Hansard: NA: Unrevised hansard

House: National Assembly

Date of Meeting: 25 Feb 2020

Summary

No summary available.


Minutes

 

UNREVISED HANSARD

 

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

 

TUESDAY, 25 FEBRUARY 2020

 

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

__________________

 TAKE 1 - STARTS AT 14:00

Watch Video :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx5lB8_QofQ

 

The House met at 14:00.

 

House Chairperson Ms M G Boroto took the Chair and requested members to observe a moment of silence for prayer or meditation.

 

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto)

START OF DAY

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon members, I would like to remind you that on 4 December 2019 the House adopted the Rules Committee report which introduced a number of amendments to our rules. Some of the amendments pertain to the sequence of proceedings and Members’ Statements. To facilitate sufficient opportunity for Ministers’ Responses to Members’ Statements, the sequence of proceedings has been amended so that Members’ Statements are now at the start of the proceedings on days that they are scheduled by the programming committee.

 

The Rules Committee further agreed that the number of Ministers’ Responses be increased from six to seven and that time allowed for Ministers’ Responses be increased from two minutes to three minutes.

 

With that background, I will now take the first item on the Order Paper which is Members’ Statements. Does any member of the ANC wish to make a statement?

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE OPPOSITION: Sorry Chair, on a point of order.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Please take your seat. Yes, what’s your point of order?

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE OPPOSITION: I’m terribly sorry to the hon member for disrupting him, but House Chair, I have to just look around this House and I think we need to note that there is one Minister in the House. So, we are about to do ministerial statements but there are not any Ministers in the House to hear them.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): I’m looking around the House and I can say that I see a Minister and two Deputy Ministers ... [Interjections.] ... and I believe ... Oh, I’m sorry, mama De Lille. I’m very sorry. I always look this side. My apologies. Mama De Lille is there. Let’s hope that as we continue they will arrive because these are the rules that we all adopted. Yes, hon Mente?

 

Ms N V MENTE: House Chair, to say we must proceed ... they will arrive ... how will they respond to something they did not hear?

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): We have others that will respond ... [Inaudible.] ... in the House.

 

Ms N V MENTE: No, no, no, no, no, no, the rule does not say that.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): The rule says seven ... yes, opportunities.

 

Ms N V MENTE: Yes, they are three now. They are currently three.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon Mahlangu, how do we resolve this? We will resolve it together. Let’s resolve it together.

 

Ms N V MENTE: Go to the next item on the Order Paper and then we can come back to statements.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): After having adopted the rules I have to get advice because I can’t just flout the rules that we have adopted. Hon Chief Whip?

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Hon House Chairperson, I want to support the move that ... let’s start with the next item. However, I must say it is uncalled for that we don’t have Ministers and Deputy Ministers in the House when they knew that Statements was going to be the first item. Thank you. [Applause.]

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Thank you. I think that is the wish of the members in the House. As the Chief Whip has spoken and supports what you are saying, and I am advised by Mr Mahlangu that it is okay, I will proceed that way.

 

 

 

 

FIRST ORDER

START OF DAY

 

 

 

CONSIDERATION OF REPORT OF PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LAWS AMENDMENT BILL

 

There was no debate.

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Thank you very much, House Chair. As indicated on the Order Paper ...

 

  • :

...ndiphakamisa ukuba lo Mthetho-siHlomelo oYilwayo wemiThetho yezobuNzululwazi nobuChwepheshe wamkelwe.

 

Motion agreed to.

 

Report accordingly adopted.

 

 

 

SECOND ORDER

FIRST ORDER

 

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LAWS AMENDMENT BILL

(Second Reading debate)

 

The MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: Thank you very much House Chairperson, the Deputy President, Cabinet colleagues, members of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and the chairperson hon Mapulane, and hon members, as a department we committed ourselves to position Science and Technology as a catalyst towards faster economic growth and development. Whilst we acknowledge the challenges facing a number of our state-owned enterprises, SOEs, there are nevertheless those that are responding very positively to the challenges of our country.

 

This Bill will ensure that effectively we will be able to harness the achievements of our SOEs. For instance, through the SA National Space Agency, the South African MeerKAT project has been completed on time and within the budget of R3,2 billion. The benefits of hosting these telescopes include a 75% local content component and direct investment of more than R300 million in the Northern Cape by the SA Radio Astronomy Observatory alone.

 

Through the Technology Innovation Agency we continue to harness the latest advances in smart agriculture. In this regard, we are substantially expanding the agriculture and agroprocessing sector by supporting key value chains and products, developing new markets and reducing our reliance on agricultural imports.

 

  • : 14:08.12

Ngobuchwepheshe siwuHulumeni senza ngcono ulwazi ekutheni senze izimpilo zabantu zibe ngcono. Kungakho sizoguqula lemithetho namhlanje.

 

  •  

There had been an inconsistent and unco-ordinated management of public entities reporting to our Ministry, with different requirements that regulate their operations.

 

The main reason for this Bill before you today is not to simply ensure greater administrative efficiency, cost containment and strategic alignment, but it also aims to drive the postschool knowledge and skills development imperatives more decisively.

 

An important dimension towards the realisation of our objectives is that of harmonising the statutory provisions which regulate the operations of all public entities falling under our Ministry. This Bill seeks to, amongst others, harmonise the processes for the determination of the remuneration and allowances of the members and committees of boards or councils. The Bill also makes provision for the termination of membership of boards of the entities, as well as the disqualification of members or potential members from the membership of such boards. The Bill also seeks to harmonise the processes for the appointment of chief executive officers, CEOs, of the entities.

 

The amendments will also correct the anomalous situation where the Minister has had no say in the appointments of CEOs of some of our entities and would thus make provision for consultation with the Minister during the appointment of such CEOs.

 

In the process of preparing this Bill, all interested and affected stakeholders were consulted individually and the Bill was published in the Government Gazette for public comment in November 2017.

 

In this context, it is crucial that we ensure that the nation’s future science, technology and innovation paradigm is grounded on tried and tested principles of good governance.

