of kilometres, because they would have institutions that have been refurbished, that have been recapitalised, where they would get quality education, and achieve quality skills in those areas. [Applause.]
It would also mean that we have got to pay particular attention to the gateway subjects of mathematics and science. I visited the various schools
- and the ANC does that, and the DA does not do it; it does so only at election times or when someone else pays for the trips – and then we discovered that very few learners understood that in order to become a doctor, an engineer, an actuary, or a chartered accountant, you require mathematics at the higher grade. Therefore, we have started an advocacy programme, which has had concrete results.
The participation in mathematics last year alone was increased dramatically by 5 000, in terms of the passes as well. In physical science it was 8 000. Our intention is that, within the next three years, we would have increased the cohort of learners who pass mathematics and science by 24 000. We would double up the number.
Optimistic? Yes. Confident? Yes. But we cannot do it alone. We require the support of all educators, all members of the community, and public representatives to ensure that the message is passed that the gateway subjects are critical and necessary in order to gain entrance to certain professions and vocations.
To do this we have extended …
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M N Oliphant): I am afraid your time has expired.
The DEPUTY MINISTER OF EDUCATION: Chairperson, may I just conclude by saying that I am glad that you have stopped me. We are going to have an opportunity to address this noble and esteemed House again during our budget speech. We will then be able, with the Minister, to set out in comprehensive detail what the future holds for us in education. Thank you so much for your attention. [Applause.]
Mr M A MZIZI: Sihlalo noNgqongqoshe abakhona kanye nezithunywa eziqhamuka ezifundazweni, ngithi ukuthula akube nani. [Chairperson, to the Ministers present and delegates from the provinces, I say: Peace be with you all.]
Discussing this report brings to mind some of the things that one cannot easily forget. I would suggest to this House that when we revisit the Limpopo province, we go in winter or autumn. [Laughter.]
Ungangibuzi-ke. Lo mbiko ophambi kwethu uqukethe izinto eziningi. Isaga siyasho sithi ukuhamba kuzala induna. Ngithi nami angisike elijikayo ngokuphosa itshe esivivaneni ngoba sebekhulumile abafowethu. Kusukela ngomhlaka-31 Okthoba kuze kube umhlaka-4 Novemba ngonyaka ophelile, kwakusobala ukuthi isikhathi sabe sisincane ngoba kwakukuningi okwakudinga ukuthi sikucoshe kubahlali basendaweni. Ngivumele-ke Sihlalo ngihlabe amagqqabantshintshi ngendawo nami engafika kuyo ebizwa ngokuthi yi-Berlyn Farm. (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[Ask me no questions about that one, please. This report that we are discussing today is full of many things. As the saying goes, a rolling stone gathers no moss. I also wish briefly to give some input, as my colleagues have done. The period 31 October till 4 November last year was clearly not enough, because there was a lot that we needed to hear from the local people. Allow me some time, Chairperson, briefly to talk about the place that I visited, namely Berlyn Farm.]
This farm is situated just outside the Nkowankowa Township in the Letsitele Valley, which falls under the Greater Tzaneen Municipality. At the moment the farm is owned by the Limpopo department of agriculture and managed by its parastatal, that is the Agricultural and Rural Development Corporation, the ARDC.
The farm is used to produce citrus fruit and litchis. This farm has a long history of ups and downs. The current situation is that the farm is not actively managed for production purposes, owing to land claims and the scaling down of ARDC activities. In short, the Limpopo department of agriculture and the claimants have already identified a strategic method of solving the problem. During the process of entering into a new agreement between the LDA and the claimants, a new claim emerged and challenged the legitimacy of the first claims.
Okwababuhlungu-ke lapho ukuthi laba asebeqhamuka muva bathi bona le ndawo eyabo ngoba eyobukhosi babo. Laba ababakhe lapho kusho ukuthi bayizinceku zabo, ngakho-ke le ndawo kufanele kube ngeyabo bengacabangi ukuthi labo bantu baxoshwa, basuswa kuleyo ndawo ababakhe kuyona. Abakuthathanga lokho, bakushaya indiva. (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[What was even more painful there, was that these people who came afterwards and claimed to be the rightful owners of that piece of land, alleged that the place belonged to their chieftaincy. This being the case meant that people who already had homes in the area were called their butlers, and were even told that they should under no circumstances be under the illusion that that land belonged to them. However, that fell on deaf ears.]
This issue has caused a huge setback in progress on this farm. Both the crops and the land are in poor condition, and dying owing to drought. It is obvious that this matter will end up in court.
Kwababuhlungu impela ngoba kwathi uma sifika laphayana – angithandi ukuthi uma sikhuluma ngemibiko sibe nehaba, kube sengathi sifuna ukukhomba abanye ngeminwe – sathi uma sifika laphaya abantu babephelele bonke bathi iPhalamende selifikile. Namhlanje ikhanda lizokwehlukana nesixhanti ngoba bazothola indawo yabo futhi balime baqhubeke baye phambili. Badumala-ke uma bezwa sithi sisazokuzwa umbiko wabo ukuze sikwazi ukubelekelela ukuze baqhubeke nendawo yabo. Kulukhuni kuyitshe? [Uhleko.] (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[This was extremely painful because when we went there – I do not want us to exaggerate when we talk about these things, as if we are pointing fingers at certain people – all the people were saying Parliament had come. We said today the men will be separated from the boys, because those who deserve the land will get it and the tilling of the soil will soon begin. They were initially somewhat concerned when they heard us say to them we would first hear all the views and thereafter decide on the matter. It was stone hard. [Laughter.]]
Nonetheless, despite all these hiccups, we were made to believe that the claim might be finalised during the course of 2006, and that the new business would take over immediately thereafter.
Sihlalo, ufikile-le u-2006. Ngiyethembeka-ke ukuthi – ngiyabonga ngoba nomfowethu oqhamuka esifundazweni saseLimpopo ukhona – konke esakhuluma ngakho esakuthola kubantu kuyothi okunye kwakho bakwenze uma sifulathela nje indawo, okunye bakwenze kusasa bese kuthi okunye bakwenze ngolunye usuku. Nginethemba-ke lokuthi mhla siphindela eLimpopo, njengoba sengishilo ukuthi siyoza ebusika noma-ke ekuphumeni nje kobusika, siyofika sithole lezo zithelo zisekhona bese siphuza iziphuzo, sithole nemarula. Uyazi ukuthi bathi yini leso siphuzo kuleya ndawo? Bathi . . . (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[Chairperson, the year 2006 has indeed come. I just hope – I am grateful that a member from the Limpopo Legislature is also here – that all we spoke about and the people’s concerns were addressed immediately after our departure from there, and hopefully they are addressing other challenges and are preparing to address others in the future. I hope that when we go to Limpopo again, as I have mentioned earlier, we will come in winter or in autumn, and that we will enjoy the fruits from these farms and be given some drinks and amarula. Do you know what they call that drink in that area? They say . . . ] . . . it’s the South African gardens.
Nebala isomiso sikhulu okwaze kwathi basinika nohlelo olwalungekho kithina kwathiwa ake sithandaze sicele imvula. Habe! Umfundisi laphayana uMoatshe wathandaza ngaze ngabheka ngoba ngangicimezile ngathi uthi usakhuluma nezingilozi noma usathandaza nje. Lana izulu ngakusasa. Ngiyabonga. [Ihlombe.] (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[The drought is terrible in that area; so bad that we were even asked to do something that was not part of our programme. We were asked to pray for rain! Oh! Pastor Moatshe prayed until I opened my eyes. I initially had my eyes shut, but when he continued praying non-stop, I asked myself whether he was still praying or whether he was talking to the angels by then. The following day the rain fell. [I thank you. [Applause.]]
Nksz N F MAZIBUKO: Sihlalo, ngibingelela oNgqongqoshe abakhona kanye namalungu omkhandlu. Uhlelo lokusa iPhalamende kubantu lubalulekile kakhulu. Uhlelo oluhle kakhulu ngoba abantu bayaphiwa ithuba lokutshela uhulumeni, ikakhulu thina zishayamthetho, ukuthi yini ebahluphayo nokuthi futhi ngabe bazuza kangakanani esabiwenimali.
Senginonyaka owodwa ngiyilungu loMkhandlu kaZwelonke weziFundazwe. Kuwo wonke umsebenzi esiwenzayo, awukho ongijabulisa kakhulu njengokuthi siye kubantu. Yinye qha into engidumazayo - yilaba bamaqenjana amancane. Ngisho laba abayikhonkothayo uma ngabe ihamba. [Uhleko.] Mina ngiyojabula mhlazane bethi abafuni ukuzibandakanya kulolu hlelo ngoba empeleni angiliboni iqhaza abalibambayo. Okwabo njena ukukhekheleza bagibele yona le nqola yethu abayikhonkothayo. Ukwesutha kwakhumbuza uNoshinga ukuthi kuyathakathwa.
