Question NW1116 to the Minister of Transport
25 April 2016 - NW1116
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Transport
What are the reasons for inviting tenders for the appointment of a panel of expert researchers on road safety engineering and road safety engineering related services to the Road Traffic Management Corporation for the period of three years (2) how does this differ from any other forums established for the same purpose; (3) what are the (a) terms of reference and (b) the commencement date of this panel?
Reply:
(1) The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is mandated in terms of the RTMC Act, 20 of 1999, section 2(i) to stimulate research in road traffic related matters. Further, section 28(1)(f) of the RTMC Act requires the Shareholders Committee of the RTMC to consider the need for research and technical investigations relating to road traffic regulations, and take steps for research and investigations to be conducted. As a result various research topics need to be undertaken and aligned to the South African context for such to be applicable to the unique circumstances of South Africa. New topics based on problem statements are also identified and researched.
The RTMC identified the need for the establishment of a panel of experts in the field of research and related services which will focus on road safety aspects of South Africa. This envisaged panel of research expects will ensure that participation is widened as the Corporation will have a wider pool of expertise from which to commission research.
(2) These would be service providers to be called upon to from time to time to conduct research on specified topics. A forum such as the Road Safety Advisory Council has regular meetings, provides strategic advise and may even identify areas that required research.
(3)(a) The Terms of Reference are attached.
(3)(b) The advertised expression of interest will close on 05 May 2016. Treasury regulations and guidelines on bid process will be followed in the evaluation and adjudicating of the responses from various bidders as outlined in the Terms of Reference.