Hansard: NA: Unrevised hansard

House: National Assembly

Date of Meeting: 03 Sep 2015

Summary

No summary available.

Minutes

THURSDAY, 03 SEPTEMBER 2015

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PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

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The House met at 14:01.

The Deputy Speaker took the Chair and requested members to observe a moment of silence for prayer or meditation.

ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS – see col 000.

NEW MEMBER

(Announcement)

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members, before we proceed with today’s business, I wish to make the following announcement. The vacancy which occurred in the National Assembly owing to the resignation of Mr T R J E Ramokhoase has been filled by the nomination of Mr M J Zwane with effect from 2 September 2015. [Applause.]

The hon member made and subscribed the oath in the Deputy Speaker’s Office. You are welcome, hon member.

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ATTENDANCE REGISTER

(Announcement)

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members, towards the end of the last term, presiding officers announced that the National Assembly Chamber information and communications technology, ICT, upgrade has been completed. One of its key features is the biometric member identification system which has been installed and is now ready to be implemented.

The Table staff has placed a document on members’ desks titled Guide for members. The purpose of the document is to assist members to record their attendance with ease. The Chamber staff is available to assist members where necessary and record any problems encountered.

Members are therefore reminded to use the biometric member identification system from today onwards to register their attendance. You are also requested to continue signing the manual attendance slips placed on your desks until advised otherwise. Thank you.

NOTICES OF MOTION

MS L MABIJA: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

That the House debates the mobilisation of state and nonstate capacities to deal with issues of crime in an integrated approach with active citizens involvements and core responsibility.

Mr K Z MORAPELA: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the EFF:

That the House debates the need for a radical review of black economic empowerment to ensure that empowerment deals benefit workers and the communities from which businesses take place and for the development of mechanisms to limit and ultimately curb the recurrent enrichment of few individuals who have benefited from empowerment charters.

Mr G S RADEBE: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

That the House debates the building of an inclusive society and the economy to address the factors that still sustain inequality through building capability and redressing the wrongs of the past.

Ms L L VAN DER MERWE: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the IFP:

That the House debates the gross failure of government departments to meet their own minimum target of employing 2% of people with disabilities and what urgent interventions could be put in place to address this matter.

Ms E R WILSON: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

That the House debates the management and effectiveness of the Child Protection Register particularly the management and upkeep of the register, clearance request times and the integration of the information from all other registers which will impact on the protection of children.

Ms V KHATHABAHLE: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the EFF:

That the House debates the granting of fishing rights to the fishing communities in the coastal areas and provision of strategic support to these communities to ensure that fishing becomes a sustainable economic activity.

Ms N NDONGENI: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

That the House debates addressing the effects, both positive and negative, that social media use has on youth and families.

Ms Z JONGBLOED: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

That the House debates the endemic corruption, mismanagement and poor expenditure strategies in the skills education sector, including but not restricted to the Eastcape Midlands Technical and Vocational Education and Training ,Tvet, College, the Construction Sector Education and Training Authority, Seta, and the National Skills Fund.

Mr J A ESTERHUIZEN: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the IFP:

That the House debates the question of illegal electricity connections in South Africa, the cost of same which runs into billions of rand in lost revenue, the safety hazard of illegal electricity connections and the processes that must be put in place in order to stop this practices.

Ms S J NKOMO: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the IFP:

That the House debates beefing up of security in the national parks to protect our wild life following reports of illegal use of pesticides and other toxins used to kill wild life for traditional medicines and other uses.

Mr T E MULAUDZI: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the EFF:

That the House debates the provision of libraries, internet, science, computers and laboratories to rural schools to bridge the qualitative gap between rural and urban education.

Mr M GANA: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

That the House debates the need to create spaces for small businesses when new human settlements are planned.

Mr M HLENGWA: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the IFP:

That the House –

notes that on Wednesday 02 September Durban was granted the rights to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games; and

debates the financial implications of these games for South Africa and the plans and strategies to be implemented to ensure that South Africans derive maximum sustainable gains from these games and avoid white elephant projects.

Ms B J MALULEKE: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

That the House debates the transformation of the structure of our economy to increase women participation and access to economic opportunities.

Dr M J FIGG: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

That the House debates the impact of cadre deployment as a policy and state practice on Public Service.

Ms C N MAJEKE: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the UDM:

That the House debates the negative impact of moral degeneration in our communities and nation building programme and solutions thereto.

Mr AM SHAIK-EMAM: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the NFP:

That the House deliberates the crisis facing our nation as a results of the road carnage that is claiming thousands of innocent lives despite various interventions which clearly appear to be inadequate.

Ms A TUCK: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

That the House debates the improvement of disaster management in rural areas in order to address the vulnerability of the rural poor.

Mr S MALATSI: Deputy Speaker, I herby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

That the House debates the delay in implementing the memorandum of understanding for schools sports by the Department of Basic Education and Sport and Recreation.

SECURITY OFFICERS RECEIVE MONTHLY STIPENDS WITHOUT BEING TAUGHT

(Draft Resolution)

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Deputy Speaker, I move without notice:

That the House –

notes that 14 security officers who are attending an National Qualifications Framework, NQF, Level 3 security qualification through the South African Safety and Security Sector Education Training Authority, SASSETA, with 24/7 Security company are accessing monthly stipends without being taught as the sector education and training authority, Seta, and the company fail to deliver;

notes that 24/7 Security company agreed to deliver three textbook modules before training, but so far, trainees have completed only one module and they are just sitting in class collecting stipends without any teaching;

further notes that now 24/7 Security company is threatening to terminate the training programme and wants to post trainees, who are obviously not qualified, to sites of duty at a time when the police are failing to deal with crime or committing crimes themselves, this is a suicidal mission;

acknowledges the courage, initiative and trust towards the EFF leadership by trainees who raised the matter, instead of just sitting at home and collecting stipends at the end of the month;

calls on Mr Andries Sibande, recruitment manager at 24/7 Security company to stop threatening trainees who are raising legitimate concerns and focus on delivering agreed teaching and training;

assures the trainees that, as the EFF leadership, we will write to all relevant authorities for the matter to be properly investigated.

In light of the objection, the motion may not be proceeded with. The motion without notice will now become a notice of motion on the Order Paper.

NONGOMA TO HOST REED DANCE

(Draft Resolution)

Mnu S C MNCWABE: Sekela Somlomo, egameni leNFP ngidlulisa:

Ukuthi iNdlu—

iqaphele ukuthi kule mpelasonto esiya kuyo esigodini sakwaNongoma, esigodlweni seSilo samaBandla wonke kuzobe kuqhubeka uMkhosi woMhlanga;

iphinde iqaphele ukuthi uMkhosi woMhlanga noma ukuhlolwa kwezintombi kukhuthaza abantu abasha abangamantombazane ukuba baziphathe kahle, bagcine ubuntombi babo baze bagane;

yazi ukuthi ukuhlolwa kwezintombi kulekelela kakhulu ekuvikeleni iSandulelangculazi kanye neNgculazi uqobo ngenxa yokuthi kukhuthaza ukuziphatha kahle kwabantu abasha;

iphinde yazi ukuthi uMkhosi woMhlanga ulekelela kakhulu osomabhizinisi abancane endaweni yakwaNongoma nase-Zululand District Municipality njengoba uheha abahambeli abasuka emazweni omhlaba nasezweni lonke;

ikhuthaze iphinde ifisele abantu abasha kanye nomama abazohambela lo mcimbi uhambo oluhle noluphephile;

ishayele kakhulu ihlombe iSilo samaBandla onke, uNgangezwe lakhe, ngokugcina nokuvikela lolu siko lokuziphatha kahle kwabantu abasha. Wena wendlovu.

(Translation of isiZulu motion without notice follows.)

[Mr S C MCWABE: Deputy Speaker, on behalf of the NFP I would like to move without notice that:

That the House -

notes that there will be a Reed Dance ceremony that would take place in His Majesty’s palace, this coming weekend in the district of KwaNongoma;

also notes that the Reed Dance ceremony or the virginity testing process encourages young girls to behave themselves, by keeping their virginity intact until they get married;

be informed that the virginity testing process helps a lot in the protection against HIV and Aids as it encourages good behaviour in young girls;

notes that the Reed Dance ceremony helps small business owners who are in KwaNongoma area and the Zululand District Municipality a lot as it attracts tourists from the world over and the whole country;

encourages and wishes the young girls and women who will go to this ceremony a good and a safe journey;

applauds His majesty the King, for keeping and protecting this culture for good behaviour in young girls. Wena wendlovu (His Majesty’s praise singing.)]

In light of the objection, the motion may not be proceeded with. The motion without notice will now become a notice of motion on the Order Paper.

THREE RHODES UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC PROFESSORS AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION CHAIRS

(Draft Resolution)

Mr N L S KWANKWA: Deputy Speaker, I move without notice:

That the House –

notes that yesterday, 2 September 2015, three Rhodes University academics Prof Heila Lotz-Sisitka, art Prof Ruth Simbao and biochemistry expect, Dr Andrienne Edkins, were awarded prestigious National Research Foundation Chairs by the Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor;

recognises that these appointments increase the number of women researchers awarded chairs at this University to 50%;

congratulates the significant achievement as it goes a long way towards addressing issues of gender equality and ensuring that women occupy leadership positions in academia and the country at large;

wishes the new Chairs success in their new assignments. Malibongwe! [Praise!]

In light of the objection, the motion may not be proceeded with. The motion without notice will now become a notice of motion on the Order Paper.

SA'S LEADING RESEARCHERS HONOURED AT 2015 NATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION AWARDS

(Draft Resolution)

Ms H H MALGAS: Deputy Speaker, I move without notice:

That the House -

notes that South Africa’s top researchers were celebrated for their continued pioneering work in advancing knowledge, creation and innovation at the 2015 National Research Foundation Awards;

further notes the awards recognise the significance and impact of the research outputs judged by their peers through the NRF rating system;

acknowledges that the award recognises an individual for outstanding efforts to advance his or her career in science against all odds and for achieving world class research performance despite considerable equity challenges;

believes that the awards will motivate South African researchers to do more to grow the outputs of our national system of innovation and increase the transformation of South African science community and landscape;

congratulates Prof Tshilidzi Marwala for the award of the Champion of Research Capacity Development and Transformation at SA’s Higher Education Institutions, Prof Michael Feast of the Department of Astronomy of the University of Cape Town for the Life Time Achievement Award and Prof Alan Christoffels from the University of the Western Cape for receiving the Hamilton Naki Award; and

wishes them the best in their future endeavours.

In light of the objection, the motion may not be proceeded with. The motion without notice will now become a notice of motion on the Order Paper.

MATLOSANA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY INTERNAL AUDITOR SUSPENDED

(Draft Resolution)

Mr J J MCGLUWA: Deputy Speaker, I move without notice on behalf of the DA:

That the House -

notes with concern that an internal auditor, Mpho Seero, from the North West province’s Matlosana Local Municipality, who compiled a damning report about R32 million in irregular spending has been suspended;

further notes that this irregular spending was for fuel and oil without a tender;

also notes that Matlosana Local Municipality is currently under administration;

acknowledges that internal auditors are working in a politically hostile environment and have received threats; and

calls on the Minister to address the threats and hostility internal auditors face.

Mr M M DLAMINI: Corruption must not be allowed but we object.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: The motion falls away.

THE ROLE OF THE MEDIA IN A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY

(Draft Resolution)

Ms L L VAN DER MERWE: Deputy Speaker, I move without notice on behalf of the IFP:

That the House -

notes that the media as the fourth estate plays a crucial role in any democratic society;

further notes that this includes but is not limited to provoking public debate leading to greater public participation in important decisions;

acknowledges that recent attacks on the media will only serve to undermine and weaken our democracy;

further acknowledges that comments made by the SA Broadcasting Corporation’s chief operating officer, to the effect that the media while reporting on crime is encouraging young people to commit crime, is baseless and must be condemned, and is akin to claiming that reporting, for example on incidents of racism, will encourage people to become racists;

affirms that the media, while uncovering crime, corruption and abuse, is fulfilling an important mandate of putting pressure on relevant authorities to take action and to put in place remedial actions; and

asserts that the notion of the media as a watchdog and as a guardian of public interest must be protected at all times.

Mr P G MOTEKA: We object.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: The motion falls away.

GHOST EMPLOYEES IN THE NORTH WEST PROVINCE

(Draft Resolution)

Mr A M MATHLOKO: Deputy Speaker, I move without notice on behalf of the EFF:

That the House –

notes the alarming R19 billion salary bill the North West Provincial Government continues to pay ghost employees while the provincial government is cash-strapped;

further notes that the North West government wasted millions to appoint consultants to eradicate the problem of ghost employees in 2008, and the consultants achieved nothing;

also notes that today the North West government has more than 36 000 ghost employees, as acknowledged by the premier to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts on Wednesday;

acknowledges the practice by the corrupt ANC as we have seen here in Parliament with the bloated establishment of Ministries, and the tendency to appoint employees who report to Luthuli House offices to do ANC party work but are paid by government;

recognises that government’s wage bill is subsidising the ANC’s party work at a time when the public wage bill is bloated at more than R400 billion, which is making a mockery of taxpayers; and

calls on the Auditor-General to conduct a special investigation into ghost employees, particularly in the North West province where I come from.

Me H H MALGAS: Ons maak beswaar, dankie. [We object, thank you.]

Mr M M DLAMINI: Deputy Speaker, on a point of order: Why is that member objecting with regard to the ghost employees who the premier said are there? [Interjections.] It’s not us who is saying that but it’s the premier of the ANC. The Premier of the North West said that. So was the premier lying or is that member taking chances here? [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Take your seat, hon member. That’s a political point. Hon Mbatha?

RACISM AT TERTIARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

(Draft Resolution)

Mr M S MBATHA: Deputy Speaker, I move without notice on behalf of the EFF:

That the House -

notes the rise of racial antagonism in South Africa’s tertiary education system as a result of the slow pace of transformation of tertiary educational institutions in South Africa;

further notes the airing of the video called Luister which documents the experiences of black students at the University of Stellenbosch and Elsenburg Agricultural college;

acknowledges that the University of Stellenbosch appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training and made one excuse after another as to why after 21 years of freedom they still have a majority of white students at 62%, with the majority of them not English-speaking, but predominantly Afrikaans-speaking white students;

further acknowledges that the University of Stellenbosch is not alone is this evil practice of racism at higher education institutions, with the Elsenburg Agricultural college which is a sister college of the University of Stellenbosch, also refusing to teach young black students in English;

also notes the general growing arrogance of white people in this country who refuse to acknowledge the afforded grace to them to ensure that apartheid and apartheid tendencies are left behind them and to ensure that they join the free community of South Africa;

also acknowledges that the ANC neo-apartheid government has actually encouraged this kind of behaviour;

believes that the refusal of black students from the universities of Cape Town and Rhodes, and everywhere in the country, should be a warning to the ANC, the arrogant white racists and the generation of many young white racists in our South African community;

calls on the MEC of Agriculture in the Western Cape, Mr Alan Winde, to take drastic action to prevent the further inhumane treatment of black students; and

also calls on the Department of Higher Education led by hon Nzimande to borrow the words used by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa to take concomitant action against universities that refuse to decolonise South Africa.