 

IsiZulu: 14.10.46

Sethemba ukuthi amalungu ahloniphekile aleNdlu azoweseka awuphasise loMthethosivivinyo ukuze siqubeke nalo msebenzi omuhle esiwenzayo wokusebenzisa ubuchwepheshe ukuze senze izimpilo zabantu bakithi zibe ngcono. Ngiyabonga. [Ihlombe.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr M P MAPULANE  / TH (Eng – 26/2/2020) / VW// (Zul) 26/02/2020 @ 14:32 ND (Xho) 26/02/2020 / TAKE ENDS AT 14:19

 

 

 

TAKE 2 – STARTS AT 14:19

THE MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

 

 

 

Mr M P MAPULANE: House Chair, hon Minister Nzimande, hon members, fellow South Africans, the Deputy President, it gives great pleasure to present the committee report and to participate in this debate on the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill 42 of 2018.

 

The Bill was introduced and referred to the Fifth Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Science and Technology on 1 November 2018. On 5 December 2018, in terms of the joint rule 160 sub-rule 6 the joint taking mechanism classified the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill as a section 75 Bill.

 

The committee calls for public submissions on the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill from the 1 to 15 February 2019. However, because the Bill focuses exclusively on the operational and administrative governance procedures of the entities that report to the Department of Science and Innovation, no submissions were received from the public.

The process to consider the amendment proposed by the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill was done in collaboration with the Parliament’s Legal Services, the Office of the State Law Advisor and the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation. The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation exempted the department from the application of the socioeconomic impact assessment in respect of the Bill since it did not directly affect the public.

 

The department briefed the committee on the Bill on 20 February 2019, two of the committee meetings on 27 and 6 March were dedicated to the clause by clause consideration and the adoption of the clause by clause amendments and the committee’s report on the Bill, which the committee’s report on the Bill and the allies were published on 11 March 2019.

 

However, the committee’s report was not considered by the NA due to the conclusion of the of the Fifth Parliament’s term. The Bill was subsequently revived by this August House of the Sixth Parliament last year on 29 October and referred to the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education Science and Technology.

 

Following the briefing by the department on 20 November, the committee considered the Bill and the amendments effected by the previous portfolio committee and we are satisfied that the substance and the processes followed are in order and therefore are confident that this House can adopt the Science and Technology Amendment Bill as adopted.

 

The objectives of the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill are to ensure that the same governance principles and operational procedures are applied across the public entities that report to the Department of Science and Innovation. In doing so, to negate the inconsistent, inadequate and uncoordinated management of these entities, each of which have their own principle acts. The standardisation of governance and operational procedures of the public entities that report to the department allows the department to efficiently manage its administrative relationship with entities as well as more effective and strategic oversight of the entity boards and council.

 

It also affords the department through the Minister a voice in the appointment of the entity’s Chief Executive Officers and ensuring fiduciary responsibility with regard to the remuneration and allowance of board and council members and their committees.

 

The so called harmonisation has started by the department during the fourth term of Parliament and has so far resulted in two amendment acts being passed and that is the Science and Technology Laws Amendment 16 of 2011 and the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Act 7 of 2014. The current Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill specifically focus on the following five principal acts which are: the 2001 Academy of Science of South Africa Act; the 2008 Human Science Research Act 1998; the Science Research Council Act of 2008; the South African National Space Agency Act; and the Technology Innovation Act.

 

The Bill seeks to standardise the processes for the termination of the membership of the boards or council, clarify the requirements for the disqualification of persons of membership of council and provide for the appointment of external persons to committees.

 

It also ensures that the Minister responsible for science and innovation can determine the remuneration and allowances of the boards and council and their allowance.

 

The 1996 White Paper on science and technology introduced a concept of a national system of innovation which is defined as a network of institutions, organisations and policies that work together to achieve a common set of social and economic goals and objectives for the development of science and technology in our country.

 

The department is responsible for developing, coordinating and managing the system of innovation together with the eight entities. However, 23 years after the promulgation of the 1996 White Paper on Science and Technology and following a number of reviews of the national system of innovation in the 1996 White Paper, including the recent approval by Cabinet of a new White Paper on Science and Technology and Innovation in March 2019, the various reviews of the National System of Innovation, NSI, and the White Paper show that despite significant progress, challenges remain in attaining the ideal in the 1996 White Paper. Therefore, South Africa is not yet fully benefited from the potential Science, Technology and Innovation, STI, to advance the economy and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.

 

Key challenges constraining the performance of NSI are the inadequate and collaborative means of national STI agenda sitting, insufficient policy coherence, coordination, weak partnership and so forth.

 

Now, a notable observation from the 2016/17 research and experimental development survey show that higher education sector was the largest contributed to the overall increase in the gross expenditure on research and development of R827 million in constant 2010 values. The higher education sector contributed an amount of 790 to the increase in research and development. The research and development in the business sector increased by only 0.2% with State-owned enterprises, SOEs, contributing R365 million which is calculated in constant 2010 values to this. The private that is business sector excluding the SOEs showed a decrease in research and development expenditure in constant 2010 values. The government sector decreased by 2.4%, whereas the science sector showed a marginal growth.

 

Therefore it is our call hon members to the business sector that they need to up their games and increase the investment in research and development so that the country is able to attain the 1.4% expenditure on the Gross domestic product, GDP, by 2019. We believe that this Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill will contribute significantly towards that increase in research and development. I thank you

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms C V KING /  M.A Sekhonyane 02/03/2020 @10:10 / TAKE ENDS AT 14:28

 

TAKE 3 – STARTS AT 14:20

Mr M P MAPULANE

 

 

Ms C V KING: Hon House Chairperson, the scientific perspective of the world, especially the living world, inexorably impresses on us a dynamic picture of the world of entities and structures involved in continuous and incessant change and in process without ceasing.

 

The proposed amendments of this Bill are of a technical nature which seeks to harmonise the operations of entities in the science and technology sector to strengthen oversight and governance. Considering the technical nature of the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill, the initial introduction at the end of the Fifth Parliament, did little justice on discussion and consultation.

 

Improper norms and standards for entities resulted in inconsistent, inadequate and unco-ordinated management of public entities with different requirements regulating the operations and governance.

 

On this basis this Bill seeks to harmonise the processes for termination of membership of boards of entities, to clarify the requirements for disqualification of persons from membership of boards and to provide for the appointment of external persons to committees of the boards.

 

Considering the recent flawed processes of public entity boards as highlighted in the state capture reports, these amendments are crucial to ensure that the Minister and chairpersons do not have autonomy over the boards and to ensure that any amendment holds constitutional muster.