Intsha yaseLimpopo yazikhulumela ngesikhathi sivakashile ikhala ngokuthi ayinamakhono, yakhala ngokweswela imisebenzi yabuye yakhala ngolunye ulusha olusebenzisa izidakamizwa, luphuze notshwala bese luhlukumeza abazali. Kulo nyaka nje sigubha iminyaka enga-30 kwaba nezibhelu laphayana eSoweto ngonyaka ka-1976. Uma siphendula thina siwuhulumeni we-ANC sithi sibazwile. Ngisho nesabiwomali esethulwe uNgqongqoshe u-Trevor Manuel izolo lokhu sithele isizumbulu sezimali ukuze intsha iqeqeshwe iphinde futhi ibe namakhono. IsiKhwama seNtsha uMsobomvu naso sithi entsheni uzoyithola kanjani uhleli ekhoneni.
Simema bonke abasha ukuthi bazibhalise ukuze batomule imali babe osomabhizinisi abasafufusa bakwazi futhi ukuqasha nabanye ontanga babo. Nokho, asikhumbule ukuthi akuvelwa kanyekanye kungemadlebe embongolo. Ezinye iznto zithatha isikhathi ngakho sicela ukuba babekezele.
Omame nabo abazange bazibeke phansi. Basitshela kwezikabhoqo bethi babulawa yindlala. Abanye bathi abayeni selokhu bahamba bethi bayothenga isinkwa, nanamuhla abakabuyi. Basitshela nokuthi le mithetho esiyibekile ebhekene nokubavikela ayibavikeli ngoba abanye besilisa bayabahlukumeza futhi bayabanukubeza ngokocansi. Kukhona-ke omunye wesilisa obenganawo amahloni owathi laba besifazane abasabahloniphi abayeni babo.
Sebeyeyisa baqhuba intwala ngewisa ngoba bethembe le mitheshwana yethu ebizwa ngokuthi o-Domestic Violence Act. Abakwenzayo ukuthi bachukuluze abayeni babo bese begijimela emaphoyiseni beyobabophisa ukuze balale esitokisini bese laba besifazane baphume kanje beyobhiyoza, bedansela o- Sweety My Babe kanye neculo le-Alska elithi Ujayiva sengathi umenyiwe [Uhleko.] Ngaleso sikhathi izingane zona zisuke zisele zodwa zinganakwe muntu.
Ububha nabo abuzibekanga phansi. Siyazi ukuthi emaphandleni abantu baphila ngokutshala imifino kanye nezithelo. Kepha uma imvula ingani, abakwazi ukulima. Ubaba umfundisi uMoatshe waze wahlanganisa umkhuleka sathandazela imvula, yingakho izulu lina kulesiya sifundazwe. Nokho okubuhlungu ukuthi kunezikhukhula.
Amakhono nawo, do! Kungenxa yokuthi abantu bamandulo babengavumi ukuthi ingane yentombazane iye esikoleni ngoba bethi ukudlala ngemali ngoba izokwendela komunye umuzi. Yingakho-ke abaningi besifazane bengenawo amakhono, abaqashwa futhi abaqasheki. Uhulumeni we-ANC uma ephendula uthi ayikho inkwali ephandela enye.
Sesibeke izinhlelo ezinjengo Asgisa, phecelezi i-Accelerated Shared Growth for South Africa ukuze abesifazane batomule kulo mnotho, babe namakhono futhi bakwazi ukuzimela geqe bengalokhu belinde o-sweety my babe babo abahamba beyothenga isinkwa. NgesiSuthu sithi “Mme o tshwara thipa ka bohaleng”, phecelezi kusho ukuthi . . . (Translation of isiZulu paragraphs follows.)
[Ms N F MAZIBUKO: Chairperson, I greet all the Ministers and members of Parliament. The programme of taking Parliament to the people is very important. This programme is important because it gives a voice to people to tell the government, especially the members, about their concerns and how they benefit from the budget.
I have been a member of the National Council of Provinces for one year now. In all the work that we do, there is nothing that makes me happier than going to the people. There is one thing that disappoints me - members of small parties. I am referring to those who bark when it’s moving. [Laughter.] I would be happy the day they say that they don’t like to be involved in this programme, because I don’t see them playing any role.
The youth spoke for themselves when we visited Limpopo. Their concerns were a lack of skills and a shortage of jobs. They also raised concerns about the youth who are addicted to drugs and those who consume alcohol and abuse their parents after doing so. This year will mark the 30th anniversary of the Soweto uprising of 1976. In our response as the ANC government, we are saying that we heard their concerns. The Minister of Finance, Trevor Manuel, allocated millions to job training and skills development. The Umsobomvu Youth Fund is asking: “How are you going to make things happen in your life if you are just sitting in the corner, doing nothing?”
We are calling on the youth to register so that they will become emerging business people and employ others. However, we have to remember that success does not come to everyone at the same time. Some things take time. Therefore, we urge them to be patient.
The women also spoke for themselves. They told us to our faces that they were starving. Some said that their husbands had gone to buy bread and never came back. They also told us that the laws that are supposed to protect them do not do so, because their husbands still abuse and rape them.
A shameless man said that women did not respect their husbands. They are disrespectful in terms of the Act entitled the Domestic Violence Act. What they do is to provoke men so that they would be arrested. After that women celebrate and dance to Sweetie my baby and the song by Malaika, Ujayiva engathi emenyiwe. [Laughter.] All this time, children are left alone and ignored.
There is also poverty. We all know that people live by growing fruits and vegetables in rural areas. If it does not rain, they are unable to farm. Father Moatshe also prayed for rain. That is why it is raining in that province. However, it is a pity that there are floods.
They have no skills because previously girls were not allowed to go to school. It was regarded as a waste of money as she will get married and leave. That is why the majority of women don’t have skills, are not employed and are unemployable. Our response is: “Every man for himself”.
We have programmes like Asgisa, the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa, so that the women can benefit, gain skills and be able to be independent. In Sesotho we say “mme o tshwara thipa ka bohaleng”, which means . . . ]
You teach a woman, you teach the nation. You teach a man, you teach an individual. [Laughter.]
Yingakho-ke sithi abesifazane amakhono abo bayawadinga ukuze ikati lingalali eziko. Abanye futhi abazikhulumela abantu abakhubazekile. Siyazi- ke sonke ukuthi mandulo abantu ababekhubazekile babefihlwa emakhaya. Imindeni yabo yayingavamisile ukubaveza obala. Thina siwuhulumeni we-ANC sithi uma ngabe umuntu ekhubazekile uhola imali kadekle.
Manje-ke benzani-ke abantu bethu basemkhaya? Ngelanga lawo umholo bayamgeza nje kahle umuntu, bamgqokise abe muhle bese bemphelezela ukuthi ayohola le mali yethu kahulumeni. Uma bebuya lapho baphuza utshwala bakhohlwe ngaye.
Abantu futhi abakhubazekile bakhale ngokuthi abanawo amakhono, futhi ezinye izindlu zikahulumeni abakwazi ukungena kuzo ngenxa yokuthi zinezitebhisi. Imithetho esesiyishayile abanye bayishaya indiva. Baswele amakhono, abaqashwa emsebenzini nezitulo abahamba ngazo sezaguga futhi abanazo nezibonelelo. Siwuhulumeni we-ANC saphendula sathi kuyo yonke imithetho ebhekene nemisebenzi kahulumeni, amaphesenti athile kufuneka kube ngabantu abakhubazekile. Akekho-ke uhulumeni oke wakwenza lokhu ngaphandle kukahulumeni ophethwe yi-ANC.
Sekukonke-ke sizitholile izinkinga mayelana nezitifiketi zokuzalwa kanye nomazisi. Abanye-ke bakhala ngokuthi bashadiswe bengazi kepha thina singuhulumeni we-ANC sabaqinisekisa ngokuthi wonke umuntu unelungelo lesitifiketi sokuzalwa kanye nomazisi. Sabaqinisekisa futhi nanokuthi sizozidabula lezo zincwadi zomshado zabo bonke labo abashadiswe bengazi uma nabo beziveza.
Uma sengiphetha, umhlaka-1 Mashi ususeduze - kuyoba uqhude manikiniki. Kuyocaca ukuthi abantu bafuna muphi uhulumeni ukuba abaphathe. Abanye-ke bayobeletha izithende ngoba ngeke bayimele le ndlovu engange-ANC. Ngiyabonga. [Ihlombe.] (Translation of isiZulu paragraphs follows.)
[It is for that reason that we say women need skills; so that famine won’t become rampant. People with disabilities also registered their concerns. We all know that previously people with disabilities were hidden at home. Their families were not used to coming out with them. The ANC government is saying that people with disabilities must get grants.