Mr S M RALEGOMA: We object.

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Deputy Speaker, may I address you?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: On what hon member?

Ms M O MOKAUSE: It’s no wonder that young people at tertiary institutions have lost hope in the ANC. [Interjections.] They come here and they object to important motions that address issues of young people. It’s no wonder, Buti Manamela.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, you will not be allowed to abuse that again. You must know that in advance.

AFFORDABLE SOLAR POWER

(Draft Resolution)

Mr A M SHAIK-EMAM: Hon Deputy Speaker, I move without notice on behalf of the NFP:

That the House -

notes that South African scientists have excelled once again, in that scientists of the Solar Thermal Energy Research Group at the University of Stellenbosch have found a way to harness cheap solar energy by perfecting a process that has stumped the world's best engineers for years by developing the Helio100 system;

further notes that the new technology dramatically reduces the cost of creating heliostats which involves computer controlled mirrors that keep the sun reflected on a fixed target as it moves across the sky;

also notes that a single Helio100 installation, which can be erected anywhere, has the capacity to generate 100kw of power in total, which is enough to power about 30 households;

acknowledges that the new technology means that we can add concentrated solar power technology to the symphony of renewable energy solutions we currently have; and

congratulates the scientists of the Solar Thermal Energy Research Group at the University of Stellenbosch for developing such affordable and sophisticated world leading thermal solar technology.

Mr K Z MORAPELA: Deputy Speaker, we object to this branch chair of the ANC.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes hon member.

PLIGHT OF RAYMOND MHLABA’S DAUGHTER

(Isiphakamiso esiyilwayo)

Ms NP SONTI: Ndiphakama egameni le-EFF:

ukuba le Ndlu -

iqaphele intsokolo nobugxwayiba ehlala kubo intombi engumafungwashe katata uRaymond Mhlaba, eBhayi;
ibuye iqaphele ukuba lo mama uhlala phantsi kweemeko ezimanyumnyezi, umgangatho wendlu ubole bhutyu kangangokuba uya kutshona ngokutshona ngokuhamba kwexesha;

ivume ukuba lo mama uhlala endlwini eseyifana nje nokuba kuphandle, kuba uvala izikroba ngeempahla, igumbi lokulala selinuka nokunuka ngenxa yokungabi nabani omncedayo, indlu yangasese ineempethu, eyokuphekela yona sele ifana nje nendawo yobugoxo beemoto ezindala;

iphinde ivume kwakhona ukuba lo mama zange abenayo inyhweba yokukhula phantsi kwesandla sikatata, afundiswe ngutata wakhe kuba utata uMhlaba wayezifake zatshona ezakhe iinzipho kumzabalazo wenkululeko yesizwe;

iqaphele ukuba umzabalazo wenkululeko wawungakhokelwa ngutata uMandela nje kuphela, wawukhokelwa nangamanye amaqhawe amaninzi, angasahoywanga namhlanje;

iphinde iqaphele ukuba abantwana bakaMongameli uZuma bayakuhlala bebonwabele ubuncwane bendlu eyakhiwe ngemali yabahlawuli-rhafu iminyaka emininzi, abantwana nabazukulwana bakatata uMandela balaliswa kwizibhedlele zasemkhosini. Kutheni inzala katata uMhlaba ingahoywa nje yona?

ngumkhwa ovelaphi lo we-ANC wokungabahoyi abantu abancama ubomi babo besilwela le nkululeko?

le Ndlu yePalamente mayikhe izame ukuqwalasela imeko yamaqhawe namaqhawekazi omzabalazo wenkululeko, kuba ngaphandle kwabo, isizwe sethu ngesingekho kwindawo esikuyo ngoku.

Esi siphakamiso asamkelwanga. (Translation of isiXhosa draft resolution follows.)

PLIGHT OF RAYMOND MHLABA’S DAUGHTER

(Draft Resolution)

[Ms NP SONTI: I move on behalf of the EFF:

That the House -

notes the suffering and hopeless situation under which the eldest daughter of Mrr Raymond Mhlaba lives, in Port Elizabeth;
further notes that this woman is living under horrible conditions, the flooring of the house is rotten as a result it keeps on degrading and will sink in as time goes by;

admits that this woman stays in a house that makes you feel like you are outside although you are inside, because she uses clothes to close the gaps, the bedroom has a horrible stench because she has no helper, the toilet has maggots, the kitchen looks like an old scrapyard;

further admits that this woman was not lucky enough to be raised by her father, and be groomed by her father because Mr Mhlaba was very much involved in the struggle for the freedom of the nation;

notes that the struggle for freedom was not single-handedly achieved by Mr Mandela , there are other struggle heroes responsible for that, who are forgotten today;

further notes that President Zuma’s children will always enjoy for years to come the comfort of the house which was built with tax payers’ money, Mr Mandela’s children and grandchildren are attended to at the military hospital when they are sick. Why are descendants of Mr Mhlaba not getting the same privileges?

where does this discriminatory attitude of the ANC of neglecting the people who sacrificed their lives fighting for this freedom comes from?

this august House of Parliament must try to acknowledge the situation of the heroes and heroines of the struggle for freedom, because without them, our nation would not be where it is now.

This motion was objected.]

SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS CATERING CONTRACT

(Draft Resolution)

Mr M N PAULSEN: Deputy Speaker, I hereby move without notice:

That the House -

notes with disbelief the actions of the troubled South African Airways, which, in the midst of its financial problems, hired a German Catering Company on a R85 million contract.

further notes that SAA did this despite them having their own catering subsidiary, Air Chefs, which is supposed to be providing catering to all domestic and international flights.

acknowledges that SAA comes to this parliament every year, looking for financial bailouts, and that between 2004 and 2010, the company lost about R10 billion due to poor financial management.

further acknowledges that this state airline under the leadership of a board chairperson claimed to have intimate relations with Mr Zuma, is a serious embarrassment to the country, undermining the ability of South Africans to provide catering services, and rather forcing those who fly SAA to eat German food.

calls on the government to immediately intervene and stop the rot in the South African Airways.
further calls on the authorities to cancel this nonsensical contract and investigate the conditions under which it was granted.

In light of the objection, the motion may not be proceeded with. The motion without notice will now become a notice of motion on the Order Paper.

WAR ON WATER LEAKS PROGRAMME TO EMPOWER YOUNG PEOPLE ACROSS THE COUNTRY

(Member’s Statement)

Ms M L DUNJWA (ANC): Deputy Speaker, the ANC welcomes the successful launch of the war on water leaks programme as launched by President Jacob Zuma on 28 August 2015 in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in the Eastern Cape. The project is going to empower 15 000 young people across the country and equip them with skills as plumbers and artisans. The project is going to run for a period of five years through different phases. In phase one, 3000 young people will be trained within the 2015-16 financial year, 5000 in 2016-17 financial year and 7000 in 2017-18 financial year.

The ANC congratulates the hon Minister Nomvula Mokonyane and her deputy, Pam Tshwete for providing effective leadership to ensure that communities are empowered on how to save water and prevent its wastage in our country. As the ANC, we are committed to providing clean running water to all and a decent and dignified sanitation. This goes a long way in curbing the R7,2 billion worth of 37% loss of our water resource. We call upon all citizens to join this important campaign by saving and preserving our finite resource through reporting leaking taps and pipes.

Sifuna ukuthi ke kubo, amaqobokazana angalala endleleni kunyembelekile; siyaqhuba. Enkosi. [Kwaqhwatywa.] [We Would like to say to them, should the maidens sleep along the way then you must are lost; we are hard at work. Thank you. [Applause.]]

UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA SRC ELECT DASO CANDIDATE KWENA MOLOTO

(Member’s Statement)

Mr Y CASSIM (DA): Deputy Speaker, the DA is thrilled to note Daso, the Democratic Alliance Student Organisation candidate Kwena Moloto’s election to the presidency of the University of Pretoria Student Representative Council. Moloto’s election is affirmation that the Tukkies student body not only needs but wants the DA leading their student governance. There is a groundswell of support for the DA among the youth of Tshwane and this victory is evidence that it is growing day by day.

The DA also welcomes the election of a further four Daso candidates to the Tukkies SRC, which officially made it the largest party represented on the 2015-2016 Student Representative Council. The momentum from these Tukkies elections bodes well for the DA’s efforts to win the city of Tshwane next year’s local government election and the DA is set on winning Tshwane in 2016 to restore service delivery to create jobs and to entrench freedom, fairness and opportunity for all there. [Applause.]

SAA’S CONTRACTING OF GERMAN COMPANY UNDERMINES LOCAL COMPANIES AND CO-OPERATIVES

(Member’s Statement)

Mr N F SHIVHAMBU (EFF): Deputy Speaker, I think we should record the concern that the context of Member Statements is that Ministers should respond to some of the issues that we highlight. But it is only two Ministers who are here out of the rally of 70 which has been appointed wrongly by Mr Zuma. Yesterday 2 September 2015, the board and senior management of South African Airways, SAA, appeared for the first time before the parliamentary standing Committee on Finance to present what was misnamed a “turnaround strategy”. From what the board members and management said, it is very clear that there is deeper crisis in the SAA which cannot and will not be resolved by the current leadership, inclusive of the board Chairperson and acting CEO. The board repeatedly said that they are not aware of the so many anomalies happening inside the SAA, yet have approved the turnaround strategy which amongst other things will lead to retrenchment of workers in the SAA. The SAA leadership is engaged in many counter developmental activities which undermine this country, for instance, SAA management has awarded a contract of R85 million to a German company to provide food in all lounges in OR Tambo International Airport despite the fact that one of SAA subsidiaries, air chefs or even local companies and co-operatives ...

The Deputy Speaker: Your time has expired hon member.

Mr N F SHIVHAMBU: ... have the capacity to provide food in the lounges. We call for the dissolution of the board of SAA and immediate restructuring of the leadership so that the airline is saved. Thank you very much.

REVAMPING AND RENAMING OF NATALSPRUIT HOSPITAL TO THELLE MOGOERANE HOSPITAL

(Member’s Statement)

Mr E KEKANA (ANC): Deputy Speaker, the ANC welcomes the revamping and renaming of the former Natalspruit hospital to Thelle Mogoerane hospital. It is named after Thelle Simon Mogoerane, one of the Moroka three young brave members of Umkhonto Wesizwe who lost their lives at the brutal hands of the apartheid regime in 1983. The newly designed and revamped Natalspruit hospital is a combination of level one and two hospitals, providing 821 beds that will service the townships of Kathlehong, Thokoza and Vosloorus.

The hospital also boasts four operating theatres and will also serve as a medical facility to attend to accidents that occur on the nearby N3 highway. The facility’s functionality is also supported by a high technology backbone, creating full capability for a paperless environment. The ANC also appreciates the recognition given to Thelle Mogoerane for his contribution to the struggle especially the fact that it happened while his mother, Ma-Mogoerane is still alive to witness that he did not die in vain. Long live the spirit of the Moroka three, long live!

Ke a leboga. [Thank you.] [Applause.]

IFP’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY AND THE OPENING OF MANGOSUTHU BUTHELEZI MUSEUM AND DOCUMENTATION CENTRE

(Member’s Statement)

Ms S J NKOMO (IFP): Deputy Speaker, on the IFP’s 40th anniversary celebration, the Speaker of the National Assembly, hon Mbethe, posed a poignant question to our leader, the hon Prince Buthelezi. She asked when the real history of our struggle would be written in the textbooks of our school children. For the sooner we begin to tell our story, the better. I must state that Deputy Speaker, that journey into the truth of the past has begun.

On 28 August 2015, history witnessed the opening of the Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi museum and documentation centre in Ulundi Kwazulu-Natal. We thank her Excellency, the hon Minister Pandor, for attending the opening and expressing support. We also thank hon Holomisa, the leader of the UDM and Advocate Dali Mpofu, who spoke on behalf of the EFF. Their support was echoed by his Excellency, Doctor Kenneth Kaunda, the first president of the Republic of Zambia who wrote the following -

Over the decades, I have noted the words and deeds of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. His interactions with other persons and events provide lessons for many people. The completion of this centre is a great opportunity to learn not only about Mangosuthu Buthelezi as an individual, but various events and issues that affected South Africa and other countries. It will inspire many people.

I thank you.

WATER AND DROUGHT CHALLENGES

(Member’s Statement)

Mr M L SHELEMBE (NFP): Deputy Speaker, no water means no life. That is a simple fact. South Africa is currently in the grip of a draught and recent research shows that this draught will persist for the next three years. Our water reserves are low and our water and sanitation infrastructure is crumbling because of a lack of maintenance and new investment. We are about to reap the reward of the ANC government’s lack of sufficient forward planning to address our water needs for the future as it deed with electricity.

Already, we find people in rural areas feeling the effects of water shortage and water tankers are being used to provide people with water because we have neglected to invest in water and sanitation infrastructure in the rural areas, giving priority to the cities and urban areas. However, water tankers do not help people in rural areas to irrigate crops nor does it fill the drinking water troughs for livestock. So what little subsistence farming took place now virtually stopped. Water tankers do not flush toilets so rural people have to keep on using long drop toilets which has implication for their health and that of the health of the environment.

Water is not only about survival for people living in rural areas, it is also about dignity. We urgently need an intervention plan to meet needs of our rural communities. The ANC government cannot rely upon to do it. They have 21 years to make a difference and failed. [Time expired.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Your time has expired, hon member. The ANC. Hon member, please your time has expired. Can you not simply do a short timing preparation? Please do that guys. Please members, you can time yourselves. The ANC.