 

The Western Cape government in its submission of the Bill expressed the importance of fit for purpose when appointed to the boards, the inclusion of an appeals committee and the chief executive officer, CEO’s term of office. Clause 22 interpretation of being convicted of fraud, corruption or any other crime involving dishonesty, within a period of 10 years preceding the date of nomination can be left open for abuse. The time period should have been realistically considered. Also placing the responsibility of determining fit for purpose in the domain of the court of law is limiting and should have been added an additional insertion of “or a competent tribunal”.

 

The DA was in favour of deleting any clauses that were contrary to the Public Finance Management Act and the insertion of the disclosure of conflict of interest clause.

 

All inputs from various stakeholders were brought into fruition in this Bill. A lethargic process to ensure enactment should be avoided as happened in the previous Parliament regarding this Bill.

 

Change is scientific; progress is ethical; change is indubitable, whereas progress is a matter of controversy. This Bill is addressing ethical standards which should not be of a controversial nature to hinder progress. I thank you. [Applause.]

 

Mr M N PAULSEN

Ms C V KING

 

 

Mr M N PAULSEN: Hon House Chairperson, the role of science and technology, in particular research and development is the industrialisation and betterment of society. Highly industrialised countries have used science and technology to drive industry in addressing the country’s challenges.

 

The Chinese government has placed emphasis through funding, reform and societal status on science and technology as a fundamental part of the socioeconomic development of the country as well as for national prestige.

 

China has made rapid advances in areas such as education, infrastructure, high-tech manufacturing, academic publishing, patents and commercial applications and is now in some areas and by some measures a world leader. China is now increasingly targeting indigenous innovation and aims to reform remaining weaknesses.

 

Cuba, despite continued sanctions is able to function almost independently because of the proper use of science and technology, but more importantly their leadership within science and technology. We have brother Blade and brother Buti.

 

However, let us look at South Africa. Failure by the ruling party to reconfigure research institutions post1994, has resulted in these institutions continuing to operate in silos and playing no role in the reduction of unemployment and inequality. However also, science and technology is deemed as elitist with very little accountability to the ruling party. If it was not elitist, our focus would have been on issues which affects the poor masses in this country, the provision of decent water and sanitation, the harnessing of renewable energy where implementation would be driven by a capable and capacitated state.

 

Minister Nzimande spoke of the Square Kilometre Array. Yes, it is in the Northern Cape, but the global headquarters are in the UK. These headquarters will ultimately be the owners of any intellectual property emanating from the Square Kilometre Array.

 

However, I am not surprised by the Minister’s lack of understanding of things that really matter. The University of KwaZulu-Natal is burning and there are serious allegations that a security service provider is responsible for the problems at the KwaZulu-Natal campuses. It is poor students who are given the blame and Minister you are here sitting and speaking about the Square Kilometre Array.

 

The purpose of this Bill focuses on the need to harmonise the entities within science and technology, but the Bill and these institutions are operating within a policy framework that prioritises research for selfish interest and greed.

 

Harmonisation was already recommended in the Fourth Parliament and this House considered the First Amendment Bill in 2011.

 

In April 2014, the Second Amendment Bill was considered. Essentially the Second Amendment Bill proposed the harmonisation of processes which included the appointment of chairpersons and members of boards of science and technology entities, the qualifications of board members and the dissolution of boards.

 

However, what is laughable is the amendment of section 5 of Act 26 of 2008. Paragraph 8 says and I quote, “The board must be constituted in a manner that is broadly representatives of the demographics of the country.” 

 

South Africa is the only country where the government must make laws to empower the majority group of its citizens. Black people. In other countries the government makes laws to empower minority groups. That is how weak we are as a democracy and a country.

 

The current Bill was proposed in the Fifth Parliament, but Parliament rose before the Bill could be considered. The current committee constitutes none of the ANC members of the Fifth Parliament. You have just replaced all of them, no continuity.

 

The research and development budget has declined and there has been a loss of critical scientific skills.

 

This department does not have a plan to ensure that Industry 4,0 does not lead to greater inequality between the working class and those who continue to enjoy their historical advantages.

 

Although an aspect in the Bill is a step in the right direction, much more is required before the real benefit of science and technology will be realised. The EFF rejects this Bill. Thank you very much. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr S L NGCOBO

Mr M N PAULSEN

 

 

Mr S L NGCOBO: Hon House Chair, this bill seeks to promote accountability and transparency of boards and councils regarding science and technology. We note the many technical amendments of this Bill in providing sufficient powers to ensure accountability and transparency in the boards and councils. The boards and councils oversee the work of various entities in this department and act as a strategic mechanism ensuring functionality.

 

The IFP believes in making amendments that speak to appointing those who are fit and proper. We are glad to see the board and the Minister being compelled to engage each other in this regard as a first step in appointing people who are fit and proper, through this Amendment Bill. The consultation between both parties will reduce the potential for an individual to abuse the power.

In a democracy, checks and balances are important in order to ensure that the people govern through elected individuals. Checks and balances work to promote accountability and transparency which must be the tool that people use to assess their levels of satisfaction with government.

 

The public confidence in this department and some of its entities is currently low and these amendments seek to redress the lost confidence. We saw the clear indications of the lack of confidence during the portfolio committee’s oversight and presentations made to it.

 

Public confidence must be built by showing that these entities are free from corruption, nepotism and patronage. These entities are seemingly run as if they are just a tuck shop.

 

Currently, South Africa has been left in the wake of grand corruption by the former administration. We witness through many commissions and the Zondo Commission, of a clear lack of attention paid to checks and balances, accountability and transparency.