What do people do then? On payout day they bath the person, dress him nicely and accompany him to get his money. When they come back, they consume alcohol and forget about him.
People with disabilities also raised concerns about skills shortages. They also don’t have access to some government buildings because they have stairways. Some undermine the laws that we make. They don’t have skills and they are not employed. The wheelchairs that they are using are old. The response of the ANC government is that it is entrenched in Acts governing the Public Service that a certain percentage must be people with disabilities. There is no government that has done that before apart from the ANC government.
We also received concerns about birth certificates and identity documents. Some said that they were married without their knowledge. The ANC government has assured them that everybody has a right to a birth certificate and an identity document. We promised them that we were going to sort out the issue concerning marriage certificates if they came forward.
In conclusion, 1 March is around the corner. It is election day. It will be clear which government must govern. Some will run away because they cannot face this elephant that is huge, the ANC. Thank you. [Applause.]]
END OF TAKE sd (Zul)/LB (Eng)
“National Council of Provinces Main”,Unrevised Hansard,23 Feb 2006,”Take 20 [National Council of Provinces Main].doc”
“National Council of Provinces Main”,Unrevised Hansard,16 Feb 2006,”[Take- 20] [National Council of Provinces Main][NCOP-Logger][tm].doc” Mr N D HENDRICKSE: Chairperson, hon members, before I start, I just want to say to the member that spoke before me I come from a small party, but we have a 100 per cent attendance here today. [Laughter.]
The Taking of Parliament to the People of Limpopo indeed has been a tremendous insight into challenges of service delivery, despite the many achievements and progress made in certain areas. To me, as the new member of the NCOP, it was a great learning experience and eye-opener to see how government’s policy programmes and projects have uplifted the lives of ordinary citizens. Indeed the trip proved useful from an oversight perspective.
Having said the above, I would like to focus on some key concerns regarding the observations made in Limpopo. These are as follows: There seemed to be a dichotomy between traditionally owned large white farms with all their infrastructure, such as irrigation schemes, in place, and emergent black- owned farms which have been heavily impacted upon by the drought. It appears that emerging black farmers receive very little financial and technical assistance and one would like to determine what has happened to agricultural extension officers who in the past have assisted white farmers with their farming methods. Farming has become very technical and markets have become very important now that we are part of the global situation. One makes no excuse for expropriating large farms. The time has come for it to happen. When that does happen, we need to equip our farmers to be able to take over these farms in a proper way. The drought had nothing to do with our farmers there. Other farms were lush, but our farmers had trees struggling and dying, because they did not have the wherewithal.
One success story has been the construction of roads in Limpopo, using labour intensive methods, and it was good to see. Some of the roads were not of the best of quality because they decided to make use of a cheaper kind of road. Other roads were made very well and without using any mechanised assistance. [Time expired.]
Mnr C A T SMITH (Noord-Kaap): Agb Voorsitter, agb Adjunkminister, agb Adjunkvoorsitter van die NRVP, lede van dié hoogeerwaarde Huis en spesiale afgevaardigdes, dis vir my ’n besondere eer en ’n groot voorreg om aan hierdie debat te kan deelneem, wat onder meer handel oor die oorsigbesoek aan die provinsie van Limpopo. Laat my toe om in hierdie stadium ’n paar knellende probleme waarvan ons tydens daardie besoek bewus geword het, onder die aandag van hierdie Huis te bring.
Eerstens is daar die impak van die droogte; tweedens is daar die behoefte aan water waar mense lang afstande moet aflê om by water uit te kom; derdens, die swak kwaliteit van die HOP-huise in die groter Tzaneen- gebied, die infrastruktuur wat tot gevolg het dat daar lang afstande afgelê moet word na skole en bushaltes, waar mense blootgestel word aan misdaad; die Letaba Fire Protection Association waar die Mopani-distriksraad maande lank gewag het die om aan hierdie mense se probleme aandag te gee. Dankie aan die Minister wat die kwessie van elektrisiteit aangeroer het. Ook die kwessie van die misbruik van plaaswerkers is van die probleme wat daar was.
Laat my toe om aan die agb Fielding te sê dat dit probleme probleme is dié veroorsaak is deur apartheid. Laat ek u daaraan herinner dat toe die ANC- regering hierdie in 1994 oorgeneem het, dit ’n bankrotregering was. Vandag kan ons inderdaad spog dat hierdie land se ekonomie omgeswaai is deur die ANC, soos wat u inderdaad gister gehoor het in mnr Manuel se Begroting. Daar is aanduidings van ’n vyf persent groeikoers, wat moontlik kan styg tot ’n ses per sent groeikoers. Hierdie is tekens, soos die agb adjunkminister Surty aangedui het, dat gister sleg was; vandag onder die ANC-regering beter is en môre nog beter sal wees. Moenie hier kom sit en maak asof die DA niks te make met die toestande in Limpopo nie.
Ek wil nie verder ingaan op die DA nie. Laat my egter toe om te sê dat die opposisiepartye op ’n opportunistiese wyse besig is om ons, die ANC, te wil laat afdwaal van die rigting wat ons ingeslaan het. Laat my hulle tog daaraan herinner dat ons nie net hier is om politieke punte aan te teken nie, maar dat ons inderdaad hier is vir die herskepping van ’n nuwe samelewing, weg van apartheid en rassisme, na demokrasie en ware vrede.
Ek wil graag stilstaan by die walglike wyse waarop die ACDP deesdae van die kruis van Christus misbruik maak as ’n verkiesingsfoefie om mense op ’n absolute goedkoop wyse te om te koop met geloof en met die kruis. In hierdie stadium moet ons sê dat dit walglik is en dat ons dit glad nie goedkeur nie. Die mense daarbuite is mense met integriteit en hulle sal nie laat mislei met sulke foefies soos wat die ACDP inderdaad gebruik nie.
Wanneer ons die 50-jarige bestaan van die vrouens se optog na die Uniegebou in Pretoria vier, moet ons daaroor praat binne die konteks van geslagsgelykheid, en ons moet daarteen waak dat wanneer ons oor die regte van mans en vrouens praat, moet ons nie binne die konteks van meerderwaardigheid en minderwaardigheid nie.
Agb lede van hierdie Huis, seuns moet nie identiteitsloos grootword in Suid- Afrika nie, maar met ’n identiteit sodat hulle kan trots wees daarop dat hulle mans is wat nie hul vrouens en kinders misbruik nie. (Translation of Afrikaans paragraphs follows.)
[Mr C A T SMITH (Northern Cape): Hon Chairperson, hon Deputy Minister, hon Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, members of this august House and special delegates, it is a special honour and a great privilege for me to participate in this debate dealing with the oversight visit to the Limpopo province, amongst other thing. At this point, allow me to draw the attention of this House to a few pressing problems that we picked up during that visit.
Firstly, there is the impact of the drought; secondly, there is the need for water considering the fact that people have to walk long distances to fetch water; thirdly, there is the issue of the poor quality of RDP houses in the greater Tzaneen area, and the infrastructure that results in the fact that people have to travel long distances to schools and the bus stop, exposing them to crime; and the issue of the Letaba Fire Protection Association, that had to wait for months on the Mopani District Council to pay attention to these people’ s problems. Thanks to the Minister for mentioning the electricity issue. There was also the issue of the abuse of farm workers, which is one of the problems.
Allow me to explain to the hon Fielding that these problems were caused by apartheid. Let me remind you that when the ANC government took over in 1994, the government was bankrupt. Today we can indeed blow our own trumpet due to the fact that the ANC has turned the tide for the economy of this country, as we heard in Mr Manuel’s Budget yesterday in fact. There are indications of 5% growth, which can probably increase to 6%. These are signs, as indicated by hon Deputy Minister Surty – yesterday was bad, today is better under the ANC-led government and tomorrow will be even better. Don’t come and sit here and pretend that the DA has nothing to do with conditions in Limpopo.
I do not want to elaborate more on the issue of the DA. However, allow me to point out that the opposition parties are engaging in an opportunistic way to try to get us, the ANC, to deviate from the course that we have embarked upon. Let me remind them all the same that we are not here solely to score political points, but that we are here in fact to build a new society, moving away from apartheid and racism towards democracy and real peace.
I would like to focus on the revolting manner in which the ACDP is abusing the cross of Christ as an election ploy nowadays, bribing people with religion and the cross in an absolutely crude way. At this stage we must point out that it is sickening and that we by no means approve of it. The people who are out there are people with integrity, and they will not allow themselves to be deceived by ploys like those the ACDP in fact engage in.
When we celebrate the 50th commemoration of the Women’s March to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, we should deal with it within the context of gender equality and guard against addressing the rights of men and women within the context of superiority and inferiority.
