National Council of Provinces - 22 March 2006
WEDNESDAY, 22 MARCH 2006 __
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PROVINCES
____
The Council met at 14:03.
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.
NOTICES 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 Council-
(1) notes with shock and disgust that on Friday, a policeman’s 16-year-old daughter was stabbed and indecently assaulted by two men in the S A Police Service’s own block of flats in Triomf that are rented out to police employees;
(2) further notes that, according to the residents, this is not the first time that children have been attacked in the building as two separate incidents were also reported last year, among them an attempted rape;
(3) acknowledges that we must do our utmost to protect our children from being targeted by criminals, and therefore urges the relevant authorities to implement the necessary measures to ensure the safety of all, especially the children; and
(4) wishes the victim a speedy recovery and hopes that the perpetrators will be apprehended and brought to book as a matter of urgency.
Ms D ROBINSON: Madam Chair, I hereby give notice that I shall move on the next sitting day of the House:
That the Council -
1) congratulates former Member of Parliament Helen Zille on her election
as Mayor of Cape Town;
2) wishes her and her multiparty executive well in running this city in
an open and transparent manner, according to due process; and
3) notes and welcomes the statement of co-operation from Premier Ebrahim
Rasool aimed at ensuring that local and provincial government co-
operate for the benefit of all people.
CONDUCT OF NEW MAYOR OF CAPE TOWN
(Draft Resolution)
Mr E M SOGONI: Chairperson, perhaps it’s a good thing that I move this motion after the hon member Robinson, over there, has spoken. I move without notice:
That the Council -
1) condemns the racist Mayor of Cape Town for giving notice of the
release of Dr Mgoqi from his contract; and
2) also condemns the witch-hunt that she wants to embark on with regard
to investigating the tenders that were awarded during the ANC
government’s term in the Western Cape.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Thank you, hon Sogoni. Is there any objection to the motion?
Ms J F TERBLANCHE: Chair, I would like to object. I would also like to state, on a point of order, that we have reached an agreement at the multiparty Whips’ meeting that all motions without notice that have political content will be circulated to all other parties. This motion wasn’t circulated.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): In the light of the objection, the motion may not be proceeded with. The motion without notice will now become notice of a motion.
MOTION OF CONDOLENCE
(The late Mr Matlanyane)
Kgoshi M L MOKOENA: Deputy Chairperson, I move without notice:
That the Council –
(1) notes with sadness the unexpected passing on of Comrade Helen Matlanyane’s brother on 21 March 2006; and
(2) extends its sincere condolences to Comrade Matlanyane and her family in their time of bereavement.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
MS N D NTWANAMBI HOSPITALISED
(Draft Resolution)
SOSISWEBHU WEMKHANDLU WEMAPROVINSI: Sekela Sihlalo lohloniphekile, ngiphakamisa sishukumiso lesingakabikwa ngaphambilini:
Kutsi leNdlu-
1) ikhone kubeka emithandazweni yayo Lilunga laleNdlu, umhlonishwa
Nosipho Ntwanambi, lesikhuluma nje usesimeni lesibi ngobe sekubonwa
ngekusa lapha esibhedlela eGroote Schuur;
2) ikhumbule kutsi kusukela ngemnyaka lophelile umhlonishwa Ntwanambi
abengena aphuma esibhedlela;
3) ngako-ke iyacela kutsi emalunga aleNdlu amsingatse emithandazweni
yawo; kantsi
(4) iyakwemukela kutsi bengingajabula, njengaSosiswebhu waleNdlu, kutsi ngalelinye lilanga sesibe nesikhatsi sekuyawubeka umkhuleko nome ekhaya kakhe naangabe sewuphumile esibhedlela. Ngiyabonga. (Translation of Siswati draft resolution follows.)
[The CHIEF WHIP OF THE COUNCIL: Hon Chairperson, I move without notice:
That the Council-
1) should please remember one member of this House, the hon Nosipho Ntwanambi, who, as we speak is in great agony in Groote Schuur hospital;
2) keep in mind that, since last year, the hon Ntwanambi has been in and out of hospital;
3) therefore requests members to embrace her in their personal prayers; and
4) notes that if wishes were horses, I would love it, as the Chief Whip of the Council, if one day we as the House could go together to offer some words of encouragement and prayers for her at the hospital, or even at home once she has been discharged. I thank you.]
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Is there any objection to the motion?
Ms J F TERBLANCHE: Chairperson, I would just like to ask that someone should interpret the motion because most of it couldn’t be understood since there was no English interpretation. We couldn’t understand most of what was said.
Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Will you please sit down. Thank you. Are there any further motions without notice?
Mr A WATSON: Chairperson, on a point of order, and this is a reasonable request: We should have an interpreting service. I also tried to listen to the Chief Whip and I know it’s a sad motion. I don’t see why you should reject the point of order just because it’s coming from the DA.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Will you please sit down.
Mr A WATSON: Yes, Chair, I will indeed.
The DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Ms P M Hollander): Thank you. We will therefore proceed to the subject for discussion as printed on the Order Paper. [Interjections.] Will you please be quiet.
We would like to welcome our Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development, the hon B Mabandla. You may proceed, hon Minister.
HUMAN RIGHTS ARE PEOPLE’S RIGHTS: DEVELOPMENT SINCE 1994
(Subject for Discussion)
The MINISTER FOR JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Hon Chairperson, hon members, today’s debate is a very important one, more so since this year is the 10th anniversary of our Constitution. The major theme of our government’s human rights programme has been that of transformation and equity. The 69 people who were shot dead on 21 March 1960 by apartheid policemen lost their lives for demanding a very basic human right - the right to be free to walk the streets of the land of their birth without restrictions imposed by a passbook. The passbook was used, as we all know, by the then apartheid regime as a tool to limit and deny human rights and violate the human dignity of Africans wherever they went in the land of their birth.
The struggle against the dompas therefore was a struggle for human rights, a struggle for the freedom to move about as one chooses. Thus, it is correct for me to say that Sharpeville played a pivotal role in the history of this country. It is for this reason that it was chosen as a site for signing the new Constitution into law.
On 10 December 1996, International Human Rights Day, the then President Nelson Mandela, when signing our new Constitution into law remarked that: ``Out of many Sharpevilles which haunt our history was born the unshakeable determination that respect for human life, liberty and well-being must be enshrined as rights beyond the power of any force to diminish.’’