 

We maintain that only people who show excellence and who are suitably qualified should be appointed in boards, councils or official positions. In doing so, we will start to realise a professionally skilled public service. However, these amendments alone won’t ensure the fully skilled public service that our nation deserves. We must guard against partisan relationships at board and council levels to ensure that jobs are given to those who are equal to the tasks required and not because they are friends of the Ministers or other people. The IFP supports this Bill. Thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr W J BOSHOFF  / AZM MNGUNI (26-02-2020)/ END OF TAKE 14:32

 

 

TAKE 4 - STARTS AT 14:40

Mr S L NGCOBO

 

 

Afrikaans: 14:32:28

Dr W J BOSHOFF: Agb Voorsitter, dit is so dat wetenskap, tegnologie en innovasie een van daardie dryfkragte agter enige ekonomie is. In ’n ekonomie waar daar nie aandag aan die drie aspekte gegee word nie, kom so ’n ekonomie eintlik tot stilstand. Dit is dus goed dat hierdie en vorige regerings nogal aandag gegee het aan die totstandkoming van ’n hele aantal wetenskaplike instellings, waarvan nie almal in hierdie Ministerie saamgevat is nie, maar wel agt belangrikes. Hierdie agt het elkeen ’n ander agtergrond soos die RGN, die Raad vir Geesteswetenskaplike Navorsing, maar ook al die ander, wat op die menslike aspek van die ekonomie en die samelewing fokus.

 

Elkeen het op sy eie manier tot stand gekom en daarom is dit ’n goeie idee om ’n bietjie belyning in die organisasie van hierdie instellings te bring.

 

Dit is belangrik dat daar deur hierdie wetsontwerp erken word dat daar ’n geweldige skaarsheid - en die komitee het die woord “dearth” [skaarsheid] gebruik - aan vaardighede en kennis op die terrein van wetenskap, tegnologie en innovasie is. As ’n mens kan sien dat daar wel so ’n skaarsheid is, dan is dit eintlik onverstaanbaar dat ’n mens daardie skaarsheid kunsmatig vergroot deur middel van transformasieteikens en swart ekonomiese bemagtiging, deur te sê dat soveel persent van die kundiges uit ’n bepaalde seksie van die demografie moet kom.

 

Dit verslaan eintlik die doelwit, want ons het reeds te min vaardighede. Ons moet elke persoon wat die kennis, die vaardighede of die ervaring het om in hierdie terrein te dien, betrek en verwelkom. Ons moet niemand onwelkom laat voel nie.

 

Daar is baie keer ’n opvatting aan die regterkant van die Huis, maar partykeer ook aan die ander kant dat, as die VF Plus homself teen swart ekonomiese bemagtiging as ’n ekonomiese maatreël uitspreek, dit is asof die VF Plus sê dat swart mense nie in staat is om die werk te doen nie. Dit is baie ver van die waarheid af. Dit is nie die kwessie nie. Dit gaan daaroor dat enige mens, ongeag afkoms, nasionaliteit, opvoeding, ensovoorts, in ’n posisie gestel word, nie op grond van sy vaardighede, kennis of ervaring nie, maar op grond van ’n demografiese profiel.

 

Verder, as daardie persoon, as gevolg van sy demografiese profiel, ook nie uit die pos vewyder kan word nie, dan is so ’n persoon geneig om nie juis te presteer nie. Verder, ’n ander persoon wat wel oor die kennis, vaardighede en ervaring beskik, maar demografies verkeerd geplaas is, gaan doodgewoon land uit na waar daar ’n behoefte is aan dit wat hy weet.

 

Wat meer is, van die talle en talle en talle swart persone wat in oorvloed oor die kennis, ervaring en vaardighede beskik om hierdie poste te beklee, is so gesog, want elke staatsonderneming, elke privaatonderneming en elkeen wat sake in hierdie land van ons doen, wil daardie mense hê om hul bemagtigingspunte op te stapel en te kan sê dat hulle aan die wetlike vereistes voldoen. Dit beteken dat hierdie mense nooit lank genoeg in een pos bly om die ding werklik onder die knie te kry en dit tot sy reg te laat kom nie.

 

 

 

As die VF Plus sê dat ons hierdie wetsontwerp ondersteun, maar dat ons dink dit moes verder gegaan het en ook gesê het dat swart ekonomiese bemagtigingsteikens uit die terrein van wetenskap en tegnologie gehaal moet word, dan is dit nie omdat ons sê dat dit mense is wat nie oor die vaardighede beskik nie. Inteendeel, dit is om erkenning te gee aan almal wat oor hierdie kennis en vaardighede beskik en die vermoë het om Suid-Afrika verder te neem.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr W M THRING

Dr W J BOSHOFF

 

 

Mr W M THRING: Hon House Chair, the ACDP is cognisant of the fact that this Bill which deals with the amendment of the Scientific Research Council Act of 1988, the Academy of Science of South Africa Act of 2001, the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008, the Technology Innovation Agency Act of 2008, and the South African National Space Agency Act of 2008, essentially seeks to achieve the following: the harmonisation of the process for the terminisation of the membership of boards or councils, clarification of the requirements for the disqualification of persons from membership of boards or councils, as well as providing for circumstances where members of boards or councils are prohibited from participating or voting in the boards or councils meetings, amongst other things.

 

Hon House Chair, if South Africa is to meaningfully compete in the science and technology space, then it must have the administrative capacity and strength to do so, because any organisation is only as strong as its internal ability to plan, strategise, envision and then implement. There can be no external growth if the internal capacity or core of an organisation has rotted or become weak. The ACDP is aware that this Bill seeks to strengthen the core within the science and technology sector. It is our view that if this is done properly, efficiently and transparently, the external knock on effect of preparing our students to become global players and contributors to the science and technology space can indeed become a reality.

 

We, within the African Christian Democratic Party, believe that there is no lack of intelligence, ability and potential among the students of South Africa. To a large extent, however, there has been a mismatch with respect to the skills required by industry, and the skills produced within the education, science and technology sector. This is a recipe for disaster, and will continue to be a drain on our industrial and economic recovery, which is so desperately needed.

 

In conclusion, as this Bill has the noble intention of harmonising termination processes and, in general, strengthening the administration processes in the boards and councils of the relevant entities, the ACDP is cautiously optimistic that this internal administrative strengthening process will have the positive leveraging effect of strengthening our skills capacity, and thereby unlocking the enormous potential of our students who will be able to do us proud in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The ACDP supports this Bill. I thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr S N AUGUST

Mr W M THRING

 

 

Mr S N AUGUST: Thank you, House Chair. Good notes the December 2019 recommendations from the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology that the National Assembly passes the Bill. We thank the multiparty committee for their work and welcome the amendments that aim to ensure that all public entities comply with the Public Finance Management Act. I also appreciate the submission received that anyone with a criminal record must be disqualified. However, from my own experience working in the justice sector, I know that, sometimes, criminals are able to be reformed.