Hon members of this House, boys should not grow up in South Africa without an identity, but in fact with an identity that will make them proud to be men who are not abusing their women and children.]
We need to use our economic market to benefit the entire people of the Limpopo province, particularly the poor. In order to sharpen our economic strategy, we must focus on the development of the second economy of poor people to the same level as the first economy. We need to put more emphasis on the local economic development initiativesdevelopment initiatives and to provide sustainable, natural environments in which people can flourish spiritually, physically and economically.
Vir die probleme wat ons tans in Limpopo ervaar, het die Minister gister aangekondig – en ons wil hom gelukwens – dat daar meer as R20 miljard vir belastingverligting is. Dit sal inderdaad ’n groot bydrae lewer tot die dienslewering in hierdie provinsie en in die land. Dit is ook ‘n merkwaardige bydrae dat welsynstoelaes bo die inflasievlakke verhoog is. (Translation of Afrikaans paragraph follows.)
[With regard to the problems we are currently experiencing in Limpopo, the Minister announced yesterday that – and we want to congratulate him – there is more than R20 billion for tax relief. This will indeed contribute greatly to service delivery in this province and in this country. It is also a remarkable contribution that welfare grants have been raised above inflation levels.]
Hon members, the Freedom Charter says that there will be houses for all and we need a housing programme that will integrate and deracialise cities and towns, house the poor close to their place of work and address the issues regarding the related infrastructure, such as sport and recreation facilities. Farmers must refrain from threatening workers with retrenchments in the wake of severe droughts that has negatively affected the farming sector in this part of the province. All employers are bound by section 189 of the Labour Relations Act that clearly states that every employer should first go through the consultation process before retrenching the workers.
Local government needs to reorientate itself in order to deliver better services to the community in order to implement faster and better service delivery. The municipalities need to change the mindset and approach of people at management and operational levels. There must not be a lack of motivation, lack of organisation and lack of sufficient development of technical knowledge to deal with these problems. All municipal officials must take action, meet deadlines and take the best decisions in the shortest time that is available. Local government must provide an essential minimum package of services to all indigent households in a sustainable manner. It is the responsibility of municipalities to determine their own mechanisms for the passing of this subsidy to the poor and to establish appropriate targeting mechanisms thereof.
I am certain that we shall overcome as we have advanced towards a gender responsive developmental local government. On 1 March we shall hold local government elections and, as members of this House, we need to assess ourselves as to whether our being here has made any difference in the upliftment of the country or not. As a nation we have travelled the road very few have dared to travel and we have embarked on a course of building a truly united, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous society. The next decade’s challenges arise from the lessons learned from the first decade and new opportunities created by the first phases of transformation. We look at the road ahead with enthusiasm and passion. Our revolutionary challenges as the ANC-led government and the people of South Africa are still enormous and daunting. There is no way that we can let our people down. Let us roll up our sleeves and be a nation at work for a better life for all. Agb lede en agb Voorsitter, die Noord-Kaap sien uit na u besoek eerskomende maand en baie sterkte met u werksaamhede. Ek dank u. [Applous.] [Hon members and hon Chairperson, the Northern Cape is looking forward to visit next month and wishes you everything of the best with your activities. I thank you. [Applause.]]
Kgoshi M L MOKOENA: Chairperson, I am joining this debate with a smile, after what happened yesterday. After enjoying the dynamic speech by the Minister of Finance, something happened last night, that is, Kaizer Chiefs – one, Sundowns – zero. [Laughter.]
To some people it might sound like over-kill, but I also want to crush and flush the myth by the DA, that the programme of Ttaking Parliament to the Ppeople is a waste of time or, as they say, is a political road show. This chorus, I think, is now now becoming boring, because they are very economic with the truth. I don’t want to say they are lying; they are very economic with the truth.
If misleading the public is a disease, we need to get a doctor for these people, because I think they need help, they are sick. They know that what they are saying is not true, and it cannot be right. One irrelevant argument was that investors might not be willing to go and invest in an area that is underdeveloped. Contrary to what they are saying, investors are not interested in investing in an area that is already developed. For heaven’s sake, go and get your facts right, please. Maybe today one might just say: “Mene mene tekel, upharsin.”
Some of the stakeholders that made use of this opportunity to talk to us when we were at Nkowankowa are emerging farmers. They appreciated the fact that we have saved them the task of flying all the way from wherever they are to Cape Town to come and talk to Parliament.
One of their concerns, for example, was how to access funds. This problem was raised in the presence of the national Minister and the MEC. Their concern was positively responded to by both the Minister and the MEC. There was this undertaking by our government, that their concerns will be positively addressed. You can’t tell me that this was a political road show. It can’t be right.
It was pleasing to hear commercial farmers appreciating the role played by the NCOP and the ANC-led government. They even raised their concerns that were well received by the Ministers and MECs and those who were there. Therefore, you listen to some people and say that people are not satisfied. People were even ululating in appreciation of what the government is doing.
The report I got from the regional Land Claims Commissioner, Mr Mashile Mokono, is that there is good co-operation between the department and those farmers, except for the few who still need babysitting. You can’t tell me that this was a political road show. Land restitution is going so well in our province. Our people are extremely happy to get their land back. This was confirmed by people who addressed us in that hall. We agreed, as Parliament, that yes, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. I’ve got statistics to prove what I am saying.
During our sitting it emerged again that some projects in and around Mopane were in a dire need for assistance, in terms of seed capital and infrastructure to make them more viable and relevant in addressing the socio-economic needs and realities of Mopane, realities like the growing economy that addresses food security, geographical gross products and job creation.
Twelve projects in greater Tzaneen, Polokwane, Mogalakwena and Belabela municipalities will benefit from these developments. This will create a turnaround for this project’s direct beneficiaries and their localities, in that a monthly gross margin of R40 000 will be generated once the projects are operational. Of the 44 disadvantaged farmers, 35% are women, and 34% are youths, and they will be owners and operators of these projects.
During the same period when we were there in Nkowankowa, members will recall that the Seleisi family had a plight that was brought to the attention of the Minister, hon Thoko Didiza. They were being denied burial rights for the deceased family member on the property, the property that they have known for donkey’s years. The rest of the family members had lived and were buried on the same farm, which had changed hands through market forces, until it landed with the farmer who felt it was wrong for the black person to be buried in that farm.
We, as the government, have managed to secure for this family the highest order of rights beyond what they have asked for. The farm has been bought for them, and the Seleisi family will soon be titleholders to the 255 hectares property, and a highly productive agricultural enterprise. [Applause.]
They will receive support through CASP in the new financial year to acquire the relevant skills, and beef up the infrastructure capacity to make the farm more productive. Two members of the family are currently, as I am speaking, enrolled at Buhle academy of agriculture in Delmas, on a six- month practical or technical agricultural training course. Well done, to our government.
Modulasetulo, go nyakega gore re lebeleleng gabotse tlhahlo yeo e fiwago batho ba rena ge ba se na go fiwa naga . . . [Nako e fedile.] [Hon Chairperson, we need to look into the training that is offered to our people after land has been allocated to them . . . [Time expired.] [Applause.]]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Hon House Chairperson, let me thank the Deputy Minister of Education and all the hon members for their positive reflection on the recent visit by the National Council of Provinces to Limpopo. The reflection has clearly showed us that the visit was not just a success but also a wonderful experience, in terms of engaging with our people in dialogue.
I think, as the Chairperson indicated earlier, that it is important for us to follow up on the report. When we do so, we should keep in mind that the issues raised in this report, which the participants in this debate reflected on, need their joint effort as national, provincial and local government.
It is impressive to see that government makes use of the reports that we make available after we have visited provinces. I have noted that some government departments do request the reports before visiting those areas we have visited as part of Taking Parliament to the People, as was the case with North West, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. This is important because when we talk to the people they see one government. Therefore it is important that we share information so that people see that it is really one government, which speaks with one voice. Yes, as presiding officers we are going to consider a working document on the follow-up mechanism, which we must adopt so that we know at what stage we need to expect feedback from our committees or from government. This, we hope, will assist especially the government departments to provide us with information on time before we embark on any form of follow-up visit.
We can see that, with regard to the programme of Taking Parliament to the People, all the spheres of government in practice work together. This is very important in the context of the need for us to promote co-operative governance.
As the NCOP, we must make use of the position that we occupy in the system of co-operative government. In this regard, we must make sure that local government, in particular, does benefit from taking part through occupying the benches of this House. We must make sure that this sphere of government is supported by national and provincial government in order to carry out its functions. Section 154(1) of the Constitution enjoins national and provincial governments to take certain measures to support and strengthen the capacity of municipalities to manage their own affairs, exercise their powers and to perform their functions.
