Question NW2299 to the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
30 October 2020 - NW2299
Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Whether she will explain why the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) who is mandated in terms of the Animals Protection Act, Act 71 of 1962, to support the SA Police Service in enforcing legislation that protects and prevents cruelty to animals, is not funded directly by the Government, but has to rely on funding from the National Lottery and private organisations; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the full relevant details; (2) whether her department is considering a more direct budget-related funding model so as to ensure that the NSPCA can fulfil its lawfully mandated tasks; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the full relevant details? NW2871E
Reply:
1. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1993 [No. 169 of 1993] which is the founding legislation which covers the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) provides for control of societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals, and for matters connected therewith. These societies are non-profit organizations and through this Act are enabled to collect contributions or raise funds country-wide in any lawful manner; and may receive financial grants from public funds and accept donations and bequests from any person or estatesubject to the provisions of, and as contemplated in, the Fundraising Act, 1978 (Act No. 107 of 1978). The NSPCA has been sustaining itself through revenue streams which are provided for within the Act.
2. No.The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is not considering direct budget allocations to the NSPCA. The Department is currently working on legislation that will also empower government officials to enforce the Act.