DURBAN TO HOST COMMONWEALTH GAMES

(Member’s Statement)

Mr D GUMEDE (ANC): Hon Deputy Speaker, the ANC congratulates the city of Durban for successfully biding to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games, endorsed by the Commonwealth Games’ Federation’s General Assembly in the New Zealand City of Auckland. That is another milestone which confirms the world’s confidence in South Africa, as was the case when we hosted world events in rugby, cricket and the Federation International de Football Association, Fifa, World Cup in 2010. South Africa can world class infrastructure investment has made it easier for the federation to decide in our favour.

We are delighted to be the first country in the continent to deliver these games which will be from 18 July 2022, which happens to the birth date of our former President Nelson Mandela, the world icon, up to the 30 of that month. The games will provide opportunities, social and economic for the development of our youth pumping up to R20 billion into our economy and assist in creating much needed jobs in the economy.

Halala Durban Halala!

HON MEMBERS: Halala! [Applause.]

AMENDMENTS TO THE CHILDREN’S ACT

(Member’s Statement)

Ms C DUDLEY (ACDP): Deputy Speaker, the ACDP acknowledges work being done on amendments to the Children’s Act which includes attention to improving the adoption process; a process that is currently leaving many adoption social workers feeling frustrated and disrespected.

A spokesperson of the Professional Board for Social Work at the SA Council for Social Service Professions, says all too often the best interest of the child is not the priority and instead it is procedures. No consistency between courts on adoption procedure and requirements also causes delays in finalising the adoptions despite the provision in section 6 that “in any matter concerning a child, a delay in any action or decision must be avoided as far as possible.”

Presently a contentious issue regarding proposed amendments stems from section 1(c) which brings an addition to the definition of adoption social worker, to include a social worker in the employ of the department. Presently an adoption social worker has to register a speciality at the SA Council for Social Service Professions and to be able to practice and specific criteria are required. Those concerned are not against social workers from the department doing adoptions but they feel strongly that being a specialised field, all adoption workers, regardless of their place of employment, must adhere to the same criteria.

The ACDP calls on the Social Development Portfolio Committee to factor in these concerns during deliberations and to ensure the process of adoption is streamlined for the benefit of the many children waiting to find loving homes. Thank you.

ANC REMEMBERS THE FEARLESS AND SELFLESS LEADER, VICTORIA MXENGE

(Member’s Statement)

Ms B J DLOMO (ANC): Deputy Speaker, the ANC remembers the fearless and selfless leader, Victoria Mxenge. The ANC calls upon all South Africans to celebrate the lives of outstanding women who played a vital role in the liberation struggle, in particular, the struggle against the exploitation of black workers and the patriarchal oppression of women.

One such gallant fighter is Victoria Mxenge, the fearless and selfless leader, who was brutally assassinated on 1 August 1985, in front of her children at her Umlazi home in Durban. The ANC and the freedom loving South Africans remember her for the fearless and selfless leadership she showed as a member of the United Democratic Front during the struggle against apartheid, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.

She was also a professional lawyer who formed part of the defence team in the 1984 Treason Trial against leaders of the United Democratic Front, UDF, and the Natal Indian Congress in the Pietermaritzburg Supreme Court. We do recall that in 2006, Mama Mxenge was posthumously awarded the National Order of Luthuli for her excellent contribution in the field of law and sacrifices that she made in the fight against apartheid.

We therefore call upon all South Africans to remember our struggle stalwart and women’s rights, especially Mama Mxenge. Malibongwe! [Praise!] [Time expired.] [Applause.]

HON MEMBERS: Igama lamakhosikazi. [The name of woman.]

EBOLA QUESTIONNAIRES

(Member’s Statement)

Dr W JAMES (DA): Hon Deputy Speaker, the Department of Home Affairs is failing to execute the health responsibilities at our ports of entry. They require, as they should by law, international travellers coming into our country to complete the Ebola related health questionnaires but then, remarkably, they either ignore it or they fail to collect the form. It is also unclear whether the heat-sensitive technology used for screening for fever is working. However, what ought to happen is the following:

Firstly, the health form must be completed and inspected; secondly, those who come from countries where Ebola is still at risk pulled aside special screening; and thirdly, the heat-sensitive technology must be in full working order as a backup. Ebola is a minor risk, but it is still a risk.

Considering stalled initiatives like the smart ID rollout, the job killing visa regulations and the missing health questionnaires, smart sounds more and more like an oxymoron under Minister Gigaba. I thank you.

NDP-YIELDED EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

(Member’s Statement)

Nkul X MABASA (ANC): Xandla xa Mutshamaxitulu, dyondzo na rihanyu i xikongomelonkulu xa vandla ra ANC eka xiboho xa nhlengeletano leyi hi humaka eka yona. Vandla ra ANC ri pfumelelana na ku seketela leswi yimelaka hi National Development Plan, NDP, ku nga ku tirhisana na vaaki hinkwavo ku yisa emahlweni tiko ra Afrika-Dzonga. (Translation of Xitsonga paragraph follows.)

[Mr X MABASA (ANC): Deputy Chairperson, education and health are a key priority of the ANC that emanates from the resolution of the meeting that we are coming from. The ANC is in agreement to and supports what is articulated in the National development Plan, NDP, which is working hand in glove with all the citizens to take our country South Africa forward.]

The ANC exposed learners from Vuwani Secondary School in Chiawelo, Soweto, to various career opportunities that are available after Grade 12. The Gauteng Department of Education, City Regions Academy, the Department of Water, the Department of Labour, Seca Services and the Department of Forestry and Fisheries collaborated as they explained various avenues available to postmatriculants.

They also explained the availability of bursaries and how to apply, and warned learners about dangers of drugs and liquor. Reverend Dikeledi Malema, Lerato, Themba, Msizi and Connie crowned the event by rendering motivational speeches. The nongovernmental organisations, NGOs, like Izipho Zomphakathi Multiskills Centre and Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator emphasised the importance of acquiring training and entrepreneurship. Learners, forward to you; forward to further education! [Applause.]

BUSINESS AND FOREIGN INVESTMENT AGAINST BLACK EMPOWERMENT

(Member’s Statement)

Mr M MAHUMOPELO (AgangSA): Deputy Speaker, the crisis of the economy must be viewed with our racially classified economy. There are those who invest or are against any black empowerment, those who want to have a tight control of the markets, rejecting the majority of South Africans into informal endeavours. The government must intervene precisely to foster or level the plain for those who were excluded to be part of the formal economy.

The private sector should not be an opposition but a pro-actional partner who is willing to be compassionate enough, taking into consideration the disparities of the past. You cannot have an economy which breaches its survival based on the exploitation of workers. We need patriotic private sector which is willing to pay living wage without being quest.

What we are facing is due to our leaders who negotiated our transition to democracy. They did not resolve economic issues, like: Government must be bold to push for policies which embrace our democracy. It is not fair to keep sustaining the status of white dominated businesses. The true essence of belonging is not only jobs and freedom, but a country that has economic independence. Foreign investors must enhance our sovereignty, not to dictate how we should run our economy and ultimately our lives.

ANC WELCOMES NEW 120 MEMBERS AT NKANGALA REGION

(Member’s Statement)

Ms G K TSEKE (ANC): Deputy Speaker, the ANC welcomes 120 members who defected from the PAC, the DA and the EFF ... [Interjections.] ... to join the one and only liberation movement. [Interjections.] The ANC in Nkangala Region, led by Comrade Speedy Mashilo, ... [Interjections.] ... organised a very successful mini rally to welcome these members which was held at Siyabuswa Community Hall. {Interjections.]

We are convinced that these members will definitely add value towards making the ANC even more effective and they will also assist in defending the unity and integrity of the organisation, its policies and principles. [Interjections.]

Ms M O MOKAUSE: May I stand on a point of order, Deputy Speaker? [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, what is the point of order?

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Why is this hon member allowed to mislead the House because they know they can’t even fill a hall? [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, that is not a point of order! [Interjections.]

Ms M O MOKAUSE: The ANC can’t even fill a hall! [Interjections.]

Ms G K TSEKE: The truth hurts! All newly recruited members ... [Interjections.]

Mr N S MATIASE: Deputy Speaker! [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, hon member!

Mr N S MATIASE: I rise on a point of order!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: What is your point, hon member?

Mr N S MATIASE: Each time - and this is unique to you, Deputy Speaker, with all due respect: Each time when a member of the EFF is on platform, no matter what point he or she rises on, you switch the microphones off. It is only the ... [Interjections.] Don’t do that! [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member ... [Interjections.] No, let me explain to you! Take a seat; let me explain to you!

Mr N S MATIASE: Please! You and I are from the Free State! [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, let me explain you. Take your seat. If you do not have the decency to listen to the Chair, it will be switched off. [Interjections.] I can assure you of that everyday – whether it is the EFF or any party that does not listen to Chair – I will switch it off! [Interjections.] Yes, hon member! What are you rising on?

Mr N F SHIVAMBU: Just on a point of order, Deputy Speaker: The procedure is that as the Presiding Officer, when a member rises on a point of order, you must have the patience to listen to that member, apply your mind and then make a ruling. If they don’t accept the ruling, you can tell them sit down. It is only then, when you see that they are not sitting down, that you can switch off the microphone. However, you switch off the microphone and apply you mind later. [Interjections.] It cannot work like that; you must be reasonable. It is only you of all the Presiding Officers who do that. [Interjections.] You must grow up and stop these things that you are doing every time. [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Right now, you are not applying your mind; you are not listening to what I am saying to you. So, take your seat! [Interjections.] Take your seat! [Interjections.]

Mr N F SHIVAMBU: You see, exactly what I have been saying. [Interjections.] Exactly what I have been saying. This is how you behave every time. [Interjections.] I don’t know why they made you a Deputy Speaker; you are useless man! [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member ... [Interjections.] ... you are out of order, and I instruct you to leave the House right now! [Interjections.] Hon member, I instruct you to leave the House!

Mr M M DLAMINI: Deputy Speaker, can I address you? And, don’t do those do those things to me? Stop doing what you are doing. [Interjections.] No, but stop doing what you are doing. [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Okay, I have said it. [Interjections.] And, hon member, I think you are out of order! Take your seat hon member, please.

Mr M M DLAMINI: No, but you haven’t listened to me. You must listen to me first. When I rise on a point of order, can’t you just open your ... [Interjections.] Ja ... [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: What are you rising on? What are you rising on?

Mr M M DLAMINI: Then you must relax, I am going to address you. [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: What are you rising on, hon member?

Mr M M DLAMINI: why are you saying that I must take my seat when you haven’t even listened to what I am saying?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: What are you rising on?

Mr M M DLAMINI: You see! Why must he leave the House? [Interjections.] What is a problem, with us?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Take your seat hon member. [Interjections.] That is not a point of order. Take your seat, please! [Interjections.]

Mr N F DLAMINI: No, it is! I am asking you: What is the problem with us?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Take your seat, hon member, please! [Interjections.]

Mr N F DLAMINI: Haayi, you are useless!

Mr J M MTHEMBU: Hon Speaker! Hon Speaker!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, hon member!

Mr J M MTHEMBU: I am also rising on a point of order: The member that was just speaking now has referred to a Presiding Officer in terms that he is useless. I think you must rule on that too, hon Deputy Speaker. In my view, that is gross misconduct!

Mr N S MATIASE: Deputy Speaker, I rise on a point of order.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: What is your point of order, hon member?

Mr N S MATIASE: What rule are you exactly applying here to instruct members to leave the House? Which specific rule? If you can answer that question, we will obey your instructions; but for as long as you are unable to do so, it will be hard on our side to obey your instruction. Which specific rule did you apply?

Dr H CHEWANE: Deputy Speaker, can I then assist you this way: Since you are still going to decide on the rule ... [Interjections.] ... can you then in the meantime suspend your ruling that the Chief Whip leaves the House?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER:: Hon member, I haven’t allowed you ... [Interjections.] I haven’t allowed you to speak, hon member. Please! I haven’t allowed you to speak. [Interjections.]

Dr H CHEWANE: But, can you at least suspend your ruling?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, I have not given you a chance to speak.

Dr H CHEWANE: Okay! No, that is fine!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Take your seat! ANC!

Mr K Z MORAPELA: Deputy Speaker! Deputy Speaker!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, hon member!

Mr K Z MORAPELA: We are only appealing to you that you must actually tell us: On which rule are you making the ruling that the member must leave the House. That is all we are appealing to you.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, please take your seat; I will come back to you. [Interjections.]

Mr M M DLAMINI: Deputy Speaker! Deputy Speaker! Deputy Speaker, there is no going ahead when you say that our Chief Whip must leave the House. [Interjections.] And, you are not giving us the rule. The rules are: First you must instruct him to withdraw. [Interjections.] He never refused to withdraw anything. All you just said is that he must leave. Can you give us a rule, please! [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, take your seat. Take your seat! Go ahead, hon member!

Ms O MOKAUSE: On a point of order! Deputy Speaker, on a point of order: It is a process for you to arrive at that particular decision. You cannot just say a person or a member must leave the House. [Interjections.] Hon Matiase rose and asked you: On what rule – on what rule? [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, take your seat now! [Interjections.]

Ms O MOKAUSE: You have never responded but you are allowing the House to continue. Can you respond to our question? Can you respond?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: I will. Take your seat hon member. I will. [Interjections.]

Dr H CHEWANE: Deputy Speaker, surely when you asked the Chief Whip to get out of the House, you knew what rule you were applying. It can’t be that you were not aware of the rule but you were prepared to tell him to move out of the House. It can’t be! We must deal with this issue first before we get on with the business of the House. [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, you are again speaking without being told to. Take your seat! [Interjections.]

Dr H CHEWANE: Yeah, but we need assistance from your Chair because we need to participate in the proceedings of the House. [Interjections.] However, as it is now, the Chief Whip has been ordered to move out of the House and you are not prepared to tell us which rule you are applying.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Take your seat, hon member. You are speaking without me having recognised you. What are you rising on, hon member?

Rre A M MATHLOKO: Motlatsammusakgotla, fela jaaka ke go itsisitse maloba gore ga o kgone go neelana ka tšhono ya gore batho ba itlhalose, ka jalo ke bona ekare le wena melao eno e a go tsietsa e bile ekare ga o e tlhaloganye sentle. Pele o ntshetsa leloko kwa ntle, o tshwanetse go le kopa gore a kope maitshwarelo fa a fositse kgotsa a gogele phoso ya gagwe kwa morago. O tsaya ditshweetso tse di gatelelang ebile o di tsaya o na le mafega. Fa o na le mafega, o latlhegelwa ke dikakanyo gonne o dirisa mafatlha eseng kakanyo. Ke ka ntlha eno re reng o tseye tsia le tshweetso mo kgannyeng eno pele go bua leloko le lengwe. Ntlo e tla nna e ntse e tlhakatlhakane gonne o batla go fetela kwa pele o ise o baankanye kwa morago. Ke a go leboga. (Translation of Setswana paragraph follows.)