Here I want to knock the DA again over their little fingers and tell them that they have put posters up concerning delivery. We deliver. Yes, I want to congratulate them for delivering the whole city of Cape Town, Western Cape, back into the hands of the ANC. As the NCOP, this is the reason we have now decided to pay particular attention to local government, as I will indicate later on when we talk about Programme 2009. It is important that we do so because we are all agreed that this is mainly where service delivery needs to be sharpened.
I thank hon members for the contributions to this debate. I hope that, collectively, we will not allow the issues we have raised and those contained in the report to be forgotten. They must remain on your radar screens. I thank you. [Applause.]
Debate concluded.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Thank you, Deputy Chairperson. That concludes the debate. I shall now put the question. The question is that the report be adopted. As the decision is dealt with in terms of section 65 of the Constitution, I shall first ascertain whether all delegation heads are present in the Chamber. Yes.
In accordance with Rule 71, I shall first allow provinces the opportunity to make their declaration of votes, if they so wish. Is there any province that wishes to make a declaration of vote? None. We shall now proceed to voting on the question, which will proceed in alphabetical order. Eastern Cape?
Mr A T MANYOSI: Siyavuma. [We support.] The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Free State?
Mr C J Van ROOYEN. Free State supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Gauteng?
Ms N F MAZIBUKO: We support.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): KwaZulu-Natal?
Mr Z C NTULI: Elethu! [We support.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Limpopo?
Mrs H F MATLANYANE: Limpopo re a e amogela. [Limpopo supports it.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Mpumalanga?
Mrs M P THEMBA: Mpumalanga supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Northern Cape?
Mr M A SULLIMAN: Noord Kaap steun. [Northern Cape supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): North West?
Mr Z S KOLWENI: Noordwes steun. [North West supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Western Cape?
Mr N J MACK: Die Wes-Kaap steun. [Western Cape supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): All provinces voted in favour. I therefore declare the report adopted in terms of section 65 of the Constitution.
ORDER NO 3 NOT DISPOSED OF
(Draft Resolution)
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE COUNCIL: Chairperson, I move:
That Order No 3 not be disposed of today.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon members, I am informed that the Chief Whip has raised a motion with respect to Order number three. That Order will no longer be debated this afternoon. I therefore call on the Secretary to read the fourth Order of the Day.
CONSIDERATION REPORT OF SELECT COMMITTEE ON LAND AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS STUDY TOUR TO INDIA
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): I now call the hon P Moatshe, the chairperson of the Select Committee on Land and Environmental Affairs.
Rev P MOATSHE: Chairperson and hon members, we visited India and the objectives of the visit were to meet the various stakeholders and to explore talks on the following issues: to look at agriculture and aquaculture initiatives including policies in that country, sustainable tourism development, government’s institutional and policy measures in support of job creation and poverty alleviation, the selection of projects, programme design, management and evaluation mechanisms, and community participation and involvement in multisectoral approaches to the programmes.
As we all know, India is the second most populous country on the planet, and given its own history of colonialism and underdevelopment, it is faced with enormous challenges on all fronts, of which poverty is perhaps paramount.
A glance at the statistics relating to its economic indicators provides us with the kind of insight that confirms this country’s stature as a growing giant. For example, the performance of the Indian economy was good during 2003-04 as its GDP grew at 8% while inflation remained below 7% during this period.
On the international front, India’s total global trade reaches US$12 billion, while its exchange reserves increased to $114 billion as at May 2005. The fundamentals of the Indian economy are sound as its current account deficit is less than 1%.
The planning commission for the government of India has estimated a GDP growth rate of 8%, a savings rate of 26%, and an investment rate of 28% during the period between 2004 and 2008. What is particularly important to us is the fact that, given the trend and government policy, it is estimated that the economy will grow at 6%, benefiting South African companies in the execution of performance in infrastructure sectors, including electricity, water and road construction. [Interjections.] I’m in trouble here, really! [Laughter.] I’m in trouble here, yes. This guy keeps on beeping.
The overall performance of the Indian economy will also create demand for South African products such as its fruit, wine and other alcoholic beverages. The growth in agriculture and favourable . . . [Inaudible.] . . . will lead to an increase in fertiliser imports from South Africa.
Ever since diplomatic relations were established between India and our country in 1993, trade between us and India has grown rapidly. India’s imports are mainly in the form capital equipment. At the same time, exports from South Africa are increasing in view of that country’s commitment to lowering import duties, which was further reflected in the budget presented in the Indian parliament and the trade policy declared on 8 April 2005.
Yes, as a committee we were more than impressed with the lead and advances that India has made in the area of aquaculture, which is the domestic harvesting of fish.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon member, I’m afraid your time has expired.
Rev P MOATSHE: So short. I can’t believe that. [Interjections.] [Applause.]
Debate concluded.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms T S Setona): Order! Hon members, I want to remind hon members to do themselves and the presiding officers a favour in that as they speak they also look there, because people forget and that is why there is the whole evocation of suspicion from time to time that presiding officers are robbing people of time. There is a machine there - as they are reading people must look at it. I think it assists.
I shall now put the question. The question is that the report be adopted. As the decision is dealt with in terms of section 65 of the Constitution, I shall first ascertain whether all delegation heads are present. They are.
In accordance with Rule 71, I shall first allow provinces an opportunity to make declarations of vote if they so wish. Is there any province that wants to make a declaration? None. We shall now proceed to voting on the question. I shall do this in alphabetical order. Eastern Cape?
Mr A T Manyosi: Supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Free State?
Mr C J Van Rooyen: Supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Gauteng?
Ms N F Mazibuko: Supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): KwaZulu-Natal?
Mr Z C Ntuli: Supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Limpopo?
Mrs H F Matlanyane: Re a e amogela. [We support.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Mpumalanga?
Ms M P Themba: Steun. [Supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Northern Cape?
Mr M A Sulliman: Ke ya rona. [Supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): North West?
Mr Z S Kolweni: In favour.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Western Cape?
Mr N J Mack: Supports. The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): All nine provinces have voted in favour. I therefore declare the report adopted in terms of section 65 of the Constitution.
Report accordingly adopted in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
CONSIDERATION OF REPORT OF NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PROVINCES ON PROGRAMME 2009
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Hon House Chairperson, hon members, on 30 June 2004 the National Council of Provinces launched its programme of action for 2009, then termed Vision 2009.
However, the title of this important document had to be changed to avoid confusion with the new vision of Parliament that was launched last year, hence the name “Programme 2009”. We have decided to review the document each year so that it takes into consideration new challenges and to ensure that it always relevant.
Programme 2009 seeks to direct the work of the NCOP to the things that we must do. Members must see it as a guide to the work of the National Council of Provinces and develop their programmes alongside it.
There are things that will not necessarily be in the document and which we will expect our committees not to lose sight of. There are also things that will not necessarily be in the document as it is an NCOP-specific document, and which we will do jointly with the National Assembly as Parliament.
The original document did not have clear targets that the National Council of Provinces must achieve by 2009. This time we agreed that specific targets were essential for us to measure our performance.
They are the following: increased oversight work that is guided by input from the provinces and local government regarding their needs and interests; the promotion of public participation with clear impact on service delivery and the work of Parliament; improved support to local government through closely monitoring government programmes at municipal level; improved intergovernmental relations as a result of the National Council of Provinces’ sustained contribution to building the system of co- operative government.
Importantly, the document emphasises the need for us to ensure that local government is supported to deliver in an effective and efficient manner. The document has been enriched by input from hon members as we had two rounds of consultations on the document - first with chairpersons of select committees and the Whippery, and, second, with all National Council of Provinces members.
I commend Programme 2009 to the House in the belief that we will commit to it and continue to enrich it as a working document for taking the National Council of Provinces through to the end of this parliamentary term. I thank you. [Applause.]
Debate concluded.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): I shall now put the question. The question is that the report be adopted. As the decision is dealt with in terms of section 65 of the Constitution, I shall first ascertain whether all delegation heads are present in the Chamber. Yes.
In accordance with Rule 71, I shall first allow provinces an opportunity to make the declarations of vote if they so wish. Is there any province that wants to make a declaration? None.
We shall now proceed to voting in alphabetical order. Eastern Cape?
Mr A T Manyosi: Siyaxhasa. [We support.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Free State?
Mr C J Van Rooyen: Supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Gauteng?
Ms N F Mazibuko: Supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): KwaZulu-Natal?
Mr Z C Ntuli: KwaZulu-Natal elethu. [KwaZulu-Natal supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Limpopo?
Mrs H F Matlanyane: Limpopo steun. [Limpopo supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Mpumalanga?
Ms M P Themba: iMpumalanga iyasekela. [Mpumalanga supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Northern Cape?
Mr M A Sulliman: Northern Cape supports.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): North West?
Mr Z S Kolweni: North West ke ya rona. [North West supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Western Cape?