 

The amendment to disqualify any person convicted for fraud, corruption or any other crime involving dishonesty from being considered for a board position for at least a decade is accepted. However, we all know even without a criminal record, the wrong people can still be appointed. We have seen how corruption and maladministration results in the waste or theft of taxpayers’ money. To protect the poor and our country’s finances, Good welcomes the stronger measures to ensure compliance with the Public Finance Management Act and the Bill’s measures to clamp down on cadre deployment board appointments by requiring the disclosure of any conflicts of interests.

 

Cadre deployment must be stopped. There are many qualified skilled people with no party affiliation that can do the job. It is a fact that cadre deployment has destroyed the independence, and often functionality, of government institutions. Good welcomes all efforts to stop corruption and cadre deployment and supports the amendments. Thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms J S MANANISO / SRC (Afr) 26/02/20 @9:55 / NN (Eng) / TAKE ENDS AT 14:50

 

TAKE 5 - STARTS AT 14:50

Mr S N AUGUST

 

 

Ms J S MANANISO: Chairperson, Deputy President, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, hon members and fellow South Africans, I want you to note that during our deliberations members of the opposition party didn’t have a say. At least they have consulted and now we know that they are adopting the Bill.

 

The ANC as the governing party remains committed to our people’s contract of better life for all. The ANC supports the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Bill. The current amendments are in response to the gaps identified in the previous Bill. Furthermore, it deals with codes of ethics and organisational culture. It has been a practice that most of the departments with common interest have been working in silos using minimum resources.

 

The Bill is about harmonising the six public entities reporting to the department in working together, collaborating and sharing best practices. The ANC wants to assure the people of South Africa that the Bill has went through formal legal processes. The Bill is technical, administrative and is an enabling legislation that addresses and promotes the following: good governance, transparency`, accountability, professionalism - skill-based, knowledge-based and experience-based – skills retention, fair representation per demographics. Most of us normally talk about institutional memory. Colleagues, here we are not speaking about female and males, but we are speaking about gender demographics in terms of religion, sex, age, people with disability, lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, transgender, gender queer, queer, intersexes, gender, asexual, and ally, LGBTQIA+, and everybody who is part of the society.

 

Hon members, note that when we speak about science, technology and innovation we don’t speak human disruption, but disruptive solutions. Understand what I am talking about. Don’t disrupt us. We are speaking about disruptive solutions, information technology, IT, innovations.

 

This amendment Bill speaks to uniformity and it has clear terms of references and time frames, which is five periods. It seeks to strengthen collaborations and intergovernmental relations and international relations. It is clear in terms of clarifications of powers and functions between Ministers and board council members and it speaks about value for money.

 

The current amendments will ensure that as a developmental state, our state-owned enterprises, SOEs, play an important role in growing our economy in addressing societal problems through scientific research and technological innovation as recognised by the National Development Plan, NDP.

 

It has been proven that the following entities work together in terms of knowledge production and innovation and the country is able to compete globally in science, technology and innovation: Academy of Science, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Human Sciences Research Council, National Research Foundation, SA National Space Agency and Technology Innovation Agency.

 

The Bill is about redressing and transforming the system as it is constitutional mandate and we cannot negotiate the plight of our people. Scientific research and technological innovation in our life time is an enabling and necessary platform to fast-track our services to develop and grow South Africa together. It is important to note that we cannot speak boldly about economic freedom in our lifetime without investing in research and development and the advancement of science, technology and innovation. As we normally say young minds are innovative minds and investment therein is an investment into the future.

 

Hon members, I would like to call on this august House to join the community of Mohlakeng in the West Rand in celebrating one of their own who has been appointed as first black female Geologist lecturer at the University of Pretoria, ms Mampho Maoyi. [Applause.] This shows that it is true when we say that South Africa is alive with possibilities.

 

With this piece of legislation we must firmly place our nation at the centre of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in order to address our triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment.

 

There is nothing wrong with continuous planning. As the ANC we pride ourselves with the NDP. If we fail to plan, we plan to fail. Let's keep working local and think globally.

 

As I conclude, Deputy President, hon Ramaphosa, His Excellency the President, in his 2019 in his state of the nation address debate emphasised on the significance of an activist parliament. In the same breath with the same matter of social compact, we would want to commit ourselves that we will, indeed, soldier on “thuma thina.” [send us]. Lastly, I would like to speak about the issue of hon Boshof. Thank you as well for giving the lecture to the FF Plus about us, black people, of being capable. I thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr M G E HENDRICKS

Ms J S MANANISO

 

 

 

Mr M G E HENDRICKS: Hon Chair, thank you very much for the opportunity. It was very encouraging to listen to the Minister saying that the amendments are catalyst for economic growth. And I am very excited about the opportunities that the Minister highlighted for smart agriculture, and also that he is very keen that his Ministry will now drive the skills knowledge that we need.

 

However, investment in research and innovation is still a Cinderella when it comes to building a modern South Africa for the 21st and 22nd centuries. All we seem to have is just a telescope. Our nuclear know how before apartheid has not been harnessed. It could have assisted us today with our electricity calamity, a calamity brought in by five parliaments.

 

It looks like we have no hope of sending a space mission to the moon. So there is no ambition amongst our brilliant young scientists to aim for the skies.

 

We do agree that the Minister must at least be consulted in the appointed of CEOs in state-owned entities, SOEs, so that he can take the blame if they mess up as it has happened over the past five parliaments. The Sixth Parliament must not be in the same boat.

 

Science and technology opportunities, especially at the most senior levels, should have no racial discrimination. For once I agree with the hon members of the FF Plus. It is very important that South Africa takes advantage of the brilliance and the innovation of its citizens and no one should be left out to take South Africa to the 21st and 22nd centuries. Al Jama’ah supports amendments to the Bill.

 

 

Mr B B NODADA  / GC / TAKE ENDS AT 14:59

 

TAKE 6 – STARTS AT 14:50

Mr M G E HENDRICKS

 

 

 

IsiXhosa:

Mnu B B NODADA: Sihlalo, malungu ahloniphekileyo ...

 

English:

... fellow South Africans ...

 

IsiXhosa:

... ndiyanibulisa ngale njikalanga, molweni.

 

English:

The DA supports the need to harmonise the provisions which regulate the operations and governance of the science and innovation public entities through the Amendment Bill in order to strengthen accountability and enhance consistency.

