Question NW1867 to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

Reply:

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE

i) The department of Defence has not been allocated an additional amount by National Treasury. Following the budget estimate of Rb4.5 estimate the department of defence was allocated Rb3.0 on the 24th of June 2020 for COVID-19 expenses.

ii) The breakdown of R3.0 billion is as follows;

(a) R763.4 million for Cost of Employment (CoE/personnel costs), and;

(b) R2.2 billion for goods and Services and Capital equipment.

(ii) As of the 31st of July 2020, personnel costs totalling R476 million have been paid to SANDF personnel, and orders of goods and services amounting of R1.5 billion have been placed of which R1.1 billion been delivered and paid. (R753 million for PPE and minor medical equipment)

(iv) Procurement of additional equipment for a field hospital (SAMHS) is in the process of being finalised.

DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY VETERANS

Covid 19 Spending Plan:

The Department of Military Veterans (DMV), in response to the Covid 19 pandemic, developed a Covid 19 Response Plan. In order to execute the plan, the DMV prioritised funds, following the guidelines provided by National Treasury, 2020 Special Adjustment of Budget. An amount of R4.3 million has been set aside to spend on Covid 19 related items.

Details of the Plan:

In an attempt to remain compliant with matters related to Covid 19 pandemic, the plan includes amongst other things, the procurement of Masks, Gloves,

Goggles, Face Shields, Temperature Scanners, Sanitizers, various detergents and cleaning materials, amongst other things.