Mr N J Mack: Wes-Kaap steun. [Western Cape supports.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): All nine provinces have voted in favour. I therefore declare the report adopted in terms of section 65 of the Constitution.
Report accordingly adopted in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
PROGRAMME IN PIGEONHOLES
(Announcement)
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon members, just one announcement: I’m informed that members must go to their pigeonholes and collect the programme that has just been presented by the Deputy Chairperson of the Council. Thank you.
The Council adjourned at 16:39. ____
ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
WEDNESDAY, 15 FEBRUARY 2006
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- Introduction of Bills
(1) The Minister of Finance
(i) Appropriation Bill [B 2 - 2006] (National Assembly - sec
77)
ii) Division of Revenue Bill [B 3 - 2006] (National Assembly -
sec 76)
Introduction and referral to the Portfolio Committee on Finance of
the National Assembly for consideration and report and to the
Joint Budget Committee to consider in terms of its mandate, as
well as referral to the Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM) for
classification in terms of Joint Rule 160, on 15 February 2006.
iii) Additional Adjustments Appropriation Bill (2005/06 Financial
Year) [B 4 – 2006] (National Assembly – sec 77)
Introduction and referral to the Portfolio Committee on Finance of
the National Assembly for consideration and report, as well as
referral to the Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM) for classification
in terms of Joint Rule 160, on 15 February 2006.
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.
- Fast-tracking of Bills
RESOLUTION OF THE JOINT PROGRAMME SUBCOMMITTEE
The Subcommittee convened on 15 February 2006, at 15:30, and adopted
the following decision:
That, in accordance with Joint Rule 216(2), the Division of Revenue
Bill be fast-tracked, where necessary dispensing with any relevant
House Rule or Joint Rule and shortening any period within which
any step in the legislative process relating to the Bill has to be
completed, including the submission of the translated version of
the Bill as introduced before the debate in the National Assembly
takes place. This process must be completed in order for the Bill
to be enacted by 31 March 2006.
In terms of Joint Rule 216(4) this decision must be tabled in both
Houses for ratification.
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- The Minister of Finance
(1) The Budget Speech of the Minister of Finance - 15 February 2006
[RP 10-2006].
(2) Estimate of National Revenue for 2006 [RP 11-2006].
(3) Taxation Proposals in respect of Income Tax.
(4) Budget Review 2006 [RP 9-2006], including:
(a) Taxation proposals in respect of customs and excise duties
[tabled at 15:12]; and
(b) "Annexure E: Memorandum to accompany the Division of
Revenue Bill", tabled in terms of section 10(5) of the
Intergovernmental Fiscal Relations Act, 1997 (Act No 97 of
1997).
(5) Appropriation Bill [B 2 – 2006].
(6) Division of Revenue Bill [B 3 – 2006], tabled in terms of
section 10(1) of the Intergovernmental Fiscal Relations Act, 1997
(Act No 97 of 1997).
(7) Additional Adjustments Appropriation Bill (2005/06 Financial
Year) [B 4 – 2006].
(8) Estimates of National Expenditure 2006 [RP 8 - 2006], which
includes:
1. Memorandum on Vote No 1 - "The Presidency", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;
2. Memorandum on Vote No 2 - "Parliament", Main Estimates, 2006-
2007;
3. Memorandum on Vote No 3 - "Foreign Affairs", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;
4. Memorandum on Vote No 4 - "Home Affairs", Main Estimates, 2006-
2007;
5. Memorandum on Vote No 5 - "Provincial and Local Government",
Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
6. Memorandum on Vote No 6 - "Public Works", Main Estimates, 2006-
2007;
7. Memorandum on Vote No 7 - "Government Communications and
Information System", Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
8. Memorandum on Vote No 8 - "National Treasury", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;
9. Memorandum on Vote No 9 - "Public Enterprises", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;
10. Memorandum on Vote No 10 - "Public Service and
Administration", Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
11. Memorandum on Vote No 11 - "Public Service Commission",
Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
12. Memorandum on Vote No 12 - "South African Management
Development Institute", Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
13. Memorandum on Vote No 13 - "Statistics South Africa", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
14. Memorandum on Vote No 14 - "Arts and Culture", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
15. Memorandum on Vote No 15 - "Education", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;
16. Memorandum on Vote No 16 - "Health", Main Estimates, 2006-
2007;
17. Memorandum on Vote No 17 - "Labour", Main Estimates, 2006-
2007;
18. Memorandum on Vote No 18 - "Social Development", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
19. Memorandum on Vote No 19 - "Sport and Recreation South
Africa", Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
20. Memorandum on Vote No 20 - "Correctional Services", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
21. Memorandum on Vote No 21 - "Defence", Main Estimates, 2006-
2007;
22. Memorandum on Vote No 22 - "Independent Complaints
Directorate", Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
23. Memorandum on Vote No 23 - "Justice and Constitutional
Development", Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
24. Memorandum on Vote No 24 - "Safety and Security", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
25. Memorandum on Vote No 25 - "Agriculture", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;
26. Memorandum on Vote No 26 - "Communications", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
27. Memorandum on Vote No 27 - "Environmental Affairs and
Tourism", Main Estimates, 2006-2007;
28. Memorandum on Vote No 28 - "Housing", Main Estimates, 2006-
2007;
29. Memorandum on Vote No 29 - "Land Affairs", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;
30. Memorandum on Vote No 30 - "Minerals and Energy", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
31. Memorandum on Vote No 31 - "Science and Technology", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
32. Memorandum on Vote No 32 - "Trade and Industry", Main
Estimates, 2006-2007;
33. Memorandum on Vote No 33 - "Transport", Main Estimates,
2006-2007;.
34. Memorandum on Vote No 34 - "Water Affairs and Forestry",
Main Estimates, 2006-2007.
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration
and report.
2. The Minister of Transport
a) The Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for
International Carriage by Air, tabled in terms of section
231(2) of the Constitution, 1996.
b) Explanatory Memorandum on the ratification and/or accession to
the Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for
International Carriage by Air.
National Council of Provinces
-
The Chairperson
PROGRAMME 2009 3RD PARLIAMENT
1. Introduction
The National Council of Provinces represents the provinces to ensure
that provincial interests are taken into account in the national sphere
of government. It does this mainly by participating in the national
legislative process and by providing a national forum for public
consideration of issues affecting provinces.
- (Section 42 (4) of the Constitution)
This means that, when carrying out its work, the National Council of
Provinces (NCOP) must always be guided by this mandate. This includes
identifying key and relevant areas of focus, which must assist the NCOP
to deliver on its stated mandate.
2. BACKGROUND
On 30 June 2004 the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) presented its
blueprint programme of action for the 3rd Parliament entitled Vision
2009, but which was later to be known as Programme 2009. The aim was to
deepen and further consolidate the gains it had made as a House which
provides a forum for provinces and local government at national level.
In the document, the NCOP identified the need to broaden the scope of
participation by provincial and local governments in shaping the
national agenda, thereby deepening participatory democracy in our
institutions of governance. It also identified the need to raise and
improve the profile of intergovernmental relations and to continuously
seek ways of refining and strengthening the system of these relations
in all spheres of government. In addition, and most importantly, it
committed itself to actively contribute to the process of delivery to
better the lives of the people by strengthening and focusing on its
oversight function.
Programme 2009 is therefore both a strategy and a programme of action
for the NCOP in the 3rd Parliament.
At the beginning of 2006 the NCOP saw the need to revisit the programme
after examining the impact of its oversight and public participation
programmes and developments in service delivery. The document will from
henceforth be reviewed annually to ensure that it is relevant and that
it provides a proper response to national priorities.
3. FOCUS OF WORK OF THE NCOP
The main focus of the work of the NCOP in the 3rd Parliament is on
oversight. This means that the NCOP must direct more time and resources
toward the performance of oversight work as a mechanism for following
up on the implementation of the laws it has and continues to pass,
including government policies and programmes. The focal point is
oversight which must go hand-in-hand with the promotion of public
participation as central to achieving the vision of a ``people’s
Parliament’’.
Further, there should be a deliberate bias in the oversight work
towards assisting delivery at local government. This is in line with
the provision of the Constitution, in section 154(1), which states:
The national government and provincial governments, by legislative and
other measures, must support and strengthen the capacity of
municipalities to manage their own affairs, to exercise their powers
and to perform their functions.
The NCOP serves as a national legislative forum for provinces and
representatives of organised local government.
The NCOP’s oversight work must deliberately respond to some of the key
areas contained in the President’s first State-of-the-Nation Address to
the 3rd Parliament. These were mainly areas of joint competence which
impact more on the poor and in which the NCOP could have an influence.
