Question NW823 to the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
15 April 2024 - NW823
Arries, Ms LH to ask the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
Whether municipalities report to her department on the use of virtual meetings which was meant for use during the COVID-19 lockdown period; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) number of municipalities still make use of virtual meeting systems for council sittings and (b) are the reasons for the virtual sittings?
Reply:
No, municipalities are not reporting to the Department on the use of virtual meetings.
Whilst the Department does not monitor whether council meetings are virtual or physical, learning from experience during COVID-19, we encourage municipalities to explore cost effective ways of conducting council business where feasible. Councillors also receive tools of trade, hence, it is possible for council sittings to be held virtual. It is our view that this approach can result in significant savings for the municipalities which can be redirected to service delivery priorities.
However, we continue to implore on municipalities to be cautious in whatever decision they take because it is important that the principle of inclusive governance is adhered to and promoted at all times, including at a citizenary level. This will ensure that our principle of participatory democracy is upheld in the business of council.
End.