In this age of hope, and as a result of the heroic actions of many South Africans, human rights have become the cornerstone of our democracy. Our Constitution is founded upon human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms. And most importantly, the enshrinement of socioeconomic rights in our Bill of Rights is an indication of our commitment to the fundamental transformation of our society. It anchors what we call a developmental state, an interventionist state that intervenes to improve the quality of life for its people.
This year human rights celebrations also coincide, as I indicated to you,
with this anniversary, which is the 10th anniversary. Our Constitution was
also influenced, I must remind you, by the Freedom Charter, a historic
document that bears testimony to our deep commitment to the eradication of
racism in all its forms and to our respect for human rights for all. In it
our movement declares that South Africa belongs to all who live in it,
black and white’’ and thatAll national groups shall have equal rights’’;
that All shall be equal before the law’’ andAll shall enjoy human
rights.’’
I want to use this occasion as Minister for Justice to indicate our commitment to accelerating transformation and bringing justice closer to our people. Access to justice is a fundamental human right.
We will approach this in so many ways. One area of great challenge is that of improving efficiency in our court system; in other words, dealing effectively with the case backlogs that we are experiencing. It is a matter that we are discussing with the National Prosecuting Authority and with our magistrates. It is a matter that my predecessors have had discussions on with the judges themselves. It is a matter that serves as a priority area within the JCPS cluster.
One other important challenge that we will seek to address is that of transforming our court system. The Superior Courts Bill and the 14th Constitution Amendment Bill are important Bills that lie at the core of transformation of the judiciary. I want to say very quickly that there are many important areas of transformation that everyone agrees to, for example, the rationalisation of the courts.
Colleagues, you will know the hardships of many South Africans situated or living far away from the courts. The experiences of hardship are all well known to us. So, we must make sure that in the course of this year this Bill will be passed. That should be the objective. The discussions around the Bills have been drawn out. My comrades and colleagues, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee of Justice in the National Assembly and Kgoshi in this House, are aware of how long and extensive the deliberations have been around these Bills.
Discussions around the Bills started during the time of our late Comrade Dullah Omar into the period of service by Justice Minister Mr Maduna, the former Minister, and it now serves before the portfolio committee during my tenure as Minister of Justice. Surely we owe our people justice. We have to ensure that the House does pass those Bills.
We are also going to work very hard to fast-track the Child Justice Bill. I am pleased to say that work has been concluded in this regard and that this Bill should be dealt with by Parliament soon.
The Bills I have just mentioned are important and critical for the transformation of the justice system, and for bringing justice closer to the people. Let me also take this opportunity to indicate to you that my department is in the process of completing a draft legal services sector charter, and in time we will place this before the public. I am hoping that this will happen in the course of this year.
As a cluster, we are particularly concerned about contact crime and we are prioritising this area. We have heard about a number of cases of abuse of young persons and children, and of the abuse of women. I must say that it is a matter that not only the JCPS cluster should be seized with, in other words finding the solutions to these challenges it presents, but there must be prosecutions that are effective; and the NPA should work hard towards working with the police, the magistracy and judges towards addressing this particular challenge in our country.
I must say I know that a number of people here, who know Judge President Ngoepe, were moved at the loss he suffered when his grandchild was murdered and the nanny of the grandchild was raped. So we are indeed challenged and always reminded of the challenge when it receives prominence in the media.
Let me conclude by saying that on Monday I had the honour of receiving from my counterpart, Minister Pandor, the torch of peace, which has now been passed on to my department for the next two months. My department will use this period to highlight the plight of many women and children in our country who are caught in the cycle of violence. Our programme for dealing with this matter will be strengthened by allocating to them more human and financial resources.
Let me then complete my address by citing our President on Human Rights Day in 2004 because what he said is pertinent to our time and appropriate for me to refer and cite as I talk to you here today. This is what the President said:
As South Africans we are all partners in the great enterprise of ensuring that the promise of our Constitution is fully realised, making a positive impact on the lives of all our citizens. Like the generations before us, I urge all of you to stand together and not rest until the human rights set in our Constitution are realised.
I thank you. [Applause.]
Ms F NYANDA: Sihlalo, malungu ahloniphekileyo… [Chairperson, hon members…]
… it is indeed important that this event takes place on this Human Rights Day to celebrate it. It emphasises the central role of the Constitution in protecting the rights that our people won through a protracted and costly struggle.
Kumele amalungelo abantu emapulazini ahlonishwe futhi abhekisiswe kahle, ngoba ngezikhathi zonke abantu basemapulazini basebenza amahora amade. Futhi, esikhathini esiningi abantu bavalelwa amanzi yilaba bantu ababasebenzelayo ukuthi bangawatholi ngesikhathi abawafuna ngaso. Babanikeza amanzi ngesikhathi esifunwa yibo. Okunye futhi ukuthi abantu basemapulazini basebenza amahora amade kodwa ekupheleni kwenyanga bathole u- R400,00 – imali ongeke uthenge ukudla ngayo. Siyabonga kuhulumeni kaKhongolose. Kwesinye isikhathi uthola umndeni wonke uhlezi eduze komgwaqo, uxoshiwe epulazini ungazi ukuthi kufanele uyephi. Umzabalazo awukapheli, sisazabalaza. Sizabalazela amalungelo okuwukuthi kufanele ngesikhathi sonke silwe. Ngeke sithi konke kuphelile kodwa abanye abantu besanikezelwa emabhubesini ukuthi abadle. Abanye basaboshelwa emva kwezimoto zibahudule baze bafe. (Translation of isiZulu paragraphs follows.)
[The rights of farm dwellers must be observed and respected. Farm dwellers often work long hours. Also, these people are unable to drink water when they want to, because their employers would cut off the water. These employers only give these farm dwellers water at the times most convenient to them. Farm dwellers work long hours and yet they only receive R400,00 per month, which is not even enough for buying food. We thank the ANC government.
In certain instances you find the whole family living at the side of the road, not knowing their next destination, because they had been evicted from the farm. The struggle is not yet over. We are still struggling. We are fighting for rights, and we need to fight at every turn. We cannot just relax and say it’s all over if people are still being fed to the lions. Others are still tied behind bakkies and dragged until they are dead.]
We clearly know that our struggle is unfolding, one campaign leading to another in a never-ending stream until independence is won.
