Committee Reports: adoption

Meeting report

The Chairperson noted the apologies presented and realised that Committee reports and minutes could not be adopted as there was no quorum. She suggested that the Committee discuss its Strategic Plan. She was pleased to inform the Committee had a legal advisor that would be able to give legal direction in all legal issues.

The Chairperson felt that a meeting should be held with the Minister of Labour to improve relations. The availability of the Minister should be ascertained. The intention was to gauge the availability of the Minister and for the Minister become better acquainted with the Committee and its work.

A motion was raised about State Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and she felt that the Department should be called to clarify the issue. The Minister should be included as well. There were eleven SETAs that were referred to the Committee by Parliament. It would be better for the Department to brief the Committee on the SETAs.

The lack of attendance of Members was important and the Committee needed to be guided by the programme of Parliament. It was understood that constituency work had to be done

Mr T Anthony (ANC) felt that the issues that were a priority last year should remain so, such as employment equity, farm visits and meetings with the Commission on Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) and National Economic Development and Labour (NEDLAC). The Committee’s Strategic Plan should be assessed and these meetings should take place in February.

The Chairperson reiterated that, due to lack of a quorum, no decision could be made but proposals would be heard. Mr Anthony had covered the important issues. The Department should brief the Committee on the SETAs.

The Chairperson adjourned the meeting.