Question NW935 to the President of the Republic
15 May 2023 - NW935
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the President of the Republic
(1)Whether he has ever commissioned a formal costing exercise to determine the total cost to the taxpayer of all benefits for Ministers and Deputy Ministers contained in the Guide for Members of the Executive; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether there is any specified legal provision on which he relies to implement the Guide for Members of the Executive; if not, what is the reason that he continues to implement its provisions ultra vires; if so, which legal provision?
Reply:
A cost analysis on the staff establishment was done by the Department of Public Service and Administration and the National Treasury in respect of the Guide for Members of the Executive. The outcome of the analysis revealed a cost reduction to the State.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has similarly done a cost analysis with regards to ministerial residences.
The National Treasury concluded a transversal contract with original equipment manufacturers in terms of which vehicles for Members of the Executive must be purchased. A general reduction on the costs related to motor vehicles has been reported.
The cost related to day-to-day matters, such as travel and accommodation, in respect of each Member of the Executive will vary depending on the nature and extent of their respective duties. The total costs incurred in this regard will be within the purview of the relevant Department. In line with the principles of accountability, the costs to each Department are disclosed in their individual financial statements.
The Guide for Members of the Executive provides a guideline for benefits, tools of trade and allowances to support Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers and Members of the Executive Council in the execution of their duties.
The Guide for Members of the Executive seeks to limit the extent to which the State would provide resources and enabling facilities (tools of trade) to Members to ensure that the Members perform their duties effectively, efficiently and prudently. The Guide seeks to ensure that all Departments and Accounting Officers apply consistent measures to ensure that expenditure does need exceed the prescribed limits and conditions.
This Guide is necessary to set parameters related to administrative and support assistance provided to Members to ensure good governance with due regard to cost effectiveness and efficiency
The implementation of the Guide is informed by the Public Finance Management Act, 1999, the Public Service Act, 1994, their resultant Regulations, the Executive Members’ Ethics Act, 1998 and the applicable Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council collective agreements.