Sizozabalaza kuze kufike lapha konke kulunga khona singuKhongolose. Siyakhumbula laphaya ngokubulawa kwabantu e-Sharpville. Abantu abanga-69 bafa ngalolo suku kwathi abanga-200 bagcwala ezibhedlela. Babebulawelwa ukuthi babengafuni ukuphatha amapasi. Siyasho singuKhongolose ukuthi lokhu siyokulwela kuze kube sekugcineni. (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)
[We, as the African National Congress, will fight until we win. We remember Sharpeville, where 69 people were killed in one day and at least 200 were taken to hospital. People were killed merely for refusing to carry passes. We, as the African National Congress, say we will fight for this until the bitter end.]
Women are being used …
… ezikhathini eziningi. Omama bayahlukunyezwa ezindlini. Sikhuluma ngomzabalazo ophakathi endlini. Abantwana abancane abanezinyanga ezimbili badlwengulwa obaba. Ukuhlukumeza konke lokho. Hhayi bo! Phansi ngokudlwengula, phansi! [Uhleko]. Sicela ukuthi omama bangahlukunyezwa. Esikhathini esiningi umama uma eyofuna umsebenzi, akazukuwuthola engakavuki ngaphansi. [Ubuwelewele.] Siyabonga-ke ukuthi njengoba sisemzabalazweni womama, sisalwa futhi sisasho ukuthi omama nabantwana mabangahlukunyezwa emakhaya, emsebenzini nasemphakathini.
Njengoba sibonile, umntwana wemantshi ubulawe kabuhlungu engazange aphume aye emgwaqeni. Ubulawelwe endlini yakubo. Isisebenzi salapha ekhaya sidlwengulelwe phakathi endlini. Phansi ngokudlwengula, phansi! Ngiyabonga. [Ihlombe.] (Translation of isiZulu paragraphs follows.)
[… in many instances. Women are abused in their homes. We are now talking about the struggle inside the home. Children as young as two months old are raped by their very own fathers. This is all abuse. Hell, no! Down with rape, down! [Laughter.] We are pleading for women not to be abused. In most instances women have to sleep with their potential employers before they are employed. [Interjections.] We are, however, grateful that we as women in the liberation struggle are still fighting and we are still saying that women and children must not be abused, either in their homes, the workplace or the community in general.
As we learnt from the media, the magistrate’s child was killed without her going into the street. She was killed in her own house. The domestic worker was raped inside the house where she was working. Down with rape, down! I thank you. [Applause.]]
Mr O M THETJENG: Chairperson, I wish the Congolese government would know the very same things that she has mentioned - that they have laws that they have to implement to deal with the matters, as she has just said.
On 21 March 1960, as you said, people marched against the pass laws in Sharpeville and many were slain by the apartheid regime. A peaceful march led to the massacre of 69 defenceless people. The apartheid masters, who were never brought to book, had no empathy with human life.
Yesterday was the day to remember them in various ways, including at mass meetings that were held across the country. Our celebrations should not be confined only to fallen heroes and heroines, but should also include those who are still alive. We acknowledge the contributions made by people like Mahatma Gandhi and many others.
There are many individuals who were denied these basics, such as Maki Skosana, whose life was taken prematurely by a power-hungry mob that defied pleas from people like Desmond Tutu. The necklacing of people was a terrible way of denying them their human rights. The developments since are not entirely pleasing, though. Our Constitution has bestowed these rights on all South Africans. The Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established to promote these rights in all spheres of our society. People have been tainted for reasons that show hatred.
There is the continual abuse of women, through rape, by men; while some are sjambokked by their husbands. We are observing an increase in the rape of children. Recently a baby girl, whose parents loved her very much, was killed in her house by thugs who went in with the sole purpose of robbing the family of their belongings. The helper was also raped. Now the question is: What’s going to happen to the culprits who actually committed this heinous act? Are they going to be allowed to walk the streets of South Africa after killing a young child?
It seems to me that since 1994 offenders have more rights than victims. [Interjections.] They are given bail easily. In prison they are given five- star treatment, and they are out of jail through parole sooner rather than later. Full human rights should be restored to the victims of crimes, particularly of murder, rape and hijacking, including cash-in-transit hijackings. Let us allow South Africans to feel protected in their homes, on city streets, in shopping malls - everywhere.
Murderers and rapists should not only receive life sentences – which, of course, they never complete - but should also know that if they kill or rape, they too may be killed by the state that is trying to protect its citizens. [Interjections.] The Victim’s Charter will come in handy in this country, outlining how victims are to be protected from the horrendous acts they face in society.
Many South Africans are also denied their rights to medicine to deal with their HIV/Aids conditions. Only antiretroviral drugs, ARVs, can allow them to live a little longer and to oversee the growth of their little ones rather than die while they are still very young. [Interjections.]
An HON MEMBER: Will the member take a question?
Mr O M THETJENG: No, Chairperson.
What about their rights to free basic water, as contained in our Constitution? You are quite right to say that some people are given too little water, but we see people in municipalities that have been given large chunks of money. They can’t provide basic water to the rural communities. Pipes are underground, but they are dry; they don’t have water. This is one of the things that our people need to get: the water that they need so much.
There are heroes and heroines who died, as we said, but there are also those who are still alive. We talk about people like Nelson Mandela. We salute his contribution to this country. No man could ever kill the vision he had about this country.
We also salute women like Helen Suzman who stood here in Parliament against all odds and opposed all laws that undermined the dignity of blacks in this country. Her contribution will go a long way in history, despite objections from other people who feel that they alone were the ones who determined this country’s destiny. [Applause.]
We remember her gallant effort to highlight the plight of a man who was killed on one of the farms in Limpopo in the 1980s. She stood alone, wanting justice to be done to the perpetrators. There are many more examples we can give, but this is just one of them. Regarding Desmond Tutu’s contribution, when Maki Skosana was killed he pleaded for her, but people never listened and her life was shortened.
When the Chief Whip was actually moving a motion in this House today, a simple request was denied by the Chair for him to repeat what was said in a language that people could actually understand, because the system was not functioning. Whose rights are we talking about in this House when simple things that are supposed to be done are not done? [Applause.] [Interjections.] Laws have been passed … [Interjections.]