 

It must be made clear that the DA in Parliament and the DA-led Western Cape government have been heavily involved in the process of strengthening this legislation because we believe that South Africa has neglected the importance of matching its policy commitment to improved education and skills with a dedicated focus on innovation and design to drive job creating economic growth.

 

The institutions created to promote innovation for growth have not been appropriately co-ordinated, funded or integrated with initiatives in the private sector.

 

To be a winning nation, South Africa must also be a place where new ideas are generated. This includes ideas to improve the way we deliver services, ideas to connect people to each other and with the information they need to make informed decisions about their lives. It should include ideas for new products that can generate income, ideas to improve the efficiency of processes in both the public and private sector; and ideas to solve our key societal challenges, for example in education, health, housing, social protection and job creation.

 

However, in order for us to do this effectively as a collective, we have to have a clear definition of what science and innovation means to us as South Africans and what role it should serve in advancing socioeconomic development. Let us not forget, in the past, the science narrative was shaped by a few, leaving the majority behind.

 

This narrative is now changing and it is at this juncture that we must be very intentional in how we shape the conversations around science and innovation because they influence the kind of initiatives we take on to improve the quality of our lives.

 

If we do not make a concerted effort to define this narrative, we run the risk of taking on science and innovation initiatives that don’t address South Africa’s triple challenge of poverty, inequality and unemployment.

 

We will look back and ask ourselves, what good did it yield to shout on roof tops Fourth Industrial Revolution and yet, the inequality gaps are still wide and the basic fundamentals are still burning issues hindering the progress of underdeveloped communities? [Applause.]

 

Therefore, there must be a coordinated effort to develop a value chain that will see science and innovation as an enabler of socioeconomic prosperity rather than a by-the-way elitist space.

 

ANC Ministers who are out of touch with the harsh realities of our people continually insist on building smart cities, providing tablets to school learners, developing data and artificial intelligence policy’s for big business and entrepreneurs. And yet, the reality is, majority of public schools, especially in our rural and township communities, do not have fully functional and equipped science labs, a key component that gives a child the opportunity to practicalise science. [Applause.]

 

Time and time again, we have heard sweeping statements made about bullet-trains and creating smart cities and yet we sit with an energy and water crisis in our rural and peri-urban communities.

 

We are talking about developing data and artificial intelligence policies and yet we know all too well that for our scientists, engineers, technopreneurs and student entrepreneurs, the lack of funding remains a stumbling block that hinders research solutions being translated to impactful technology. We also know that access to market for our Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises, SMMEs, thereafter is always a problem and yet the ANC-led government does not make enough noise on these key issues.

 

If we are truly serious about creating a National System of Innovation, NSI, that is inclusive and advances socioeconomic development, we to have to find way of extending the conversation beyond ourselves. The inability for us to understand the real issues on the ground, on a much deeper level, will have us shooting in the dark and adopting technologies and systems that are not fit for context and will only widen the gap between insiders and outsiders.

 

Therefore, the DA proposes the following in line with our innovation policy: Science needs to serve us by using it for problem-solving our societal problems such as education, skills development, safety, service delivery, National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS, which is a failing entity with their Information and Communications Technology, ICT, there’s a huge certification backlog where students can’t get their certificates, student housing and community development.

 

We, however, commend the good work done by the Department of Science And Innovation even with their stringent budget; however, we do believe that the merger of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation can use science as a tool to solve societal problems rather than to be seen as elitist spares.

 

The boy who harnessed the wind is a true reflection of how we can contextualise science and channel it for the purpose of socioeconomic development. I thank you so much. [Applause.]

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon Ntshayisa, I just want to inform you, this is a debate and if you don’t speak before the official opposition, in as far as our conversions are set, you cannot speak now. So, I’m sorry, you were not in the House and we proceeded. Thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms N T MKHATSHWA

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto)

 

 

 

 

Ms N T MKHATSHWA: Hon Chairperson, hon deputy president, hon members of the House, and to the many of South Africans watching from home.

 

As we enter into this new decode, we must emphasize the role of science and innovation in our society.

 

From 4 to 7 February 2020, the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology visited the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, CSIR, in Pretoria. This was the first visit conducted by the committee to the CSIR. The thirst of members to see in reality the research, development and innovation projects that the deportment and its entities report on in Parliament, has finally, to some extent, been quenched.

 

I am tempted to say that every single member of this portfolio committee was excited by the work being done by the CSIR. And perhaps those that failed to see how young people are being included in the projects that are taking place in science may join us on our next oversight visit, hon Chairperson of the committee.

 

Hon members, at the CSIR we witnessed research, development and innovation that is aligned to the objective of having science and innovation that contributes to on improved quality of life for all communities in South Africa.

 

At the CSIR we viewed Umbiflow. The Umbiflow is a low-cost ultrasound device used to assess fetus health. The Umbiflow empowers nursing sisters, midwives and general practitioners in mobile, rural and low-resourced primary health core settings. It has gone beyond our borders to be further studied in Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana and India. Such innovations assist communities in ensuring successful births and therefore, reducing infant mortality.

 

We also viewed the Biomanufacturing Industry Support Initiative, BIDC, which provides technical product and process development support to Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises with the aim of creating and expanding biomanufacturing activity and associated job creation. Many of the products that have been supported by the BIDC derive from Indigenous Knowledge Systems. As I share this with members, I cannot help but say, this is a good story to tell.

 

Hon members, these are but a few initiatives in only one of the eight entities of the deportment. So, you can only imagine the many other good projects that are taking place across all the other entities. Notwithstanding, of course, the challenges present. And yes, we could choose to succumb to the many difficult protracted problems that confront us, or we can choose to confront them with resolve, determination and action; as said by the President.

 

These research, development and innovation projects are testament to our aims as a government to increase the wellbeing and prosperity of society through science, technology and innovation. Science and innovation remains a pivotal port of our democracy and requires a long term dedicated support.

 

This one is for you, hon Boshoff.

 

Hon members, we must continue our efforts to ensure that the space is intersectional and geographically accessible to all.

 

Whilst we see the increased inclusion of women in the boards of various entities we must continue to strive for the overall increase of women in the entire composition of the department and its entities.