[Mr A M MATLHOKO: Deputy Chairperson, as I have already told you; you fail to give people a chance to explain themselves. In this regard, I have seen that you also do not understand these rules properly. Before you remove a member from this House, you are supposed to ask that member to apologise or to withdraw. You are making decisions that are prejudicing members and you do that based on emotion. When you let your emotions cloud your judgement, you cannot think straight.. This is the reason we are saying you must make a ruling on this matter before you allow another member to speak. This House will remain in a state of chaos because you want to proceed without resolving previous matters. Thank you.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, please proceed, so that we come to deal with this matter!

Mr N S MATIASE: Deputy Speaker!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: I’m going to come back to you! [Interjections.]

Mr N S MATIASE: I’m rising on a point of order! [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: No, no, no! Hon member, can I point this out to you and also remind you, that ... [Interjections.]

Mr M M DLAMINI: No, Deputy Speaker! You can’t work like this!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: No, listen to this!

Mr M M DLAMINI: You are applying arbitrary and your own rule which you yourself cannot explain. May you please cross this bridge before we go forward?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, you can’t instruct the Chair on how to proceed.

Mr M M DLAMINI: There is no way we can proceed ... [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: We will! Take your seat hon member, we will proceed!

Mr M M DLAMINI: It’s not going to happen, Deputy Speaker! Let me tell you why. You first have to follow the proceedings of this House! In this House, you are not God! You must be able to listen as well. For the fact that you are a Presiding Officer, it doesn’t mean that you must not listen. The process of the House is that, if a member says something that he or she is not supposed to say, the Presiding Officer must first ask him to withdraw. Wait! Let me finish speaking! [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Who gave you the right to speak?

Mr M M DLAMINI: I don’t need that right from you because you are not doing what you are supposed to be doing.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Oh! Okay!

Mr M M DLAMINI: You are not doing your work correctly! You must correct the way you’re ... [Interjections.]

Ms J D KILLIAN: Deputy Speaker, may I please address you on a point of order?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: You may speak, hon member!

Mr M M DLAMINI: So you are going to stop me?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, I’m stopping you now! Please!

Ms J D KILLIAN: Deputy Speaker!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, go ahead!

Ms J D KILLIAN: We would like to say that it is time that the EFF attends a course on the rules of the House. Rule 51 gives the Presiding Officer the right to rule when the member is disregarding the authority of the Chair, and to give that member the marching orders. We would therefore like to suggest that the EFF stand Rule 51 as well. In addition to that, when the Presiding Officer is rising, meaning speaking, all other members shall take their seats according to Rule 49. So, we would like to suggest that they study those rules and apply them in the House and accept your rulings. Thank you. [Applause.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members!

Mr NS MATIASE: Deputy Speaker!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members, I would like to proceed as I’ve requested you in a very polite way. This matter will be dealt with. Take your seat, hon member!

Mr N S MATIASE: Deputy Speaker!

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: E re ke bue le wena ka tsela ena, ngwaneso, setho se hlomphehang, monokotswai ha o butswe ho latela takatso ya tshwene.

Mong K Z MORAPELA: Tjhe, eo re a e tseba.

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: Ke kopa o dule fatshe, qeto o tla e fumana ha ke se ke qetile ka tsamaiso ena e tlasa tsamaiso hajwale. Ke kopa o dule fatshe ntate. Monokotswai ha o butswe ho latela takatso ya tshwene.

Mong N S MATIASE: Motlatsa Sepikara, ke kopa ... [Kenohanong.]

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: Ke kopa o nke kgefu, morena’ka. O tla fumana monyetla wa ho bua, hona jwale ke kopa ho tsamaisa Ntlo ena.

Mong N S MATIASE: Pula ya hao ena tshekeletsa. [Kenohanong.]

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: Ke kopa o dule fatshe.

Mong N S MATIASE: E na e kgetha dibaka.

Motlatsa Sepikara: Ke kopa o dule fatshe, ntate.

Mong N S MATIASE: Ke kopa o tle o be le pelo e telele, hoba mona re tobane le pharela, eo wena ka bowena o e entseng.

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: Dula fatshe.

Mong N S MATIASE: Jwale, ke kopa hore pharela ee... [Kenohanong.]

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: Ke kopa o dule fatshe.

Mong N S MATIASE: ... ebe siyo banneng. Ha re e lokise hona jwale pele tsatsi le phirima.

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: Dula fatshe.

Mong N S MATIASE: Ke kopa pharela ena re e lokise hona jwale; mme seo re se kopang ke sena, re kopa hore pele re ka tswela pele, jwalekaha o se o ntse o buletse dingangisano tabeng ena, sebui se buileng pele ho nna mona, se re supa Molaong wa 51. Ha re hle re etse jwalo taba ena re e qete. Hlalosa hore na ke molao ofe oo o o sebedisang hore o laele Sephadi se seholo sa EFF, hore se tswe, se hate kosene. Hobane re utlwisisa hore taelo eo ya hao, ehlile ha e molaong, mme re sitwa ho ikamahanya le yona.

MOTLATSA SEPIKARA: Mamela hee, ke o mametse, dula fatshe, morana’ka. (Translation of Sesotho paragraphs follows.)

[The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Let me address you in this manner, hon member, things don’t always turn out the way we want them to.

Mr K Z MORAPELA: Indeed, that we know.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Please sit down, you will get my ruling once I am done with the proceedings of the current sitting. Please sit down, hon member. Things don’t always turn out the way we want them to.

Mr N S MATIASE: Deputy Speaker, may I ... [Interjections.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Please take your seat, hon member. You will get an opportunity to speak. As for now, let me continue with the proceedings of this House.

Mr N S MATIASE: You are being biased. [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Please sit down.

Mr N S MATIASE: You don’t treat us equally.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Please sit down, hon member.

Mr N S MATIASE: Please be patient, because we are facing a big problem here, a problem that was created by you.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Sit down.

Mr N S MATIASE: So, I would like this problem ... [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Please sit down.

Mr N S MATIASE: ... to get a solution. Let us fix it before sunset.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Sit down.

Mr N S MATIASE: May we please fix this problem right now? This is what we are asking for, we are asking that before we can proceed, as you have already opened a discussion regarding this matter, the member who spoke before me referred us to Rule 51. Let us do so, so that we can end this matter. Explain which rule you have used to instruct the Chief Whip of the EFF to leave, and to leave immediately. This is because we understand that, actually, that instruction of yours is not aligned with the rules, thus we fail to abide by it.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Listen, I have listened to you, now sit down, hon member.]

Ms M O MOKAUSE: I’m rising on a point of order, Deputy Speaker. I did not ask the voting cattle of the ANC howl at me! Deputy Speaker, may I address you? You cannot allow the House to continue without making a rule on this matter. You have ruled that the EFF Chief Whip must leave the House. We have asked you a question, on what rule must he leave? Before you arrive on that particular point, we have explained to you that it should be a process; you haven’t gone through it. Therefore, Deputy Speaker, the House cannot continue if this matter is not resolved. Let me make this point clear!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Okay! Hon members, I have requested the EFF to give us a chance to proceed in order for us to deal with this matter properly, but they are refusing to do so and that is unacceptable. I suggest that we proceed with the business of the day.

Dr H CHEWANE: But Deputy Speaker, the problem with your ruling now is that our Chief Whip is disadvantaged from participating in the proceedings of this House, as long as you are ruling on this thing and I will ... [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, may you please take your seat, man! You are speaking without being recognised.

Mr A PLOUAMA: It is a point of order.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: What is the point of order?

Mr A PLOUAMA: Deputy Speaker, before I say my point of order, I just want to let you know that you have to protect us. We are truly losing our self-respect here. Actually ...

Ke nagana gore EFF bjale gona e šetše e feteletše. [Tsenoganong.] [I think that the EFF is blowing it out of proportion.] [Interjections.]

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Deputy Speaker, I’m rising on a point of order!

Mr A PLOUAMA: I’m still talking!

Mme yoo o ka re o nale le bothata. Ke sa bolela. [Tsenoganong.] [It seems as if that lady has a problem. I am still talking. [Interjections.]

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Deputy Speaker, I’m rising on a point of order! We are not going to allow that one-man-show come to cast aspersions on the EFF in this House.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members, can you please ... [Interjections.]

Ms M O MOKAUSE: That member must go back and win the elections ... [Interjections.]

Mr A PLOUAMA: Deputy Speaker! Deputy Speaker!

Mr M WATERS: Deputy Speaker!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Proceed! Hon member!

Mr M WATERS: Thank you, Deputy Speaker!

Mr A PLOUAMMA: Deputy Speaker!

Mr M WATERS: May I address you?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: The member is on the floor! He wants to point out a point of order. Can we allow him to finish?

Mr A PLOUAMMA: Deputy Speaker! I just want to say to you that you should not fear to practice the law of this House. We cannot take this anymore. Really, I think now that the limitations of our reasons have come to an end. We have tolerated this behaviour since last year; it must really come to an end. [Applause.] The other thing is that, arrogance has never been wisdom. To be arrogant does not mean that you are wise. We are becoming affected by this behaviour and we are losing our cool. I’m begging you to protect us; we just want to continue serving our people, not to come for this behaviour that we don’t understand. Where does it come from? [Interjections.]

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Deputy Speaker, may I rise on a point of order!

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, I know that this is tempting and I advise you to stop pointing at each other. Hon members, take your seat and let us not allow the language to deteriorate; let us not make that mistake.

Mr M WATERS: Deputy Speaker, may I address you?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes!

Mr M WATERS: Deputy Speaker, I wish to make two points. The first one is that I do not know what the children watching us from the gallery actually think of us. This has become a circus. [Applause.] It is embarrassing when children are up there watching us act even more childish than they are. I think we need to take stock and be an example for the children up in the gallery of who and what we are and what this institution is. That is the first thing. [Applause.]

The second thing, if I may assist you, Deputy Speaker, is the following. Rule 51, may I read it out? I think it might give clarity to ... [Interjections.] ... no, she didn’t read the whole thing out. So, maybe if I read it out, it might give clarity. It says:

If the presiding officer is of the opinion that a member is deliberately contravening a provision of these Rules, or that a member is in contempt of or is disregarding the authority of the Chair, or that a member’s conduct is grossly disorderly, he or she may order the member to withdraw immediately from the Chamber for the remainder of the day’s sitting.

That is what the Deputy Speaker did. [Applause.] [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members! Hon members, you have a responsibility for your conduct. I made a ruling in this House the other day, about precisely the same conduct. I do not understand why, when you know the Rules, you keep doing the same things. It is unacceptable, and I think the steps that we have spoken about frequently in the House are not having the desired effect. Therefore, I think further steps must be taken regarding this matter. It has even become personal, and that is unacceptable. Hon Singh, yes?

Mr N SINGH: Deputy Speaker, notwithstanding what Rule 51 says, I think it is a legitimate question when the presiding officer is asked in terms of what Rule he has made a particular ruling. One would imagine that it is in terms of Rule 51. If it is so, we cannot second-guess why you have made a particular ruling with regard to the Chief Whip of the EFF. If it is Rule 51, let us be told it is Rule 51 so that we can proceed with the business of the House. Otherwise, we will be going around in circles. I say this with respect. Thank you. [Interjections.]

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon Singh, what you are doing is saying to me that I should not choose to make a ruling at the appropriate time in the House. [Interjections.] To the DA, I am told I missed you. There are two slots left in the statements. DA? [Interjections.] You have taken your slot?

Mr M WATERS: Deputy Speaker, we haven’t had our third slot yet.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Sorry?

Mr M WATERS: Our third member’s statement has not been given to us yet, Deputy Speaker.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, that is why I am saying the DA and then the ANC. I made a mistake. [Interjections.] The ANC is the last, so they will finish.

Mr N L S KWANKWA: Deputy Speaker, you have not yet recognised the UDM. It’s our turn to make a statement today, and it is the second time. Two weeks ago, the same thing happened, and we ended up having to make our statement on a Thursday. Today, it is our turn again, and the same thing happened. Thank you.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, unfortunately, your case is a whip story. What I get is what was approved by the whips. I cannot include you now myself. It will be sorted out by the whips. I cannot do that from the Table. Finish your statement, hon member.

NEW ANC MEMBERS WELCOMED AND YOUTH LEAGUE LEADERSHIP ELECTED

(Member’s Statement)

Ms G K TSEKE (ANC): Deputy Speaker, all the newly recruited members, including the leader of the EFF in Siyabuswa, Cde Victor Sindane, and the recently resigned councillor in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, Cde Moloi Komane of Ward 8 in Verena, made a solemn declaration as enshrined in rule 4(17) of the constitution of the ANC.

We also want to congratulate the ANC Youth League in the Nkangala region for recently hosting a successful conference at the Zithabiseni resort. We are certain that the leadership elected will be able to take the interests of young people forward and will be able to mobilise young people in preparation for next year’s local government elections. ANC, siyaquba! [Applause.]

POLICY UNCERTAINTY TO BLAME FOR STATE OF ECONOMY

(Member’s Statement)

Mr D J MAYNIER (DA): Deputy Speaker, President Zuma finally has conceded that the economy is sick – this after he told us the state of the economy is not all doom and gloom.

The question here is the following: Why is the economy sick? The minions serving in the Economics Cluster tell us, week in and week out, the economy is sick because of the financial crisis. The truth is the economy is sick because of massive policy uncertainty caused by divisions within the ANC. What we need is clear policy focused on economic growth and job creation, but what we have is confusion. We have President Zuma telling us the National Development Plan is the policy of government, and then we have the Deputy Minister of Public Works telling us the National Development Plan is merely a vision. Now we have the ANC telling us the National Development is a living document not cast in stone. [Interjections.]

That is, in the end, why 8,4 million people are unemployed in South Africa, and that is why more and more people who do not have jobs and who want jobs understand that they don’t have a job because President Zuma does have a job and that, as long as President Zuma has a job, they will never have a job. I thank you. [Applause.] [Interjections.]

DENEL RANKED AMONG TOP-100 GLOBAL DEFENCE MANUFACTURERS

(Member’s Statement)

Ms D Z RANTHO (ANC): Deputy Speaker, the ANC congratulates Denel for being ranked amongst the top-100 global defence manufacturers for the 2014-15 financial year. International publication Defence News ranked Denel based on an analysis of revenue achieved during the 2014 financial year. This is the first time that Denel has entered the global top-100 list in the company’s history.