Kgoshi M L MOKOENA: Chairperson, in any country the decision of the Chair will always be respected. It can’t be challenged. This member is out of order, because he has challenged the decision of the Chair. The Chair ruled on that matter, and he is questioning it. I think he is out of order, Chairperson.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon member, I think the order is maintained. You can proceed.
Mr O M THETJENG: It is surprising and disheartening to still find South Africans that are being threatened and forced to vote for particular political parties, failing which their social grants will be withdrawn. Where are the human rights we are talking about? [Interjections.] People are being threatened in that if they don’t vote, particularly for the ruling party, their grants will be withdrawn. Where are the human rights we are talking about? [Applause.]
Ms A N T MCHUNU: Thank you, hon Chairperson, for the time that I have been given to discuss …
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon members, order! Can we have order please so that we can have a smooth debate. You may continue, hon member.
Ms A N T MCHUNU: Chairperson, I would like to thank the hon Minister for the presentation she has given on the justice system and what we need to look at, concerning the Bills that she mentioned.
The government has gone a long way in ensuring the upholding of human rights by continuing to provide water, electricity, houses, roads and basic social services. Transformation is an ongoing process and people’s needs are never wholly satisfied because some people are born while others die.
Human rights are people’s rights, human and people’s rights are family rights, family rights are community rights. These rights are intertwined and the rights and responsibilities impact on all categories, individuals or groups. And that is why the massacre of 21 March 1960 had such an effect on all of us and, in fact, on the whole world. Even now, it’s effect is still remembered and felt because the rights and responsibilities impact on all people in the communities.
We now look at the rights of people from conception to birth. The rights of the embryo and the foetus are the rights that are denied children to be born when they are aborted, as we call it termination of pregnancy”. Some of those embryos or foetuses would be Ministers and some of them would be you and me sitting right here.
From birth to one year, the infant has the right to be fed with adequate nutritious food, be it breast milk or substitutes and solids. The infant has to bond and be taught how to love and be loved. The infant has the right to be taught to communicate eye-to- eye and have contact through being placed either on the chest, back or lap of the mother or relatives. These are the things that are needed by a child early on if it is to be a wholesome and well-brought-up human being.
Children’s rights, which have just been mentioned by our Minister, also need to be looked at because children need to be given primary care, including proper education and discipline. And the child has the right to be brought up in a family environment in order to know how to relate to a father or father figure, or mother or a substitute and also how to relate to siblings. There are children who are unable to relate to other people. Perhaps, that is why they end up as street children because this important part was missing in their early lives.
As adults, women and men have basic and role-related rights and responsibilities, as individuals or as family members, in the work place or in the community. We cannot run away from the fact that these rights have to go with responsibilities. That is why a man is expected to look after his family and that is why a woman is the manager of the household. She is the one who disciplines everybody in the home, because everybody in the home situation is a child to the woman who is in the household.
The neglect of basic needs is abuse on its own. The rights are about equality and equity, dignity, freedom of movement, safety and security, property rights for all, freedom of association, freedom to choose one’s religion and political and national freedom.
If we are going to say we are equal, what I wouldn’t like to say is that I am equal to a man who is a drunkard because that equality is not complete. I cannot be equal to a man who is a drunkard. Rather, let’s look at equity …
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon member, your time has expired. Be equal to the respect of the House.
Ms A N T MCHUNU: Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Mnu J S MAPHALALA: Sihlalo, lolu Suku lwamaLungelo eSintu luwusuku olubaluleke kakhulu ngoba lusukela kulaba bantu abanga-69 abafa. Kodwa okwenza kube lula uma kukhulunywa ukuthi ngisho ezikoleni udaba luwumusho owodwa. Ngisho kwababelucwaninga, akekho usolwazi owayengavuma ukuthi aphase umuntu owayekhuluma ngaleyo ndaba. Ababhala ngalolu daba ngendlela ejulile ebizwa nge-thesis, bathola iziqu zabo emanyuvesi aphesheya ngoba uma wawubhale ngalo lapha, wawungazithola usenkingeni. Ngakho-ke luwudaba olubaluleke kakhulu, okususelwa kulo le ndaba yamalungelo esintu.
Mangisho ukuthi izwe lakithi laseNingizimu Afrika selenze, kusukela ngo- 1994, into ecishe iwedlule onke amazwe ase-Afrika maqondana nokugqamisa udaba lwamalungelo esintu. Kodwa inkinga ekhona yinye: umphumela wakhona awungangokufakwa kwezimali ukuthi lolu daba luzwakale kahle emphakathini. UMthethosisekelo wethu uthi kunemiphakathi emine – amakhaladi, amaNdiya, abelungu nama-Afrika. Kodwa inkinga enkulu eyenza ukuthi lolu daba lufane nokuthela amanzi edadeni ukuthi luqhamuka kube sengathi kukhulunywa nomphakathi owodwa, mhlawumbe waseNgilandi. Manje-ke umbuzo uthi, ngoba imali iyafakwa kangaka, kwenzeka kanjani kube sengathi akwenzeki lutho, kanti udaba lolimi okuyilona olushayela lolu daba.
Ngibona ukuthi kufanele sonke sivule amehlo, lolu daba silufake ngezilimi zemiphakathi namasiko ayo imiphakathi bese sibheka ukuthi imiphumela ekhona ithini. Asingavele nje sivulele isiNgisi, sivulele isiNgisi yonke indawo nasemaphepheni ngoba izigidigidi zabantu bakithi – siyakwazi futhi singofakazi - aziyizwa leyo ndaba.
Sikhulumile futhi ngiyasivumela isikhulumi uNyanda okhulume ngodaba oluthinta umoya, udaba lwasemapulazini lapho okulusizi olwesabekayo khona. Nokho kufanele kube khona izinto ezibhaliwe abazizwayo labo bantu abazigqila emapulazini, bafunde kahle futhi bezwe ukuthi kuthiwani kubo. Masingajahi ukuthi sinikeze abantu abazobanika ulwazi nabo bedlulele kwabanye bafune ukuchazelwa ukuthi kushiwo ukuthini.
Kungakuhle uma imali eningi singayifaka ekutheni abantu bezwe ukuthi kuthiwani – yonke le miphakathi, sikuvume futhi ukuthi asiwona umphakathi owodwa, asiyona iNgilandi. Singafisa ukuba iNgilandi kodwa ngeke kwenzeke. Mine imiphakathi ekhona. Uma sesikuvumile lokho, kufuneka sisebenzise imali kakhulu ukusiza abantu bakithi.
