Question NW2701 to the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture”
26 November 2020 - NW2701
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture”
(1) Whether he has been informed by the Office of the Public Protector that she is currently investigating the failure of the National Arts Council (NAC) to pay beneficiaries; if not, why not; if so, what are the reasons for the non-payment; (2) whether the recommendations of the former Public Protector, Adv. T N Madonsela, against the Chief Executive Officer of the NAC have been implemented; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The NAC has been informed by the office of the Public Protector for the non-payment of beneficiaries. Some beneficiaries had disputed 25% because of poor understanding and/ or lack of communication either the part of the NAC or beneficiaries as to whether their project would be able to continue during lockdown. The funding has subsequently been approved to be disbursed to the affected beneficiaries. Beneficiaries are required to report on the first and/ or second tranches paid; and in addition, submit updated tax clearance certificates before grant funds can be paid out. Therefore the funds are currently being disbursed to beneficiaries who have complied with the disbursement conditions.
2. There were no recommendations issued by the former Public Protector, Adv. T N Madonsela against the Chief Executive Officer of the NAC.