Question NW618 to the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

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29 May 2020 - NW618

Profile picture: Singh, Mr N

Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

(1) what (a) is the total number of informal wet markets in the Republic and (b) steps will her department in association with other relevant departments take to avoid that such markets become incubators for dangerous pathogens and viruses as most recently seen regarding the circumstances for the suspected outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic at a fish market in Wuhan, China; (2) whether she intends closing wet markets in the Republic; if not, what preventative measures will she put in place; if so, what are the full details of the effect that this will have on general food security generated by these markets?

Reply:

 


618. THE MINISTER OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT REPLIES:

1(a). According to the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, there are no known formal or informal wet markets in the republic. However, in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, section 162, Municipalities are responsible for the publication of relevant bylaws in their respective provinces, which would regulate activities associated with such markets. It should further be noted that the Meat Safety Act (Act No. 40 of 2000), enforced by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) regulates the meat product. Therefore, please refer further questions in this regard to municipalities and/or the DALRRD

1(b) Please see 1(a) above

2. Please 1(a) above

Regards

MS B D CREECY, MP
MINISTER OF FORESTORY FISHERIES AND ENVIRONMENT
DATE: 29/05/202