Sesishilo ukuthi izwe lethu lenze okukhulu kakhulu okuwadlulayo amazwe amaningi ezwekazini lethu elilapha. Elinye iphuzu elibalulekile maqondana nalolu daba lwamalungelo esintu udaba lokuthi kufanele mhlawumbe sike sicabange ukuthi kungaba njani ohlelweni lwezifundo uma singafaka isifundo esizofundiswa bese simakwa, ukwenzela ukuthi kusukela kwenzekile lokhu umphumela wabantu abedlule lapho basifunda lesi sifundo sebeyoba usizo esikhathini esizayo.
Lokho kungasiza ngoba thina esafunda ngesikhathi sobandlululo yayingageji i- Great Trek; ingageji i-Blood River – siyicula; engageji u-Jan Van Riebeeck
- simcula bese siphasa ngamalengiso futhi lokhu kubuye njalo, njalo, njalo. [Uhleko.] Kuyasiza lokho ukuthi sifake into ezobuya njalo, njalo lapha-ke isizosiza thina. Ngaleso sikhathi yayenza ukuthi uma uthi ubuza ezomlando ngivele ngishaye i-Great Trek, ngishaye u-Jan Van Riebeeck, ngishaye ubani. [Uhleko.] Kudingekile-ke ukuthi sikucabange lokho. Ngiyathokoza. [Ihlombe.] (Translation of isiZulu speech follows.)
[Mr J S MAPHALALA: Chairperson, Human Rights Day is very, very important because it has its origins in an event when 69 people died. What makes it easy when we are talking is that even at schools, the issue is one sentence. Even with regard to those who were doing research into this issue, no professor could agree to pass somebody who dealt with this issue. Those who wrote their theses on this subject obtained their degrees at overseas universities because if you wrote about it here, you could find yourself in trouble. Therefore the origins of human rights are important.
Let me say that our country, South Africa, since 1994 has done much better than any other country in Africa concerning the human rights issue. However, there is only one problem: the results are not comparable to the money that we are investing so that this issue could be better understood in the community. Our Constitution recognises four communities, Coloureds, Indians, whites and Africans. The problem that makes this issue complicated is that it always seems as if we are talking to one community, in England perhaps. The question is, as money is being invested in this area, why does it seem as if nothing is happening? It is language that is the driving force behind this issue.
We all have to open our eyes. We have to disseminate information to communities about this issue in their own languages and see if there are any results. Let us not use English everywhere, even in newspapers, because millions of people don’t understand this issue.
I concur with the hon Nyanda, who spoke about the issue concerning the wind; the issue of farms where there is sorrow. There must be things that are written for people on farms so that they can understand what is being said to them.
In trying to make sure that people understand what we are saying, let us put in more money. Let us also agree that we are not one community. We are not England. We can wish to be England, but that will not happen. There are four communities. If we agree on that, we must use money to help our people.
We have already said that our country has done better than most countries in Africa. Another point concerning the human rights issue is that we have to think about introducing a subject in schools that is going to be taught and marked. The result of that is that people who have studied this subject would be helpful to the community
That could help, because for us, who studied during apartheid, the Great Trek and Blood River were always there; we were singing it. Jan van Riebeeck was always there, and we were singing it and passing with flying colours! [Laughter.] It helps to introduce something that will come back again and again. In that period, whenever you asked about history, I would tell you about the Great Trek and Jan van Riebeeck. [Laughter.] We have to think about that. Thank you. [Applause.]]
Mrs A N D QIKANE: Chairperson, hon Minister and hon members, undoubtedly, 1994 represents a human rights watershed moment in the development of human rights in this country. Because of the symbolism and the significance of equal political rights first exercised in 1994, later developments seem to pale in comparison. However, the most significant human rights developments came in 1996 with the adoption of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights that it entrenches as the foundation of our democratic society.
These human rights required further expansion in the legal framework through their own enabling legislation, as well as their development, whereas the courts, and especially the Constitutional Court, have played a significant role in pursuing the latter. The development of human rights has faltered in certain critical areas due to delays in the drafting and enabling of the legislation.
As far as the rights of children, women and the victims of sexual offences are concerned, the long delays in the drafting of new legislation to give expression to these human rights have caused untold and unnecessary harm. But, by far the biggest challenge that we face in so far as human rights development is concerned, is not the legal framework, but rather the practical implementation and day-to-day realisation of human rights.
It remains a sad fact that there are many South Africans who suffer abuse and exploitation in clear contravention of the Bill of Rights. It is thus a question of the awareness and enforcement of these human rights that is lacking and that is why we often speak of a culture of human rights. What we should acknowledge is that building a culture will take significant effort and resources in order to counter many centuries of discrimination. Thank you. [Time expired.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon members, I know that at some point there were suspicions that we are manipulating our judgments in terms of time. I’ll advise hon members to watch the clock so that they make their own judgments on whether our ruling is consistent with what they observe in front of them. However, I will proceed to call upon hon N D Hendrickse.
Mr N D HENDRICKSE: Hon Minister, hon Chairperson, hon members, 21 March marks the anniversary of the Sharpeville and Langa massacres where comrades died in the struggle against the apartheid regime. This event also mobilised the international community against the apartheid forces, and I dare to say that it was a turning point in our history. And I would just like to say that, today, we must not see this as a mere academic debate, for those of us who lived through this time know that it was a terrible time. I also want to say that I hope these families and the slain people have been honoured at this time.
South Africa has achieved a lot in the past 12 years, but much more could be done. There has been the legal dismantling of apartheid, though we still see the effects of systemic racial discrimination in our society. Political liberation has not been accompanied by the economic liberation although we see BEE making progress. People are aware of the social welfare services and benefits entitled to them, but they cannot experience them. In essence, the poor in South Africa do not enjoy basic human rights, as the quality of their lives has not improved.
I think we have set the bar too high when drafting the Bill of Rights, especially the socioeconomic rights, access to health, free education, jobs for all, etc. We must give effect to this; perhaps the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for SA, Asgisa, will assist in this regard. Until social justice is achieved human rights will only be enjoyed by a privileged few. An issue such as excessive police force in service delivery protests is disturbing, as police action must play itself out in the context of the culture of human rights. [Time expired.]