Denel is the second largest defence manufacturer in the southern hemisphere, behind the Brazilian aerospace conglomerate, Embraer, which occupies the 55th position on the global list. Through the Brics partnership, Denel has been able to sign strategic partnerships with Embraer. They are currently working on the development of an 80-100 km range medium range Marlin radar-guided air-to-air missile, which is being developed by Denel Dynamics under an Armscor-Department of Defence and Military Veterans technology demonstrator contract.

This state-owned company, SOC, has turned the corner and is on a steady upward trajectory. It proved that prudent board and management appointments can turn a company around, and Denel has just recorded its fourth successive operating profit. The company has an order book of R35 billion, and this augurs well for its future.

Denel’s achievement is clear evidence that SOCs can play a leading role in the global economy. Denel is agile and has been able to adapt to the changing environment. That is why 52% of its revenue is generated through exports. That is a route other SOCs must follow.

Wel gedaan, Denel. Ons is trots op julle. Dankie. [Applous.] [Well done, Denel. We are proud of you. [Applause.]]

THE ECONOMY IS SICK BECAUSE OF DIVISIONS IN THE ANC

(Minister’s Response)

The MINISTER OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY: Deputy Speaker, I must say that it is getting extremely tedious to have to respond to the hon Maynier, who has neither facts nor analysis under his belt. All he can do is stand here and wave his arms around about the same old things over and over again! Maybe that helps him to lose a bit of weight – he can probably stand to do that – but let me just say ... [Interjections.] ... the first mistake he makes is to say that we are talking about a financial crisis. Well, I think he doesn’t understand that we are talking about a global economic crisis.

Mr M WATERS: Deputy Speaker, may I address you?

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes, you may. Please take your seat, hon Minister.

Mr M WATERS: Deputy Speaker, the hon Minister has just referred to the hon Maynier’s weight. [Laughter.] No, it’s not funny! If someone referred to your weight, you wouldn’t be laughing! [Laughter.] So I do believe that the hon Minister’s comments amount to casting aspersions on a member’s integrity, and that he should withdraw that. Thank you.

The MINISTER OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY: If I may address you, hon Deputy Speaker, I said that he may be losing some weight. I, of course, do not believe that the hon Maynier’s weight is a matter to laugh about either! Thank you. [Interjections.]

Let me say that his first mistake is to think that we are talking about only a financial crisis. It is much more than that. If the hon Maynier does not understand that things like the restructuring happening in the world economy now, the implications of the changes happening in China, and the movement of markets around those changes are factors which are affecting an economy dependent upon mining for most of its exports, then I don’t know what planet he is living on.

In a context where something like 40% of our platinum mines and 31% of our gold mining companies are now struggling to maintain profitability, that is a factor. That is the challenge that we are facing right now. That is the challenge that we need to face together as a country.

The ANC is working with stakeholders to find solutions to mitigate the worst of these challenges, while we move our economy on to a better space where we can move up the value chain, where we can add value to our products, and where we can show discernible results from the work which we have done up to now. Thank you.

WATER, SANITATION AND WATER SAVING

THE ANC REMEMBERS THE FEARLESS AND SELFESS LEADER, VICTORIA MXENGE

IFP CELEBRATIONS

(Minister’s Response)

The MINISTER OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: Hon Deputy Speaker, we welcome the efforts that are being made by government to ensure that we expand the provision of quality water services for the people of South Africa.

We are particularly excited by the initiative announced by President Zuma, particularly the training opportunities that are going to be offered to young people. We would just call on the Minister of Energy to perhaps mirror the initiative begun by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, and initiate a programme of training for young people, with respect to the solar renewable energy that is now being provided through government support throughout South Africa. We lack skills in this domain, and would want to see much more training being focussed upon it.

On the matter of the Victoria Mxenge ... Clearly she and many other women who gave their lives to the struggle for freedom in South Africa deserve both our appreciation of their role, and our recognition for the contribution they made.

In that regard, I believe the hon Nkomo of the IFP is absolutely correct that we should do more about writing the history of the struggle for freedom in South Africa. We do congratulate the family and friends of the IFP on the effort made to establish a documentation archive as well as a museum dedicated to the history and role of the hon Prince Buthelezi. The matter of our history is an important subject that we should be paying much more attention to, both as Parliament and as the people of South Africa.

Finally, we would agree with the ANC that we are going to see a growth in young people joining the ANC, and we wish the ANC Youth League well in the conference that will get underway from 4 September, and hope they elect the leadership that will advance the cause for freedom and economic emancipation in South Africa. Thank you.

DURBAN TO HOST COMMONWEALTH GAMES

(Minister’s Response)

The DEPUTY MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CO-OPERATION: Hon Deputy Speaker, in response to the hon Don Gumede’s statement regarding the awarding of the 2022 Commonwealth Games to the City of Durban, what makes this award particularly special is that it will be the first time these Games will be hosted on the African continent.

Even more significant is the decision that the opening of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Durban will take place on Nelson Mandela’s birthday. Clearly, the decision to award the 2022 Commonwealth Games to Durban is a direct consequence of our successful hosting of the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

We call on all South Africans to get behind this initiative and to support the 2022 Commonwealth Games as enthusiastically as they did the World Cup in 2010. Thank you.

EBOLA QUESTIONNAIRE / SCREENING

HOSPITAL IN VOSLOORUS

(Minister’s Response)

The DEPUTY MINISTER OF ENERGY: Hon Deputy Speaker, regarding the issue of Ebola, Home Affairs together with the Department of Health and the Department of Transport, through the South African Civil Aviation Authority, has put measures in place to prevent not only the spread of Ebola, but also all infectious or communicable diseases. We have trained personnel. Of course, we have put scanners in place – anything that will ensure that we detect any person who suffers from a communicable disease.

We have done this at all our international airports and of course at our ports in South Africa.

Therefore we are on the alert and we are ready to prevent any spread of any communicable disease, including Ebola.

On the renaming of Natalspruit Hospital, ...

... ngokuthi ibe yi-Thelle Mogoerane Hospital [... to becoming Thelle Mogoerane Hospital]

We think ...

... kufanele ukuthi sibabonge, siwaqaphele siwagubhe amaqhawe ethu. [... we must thank, notice and celebrate our heroes.]

That is what the movement of the people is doing. It is going after ...

Isilungise yasenza sasihle lesi sibhedlela. Sinama gumbi okuhlinzwa amane asebenzayo, abhekelela bonke abantu nezimo eziphuthumayo ezikhona. [It has renovated this hospital beautifully. It has four working operating theatres, which are for everyone as well as the emergencies.]

It is ready. You would think you are in a First World country when you go to that hospital. I thank you.

SAA BOARD IN CRISIS

(Minister’s Response)

The MINISTER OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: Deputy Speaker, I should have responded to the statement made by the hon Chief Whip of the EFF.

I would like to say that government has adopted a localisation strategy whose intention is to ensure that we have increased support for locally based companies. So, I think we must ask our colleague, Minister Davies, to look into this matter and determine whether there is any contract by a state-owned corporation that disadvantages South African companies that have competitive bids and that should receive contracts from our companies. Thank you.

CONSIDERATION OF REPORT OF PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON POLICE ON OVERSIGHT VISIT TO CENTRAL FIREARMS REGISTRY AND POLICE STATIONS IN PRETORIA

Mr F BEUKMAN: Hon Deputy Speaker, hon members, fellow South Africans, I hereby introduce the report of the portfolio committee on its 22 to 23 September 2014 oversight visit to the Central Firearms Registry and police stations in and around Pretoria as well as a visit to the Auditor-General, AG, in Pretoria. The purpose of the visit was to make sure that the SA Police Service is compliant with all the legislation, regulations and standing orders applicable to the SAPS.

Another objective was to assess the levels of service delivery that the police were providing for the community. The committee also wanted to ensure itself that following the hearing on the Central Firearms Registry, the steps on a turnaround strategy were being implemented. Lastly, the committee wanted a briefing from the Auditor-General on the departments that the committee oversees. The briefing from the AG focused on the leadership of departments, financial and performance management and governance, the role of leadership to exercise oversight over financial responsibilities, performance reporting and compliance was highlighted. The AG also highlighted the need for effective human resource management practices and to develop action plans and monitor implementation. It is of critical importance that the three relevant accounting officers address these matters as a priority.

The committee also embarked on an unannounced visit to the Mamelodi West Police Station. Areas of concern included the high number of vacancies in the visible policing environment, student constables requiring bulletproof vests, the availability of information from detectives and the state of accommodation. Concerns were also raised about the nonavailability of performance information and the function of the community police forum, CPF. The committee recommended that the leadership of the station take the necessary steps to ensure effective service delivery to the community.

The visit to the Central Firearms Registry, CFR, included the tour of the facility and a formal meeting with the management and the Firearms Appeal Board. The Firearms Appeal Board emphasise the need for training SAPS members with regard to rules governing the refusal of firearm licenses. The CFR had a lot of challenges ranging from leadership, vetting, adequate staffing, adequate accommodation, the need for integrated IT systems, job descriptions and an adequate communication system with the public.

The committee recommended that a revised action plan turnaround strategy is required and should be tabled with the committee. The committee recommended that all vacancies at the CFR be filled as soon as possible and that a clear and comprehensive database of all firearms is required. The committee also requested clear timelines with the implementation of the database reform. The vetting of senior managers was also highlighted by the committee as a priority. The committee will also continue to monitor the implementation process. Safe to say, Deputy Speaker, since that visit last year, there are now monthly reports forwarded to the Portfolio Committee on Police on these reforms and we also had a successful firearms summit.

The announced visit to the Sunnyside Police Station again highlighted the importance of well, qualified and experienced station management. The committee welcomes the compliance with the Domestic Violence Act, the Child Justice Act and legislation with the Firearms Control Amendment Act. The committee observed that the station was a good functioning station that complied with policy prescripts and that there were no major problems at the station. The committee was of the view that it welcomes efforts made by police officers at the Sunnyside Police Station to deliver quality service.

We call on all station management across the country to emulate the good practices that are employed by the Sunnyside Police Station. I thank you. [Applause.]

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Hon Deputy Speaker, I move that the report be adopted.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members, the question is that the report be on the Portfolio Committee on Police on Oversight visit to Central Firearms Registry and Police Stations in Pretoria, be adopted.

Mr M WATERS: Deputy Speaker, the DA would like to make a declaration, please. Thank you.

Declaration(s) of vote:

Ms D KOHLER-BARNARD: The ANC members of this committee approved the latest version of the firearm legislation. At the time I said that firstly, the Act targets legal firearm owners and it does not address the millions of illegal firearms that remain in the hands of criminals. The Act did what many believed it set out to do, mainly to disarm many law abiding citizens. It made our rural citizenry more vulnerable with dozens of brutal farm attacks.

The then Minister did not bother to carryout an assessment of the possible economic impact of the Act before implementing it and hundreds of firearm dealers and gunsmiths went bankrupt, the farm industry, professional hunting and private security industries suffered with business closures and job losses experienced across the board. In the tourism and trophy hunting industry, this country is now losing out to Botswana and Zambia. The administration burden was so massive that initially thousands of applications were rejected on the flimsiest of excuses: Our Olympic shottists were refused licences; women were refused and told that their husbands must protect them; nonhunters were refused because they did not hunt.

The excuses given for refusing to renew or grant belonged in a Monti Python skit. The DA did not support it because we said that the SAPS would not be able to cope with the administrative burden placed on them as they chase legal firearm owners and we were right. Fast forward to the visit to the Central Firearm Registry, of all the terrible places to work within the SAPS environment this place must top the list. The building should be condemned and raised to the ground. Its lifts do not work just like those in the Marks Building that trapped our MPs for an hour last night. The corridors are deathtraps with millions of files stacked in piles from floor to ceiling running along both sides of corridors and amongst them families of rats live and chew their way through the files. I spoke to members who personally pay to have their offices fumigated every single month. Why? Because the decades of pigeon guano are so high on window ledges literally covering the entire building that wave upon wave of bird lies march down the walls along the floors and up their legs. The Auditor-General asked them to file certain files last year and they are still looking. Just before inspectors arrived the CFR management gave the instruction to shift thousand upon thousand of files to another floor and once the committee left, the files moved back. Yes, crooked members have been arrested after selling countless licenses but basically it is in a catastrophic state.

The state of affairs at the CFR is a macrocosm of poor legislation doing as much damage to our citizenry and is little damage to the criminals in our country just like what the new visa regulations are doing to visitors who intend to visit and spend their money here. In future, I would advise the ANC to listen when the official opposition speaks, for we have the best interests of this country and of our citizens at heart and when we see a train coming, we warn members of this House to get off the track. [Applause.]

Mr S P MHLONGO: Most of the reports that are being tabled ... [Interjections.] – can you protect me, hon Deputy Speaker.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER: You are protected.

Mr S P MHLONGO: Most of the reports that are being tabled in this Parliament do not begin to do justice to the public, that is, the voters who sent us here to hold their executive accountable. It is really a ridicule to such people as they yearn for justice and proper service from both their representatives and state organs who we ought to monitor almost on a daily basis. It is upon this basis that the EFF rejects the adoption of this report. Everyday shocking crimes such as murder, robberies and hijackings of our people are committed almost on a daily basis and police firearms or private security weapons are being used and the committee is satisfied with an oversight visit where they could not assess even a single document.

It is not surprising that there is a lack of consequences for poor performance and transgressions within the police structure itself. We have seen the results with the massacre of mineworkers in Marikana and no one has ever been questioned within the police structure about this massacre until today. Andries Tatane was brutally murdered in the hands of police, we saw those who committed this terrible atrocity being let lose and no one has been dealt with, according to the information we have. Yet those who are accused of murder and all other heinous crimes within the police structure are found to be roaming the streets freely. There are police stations and buildings which are collapsing due to ageing infrastructure and yet we are tabling and adopting reports on oversights which are not a true reflection of the reality that people face almost on a daily basis.

Police stations not only in Pretoria but throughout the country are in a shocking state. These buildings were last maintained before 1994. Our police and the public who need to access police services are in danger everyday. These buildings will collapse at any given moment and we cannot expect meaningful service delivery from our men and women in blue under such terrible conditions.