 

The President calls on young people and students to lead the skills revolution, and to be the champions of innovation. Therefore, we must ensure increased inclusion of young people from all ends of our country. It must never be that those that are located in institutions with geographic proximity to the campuses of entities be the only ones who gain the most opportunities. The entities must be accessible to, in particular those historically marginalized from such opportunities, hon Boshoff.

 

We must continue to work at strengthening our strategies to fund the people’s research, to aid the development of the people’s research and to train the people to innovate!

 

Hon members, no matter how great our research may be, it will never see the light of day without a solid base of governance and management. This Bill aims to ensure that the highest governance principles and procedures are applied across all entities; it aims to harmonise the processes for the termination from membership of boards or councils; to clarify the requirements for the disqualification of persons from membership of boards or councils; and to provide for the appointment of external persons to committees of boards or councils. We must support it!

 

We must support it in ensuring that the bionetwork of science and innovation in this country is aided to fulfil our collective objectives and all the programmes of this department.

 

This Amendment Bill is testament to the ANC’s commitment to improving the capacity of the state through its entities to meet its obligation to citizens in the areas of economic growth, job creation, social programmes and dealing with crime and corruption.

 

To echo the sentiments of the President, each and every one of us have a task to hold those in places of responsibility accountable. This Amendment Bill will assist us as an ANC-led government to increase our vigilance in screening those we put in boards and ensuring that they meet the highest standards of ethics, morality and service to the people. Those appointed must serve the people with distinction. And, where they fail, we will, and we must ensure that there are consequences/

 

Through this Amendment Bill, we again, echo the sentiments of the President, that we must ensure the restoration of public institutions to a higher standard of accountability and service.

 

IsiZulu: 15:02:19

Ma-Afrika amahle ...

 

English:

... let us push bock on the negativity at every turn. We have to show that the inches are all around us and we’re actively seeking them out.

 

Through this Amendment Bill we must decisively alienate those that seek to regress the gains of our democracy.

 

Hon Nodada, I don’t know how this Bill is elitist; I don’t know how this sector is elitist; when we, ourselves, have seen how indigenous knowledge systems are being formalized, are being made sure that they can be used for commercialisation through the BIDC that you, yourself, were present at during oversight. [Applause.]

 

Hon Ngcobo of the IFP ...

 

IsiZulu: 15:03:13

... ama-tuckshops, kanjani ukuthi amabhodi ezinhlangano zikahulumeni zibe ama-tuckshops ...

 

English:

... when we saw the amazing work at CSIR? Where we saw how ...

 

IsiZulu: 15:03:22

... omama ezindaweni zasemakhaya ...

 

English:

... are going to be able to be assisted through the Umbiflow ...

 

IsiZulu: 15:03:26

... kanjani ibe i-tuckshop? I-tuckshop ayiyenzi leyonto.

 

English:

We must never allow ourselves to get to a point where young people stop dreaming. We must never allow ourselves to get to a point where we forget what has happened to this country and how we need to continuously work to ensuring that there is representation in all spaces of this government.

 

The ANC moves in support of the Science and Innovation Amendment Bill. I thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Ms N MKHATSHWA

 

 

 

 

The MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: House Chair, let me take this opportunity to thank hon Chair Mapulane, the members of the portfolio committee and all the parties and members who supported this piece of legislation; we say thank you to you, this is a foundation to build on the achievements that we have made.

 

Hon Paulsen, sometimes ... well not sometimes ... there’s this wonderful saying “silence is golden”. When you don’t know what you say, the best thing to do is to simply shut up [Laughter.] because ...

 

Mr W F PAULSEN: Hon House Chair, firstly, that’s not parliamentary language to tell me to shut up [Interjections.] that tsotsi [thug] must withdraw that, that tokolosh must withdraw that.

 

Secondly, that Minister ...

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPESRSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon member, that’s not a point of order. I’m going to switch off your mic. You must raise a point of order and you haven’t.

 

Mr W F PAULSEN: Okay ...

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPESRSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon member, that’s not a point of order. Sit down, please sit down.

 

Mr W F PAULSEN: Okay, I’m asking the Minister to withdraw that unparliamentary word ...

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPESRSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon member, please sit down; you wasted time. I’m going to switch off your mic.

 

Continue, hon Minister.

 

IsiZulu: 15:05:37

UNGQONGQOSHE WEZEMFUNDO EPHAKEME, EZESAYENSI NEZOBUCHWEPHESHE: Ngesintu kuthiwa uma ungazi ukuthi uzothini ubohlala phansi uthule.

 

 

 

English:

Mr W F FABER: Chairperson, on a point of order. Rule 82, on the reference to a member in respectful terms. Member must refer to another member in respectful terms, and you cannot then say ‘shut up’ like the Minister. So, I don’t think there was any respect in that, Chairperson. [Interjections.]

 

Ms H O MKHALIPHI: Chairperson, I’m rising on Rule 85, reflection upon members. The Minister can’t say ‘shut up’ to a member, please withdraw that. And you have only two minutes, Minister; otherwise you’re not going to speak. [Interjections.]

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (MS M G BOROTO): Hon member, you said your point of order and I’m going to take it, but now you say something else, that’s wrong.

 

Hon Minister, as you continue let us be reminded that the word ‘shut up’ has been ruled unparliamentary; can you withdraw that as you continue.

 

IsiZulu: 15:06:53

UNGQONGQOSHE WEZEMFUNDO EPHAKEME, EZESAYENSI NEZOBUCHWEPHESHE: Ngiyaxolisa Sihlalo weNdlu.

 

USIHLALO WENDLU (Nk M G Boroto): Siyabonga. Qhubeka baba.

 

English:

The MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: Hon Boshoff, I think that ... you know very well, the skills shortages that you’re talking about it’s a direct result of apartheid; that crime against humanity. Redress based on affirmative action, amongst other things, is a necessary condition to actually address the skills shortages that were created by shutting out the majority of South Africans in having these necessary skills that we need, amongst others in science and technology. [Applause.]

 

In fact, if there is one of the most serious crimes of apartheid was the denial of access to education and skills by the majority of the people. In fact, we should, and yourself, be learning from the history of the Afrikaners; with the policy of addressing the poor whites was actually aimed at uplifting poor Afrikaners in the past and there is nothing new that we are doing, except we are doing it for the majority rather than for the minority as it was done under apartheid. [Applause.]