Mr J O TLHAGALE: Hon Chair, hon Minister and the House, Human Rights Day, as it is called today, is a commemoration of the ghastly events that happened on the 21 March 1960. On that fateful day, 69 peaceful demonstrators and marchers were killed in a hail of police gunfire at Sharpeville and many others were wounded. Those tragic events were triggered by the pass law system according to which black South Africans were compelled by law to carry the hated dompas.
Since 1994, black South Africans have also enjoyed human rights, which they were previously denied. They are no longer discriminated against in terms of their skin colour or material possessions. However, looking at our relationships as black South Africans, one sees that there are tribal and ethnic differences among us where certain race groups are despised and relegated to the background. This unpleasant state of affairs does not auger well in terms of our human relationships and is bordering on the same ills that we had been complaining about.
Le fa go ntse jalo, maemo a gompieno a botoka thata fa a tshwantshanngwa le a maloba. Ke a leboga. [Legofi.] [However, conditions have improved very much today when compared to the past. [Thank you.] [Applause.]]
Mr S SHICEKA: Chairperson, well, we are happy that this instrument is installed in front of us; thus we can see that there is no manipulation of the system. I want to pass condolences to the family of Kubhayi, some of whose members were wiped out on the eve of Human Rights Day in Protea, Soweto, when five people died in a car accident.
I want to address myself to hon member Thetjeng when he argued that in this country the ANC-led government doesn’t give people grants if they don’t vote for it. I want to show you that what you are saying is far from the truth. Over 11 million people are receiving grants in this country and the ANC government has been voted in by far less than that. Therefore, hon Thetjeng, what you are saying is far from the truth. In fact, you are liberal with the truth.
Secondly, you wanted to know what will happen to the alleged murderers and rapists who were arrested for killing Judge Ngoepe’s grandchild and raping the housekeeper, and also raised the issue of calling for a death sentence.
You believe, as the DA, that there must be independence of justice; that the justice system must enjoy independence, and that there must be no political interference, but at the same time you know that the alleged perpetrators in this regard will be arrested. It means the law is going to take its course. Now, what do you want the government to do? Do you want us to interfere?
Regarding the death sentence, the Constitutional Court, which is the highest court in this land pronounced on the matter. When they weighed these two options - the right to life and the issue of death sentence - they took a decision that the death sentence in this country is not allowed. Do you want us to interfere as politicians to tell the Constitutional Court to change its decision? What about the independence of the judiciary? It means you are forked-tongued! You have double standards in the way you deal with the issues.
You are also saying that in this country, victims have fewer rights than perpetrators, and you know that this not true. Hon Thetjeng, sir, you were party to the processes that developed this Constitution. Not only that, you have been party to the process of making laws in this country, but now you speak against your own decisions. What type of a person are you? Can you really be trusted?
Concerning Mrs Mchunu, she says that the issue of abortion is not OK. She says it is not OK, but she was party to the development of this Constitution, which was passed.
In terms of chapter 2, clause 12 of the Bill of Rights:
Everyone has the right to bodily and psychological integrity, which includes the right –
(a) to make decisions concerning reproduction;
(b) to security in and control over their body ...
[Interjections.]
Ms A N T MCHUNU: Chairperson, I think the speaker is not delivering to us …[Laughter.]… he is busy correcting other people. [Interjections.]
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon member, can you take a seat! Hon member, can you take a seat! And Mr Shiceka, can you proceed with the debate?
Mr S SHICEKA: Thank you, Chair, the issue that Ma Mchunu is raising, is an issue that is covered by our Constitution. Do you subscribe to a notion that says South Africa is a constitutional state, which means whatever we do is derived from the Constitution of this country? Do you want us to deviate from the Constitution? It means then, Ms Mchunu, you must tell us what your party believes in.
Mr A WATSON: Will the member take the question?
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon member, will you take a question?
Mr S SHICEKA: Yes.
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Yes, he will take a question.
Mr A WATSON: Are you saying to this House that you believe implicitly in the Constitution?
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon member?
Mr S SHICEKA: Definitely!
Mr A WATSON: Then why do you want to change the provision on the Leader of the Opposition?
The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr T S Setona): Hon Watson, you are out of order, sit down! You want to make a statement. That is not a question. Can you continue, hon member?
Mr S SHICEKA: Thank you, Chair. Concerning the issue of children’s rights, children’s rights are enshrined in the Constitution - this is the area that we use. Now, you are raising an issue to say that we must have a patriarchal society where women are subservient to men.
Ms Mchunu, do you mean that women in this country are children? That is what you are saying. This means that you are undermining women as people, and we are trying to educate you.
Siyakuhabulisa maqondana nokuthi omama bayalingana nobaba, kodwa wena uthi masibuyele emuva. Yinkinga-ke leyo. [Ubuwelewele.] [We want to update you by telling you that women are now equal to men. However, you still want us to live in the past. That would be a problem.] [Interjections.]]
I want to say that, today, we have been offered an opportunity to pause and reflect on the long journey that has been travelled and traversed since 1994 by our democratic government. This journey is aimed at ensuring that all and sundry, irrespective of their social and economic status or stratification, enjoys the first, the second and the third generation rights enshrined in the supreme law of the country.
The genesis of our Constitution, which is amongst the best in the world, is based on the Freedom Charter. Our predecessors outlined, in 1955, what type of society the people of the Republic should live under. We will always use the Freedom Charter as a barometer to measure progress and development in achieving the rights for all.
Today’s theme is, “Human Rights are People’s Rights: Development in South Africa since 1994”. A lot has been achieved in this country, particularly in the first and the third generation rights. Everyone enjoys dignity and equality, especially in the eyes of the state. People are proud of being South Africans, not only those in the country, but even those in other parts of the world.
I think all of us heard when the UN Secretary-General was saying that South Africa, as a country, has made strategic contributions in the world and it is highly respected. And I think as South Africans we must be proud … [Applause.] … that we have a government that is highly respected all over the world. The instrument here is indicating that my time is over.
In conclusion, let us be patriotic! Let the Freedom Charter be taught in schools. I hope that the Minister will take that to her colleagues. Thank you. [Applause.]
