Question NW1066 to the Minister of Police
29 October 2019 - NW1066
Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of Police
(1) What were than requirements for the training of member of the SA Police Service in firing firearms in order to ensure that they were properly trained with regard to their firing skills; (2) Whether any firing exercise or training has ever been cancelled due to a shortage of ammunition; if so. (a) how many times in each province and (b) what were the reasons in each case; (3) Whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
1. Prescribed training
The Firearms Control Act 60/2000, in section 98 (2)(b) provides that a member must complete the prescribed training and test before he or she can bo issued with a firearm.
Regulation 80(1) of the Firearms Control Regulations provides that: “An Official institution that provides firearms to its employees must ensure that its employee’s receive the necessary practical and theoretical training to ensure that the employee is competent to possess and use the firearms."
Unit Standard 120487 is used as the framework for the development of the training curriculum for the weapons used by the South African Police Service. This unit standard consists of the following three specific outcomes with relevant assessment criteria:
• Specific outcome 1: Apply knowledge and understanding of the relevant legislation required.
• Specific outcome 2: Handle a firearm safely.
• Specific outcome 3. Operate, maintain and use a firearm.
The pass rate for this unit standard is 70% for both their theoretical and practical assessments.