The National Commissioner of Police must tell the committee why the Mamelodi West Police Station still operates under a building declared unfit for occupation. She must tell us why people were executed in Glebelands Hostel, Durban, without arresting those behind these criminal acts. She must tell us how is the command and control system used because we have reports of police in Mpumalanga, for an example, used being as a private security company to escort illegal cigarettes of foreign nationals. She must tell us about action taken against the station commander who obviously does not do his work properly. As the EFF we have a dream, this dream is a shared dream with the people of this country. I thank you. [Applause.]

There was no debate.

Motion agreed to.

Report accordingly adopted (Economic Freedom Fighters dissenting).

Declarations Contd:

DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon members, declarations having been made, shall I put a ... [Interjection] ... Oh! Oh, hon Mncwango ...

...yingoba uyangikweleta. Woza, baba. [... it is because you owe me. Come, sir.]

Mr M A MNCWANGO: Hon Deputy Speaker, the recent visit of the Portfolio Committee on Police to the Central Firearms Registry, CFR, and police stations in and around Pretoria highlighted numerous challenges that still face our police services in the successful fulfilment of their mandate to the people of South Africa. The SA Police Service Mamelodi West, a brigadier-level police station, is in an infrastructural poor state and a hindrance to effective policing in the area.

This has been communicated by the station commander to the provincial offices but nothing has yet been prioritised. We request that the Minister takes this matter up with the provincial office. The station also has an abnormally high number of vacancies, lack of visible policing, slow response times to crime and a relatively low level of morale of officers. There is an escalating level of drug abuse, housebreaking, vehicle theft, common assault and assault with grievous bodily harm, GBH. Murder, rape and robbery should be escalated in the station’s priorities. The detective unit at the station was largely unimpressive, housed in dilapidated, poorly-equipped offices and had poor conviction rates.

Now turning to the Firearm Registry in Pretoria, as we have stated before, it is in total disarray. There is an inadequate storage space for files and insufficient accommodation for personnel, there are paper mountains of applications, permits and licenses thrown across the many offices with no system or even an attempt to collate and bring order to these ever increasing tide of applications. There remains numerous substantive legal lacunaire, which must be addressed.

We urge the Minister of Police to ensure that greater emphasis is placed upon these aspects of the process. There are also no records for former Transvaal, Bophuthatswana, Venda and Ciskei, TBVC, states firearms. These firearms are accordingly in circulation and can be used without effective trace. We support the recommendation by the committee that a revised action plan is required and that this must be brought to the Portfolio Committee on Police at least by 7 October 2015. The IFP supports this report. Thank you. [Applause.]

Mr A M SHAIK-EMAM: Hon Deputy Speaker, hon members of this honourable House, the NFP welcomes the report tabled here today. South Africa’s firearm legislation is convoluted and administration thereof is challenging to the point where it is safe to say the Central Firearm Registry is not functioning optimally. The mere beurocratic magnitude of the legislative requirements and its logistic implications is causing huge backlogs in applications and is rendering the Central Firearm Registry ineffective whilst placing an increased demand on the already stretched resources of the SA Police.

The NFP reiterates its proposal for a gun-free South Africa where private firearm possession will be restricted to hunting and recreational purposes. A gun-free South Africa will result in far less beurocratic red tape, less demand on the limited resources of the SA Police and free the hands of desk-bound police personnel to increase visible policing.

In a recent survey it was established that revenue generated is estimated to be about R117 million per annum contrary to approximately R32 billion in terms of cost to the state as a results of death and injuries due to firearms in the country. The report of Portfolio Committee on Police on Mamelodi West Police Station is disappointing to say the least. The lack of access to records, nonavailability of information on the part of detectives, the apparent dysfunctional community policing forum and the general level of cleanliness that leaves much to be desired should be a cause for concern.

On the contrary, the report of the Portfolio Committee on Police on Sunnyside Police Station is far more positive. Despite facing logistical and resource challenges as other police stations countrywide, the command and leadership structure in the Sunnyside Police Station has continued to provide a very effective and efficient policing.

The NFP believes that the contrast between the two stations mentioned in the report is an indication that the level of service is highly dependent on the quality of the command structure in each station. To this effect, we are in full agreement with the chairperson of the committee, hon Francoise Beukman, that there should be no difference in the levels of service delivery that citizens experience at any police station in any part of the country. And we call for a better training of commanding officers of the underperforming police stations.

In conclusion, the NFP supports the recommendations of the Portfolio Committee on Police to adopt the report on the oversight visit to Central Firearm Registry and police stations in and around Pretoria. Thank you.

Ms L MABIJA: Hon Deputy Speaker, hon Ministers, hon members, fellow South Africans in the gallery, good day. I rise on behalf - do not disturb me please, keep quiet - of the ANC to support the said committee’s report. I am presenting this report with a genuine perception that as members of this House we are different characters that emanated from different characteristics; hence some of us receive this report with a negative connotation. Anyway, I would like to indicate that ...

... nangwe [even though]

... the ANC continues to lead moving South Africa forward. The report deals with the visit of the Portfolio Committee on Police to Gauteng as indicated by the chairperson. The committee identified the following needs: Increase of staff numbers, a comprehensive work study exercise, an urgent review of the current accommodation needs and the lack of space, the vetting of key CFR staff, the current job description of the designated firearms officer and the need to ensure that the officer focuses on his core business, the need to overhaul the current information technology, IT, system that is been utilized by the CFR and the need for adequate space for the CFR archives. The need to weed out corrupt elements in the Central Firearm Registry is essential.

I would like to indicate that the ANC welcomes the arrest of the police colonel and his accomplices for allegedly supplying illegal guns to the gangsters in the Western Cape. Again, the committee would like to commend the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation, DPCI, for their hard work in ensuring that corrupt police officers face the full might of the law. Unless we deal with corrupt elements in the Central Firearm Registry environment, we are not going to make progress.

The committee found that the Sunnyside SAPS is a well functioning police station. It is accessible and makes provision for persons with disability. Thank you, although I had a lot to say. [Time expired] [Applause.]

Motion agreed to.

Report accordingly adopted (Economic Freedom Fighters dissenting).

CONSIDERATION OF REPORT OF PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON BASIC EDUCATION ON OVERSIGHT VISITS TO NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Ms N GINA: Deputy Speaker, the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education had an oversight in the North West province, Dr Ruth Mompati District. The purpose and the rational for choosing North West was to resolve the focus oversight on schools and districts with most challenges in the province, and to make sure that quality education was being provided to schools. It was also to check on the readiness for the beginning of the year as to say how the province, especially the district of Dr Ruth Mompati, was ready for the beginning of the year.

There are several observations that the committee made. With regard to the provision of the Learner Teacher Support Material, LTSM, the portfolio committee observed that despite the initial delays that were there the district was on the right path and every school was receiving textbooks; and what the district was busy with was to attend to the top ups and the challenges that were arising in one of the few schools that were there.

The issues of school establishment were also observed by the portfolio committee on that visit and the greatest challenge that was there was one of the permanency of the temporary employed educators who have served for more than 24 months. That was one of the recommendations that the committee came up with as to say the province, specifically the district, must take care of those and make sure that the teachers are absorbed and made permanent as they are supposed to be.

Another observation was around the issues of learner transport where both the Department of Education and the Department of Transport had some sort of shortcomings in making sure that learner transport was being provided. But again on the recommendation it’s one of the recommendations that the committee came up with, and as I am standing here I am pleased to inform this august House on the progress that has been made thereafter. We have seen that the policy on learner transport by both departments and the district of Mompati is engaging and implementing that policy, and we are seeing some of the challenges that we observed in that district being addressed when it comes to that.

Another recommendation that the portfolio committee came up with in that district was the closest support from the department to make sure that all the underperforming schools are being assisted and they get the immediate support that they were getting. With regard to progress, even now, we are proud to say that one of the reports we are getting from that district is that we are seeing the visibility of all subject advisors coming closer to those schools and indeed there has been a turnaround plan as to say how such schools could be assisted.

The last observation that we had on that oversight was in relation to the rationalisation and the merging of schools that are affected in that area - those schools that are declared nonviable schools. The consultation methods that have been used to make sure that the communities are involved and buy in on the issues of rationalisation was one of the things that we noticed after engaging with all the stakeholders in the district. That was one of the recommendations that we made as to say that the district must make sure that, yes, rationalisation must be done, the schools must be merged if ever they are nonviable but all the processes must be followed to a T. We hope and believe that is what is going to happen because we recommended that the Minister of Basic Education should work very closely with the district to make sure that those processes are well followed so that in future we don’t get the outcry that we were faced with when we visited that district.

Deputy that is all with the oversight embarked on in the North West, in Dr Ruth Mompati District Municipality. Thank you so much.

Declarations of vote:

Ms D VAN DER WALT: Hon House Chair and colleagues, I dedicate this report to the three learners of the North West School for the Deaf pupils in Leeudoringstad who died after a fire in their hostel. There’s a saying that customers look you up and down before deciding whether they will believe or trust you. Upon arrival at the gates of the department’s building half the lettering of the department’s name on the wall was gone. I wondered whether any staff entering this gate every day cared about the spelling or even noticed. Clearly not. Do they even care about teaching our children proper writing and spelling?

It can never be that committed teachers and our learners are denied teaching and learning as a result of, in the first instance, backlogs in respect of infrastructure delivery due to poor planning and budget spending; second instance, dubious tender awarding which results in legal action and serious delays of textbook delivery to our schools; third instance appointment of unqualified of foreign educators with fraudulent certificates by the North West department; fourth instance lack of unsafe, overloaded learner transport vehicles; and lastly, two departments in charge of learner transport, and I differ very strongly with the chairperson. The latter is supporting the DA’s view that the learner transport policy adopted by Cabinet is not looking after the needs of our learners. It cannot be vested in two departments. Only one department, the Department of Basic Education should be accountable for this function.

This oversight again proved that this department is not in charge of its own business, South African Democratic Teachers Union, Sadtu, is. The committee’s programme was set aside at the wink of an eye when a Sadtu member proposed another route. It is time Sadtu stick to their business and their business only, which is not giving instructions to a portfolio committee on their programme.

Chair, we are very concerned that this province has a high 61% learner drop out figure and we should give this urgent attention. The DA supports this report based upon the fact that this department gives special attention to the learners of Pomfret – a forgotten town; based on the fact that some principals and teachers, without fear or favour, were very frank and honest with the committee in order to better education for our learners. Thank you.

Dr H CHEWANE: Hon Chair, firstly the EFF condemn in the strongest possible terms the careless attitude with which Parliament and the portfolio committee treat the importance of oversight visits and the recommendation that they make. This particular oversight visit was conducted in November 2014 to assess the readiness of schooling in that province for this year. The report was only finalised by the committee on 14 April this year in Announcements, Tablings and Committee Reports, ATCs, on the 26 June.

So what purpose does the discussion on this report serve now in September 2015? This Parliament must stop playing while our people suffer. Having said that, this report confirms what we have always known as the EFF that the plight of pupils and teachers alike who live in deep rural areas is of no concern to this government. From struggling with scholar transport to collapsing schooling infrastructure, from struggling to retain qualified teachers to corruption with the awarding of tenders for the learner-teacher support materials, the state of basic education in the North West and in South Africa in general is in permanent crisis.

As in the case of elsewhere in the country, the phenomenon of unqualified teachers employed to teach our children is widespread, so is the chronic shortage of educational materials that seems to affect only blacks and poor students of this country.

We reject this report and we do so because it is a waste of our precious time to be sitting here discussing issues that should have been dealt with in February. We reject it because it highlights nothing new, it recommends nothing new, meaning that the basic education needs of children of the North West will remain unchanged. The teachers will continue to struggle to teach under extremely difficult conditions. The EFF rejects this report. Thank you, Chair.

Mr S C MNCWABE: House Chair, the NFP welcomes the report as tabled here, today. The findings of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education after their oversight visit to the North West province give us insight into the deteriorating state of basic education in our country. The challenges highlighted in the report should prompt us to do some serious introspection on the state of basic education in this country.

The NFP believes that the concerns highlighted by the committee in this report are, by no means, restricted to the North West province. Issues, such as unqualified foreign educators, educators with fraudulent qualifications, transport challenges faced by rural learners and infrastructure backlogs at schools, particularly those in rural areas, are priority issues that need to be addressed as a matter of urgency. Attention must also be given to underperforming schools, the relationship between the provincial departments of basic education and labour organisations, and the administrative burden of too many assessment requirements, which encroach on teaching time.

In conclusion, the NFP supports the recommendations of the portfolio committee. Thank you.

Ms N R MOKOTO: Hon Chairperson, firstly, I would like to indicate that the ANC welcomes the report and we support it, as we did in the portfolio committee. We, as members of this portfolio committee, all understand that even during the meeting when we adopted that report, all the parties that were there in the committee were unanimous. We agreed to adopt this report, as a committee, not as individual parties. I would like to highlight to the House that the backtracking by opposition parties on this matter is not a surprise to the ANC. We are not surprised.

I would like to agree with the declaration of the member from the NFP. The issues that have been raised in the report are a challenge for the whole country. They are not unique to the North West. They are issues that we, as a portfolio committee, attend to and raise with the department every day, and we are very concerned with the pace at which they are being attended to.

We would specifically like to highlight the fact that we have appreciated the support from and collaboration with the stakeholders in that district municipality, in terms of making sure that education becomes a societal matter. All the stakeholders stood up to raise their voices and make sure that their children’s future – and their own future - does not get compromised.

Particularly on the issue of the merging of schools, the rationalisation, we appreciate the support and understanding of the communities in that area with the view of the current government. We are keenly aware of the problem in that district of child-headed families. It is the ANC-led government that has introduced a primary school nutrition programme to ensure that no learner fails to learn because of an empty stomach. So, we are very assured that the actions of the department to make sure that they take on that matter and attend to it ... I thank you. [Time expired.]

The Chief Whip of the Majority Party moved: That the Report be adopted.

Motion agreed to.

Report accordingly adopted (Economic Freedom Fighters dissenting).

CONSIDERATION OF REPORT OF PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON BASIC EDUCATION - VISITS TO INCLUSIVE EDUCATION SOUTH AFRICA, IESA, OFFICES AND TWO FULL-SERVICE SCHOOLS IN CAPE TOWN

Ms N R MOKOTO: Chairperson, the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education undertook an oversight visit to Inclusive Education South Africa, Iesa, offices. Subsequent to that visit, it visited two full-service schools in Cape Town, in June 2105.

As part of that visit, the committee interacted with a nongovernmental organisation, NGO, called Inclusive Education South Africa, to understand its workings and programmes and to interact on how to improve issues of inclusive education in schools throughout South Africa. Inclusive Education is an NGO that is based in the Western Cape and has a few branches in some other provinces, like KwaZulu-Natal and the North West.