They, in no particular order, are the following:
• Local government (Part B of Schedules 4 and 5 of the Constitution) • Agriculture (including land affairs) • Education • Expanded Public Works Programme (including urban and rural development programmes) • Health • Housing • SMME development • Social security (including home affairs services) • Safety and Security (including the justice system)
In this regard, the NCOP must closely monitor the programmes announced
by the President in his first State of the Nation Address to the 3rd
Parliament with respect to the above, and in each annual address up to
the end of the term, in order to be able to meaningfully assist in the
process of accelerating service delivery. Toward this, our committees
will identify the specific issues the President raised, discuss and
dissect them, and draw up detailed plans and specific programmes for
oversight work so that we can monitor their implementation. The
document will on an annual basis provide guidelines to the areas of
priority, as is the case below under 13.
In illustrating the above point the example is: In respect of learning,
the President in his first State of the Nation Address to the 3rd
Parliament, stated that by the end of the financial year, government
would ensure that “there is no learner or student learning under a
tree, in a mud-school or any other dangerous conditions”.
To respond to this, the relevant committee would identify the schools
and communities facing these conditions. They would draw up a programme
to examine the nature of intervention and to monitor delivery and
progress to ensure that problems, if any, are detected so that improved
strategies are employed. The advantage of the NCOP in this regard is
that it is potentially a receptacle for best practices from provinces.
These best practices can then be shared with other provinces in an
effort to find workable solutions, thereby putting the principle of
intergovernmental relations into practice. The Intergovernmental
Relations Framework Act provides some clear guidelines with regard to
the promotion of intergovernmental relations.
4. TARGETS FOR 2009
Through Programme 2009, the NCOP must have achieved the following
targets by the end of the 3rd Parliament.
• Increased oversight work that is guided by input from the provinces and local government regarding their needs and interests • Promotion of public participation with clear impact on service delivery and the work of Parliament • Improved support to local government through closely monitoring government programmes at municipal level • Improved intergovernmental relations as a result of the NCOP’s sustained contribution to building the system of co-operative government
This the NCOP must do by leading processes, mainly oversight and public
participation exercises, which must enable provinces and local
government to impact positively on service delivery.
5. PROMOTING COHERENCE OF GOVERNMENT PROGRAMMES
In order to promote better coherence between the work programmes of
government in the different spheres, we need to ensure that all spheres
of government are on the same footing, especially in respect of the
priorities the government has set itself. One of the ways of ensuring
this is to follow up on strategies employed by the different spheres of
government to respond to the government programmes as set out in the
State-of-the-Nation Address and other guiding documents. The NCOP,
through its committees, must vigorously scrutinise plans by government
and especially local government for implementing programmes set out in
the State of the Nation Address and other guiding documents, so that
Members could be alerted to possible difficulties early in the process.
6. IMPROVING LIAISON WITH PROVINCES
One of the important issues that remain critical in the life of the
NCOP is good liaison with the provinces and local government. Without
the input from the provinces and local government, the work of the NCOP
would be difficult if not impossible to carry out. There is thus a need
to constantly improve the way the NCOP relates with these institutions
and structures for better co-ordination of programmes. The
administration has a big role to play in ensuring that proper
communication systems are in place to assist with liaison work.
On the other hand, interaction among the leadership of the NCOP and
Provincial Legislatures would continue.
The office of the second Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP (a provincial
Premier elected to office for a term of one year) will be crucial in
ensuring that political and policy issues emanating from the NCOP are
shared with the leaders of provinces, including matters that need their
urgent attention. Further, steps should also be taken to clearly define
the role and work of this office.
7. POLICY ISSUES
The National Council of Provinces is a political institution whose
mandate is to represent the interests of provinces so as to ensure that
their interests are taken into account in the national sphere of
government. It is therefore important that the NCOP articulates this
mandate in a manner that contributes to the betterment of the lives of
the people, especially the poor.
In this regard, the NCOP must promote discussion of policy issues with
a view to improve understanding and to provide a platform for public
debate of issues critical for service delivery and development. The
NCOP, through provincial delegations and Salga, must sponsor debates on
national policy issues that are informed by provinces and local
government service delivery challenges.
8. PROMOTION OF CO-OPERATIVE GOVERNMENT
The NCOP occupies a unique position within the country’s constitutional
system of governance. It brings together all the three spheres of
government under one roof, thereby occupying a strategic centre for the
promotion of intergovernmental relations. It does this by working with
all the spheres of government (in such a manner as stated under point 5
above) and by providing a platform for public debate of
intergovernmental matters.
The NCOP must ensure that it promotes co-operative governance by using
its position as the unique legislative body where all the three spheres
of government are represented.
9. INVOLVEMENT OF SOUTH AFRICAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The participation of the South African Local Government Association
(Salga) in the NCOP is critical in order for the NCOP to be au fait
(fully informed) with the service delivery and policy challenges facing
local government. A closer interaction with Salga, in the context of
the stated focus of the NCOP in the remainder of the term, is even more
crucial. It will put the NCOP in a better position to champion the
necessary interventions to assist local government to deliver
effectively and efficiently.
In the past the NCOP has played an active role in instances of
interventions and investigations of allegations of financial
maladministration, fraud and other irregularities at certain
municipalities. While these should always remain on the radar screens
of the NCOP, equally are the backlogs to delivery of services to the
people whether they are as a result of the above or lack of capacity at
local government. In this context, the NCOP needs to constantly engage
with Salga on the continuum of service delivery challenges so that,
where possible, any weaknesses or backlogs are prevented or that
mechanisms could be found to address them.
It is therefore imperative that the leadership of the NCOP and Salga
should engage each other with a view to define clearly the role that
Salga must play in the NCOP, and the role that the NCOP must play to
assist local government.
10. SECTION 76 BILLS
The area of Section 76 Bills is an area where the NCOP has considerable
impact. The main reason is that this is the area of joint competence
between provincial and national government. The NCOP has observed that
where it occurs, the introduction of section 76 Bills in the NCOP is of
benefit to the institution and provinces, as it gives adequate time to
consider the Bill. The importance provinces attach to canvassing public
views on national legislation cannot be overemphasised as it provides
the citizenry an opportunity to submit input on legislation. Section 76
Bills are key in driving the country’s socio-economic programme and the
NCOP must adhere to at least the minimum 4-week or maximum 6-week cycle
when considering this legislation.
11. TAKING PARLIAMENT TO THE PEOPLE
Taking Parliament to the People is a programme that the National
Council of Provinces initiated to provide people with an opportunity to
have a say in the affairs of Parliament. It provides them with an
opportunity to have a say in the way they are governed. People must
constantly engage with Parliament, wherever they are in the country.
The programme entails visits to provinces (at least two provinces in a
financial year) by the NCOP to conduct public hearings and other
oversight exercises. The huge success of the programme, from its
inception in the Eastern Cape in 2002, is an indication that people do
want to take part in Parliament. Thus, in order to support and build
the programme, the NCOP must ensure that:
• Proper follow-up mechanisms are established • Government response to the issues raised by the people is monitored • The programme does not create false expectations among the people • The programme is educational and promotes the appreciation of democracy by the people • There are clear timeframes for report-back sessions
The Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP and the House Chairpersons must draw
up an annual indicator or checklist which will serve as a report back
by the House on the impact of its work through this programme. The
indicator can also be used to evaluate the impact of the programme for
future planning purposes. The indicator or checklist must identify
issues raised during the visit, outline follow-up mechanisms used and
report on progress.
12. COMMITTEES
Committees must work on accelerating their oversight work alongside the
programme Taking Parliament to the People. Part of this includes
isolating issues related to their clusters from the visits to provinces
for follow-up purposes. They will be expected to focus primarily on
areas of priority as outlined under 13 below, as part of their annual
programmes. Local development will be key.
Importantly, committees will also need to put in place a mechanism for
monitoring the implementation of projects and programmes contained
under the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa
(Asgi-SA), where the NCOP could have an impact.
13. SPECIFIC AREAS OF PRIORITY FOR 2006
13.1 Parliament’s Theme for 2006 - ALL SHALL HAVE EQUAL RIGHTS
When doing our work this year we will be guided by this theme. As a
national House that represents the interests of provinces, the focus on
this theme must give us an opportunity to see to what extent have
ordinary citizens benefited from equality law and what are the
scenarios that result from this in each province. In this regard we
should take part in a national Review Campaign in an attempt to answer
the above question. We should pursue this by working with provincial
legislatures, other government departments and civil society.
13.2 Summit on intergovernmental relations
It is recommended that as part of efforts to promote good
intergovernmental relations, the NCOP must consider organising a
national summit of legislative and non-legislative bodies on
intergovernmental relations. The aim of the summit is to reflect on how
the country has moved, and continues to move, in satisfying the
constitutional and statutory provisions for the promotion of
intergovernmental relations.