The MINISTER FOR JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Chairperson, I am very happy that we have had such a good debate. I am just going to pick and highlight some of the issues that have come up, and I just want to say to Comrade Nyanda … Ngiyabonga kakhulu uma usikhumbuza ukuthi abantu bethu basakhalaza ngokuthi amalungelo abo abawatholi kahle. IsiZulu ngiyasizamazama, kodwa ngifuna ukukhuluma sona. [Thank you very much for reminding us that our people are still complaining that they are not treated fairly. I am struggling with isiZulu, but I want to speak it.]
Ke tla bua le ka Setswana. [Laughter.] [I will also speak Setswana.] [Laughter.]]
Engikushoyo lapha ukuthi . . . [I mean to say that …]
. . . justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done. We must make sure at all times that our people begin to have confidence in our justice system.
Many of us know that in real life, especially in remote areas, people still feel that justice is not on the people’s side. In the JCPS cluster, it is our responsibility that we really work towards making sure that people trust and have confidence in the system. It does not help when people sometimes feel that there is collusion.
Noma siya ezimbizweni abantu baye basho ukuthi kukhona abantu okusengathi banokucindezela abanye abantu, njengezinye izimantshi kanye namaphoyisa. Ngalokho-ke abantu bangawatholi kahle amalungelo, nobulungiswa. [Even if we go to izimbizo some people say that there are people who still appear to be oppressed by people like magistrates and the police. Therefore justice is not done and people do not get fair treatment.]
Some say that even in the manner in which cases are conducted, one finds that victims can be excluded through the use of language where, in fact, the language that is used may well be used among the people who speak it, who are also black, but choose to speak English or Afrikaans. Those are issues of access to justice and so, really, you have brought up a very important issue. However, we must work together as Members of Parliament to really strengthen the justice system to have proper oversight of what actually is happening.
During elections I went to a remote area and I am told that there are unresolved killings in the area and there is suspicion that there is collusion. We need to find out whether such things do happen in fact. So, we will have to address these particular issues and make sure that our people access justice.
The member, hon Thjetjeng [Interjections.] … I am sorry … I really apologise, but the point is that I really wanted to remind you that we do have a Victims’ Charter and in fact the charter actually passed through the House. What we need to do, and this would have been a valid critique, is to monitor and ensure that people understand their rights in accordance with the Victims’ Charter.
The other thing that I thought was very important and which was mentioned here was the whole question of … I think Comrade Shiceka has actually responded so well to many of the issues, but I just want to highlight a few that you have raised and that I think are very, very important.
We have to work together. We really have a responsibility. We all need to work together to ensure that our people understand their rights. We have to work in our constituencies. If we agree that the justice system is the weaker link, ie if we say that we have made advances in the economic and social area, but that in the area of justice, policing, etc, we are weaker, then we have to work together to strengthen the justice system.
I think that much can be done to strengthen our communities, such as working together as MPs, joining hands with NGOs and other members of government at the various levels to really bring about a greater understanding of our Constitution and our rights. We must lead by example - by saying no to violence against women and children, for instance. We must be seen to be very active in the sectors we operate. Whether we operate in academia or in our churches, that impact must be felt.
Let me say that the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs Unit which is in the National Prosecutorial Authority has actually been very innovative and has done very well under Advocate Thoko Majokweni. One important innovation is that they have linked up with the education department and have begun what could be termed a process of prevention of gender-related and child- related violence by doing something very important.
They are also running civic courses to educate young people about the respect of men and women and about all issues relating to gender. What we need to do then is to find those kinds of capacities where they lie, either in government, civil society or NGOs and put in further resources to strengthen people working in that area. She is going to be so happy to hear me saying this. All of them will want resources so she will assume that they will be allocated more money.
Nnyaa, bagarona le buile. Sa me, gompieno, e ne e le go le kgothaletsa gore re dirisane; re tshwarane ka mabogo re age setšhaba. Go aga setšhaba, ke utswa mafoko a sebui sengwe se ke sa gakologelweng gore ke mang, mme o kare ke rre Tlhagale, fa a re … (Translation of Setswana paragraph follows.)
[No, our people have spoken. My role today was to encourage you to work together, to hold hands to build our nation. In building our nation, I would like to quote one speaker whose name I cannot recall; however, it appeared to be Mr Tlhagale who said … ]
… transformation is an on-going process. “I really think we must know. We mustn’t be too hard on ourselves but we must know that we have to increase the pace. Real gains must be made with our transformation agenda. And, as I said, more and more enabling frameworks in the form of Bills or laws are coming out. I have heard that the Children’s Bill has passed through Parliament now and will be signed into law and that again increases possibilities for improving the quality of life of young persons or children as it replaces the Child Care Act. Colleagues, I thank you for the debate. [Applause.]
THE HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms T S Setona): Hon Minister, on behalf of this august House I want to extend special thanks to you for your time and contribution to this important debate. We are not just debating for the sake of expressing our diversity, but also as part and parcel of educating our broader public in terms of how we as the very frontline leadership of society and as elected people, see challenges that are confronting men, women and children in our country, insofar as issues of human rights are concerned.
On that note, hon Minister and hon members, that concludes the debate and the business of the day and the House is adjourned.
The Council adjourned at 15:14. ____
ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
THURSDAY, 9 MARCH 2006
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- The Minister of Finance
a) International Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in
Customs Matters adopted in Brussels on 27 June 2003: Your Customs
Johannesburg Convention dated 13 July 2004, tabled in terms of
section 231(2) of the Constitution, 1996.
b) Explanatory Memorandum on International Convention on Mutual
Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters.
- The Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs
a) Strategic Plan of the Department of Land Affairs for 2006 to 2009.
b) Strategic Plan of the National Agricultural Marketing Council for
2006 to 2011.
c) Strategic Plan of the Ncera Farms (Pty) Ltd for 2006/07.
3. The Minister in The Presidency
a) Strategic Plan of the International Marketing Council (IMC) for
2006 to 2009.
FRIDAY, 10 MARCH 2006
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister of Finance
(a) Government Notice No 44 published in Government Gazette No 28411 dated 18 January 2006: Exemptions from Supply Chain Management Regulations in terms of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act No 56 of 2003).
(b) Government Notice No R.1105 published in Government Gazette No 28226 dated 14 November 2005: Amendment of prescribed fees in terms of the Pension Funds Act, 1956 (Act No 24 of 1956).
-
The Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry
(a) Strategic Plan of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry for 2006 to 2007.