The report specifically gives us policy context or background, showing there is a need for full-service schools to be introduced as per the recommendation of White Paper 6 on Inclusive Education that ensures we are able to implement the National Development Plan and the Medium-Term Strategic Framework between 2014 and 2015. One of the observations that we, as the portfolio committee, noted was to share best practices between the schools and the provinces in terms of the implementation of inclusive education. This included a shift in understanding the concept of barriers to learning, increased levels of support and a continuum of the provision of support, the increase in access to full-service schools, as well as the availability of resources in those special needs schools.

The portfolio committee has noted challenges raised by Iesa. These include integration of inclusive education in all the Department of Basic Education programmes; to ensure that there is continuous reporting on whether we are reaching our targets as set; to ensure proper budgeting is available throughout the country; and to ensure that there is enough capacity and adequate training of teachers to ensure that there is diversity. One of the issues of concern to the portfolio committee was that of the curriculum. We were concerned at the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements, Caps, training that required special schools to adapt their curriculum to that of Caps.

We also visited Liwa Full-Service School, in Nyanga, and Fairview Full-Service Primary School, in the Western Cape. As the ANC within that portfolio committee, we have noted the issue of the second two economies in one. [Interjections.] This became stark naked in the way in which the two schools have been operated, funded and run. It is our recommendation, as a portfolio committee, that the Western Cape department should start prioritising the issue of an inclusive curriculum in the education system and start employing teaching assistants for all the schools to broaden their impact of curriculum in the education system. [Interjections.]

As the ANC, we adopted this report, together with the ... [Time expired.]

There was no debate.

Declarations of vote:

Ms H S BOSHOFF: Chairperson, despite having the largest allocation of South Africa’s budget, and despite having boasted earlier this year that South Africa had met its Millennium Development Goal of universal primary school enrolment, the Minister of Basic Education has, in fact, failed to provide basic education to an estimated half a million children with disabilities.

Under the Minister’s watch, schools have been allowed, with impunity, to discriminate unfairly against students with disabilities. Hundreds of thousands of disabled students have been refused admission to preserve artificially inflated pass rates, and on the basis of inadequate resources. This, despite the abundance of money available to the department, over R900 million of which was irregularly spent in the 2013-14 financial year, according to the department’s own annual report.

In the 2001 White Paper on Education, this government committed itself to putting an end to the exclusion of learners with disabilities. Fourteen years on, the problem persists, and the department has made little or no effort to create an inclusive environment at mainstream schools, using its resources mainly in special schools. Astonishingly, your department’s response to this disaster has been to deny its failures, to shift blame and to even shoot the messenger.

The Minister must acknowledge her responsibility for this crisis. She must ensure that a plan of action is implemented to increase understanding of disabilities; prevent violence towards and neglect of disabled learners; train educators to include disabled learners in classrooms; and put an end to this rampant discrimination. I thank you.

Declarations of vote

Mr M S MBATHA (EFF): House Chair, when you say the doors of learning and culture shall be open, you must fully mean it as referring to all learners, including those learners with various disabilities, and that the support system should actually realise their access to schooling is fully realised with all kinds of government support.

The EFF welcomes the great strides made by the nongovernmental organisations such as Inclusive Education SA in making education accessible even to those with serious difficulties and with special needs. Without organisations such as this one, the ANC and the DA would have never though about the needs of children with special disabilities. We commend the innovative nature of Inclusive Education SA of ensuring that those with special needs are not isolated within the education system.

What this report asks from us, is to seriously and urgently think more clearly about the resources needed to have an education system that is welcoming to all learners with special needs. We would like to urge the committee to take action with regard to some of its recommendations, in particular, and make follow-up to see that these recommendations are fully implemented. These include the need for the Department of Basic Education to budget properly, and to ensure that schools with special needs are fully supported so as to increase the number of young learners with disabilities.

The failure of the Western Cape Education Department to register the Liwa Full-service Primary School in Nyanga, is not surprising though. This school cannot receive the necessary funding needed because this department is dragging its feet. Needless to say that even the support system across all other schools in the Western Cape is lacking. We also note that the behaviour of the Department of Education in the Western Cape is characteristic of the DA and their attitude towards the needs of black people in general. We also note that when you have a black leader of the DA, it does not mean that your attitude has changed completely. Thank you. [Applause.]

Mr S C MNCWABE (NFP): House Chairperson, the NFP welcomes the report. It is a sad reflection on government and on the Department of Basic Education that inclusive education for children who experience barriers to learning is not high on the list of priorities. Less than 0,02% of schools in the Western Cape, for example, are implementing inclusive education, a statistics which is likely to be reflected in other provinces too. In this context, the efforts of Inclusive Education SA, a non-profit-making organisation committed to promoting and supporting positive models of inclusive education in schools, preschools and other centres of learning in South Africa is to be commended and encouraged.

The NFP is of the opinion that training of educators to facilitate inclusive education should form part of the curriculum of all educators at tertiary level and must not be left to non-profit-making organisations only. By failing to include such training in the standard curriculum of educators, the state is effectively outsourcing its responsibility to ensure that our children receive proper education of a high standard.

We are also of the view that particular attention should be paid to Early Childhood Development education centres. It is shown that inclusion of young children with disabilities into mainstream ECD centres, significantly improves their opportunities for learning and participation as well as benefitting social cohesion amongst all children. The NFP supports the report. Thank you.

Ms N GINA (ANC): House Chairperson, the ANC-led government will always make sure that the doors of learning and culture shall be open to all. We are witnessing that for the first time in the history of education in South Africa. The Department of Basic Education has come up with the inclusive education policy which is well followed in the provinces though there are still challenges as is reflected in the report that is presented today. We visited some of the schools in the Western Cape and witnessed some schools like Liwa Full-service Primary school, which are not registered by the provincial Department of Education.

Let us give credit to where it is due, where we see inclusive education being implemented throughout the country. Yes, we might agree that there are challenges because we are dealing with the backlog that has been there for a number of years, where the issues of inclusivity have been neglected. It is for the first time, even among the priorities of the department, that we see the issues of inclusive education being put at the top of the list and we are seeing that trend in all the provinces. They are making sure that the issues of inclusive education are being followed up.

When we talk of the NGOs, like Inclusive Education SA, Iesa, they came up because indeed there is something that is happening now, hence the report contains some of the good things that the NGOs are coming up which says the department is doing something. For the first time, we see the issue of Sign Language Curriculum being included in the curriculum of this country, something that has never been done just because we want all the doors of learning to be open for everyone in South Africa. We are here to commend the department for doing that and we are saying as the portfolio committee, we will be there and we will be making sure that we monitor the progress and play our oversight role to make sure that every African child does benefit from this policy and it is implemented to a tee and everyone has access to basic education.

As the portfolio committee, we are pleading that the hiccups and challenges we found in this province be attended to. Let us see the centres where people are struggling, like the centre in Nyanga, the Liwa Full-service Primary School being registered for us to see the learners attending those schools fully benefiting. As the ANC, we support this report. Thank you, Chair. [Applause.]

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Hon House Chair, I move that the report be adopted.

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr C T Frolick): The motion is that the report be adopted.

Question put.

Motion agreed to.

Report accordingly adopted. (Economic Freedom Fighters dissenting).

CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR APPROVAL BY PARLIAMENT OF INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCH KEEPING FOR FISHING VESSEL PERSONNEL 1995 SPCWF IN TERMS OF THE SECTION 231(2) OF THE CONSTITUTION

Mrs D P MAGADZI: Thank you very much hon House Chair. The Portfolio Committee on Transport hereby request Parliament to adopt the report on the International Convention. The main aim of the convention is to standardize certification, prescribe minimum requirements for training on fishing vessels. The South African government as in all other conventions has looked into this convention and has seen and has seen advantages of us adopting this convention.

The international Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch keeping for Fishing Vessels Personnel has got several issues that we can be able to look into as government and as people of the republic. It is in line with the National Development Plan which actually aims at improving the human resource development of the people of the Republic of South Africa, because here we believe that seafarers and everybody who will be working at the sea will be trained. We believe also that the skill shortage that is also there in terms of people who are working at the sea will be reduced and fishing activities will be enhanced, which will be able to assist what the President has so eloquently spoken to in terms of the ocean economy. We believe also that once the training and certification has been accented to, it will improve the safe-keeping. It will improve the health condition. It will improve other related ocean development issues in the Republic.

Operation Pakisa spoke to the development of the ocean economy. We believe that this will be part of making sure that we enhance our factories. We enhance building and maintenance, but in particular we will make sure that there are people who actually are trained, it be engineers, it be in safety, it be in health but also research and development will be upheld.

Therefore, hon members, this to us is one of the things that we believe that our socio economic development will be enhanced. Our maritime, our defense, our ecology as well as the career in the transport economy, the jobs that we so need, the world class legacy particularly of the skills development will be enhanced and therefore as a Committee we have adopted this report, all of us agreed to and we request Parliament to adopt this report. I thank you.

DECLARATIONS

Mr C H HUNSINGER (DA): Deputy Speaker, the complications which could arise for ships of state which are not parties to the convention is one of the reasons why the convention has received such acceptance. By 2014 the convention had 158 member countries representing 98,8% of the world shipping tarnish. The most recent amendments adopted in Manila five years ago were necessary to keep training standards in line with the new technological and operational requirements that called for new ship board competencies. The Manila amendments were effective as of 1 January 2012. There is a transition until 2017 when all seafarers period must be certified and trained according to new the standards. Implementation is progressive and every year a modified set of requirements come into force. The key amendments are a new rest hours for seafarers, new grades of certificates of competence for able seamen both on deck and in engine rooms, new and updated training and refreshing requirements, mandatory security training, additional medical standards and specific alcohol limits.

Since shipping is extremely international in nature, standards and procedures which varied widely before have been unified to a large extent. This progression after convention, Deputy Speaker, previously acknowledged a prescribed minimum standards, but now requires a minimum level of training, certification and watch-keeping for seafarers which member countries are obliged to meet or exceed. In becoming a signatory we are by implication accepting to offer the same standards and acceptance that our seafarers will experience in foreign waters.

The responsibility thereof is not relative but compulsory to a common standard that we agree to. In this regard it is relevant to mention that we currently only have one lent on licensed pilot in South Africa. We are currently not in a position to execute rescue operation to the likes of the Costa Concordia or MTS Oceanos disasters. With more than 12 000 ships sailing on our waters per year, it is one thing to accept membership of the Convention another to comply with the responsibilities. Moreover, Deputy Speaker, the seriousness of our participation will not be measured by the keenness to sign but by the value and honor which we attach to the ink on the paper. The Statutes of Rome being one of the most blatant and damaging examples in recent times of the value which the current government assigns to international conventions. I thank you.

Mr M N PAULSEN (EFF): Thank you House Chair, the International Convention on the Standard and Training Certification and Watch-keeping for Vessel Personnel in line with the amendment of the 16:30 ... agreed by this House is an important step towards ensuring safety and decent working conditions for fishermen and women. This is something that should not have taken such a long time. The Department has failed to give satisfying reasons as to why this was not done, but the Convention is welcome nonetheless what is alarming and concerning about the situation in the maritime industry is that of the more than lives that are lost due to poor working conditions, and the lack of training

The ANC government cannot tell us how many of these lives that are lost are South Africans. Many of our men and women working in these vessels in South Africa and across the world are sent without any form of commendable training. As a result they are left to work in very difficult conditions. The ANC government has for years failed to regulate the shipping vessels that come to our shores regularly. It is time the maritime industry in particular the working conditions receives the proper attention it deserves and allows for South African maritime safety authority to perform their function without political interference. The EFF welcomes the Convention. Thank you.

Mr K P SITHOLE (IFP): Hon Chairperson, in 1995 Convention on Standards and Training Certifications and Watch-keeping is a new initiative that is foundationally to the new philosophy at international marine organizations. It seeks to establish baseline standards for the training and education of seafarers through the world and by placing an emphasis on quality control and competent based training. It establishes a structure that can ensure not only the required standards it needs, but that seems to be met

The principles amendment to be initial in 1978 Convention are in the area of marine safety which contain a complete draft enforcement related to conventions and more importantly at STCU,CODE, was created at such stringent sub standards for marine instrument

It is widely acknowledged that nearly 80% of transport accidents are because of human error. Marine through their skill set or let thereof can either prevent or cause disaster at sea. Human elements remain a basic component with all its strength and its weaknesses. That is why the international maritime community is stringent focusing now on the competence of marine skills.

Hon House Chairperson the seas around South Africa can be very challenging at times and it is therefore imperative for the safety of our marines that they be trained to the highest international standards. The Inkatha Freedom Party supports the report and the recommendation. I thank you.

Declaration(s) of Vote: (Continue ...)

Mr M L SHELEMBE: Hon Chairperson, the NFP welcomes the report as tabled here today. The convention we are asked to approve today will align South African standards of training, certification and watch keeping on fishing vessels with that of the International Maritime Organisation and ensure international accepted standards of safety for those working in this industry.

A very important feature of the convention is that once ratified it will bind maritime vessels from all nations including nonparty states to the convention when such vessels enter South African ports. The net effect of this provision is that South Africa will be in position to enforce compliance with international standards of safety for fishing vessels personnel of all vessels. In doing so, it will ensure that workers are afforded the same protection as those of member states in light of South Africa’s efforts to maximise our marine resources under the auspices of the Operation Phakisa and in light of the fact that newly empowered fishing companies are bound to enter the industry previously dominated by established white capital.

It is of utmost importance that the government incorporates the provisions of the convention into the legislative framework which will regulate participation in the commercial fishing industry. It is within this context that the NFP supports the recommendation of the Portfolio Committee on Transport to approve the ratification of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Fishing Vessels Personnel. I thank you.

Mr M P SIBANDE: Chairperson and hon members, the ANC government has never feared to pass this convention. Our history can tell. The government of the Republic of South Africa, through the Department of Labour and the Department of Transport, participated in the international deliberations wherein the Marine Labour Convention, 2006 (c) (i) 88 was adopted. It was for the first time that the ANC government make this dream come true. At the same time I must remind some people that ...

Kwasho ulusha lwe-ANC ngomculo lwathi: Ayanqikaza ayesaba amagwala athi kungcono abuyele emuva. Kodwa umbutho we-ANC ube nokuphokophela phambili usho kancane uthi: noma kukubi siyaya, siyaya phambili. Noma besithuka noma amambuka ehlehlela enyovana. Siyabonga nje ukuthi leNgqungquthela yasekwa. (Translation of isiZulu paragraph follows.)