13.3 Specific areas of focus
Contained below is a list of issues drawn from the President’s State of
the Nation Address of 3 February 2006 which have been identified for
special attention by the NCOP. The tasks represent undertakings by
government. The NCOP sets out what it wants to do in responding to
these tasks. It is important to note that this section does not
encompass all the work to be covered by NCOP committees but serves as a
guide to specific areas targeted this year and on which committees must
report back by the end of the year.
a. Local government
Tasks by government
• Give particular attention to strengthening local government • Each municipality must have a realistic IDP, a credible LED Programme and the material and human resources, as well as management and operational systems to implement IDPs and LEDs • Integration of planning and implementation across all government spheres is one of the prime areas of focus for the next term of local government • Local government to discharge its development and service delivery obligations, drawing on the lessons provided by Project Consolidate • Deployment of 3000 Community Development Workers by March this year
What the NCOP will do
• Assess the capacity to deliver of municipalities focusing especially
on those municipalities under Project Consolidate • Promote the importance of people involvement in driving development in
their communities
• Assess the provision of basic services like water and electricity by
local government and assisting municipalities to find solutions to
challenges
• Assess contribution of Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) to the
alleviation of poverty by opening up employment and local economic
development opportunities
• Identify acceptable benchmarks for service delivery by municipalities
for use by Members when conducting oversight exercises (using as basis
the ones identified in the State of the Nation Address with regard to
IDPs, LEDs, human resources, management and operational systems)
• Monitor the deployment of Community Development Workers and how they
assist local communities
• Monitor the implementation and adherence to local government
legislation passed by Parliament
b. Agriculture (including land affairs)
Tasks by government
• State to play a central role in land reform and ensuring that land restitution is accelerated • Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs to review willing-buyer willing-seller policy; review land acquisition models and possible manipulation of land prices; and regulate conditions under which foreigners buy land • Land redistribution programme is aligned to the Provincial Growth and Development Strategies and Integrated Development Plans of municipalities
What the NCOP will do
• Monitor the process of policy review and how it addresses the
different challenges raised by provinces with regard to land
redistribution
• Interrogate Provincial Growth and Development Strategies and IDPs to
see if they are aligned to the land redistribution programme
• Continue to monitor government support to small and emerging farmers
to establish whether resources made available by government are
properly utilised
c. Education
Tasks by government
• Eliminate fees for the poorest quintile (section) of primary schools targeting 529 schools • Double the Maths and Science graduate output to 50 000 by 2008 and re- equipping and financing the Further Education and Training Colleges
What the NCOP will do
• Monitor the process of eliminating fees in targeted schools and
assisting government by promoting public awareness in this regard • Monitor government plans with regard to the availability of educators
in Maths and Science
• Monitor government progress in eliminating the backlog in delivery of
classrooms in the different provinces
• Monitor government progress in eliminating the backlog in the
provision of access to clean water and sanitation to schools in all
the provinces • Monitor government support to FETs, more especially the issue of the
skills gap
• The Select Committee on Education and Recreation to monitor the
provision of sport and other facilities for children and youth
development, more especially at schools and in local communities • Assist government to ensure a safe learning environment at schools
d. Expanded public works programme
Tasks by government
• To accelerate infrastructure investment in the underdeveloped urban
and rural areas through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant, Expanded
Public Works Programme and other infrastructure funds
What the NCOP will do
• Consider government plans and resources for accelerating
infrastructure investment in underdeveloped areas, particularly those
under the urban renewal and rural development programmes
• Assess the impact of EPWPs on the creation of jobs as well as the use
of other infrastructure funds
• Monitor the use of Municipal Infrastructure Grant by municipalities
and plans by municipalities for maintenance of infrastructure
e. Health
Tasks by government
• To proceed with the programme of revitalising hospitals • Further expansion of health infrastructure, the refurbishment of existing clinics and hospitals and re-opening of Nursing Colleges
What the NCOP will do
• Monitor government plans for upgrading hospitals and refurbishing
clinics, including transformation and restructuring of hospital
management
• Monitor government spending through the upgrading programme and
challenges being faced in this area
• Monitor government’s Operational Plan for Comprehensive Prevention,
Treatment and Care of HIV and Aids
f. Housing
Tasks by government
• To accelerate the expansion of housing stock to address the needs of the homeless • Ensure that housing development contributes to eliminating the duality of living spaces inherited from apartheid • Municipalities to allocate land close to economic centers for housing development • To assist the poor with access to finance by transforming the National Housing Finance Corporation into a Housing Corporation that will provide finance to the poor and middle-income groups
What the NCOP will do
• Monitor government programmes for accelerating the expansion of housing for the people • Monitor delivery by local government of land for housing development • Conduct review on delivery of houses (focus on sustainability of housing projects, the quality of housing units and delivery rate) • Monitor expenditure of allocated financial resources
g. SMME development
Tasks by government
• To expand our small, medium and micro enterprise sector through Asgi-
SA, paying particular attention to Broad-based Black Economic
Empowerment and the development of women and youth
• To take necessary measures to ensure the effectiveness of such
exisiting programmes such as SEDA (Small Enterprise Development
Agency), IDC Small Business Initiative, the Apex (Micro-credit) Fund
etc
• To review the procurement programme for accessing government’s goods
and services from small and medium businesses
What the NCOP will do
• Organise a workshop for briefing of NCOP Members on Asgi-SA • Draw up a programme for monitoring the implementation of Asgi-SA focusing especially on areas where the NCOP can have an impact through its oversight programme • Assess measures to ensure effectiveness of funding programmes for small and medium businesses and how they benefit in particular women and the youth • Monitor government’s review of procurement programme to assist small and medium businesses • Assess government’s programme to assist small and medium businesses, including assistance with training, access to capital, marketing and development of co-operatives
h. Social security (including home affairs services)
Tasks by government
• To continue to implement the comprehensive anti-fraud strategy • To launch the National Social Security Agency • To set up 100 new Youth Advisory Centres, enrol at least 10 000 young people in the National Youth Programme and enrol 5 000 volunteers to help vulnerable children
What the Council will do
• To continue to assist government using public platforms and other
means to create awareness about government’s anti-fraud strategy • To monitor the success of government’s anti-fraud strategy • To monitor the implementation of the National Social Security Agency • Monitor government programme on youth development and protection of
vulnerable children
• Monitor accessibility of government services to especially the poor
(often inhibited by lack of awareness, appropriate IDs, birth
certificates etc) • Monitor government’s programme with regard to immigration
i. Safety and Security (including the justice system)
Tasks by government
• To further improve our criminal justice system • To focus on integrated law enforcement operations in priority areas • Reducing drug trafficking and implementing social crime prevention measures • Improve case-load management in our courts, build four additional correctional facilities, reduce the number of children in custody • Fight corruption in the public sector
What the NCOP will do
• Monitor government’s programme of improving the criminal justice system • Monitor government plans for integrated law enforcement operations • Monitor implementation of government’s measures for social crime prevention • Assess impact of government programmes in fighting corruption in the public sector
14. Conclusion
To achieve the above, the NCOP will employ a number of strategies
initiated mainly at committee level. Research will be an integral
element of the process of the implementation of the programme as set
out above. The information will be used to equip Members and to direct
their work. This underscores the need for increased research capacity.
Dedicated research will assist Members with collecting, synthesising
and producing relevant information for oversight work so that their
interventions become targeted and more effective.
Dated 16 February 2006
COMMITTEE REPORTS
National Council of Provinces
-
Report of the Select Committee on Economic and Foreign Affairs on the Electricity Regulation Bill [B 29B - 2005] (National Assembly – sec 75), dated 15 February 2006: The Select Committee on Economic and Foreign Affairs, having considered the subject of the Electricity Regulation Bill [B 29B – 2005] (National Assembly – sec 75), referred to it and classified by the JTM as a section 75 Bill, reports the Bill with proposed amendments, as follows:
CLAUSE 6-
On page 5, in line 40, to omit the heading and to substitute “Customer and end user forums”
CLAUSE 19 -
On page 9, in line 52, to omit”(2)” and to substitute “(4)”
CLAUSE 49 -
On page 15, in line 25, to omit “2005” and to substitute “2006”
SCHEDULE -
On page 16, in the third column of the item amending the National Energy Regulator Act, 2004, -
a) In the last line of paragraph 1, to omit “2005” and to substitute ”2006”’
b) In paragraph 3, in the 4th line of the new paragraph (d) to omit [electiricity Act] and to substitute “[Electricity Act]” and in the next line, to omit “2005” and to substitute “2006”.
THURSDAY, 16 FEBRUARY 2006 -
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
- Classification of Bill by Joint Tagging Mechanism
(1) The Joint Tagging Mechanism on 16 February 2006 in terms of Joint Rule 160(6)(d) classified the following Bill as a section 76 Bill:
i) Division of Revenue Bill [B 3 – 2006] (National Assembly –
sec 76).