MONDAY, 13 MARCH 2006
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Speaker and the Chairperson
The Speaker and the Chairperson, on 13 March 2006, called a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, as follows:
CALLING OF JOINT SITTING OF PARLIAMENT
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms B Mbete, and the Chairperson
of the National Council of Provinces, Mr M J Mahlangu, in terms of
Joint Rule 7 (2), have called a joint sitting of the Houses of
Parliament for Tuesday, 14 March 2006 at 14:00 in order for Mr Kofi
Annan, Secretary-General to the United Nations to address the Joint
Sitting.
B MBETE, MP M J MAHLANGU, MP
SPEAKER OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PROVINCES
National Council of Provinces
- Referral to Committees of papers tabled
1. The following paper is referred to the Select Committee on
Public Services:
a) Report of the Auditor-General on the findings identified
during a performance audit of
the approval and allocation of housing subsidies at Provincial
housing departments,
January 2006 [RP 13-2006].
2. The following paper is referred to the Select Committee on
Local Government and
Administration:
a) Quarterly Report of the Auditor-General on the submission of
financial statements by municipalities and the status of audit
reports as at 31 December 2005 for the financial year ended 30
June 2005 [RP 16-2006].
3. The following paper is referred to the Select Committee on
Education and Recreation:
a) Report and Financial Statements of the South African State
Theatre for 2004-2005, including the Report of the Auditor-
General on the Financial Statements for 2004-2005.
4. The following papers are referred to the Select Committee on
Labour and Public Enterprises for consideration:
a) Strategic Plan of the Department of Labour for 2006 to 2009.
b) Strategic Plan of Government Communication and Information
System (GCIS) for 2006 to 2009.
c) Strategic Plan of Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA)
for 2006 to 2009.
5. The following paper is referred to the Select Committee on
Social Services for consideration:
a) Strategic Plan of the Department of Health for 2006/07 to
2008/09 [RP 29-2006].
6. The following paper is referred to the Select Committee on
Local Government and Administration for consideration:
a) Strategic Plan of the South African Management Development
Institute for 2005/06 to 2010/11.
7. The following papers are referred to the Select Committee on
Land and Environmental Affairs for consideration:
a) Strategic Plan of the Department of Agriculture for 2006.
b) Strategic Plan of the Land and Agricultural Development Bank for
2006/7.
c) Strategic Plan of the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights
for 2006/7 – 2008.
d) Strategic Plan of the Agricultural Research Council for 2006/7 –
2010/11.
e) Strategic Plan of the Ingonyama Trust Board for 2006/2007.
f) Strategic Plan of the Onderstepoort Biological Products
Ltd for 2006 to 2009.
(g) Strategic Plan of the Perishable Products Export
Control Board.
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- The Minister of Social Development
a) Strategic Plan of the South African Social Security Agency for 2006/07 to 2008/09.
- The Minister of Public Enterprises
(a) Amendment to Eskom’s pricing structure, tabled in terms of
section 42(4) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management
Act, 2003 (Act No 56 of 2003), and supporting documents required in
terms of section 42(3) of the same Act.
TUESDAY, 14 MARCH 2006
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
Referral to Committees of papers tabled
- The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises for consideration:
a) Amendment to Eskom’s pricing structure, tabled in terms of section 42(4) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act No 56 of 2003) and supporting documents required in terms of section 42(3) of the same Act.
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- The Minister of Social Development
a) Strategic Plan of the South African Social Security Agency for
2006/07 to 2008/09.
WEDNESDAY, 15 MARCH 2006
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
- Assent by President in respect of Bills
1) Diamonds Amendment Bill [B 27B – 2005] – Act No 29 of 2005
(assented to and signed by President on 10 February 2006);
2) Diamonds Second Amendment Bill [B 39B – 2005] – Act No 30 of 2005
(assented to and signed by President on 10 February 2006);
3) Forestry Laws Amendment Bill [B 24B – 2005] – Act No 35 of 2005
(assented to and signed by President on 4 March 2006).
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- The Minister of Trade and Industry
a) Strategic Plan of the Department of Trade and Industry for 2006 to
2009.
THURSDAY, 16 MARCH 2006
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
- The Minister of Trade and Industry
a) Annual Report of The Office of Consumer Protection for 2004-2005.
b) Report of the Strategic Industrial Projects (SIP) for April 2002 to March 2005.
FRIDAY, 17 MARCH 2006
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Speaker and the Chairperson
(a) Report of the Auditor-General on the Declarations of Interest by Ministers, Deputy Ministers and Government Employees [RP 19-2006].
-
The Minister of Public Works
a) Memorandum by the Minister of Public Works setting out Particulars of the Building Programme for 2006-2007 [RP 25-2006].
MONDAY, 20 MARCH 2006
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
-
Draft Bill submitted in terms of Joint Rule 159
1) Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment Bill, submitted by the Minister of Transport on 7 March 2006. Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Transport and the Select Committee on Public Services.
WEDNESDAY, 22 MARCH 2006
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
- Membership of Committees
(1) The following changes have been made to the membership of Joint
Committees:
Budget
Appointed: Robinson, Ms D.
National Council of Provinces
The Chairperson
-
Message from National Assembly to National Council of Provinces in respect of Bill passed by Assembly and transmitted to Council (1) Bill passed by National Assembly on 22 March 2006 and transmitted for concurrence:
i) Additional Adjustments Appropriation Bill (2005/06 Financial Year) [B 4 – 2005] (National Assembly – sec 77) The Bill has been referred to the Select Committee on Finance of the National Council of Provinces.
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
-
The Minister of Defence
(a) Strategic Business Plan for the Department of Defence [RP 33- 2006].
-
Minister of Communications
(a) Strategic Plan for the Department of Communications for 2006- 2009.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
National Council of Provinces
- Report of the Select Committee on Labour and Public Enterprises on the Final Acts of the Plenipotentiary Conference in Marrakesh, Morocco in 2002 of the International Telecommunications Union, dated 22 March 2006:
The Select Committee on Labour and Public Enterprises, having
considered the request for approval by Parliament of the Final Acts of
the Plenipotentiary Conference in Marrakesh, Morocco in 2002 of the
International Telecommunications Union, referred to it, recommends that
the Council, in terms of section 231(2) of the Constitution, approve
the said Final Acts.
Report to be considered.