Question NW2447 to the Minister of Public Service and Administration
21 September 2022 - NW2447
Zungula, Mr V to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1)What total number of non-citizens have been employed by the State since 2021; (2) are such employees in scarce skills sectors; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (3) is the employment of such employees a result of a thorough countrywide skills search; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) According to PERSAL for 2021/2022, the total number of foreign nationals appointed are 1901. It must be noted that PERSAL is limited in terms of statistics specifically in circumstances where persons may have dual citizenship.
(2) Of the 1901 majority, 1475, are in Professional posts (Occupational Specific Dispensation).
(3) The policy on the utilisation of foreign nationals to address human resource and skills needs in the public service advocates to provide mandates and processes according to which departments can address their human resource and skills needs in respect of critical occupations and critical skills by utilising foreign nationals. In terms of section 10(1)(a) of the Public Service Act, 1994 no person shall be appointed permanently to a post unless he or she is a South African citizen or permanent resident. Foreign nationals who are not in possession of a permanent residence permit may therefore only be employed temporarily in departments. The central principle is that the employment of South African citizens and permanent residents must receive preference and the utilisation of foreign nationals through their appointment in Public Service departments must be effected as a last resort.
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