[The ANC youth league sings: Cowards are scared and hesitant they saying it is better to go back. Yet the ANC moves forward singing: even though it is tough we are going, we are going forward. Even when they are insulting us or when the traitors move backwards. We are grateful that this conference was supported.]

International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel, 1995 (STCW-F) approved.

CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR APPROVAL BY PARLIAMENT - THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANISATION (FAO) PORT STATE MEASURES AGREEMENT TO PREVENT, DETER AND ELIMINATE ILLEGAL UNREPORTED AND UNREGULATED (IUU) FISHING

CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR APPROVAL BY PARLIAMENT - THE CONVENTION FOR THE CONSERVATION OF THE SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA (CCSBT)

CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR APPROVAL BY PARLIAMENT - AGREEMENT TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE INDIAN OCEAN TUNA COMMISSION (IOTC)

Ms M R SEMENYA: Hon Chair, on behalf of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, we hereby table the agreements on ports statements measures and tuna fishing agreements. The main challenge facing the fishing sector in the country is to create a balance between optimising the social and economic potential of the sector while protecting the integrity of the country’s marine and coastal system. It is well acknowledged that fisheries play a crucial role in terms of job creation, livelihood and sustainable development in many of the coastal communities as well local economies.

Since the fishery resources are limited, there is a need to tap into other avenues to increase the socioeconomic impact of the fishing sector. The Constitution is clear that natural resources are supposed to be used in an ecological sustainable way to ensure economic and social development for the benefit of the present and the future generation. One such opportunity is the access to the fishery of the tuna and tuna-like species. However, tuna and tuna-like species are governed by the international agreement as they are a highly migratory species trekking beyond South African territory.

South Africa‘s access to tuna and tuna-like species is managed by the International Commission for Convention of Atlantic Tuna, the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission and the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna. We are currently a co-operating and noncontracting party and we are still negotiating a permanent member status under the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, IOTC, and the Convention for the Conservation of the Southern Bluefin Tuna, CCSBT. As a co-operating and noncontracting party, the country does not enjoy the voting rights and cannot influence discussions and decisions despite being subject to the same regulations as a full member.

South Africa is scheduled to receive an increased quota from 40 tons to 150 tons in 2016 from the CCSBT if the agreement is acceded to before May 2016. The CCSBT annual financial membership contribution for South Africa is estimated to be R935 000 based on the 80 tons allocation for 2013. South Africa generated approximately R12 million in foreign exchange from the 80 tons that was allocated in 2013. As a co-operating and noncontracting party, South Africa is not obliged to pay the IOTC financial contribution, however, upon admission we will be paying approximately R350 000 annual fee.

The membership fees are low compared to the generated revenue. When South Africa becomes a full member, we will have a better share of the tuna species including the Albacore, Yellowfin, Bigeye, Southern bluefin and Blue swordfish which are distributed throughout the Atlantic and Indian oceans that border South Africa. Southern bluefin is the most valuable finfish species occurring in South Africa’s waters and a more equitable quota would serve to fast-track the development of South Africa tuna fishery from the current R150 million per annum fishery to a possible R600 million fishery making it third most important South African fishery after the Hake and small Pelagic fisheries.

The current employment that is estimated at 500 would increase to over 1 000 jobs in the sector. The quality of employment would also improve as more permanent jobs could be created. Increasing allocation of tuna and tuna-like species would encourage investment into fishery as there would be an incentive to investment. This would also encourage current fishing rights holders to fully utilise their fishing rights as returns would be highly than inputs and operational costs. It is worth mentioning that the demand of tuna and tuna-like species is very high globally.

The agreement on port state measures to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal unreported, unregulated fishing envisaged to contribute amongst others to harmonise the port measures, enhance the regional and international co-operation and block the flow of Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated, IUU, caught fish into national and international market.

South Africa is already implementing national port state measures, and this includes prescreening of foreign fishing vessels before entering the port, monitoring and inspection of foreign vessels, detaining and confiscating foreign IUU vessels and report vessels to IUU listing to the Regional Fishery Management Organisation. Furthermore, a significant number of inspectors employed by the department are some from the SA Police Service, SAPS, and the SA Navy, and as such, most of them have gone under training in various enforcement fields ranging from personal survival at the sea, investigation, and the law and court processes. The principles in the three agreements are in line with the provision of section 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa as well as the Marine Living Resource Act.

The House is encouraged to approve the requests and accede to the Agreement to the Establishment of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC); the Convention for the Conservation of the Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT); and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Port State Measures Agreement to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. I present my report for consideration. Thank you.

There was no debate.

Declarations of vote:

Prof B BOZZOLI: Thank you, Chair. The Port Securities Measures is the first legally substantive international agreement to be adopted by South Africa after a plethora of soft laws aimed at providing a nonbinding regulatory framework for the international governance of fisheries and our oceans. As with the agreement, our already part of fisheries enforcement mechanism such as our permit conditions regulating the entry of foreign flagged fishing vessels into South African water and ports.

This is proven to be the most cost effective and efficient form of policing. With reference to our bid to become a full member of the Southern Bluefin Tuna Convention and the establishment of Indian Ocean Tuna commission, South Africa’s current allocation of 40 tons is simply insufficient to justify the levels of investment in this sector.

We have lost out on millions rands in revenue through our pitifully small country quota. Of the 32 tuna long line fishing quotas allocated in 2004, only 7 are operational. Part of the reason for this is our extremely limited access to this valuable fish. Full membership of the tuna convention will entitle us to increase our allocation to 150 tons and perhaps even 600 tons over the coming years. This will undoubtedly create much needed jobs in our fishing industry and will allow the sector to become a profitable part of the fishing industry.

However, there are number of challenges: how will fisheries manage its implementation and how will they sustain it? Tuna is a very expensive fish and is always sought after by illegal fishers. Do fisheries have an enforcement plan in place which can be effectively implemented and sustained? Poachers’ plunder our near shore with impunity as a result of ineffective intervention from law enforcement agencies; we are playing in the big league now, given the challenges we have and our limited capacities to undertake monitoring and enforcement at sea, I appeal to fisheries to ensure that our research and patrol vessels are in top order and all back at sea and our compliance stuff are trained in order to ensure that our membership of these international bodies are not merely a paper tiger. Exceeding to these three [Interjections] is an important step and the DA supports, thank you.

Mr M M DLAMINI: The state of our marine living resources is a source of a serious concern. Primarily for those whose livelihoods are dependent on the ocean. Globally, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations estimates that approximately 85% of world fish stocks are either over exploited or exploited to their maximum. The working with fishers, fisheries, WWF, Fisheries, facts and trend South Africa report suggest that we are in a relatively similar position with almost 50% of our marine resources fully exploited.

A further 15% of marine resources are over exploited, including important commercial species such as West Coast, Rock Webster and Indian Ocean Yellowfin Tuna population. More worrying is the fact that these marine resources are over exploited the way they are by greedy white fishing monopolies denying our people the right to enjoy the resources of marines and fishing enjoyed for generations. We have concerns, however, about the Food and Agriculture Organisation, FAO, agreement to prevent illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. These, if not carefully looked at, may have an effect of criminalising fishing communities who are doing so for subsistence reasons and have been doing so for generations.

The Southern Bluefin tuna is highly endangered Australian fish species which occasionally comes to feed in South Africa and gets exposed to greedy and unscrupulous fishing companies.

It is therefore the reason why we support the establishment of Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, but we don’t believe that the ANC government has the capacity to implement such agreement. In anyway we don’t believe that the ANC government has the capacity to implement anything, so we reject this.

Prince R N CEBEKHULU: Thank you, House Chairperson. It is of great necessity that we have a body responsible for the management of tuna and tuna-like species in the Indian Ocean. We share this ocean with many other countries, and it is a great source of tuna with amply fishing grounds. The key, once again is to ensure the sustainability of the species for the continued availability. By accession to the agreement the country would benefit by having voting rights at the commission and would be in a greater position to negotiate equitable national allocations and table proposals on how to manage the tuna and tuna-like resources of the Indian Ocean. Full access to the Indian Ocean resources would serve to develop our fisheries industry and assist in growing the sector.

This is, as rightly been said, one of the few South African sectors that has a great potential for fast growth and would lead to greater employment. Illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing remain a serious concern in South African waters. Estimates of fishing losses to illegal activities run easily into billions of rands every year from illegal fishing along our coastline.

It is reported that up to 40% of West Africa’s total catches may be illegal and in others, illegal fishing may double the documented harvest numbers. Developing countries often bear the brand of illegal fishing through lost revenue, decreased food security and loss of biodiversity. In South Africa, we have 140 000 people relying on fisheries for their livelihoods. The Port State Measures Agreement seeks to make it harder to land illegal products.

Countries that ratify the treaty must: Firstly, designate ports through which foreign fishing vessels may enter. Secondly, conduct dockside in stations following set standards. Thirdly, lock entry to vessels known or believed to have been involved in IUU or those on an IUU vessel list of regional fishery management organisation; and lastly, share information with the governments of vessels with IUU products when discovered during inspection.

In order to ensure the biodiversity and sustainability of our oceans, it is of the utmost importance that we work together with the international community in trying to stem illegal and unregulated fishing. The IFP supports it, thank you.

Mr M L W FILTANE: Thank you, hon Chair. The UDM will state upfront that we support this but there are couple of concerns that we want to express. Namely, there are no penalties for states whose vessels flouts the loss, nowhere in the agreement you will find that, it’s a question of being notified by the state in which they land. The agreement has to eliminate unreported unregulated fishing and that is a necessary measure as it will help to conserve and sustain our living marine resources for future generations, actually some people along the coast depend entirely on these resources for their day-to-day living.

South Africa’s sovereignty over its own waters is not tempered with by this and this is one of the reasons we support this. However, the technical capacity of the department is of serious concern. They have not been able to satisfy us as the committee that they will be able to effect this in a manner that will make the country to be comfortable about the whole thing.

It does not look like they have inspectors to carry out the inspection on transgressing vessels. They may not be able to deny visiting vessels entry to our ports. They have not been able to prove that to us and should those vessels actually end up in our ports, we do not know if there is enough human capacity within the department to actually carry out inspections on the vessels.

The agreement comes with the need to actually assist other developing states and we welcome that as the UDM. Furthermore, we believe that as the UDM, the entry level of only 40 tons is rather too low, of course, once we sign the agreement it will be upped to 150; but compare that with the 5 665 that Australia is already enjoying whilst we will still be languishing at the bottom on 150. So as much as we support it we have got those concerns.

Also on the budgetary side, 30% of the budget we have got to contribute towards and then the rest will be shared amongst the member states on a proportional basis depending on the amount that has been allocated to you, but we reiterate the fact that we have got these concerns as much as we support this agreement. Thank you, Chair.

Mr C H M MAXEGWANA: Thank you very much, House Chair. The ANC supports the report in adding voice to those parties who are serious in developing the economy of this country. House Chair, today South Africa’s fisheries sector has maintained its global reputation of being productive and well-managed. The reputation is maintained because of the knowledge that the capture fisheries industry requires specific research and management interventions in order to be sustainable. The main challenge facing the country is to create a balance between optimising the social economic potential of the sector while protecting the integrity of the country’s marine and coastal systems.

It is well acknowledged that the fisheries play a crucial role in terms of job creation, livelihoods and sustainable development in many of the coastal communities as well as in the local economy. Well said by the Chairperson on the National Development Plan that recognises the state of current fisheries resources, particularly the limited nature of the resources and to a certain extend the certain resources are at a sustainable state. In light to the limitation, the NDP advocates for research into new fisheries and value addition on the currently caught fisheries resources.

In the Medium Term Strategic Framework, MTSF, and the agricultural policy action plan, the fishing sector is expected to contribute towards employment, food security for all, and protects and enhances the oceans as well as the fisheries. The 2016 150 tons will add in the growth of the economy of this country, creating jobs as well as emphasising on the wellbeing of the people of this country. So, the 150 negotiated tons in this year will change the lives of our people.

The 10 to 23 billion from the global economy and undermine the way fish stocks are managed around the world, elicit fishing which includes operating without authorisation. The IUU is a problem that needs a collective effort amongst coastal states to arrest illegal fishing people who are operating in the deep sea and the country is well prepared for that. Thank you, hon Chair.

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON: Hon members, are there any objections to the approval of the Food and Agriculture Organisation Port State Measures Agreement to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing as it appears on the Order Paper?

Are there any objections? I now put the question. Those in favour will say aye.

Hon members: Aye!

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON: Those against will say no.

Hon members: No!

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON: I think the ayes have it.

Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Port State Measures Agreement to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing approved (Economic Freedom Fighters Dissenting).

Question put in respect of Sixth Order: Convention for the Conservation of the Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT) approved.

Question put in respect of the Seventh Order: Agreement to the Establishment of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) approved.

The House adjourned at 17:00.

__________

ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

National Assembly and National Council of Provinces

The Speaker and the Chairperson

1. Bills passed by Houses – to be submitted to President for assent

Bills passed by National Council of Provinces on 3 September 2015:

Agrément South Africa Bill [B 3B – 2015] (National Assembly – sec 75).

Refugees Amendment Bill [B 19 – 2015] (National Assembly – sec 75).

TABLINGS

National Assembly and National Council of Provinces

1. The Minister of Labour

Report and Financial Statements of Vote 18 – Department of Labour for 2014-15, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 18 for 2014-15 [RP 221-2015].

Report and Financial Statements of the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) for 2014-15, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2014-15 [RP 154-2015].
Report and Financial Statements of Productivity South Africa for 2014-15, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2014-15 [RP 314-2015].

Report and Financial Statements of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) for 2014-15, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2014-15 [RP 210-2015].

Report and Financial Statements of the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) for 2014-15, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2014-15.

Report and Financial Statements of the Compensation Fund for 2014-15, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information for 2014-15.

2. The Minister of Trade and Industry

Report and Financial Statements of Vote 36 – Department of Trade and Industry for 2014-15, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements and Performance Information of Vote 36 for 2014-15 [RP 328-2015].

COMMITTEE REPORTS

National Assembly

Please see pages 3365-3369 of the ATCs.

Please see pages 3370-3385 of the ATCs.

Audio

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Documents

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Hansard: NA: Unrevised hansard

House: National Assembly

Date of Meeting: 03 Sep 2015

Summary

Minutes

Audio

Documents

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