 

I want also to say that this is an important platform for us to continue to make sure that science, technology and innovation are harnessed and are accessible to the majority of the South Africans. Siyabonga [Thank you].

 

Bill read a second time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THIRD ORDER /KG\ VW// (Zul) 27/02/2020 @ 09:33 / ND/Xho / TAKE ENDS AT 15:08

 

 

 

 

 

 

TAKE 7 - STARTS AT 15:10

The MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

 

 

 

NATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH INSTITUTE OF SOUTH AFRICA

(Consideration of Bill and of Report of Select Committee thereon)

 

The HOUSE CHAIPERSON (Ms M G BOROTO): I will call up on the Chairperson of the ... [Interjections.]

 

Ms M VENTE: Chairperson, I rise on a point of order. We agreed earlier on that we are moving the Member Statements because the Ministers were not in the House and that we will take the next item and then revert back to Member Statements. I think now it is an opportunity for statements.

 

The HOUSE CHAIPERSON (Ms M G BOROTO): ... may I plead with you that we start with it before the motions and finish this part as per my discretion. Hon Dhlomo, it is your time to introduce the Report.

 

Dr S M DHLOMO: Hon Chair, the National Public Health Institutes of South Africa Bill, NAPHISA, was processed in both Houses in the 5th Parliament. It went through the process of revival in this House hence we are tabling it for consideration.

 

In 1994, the democratic government began a process of transforming the deep-rooted dysfunctional public health system which manifested itself in the collusion of epidemics of communicable and non-communicable diseases in South Africa. The public health system has and continues to correct the colonial policies of subjugation and apartheid disposition which both determine inferior health care services to the majority of the South Africans.

 

To this end, this Bill is imperative because it is a step towards refinement of the public health system for the people of South Africa. The aim of the NAPHISA Bill is to provide integrated and co-ordinated diseases and injury surveillance research, monitoring and evaluation of services and interventions directed towards the major public health problems affecting the South African population.

 

The International Association of National Public Health Institutes serves as a strong advocate for countries to have a unified credible, legal structure such as NAPHISA to improve the protection of public health through collaboration, research and surveillance of various diseases, as we face the quadruple burden of disease in our country.

 

Accordingly, the NAPHISA BILL is envisaged to enhance health systems effectiveness by performing some of the following functions.

 

  1. Co-ordinate, develop and maintain surveillance systems to collect, analyse and interpret health data to guide health interventions.
  2. Strengthen capacity in public and occupational health surveillance in order to reduce the burden of disease and injury.

 

  1. Use surveillance data and other sources of information where appropriate to advice on the setting of health policies priorities and planning.

 

  1. Strengthen the cross-border regional and international collaboration on cancer surveillance, occupational health, non-communicable diseases, injuries and violence.

 

  1. Use public health information for monitoring and evaluation policy interventions.

 

  1. Strengthen advocacy, social mobilisation and partnerships in order to address all the other quadruple burden of disease I have mentioned above.

 

The NAPHISA Bill recognises that South Africa does not have an integrated surveillance system, but different institutions that deal with different aspects of surveillance which leads to duplication, fragmentation, inefficiency and wastage of scares resources.

 

In correcting this challenge, the Bill states that NAPHISA will comprise of all the following divisions. Cancer surveillance, occupational health, environmental health, communicable diseases, non-communicable disease, injury and violence prevention.

 

The clustering of these divisions will make NAPHISA a national strategic entity that is remarried on safeguarding the public health system for our country.

 

The National Development Plan, NDP, together with the World Health Organisation, WHO, underscores the importance of efficient strengthening and co-ordinated national health systems for prevention of illnesses and realisation of health outcomes. Furthermore, the International Association of National Public Health Institutes attributes better health outcomes for our countries that form national public health institutes and urge for countries to do the same.

 

Some of the countries that have established national public institutions include Brazil, Finland, while others formed theirs more recently. Some of the national public institutes were formed in responses to public health challenges that highlighted the need for specific capacity leadership and co-ordination such as public health urgency of Canada which was formed following the 2002 severe acute respiratory syndrome, SARS, outbreak. Others resulted from restructuring of public care services such as the United Kingdom and China.

 

The Bill is resuscitated from the 5th Parliament as I have mentioned where there was a consultation with social cluster departments namely, social development, education, women, children and people with disabilities.

 

In conclusion, it is noted that since the outbreak novel of corona virus from China in December 2019, South Africa has not had any confirmed cases. Accordingly, this Bill has come at an opportune time for it to be processed as we may face global epidemiology of diseases, mitral valve, aorta, skeleton, and skin, Mass, Sars, Ebola, Listeriosis and novel Coronavirus, which all have devastating socio impact in the country. The committee is bringing the NAPHISA Bill to the House for consideration. I thank you. [Applause.]

 

There was no debate.    

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY moved: moved that the Bill be passed.

 

Declarations of vote made on behalf of the Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, Inkatha Freedom Party, Freedom Front Plus, African Christian Democratic Party, National Freedom Party and African National Congress.

 

Motion agreed to (Economic Freedom Fighters dissenting).

 

Bill accordingly passed.

 

 

DECLARATION OF VOTE  - Ms E R WILSON

Dr S M DHLOMO

 

 

 

Declaration of vote:

Ms E R WILSON: House Chair, the chairperson of the portfolio committee has gone to great length to explain the purpose of the NAPHISA Bill for instance, monitoring communicable and non-communicable diseases, cancer and promoting co-operation between the republic and other countries to monitor epidemiological surveillance systems. The Bill states that the money will be appropriated by Parliament, fees received for services rendered and income earned on surplus monies deposited and invested.

 

What the chairperson has not told us is what exactly the cost for establishing this unit or entity is? The Department of Health is in intensive care unit, ICU and bankrupt and they are still expecting billions for the National Health Insurance, NHI, despite Treasury making it quite clear NHI cannot be considered in the current economy. Meanwhile the health ombudsman who is dealing with billions of medical claim is underfunded, understaffed and unable to deal with the workload or to ensure that those who have legitimate claims are compensated.

 

There is no mention of the role to be played by the Medical Research Council, Centre of Communicable Bill diseases or the Office of Health Standards Compliance, OHSC. They are already well established entities who have a great track record of research, monitoring and dealing with communicable diseases. They need to be included in an appeaseable. We must include them in all of our negotiations. 

 

Finally, the scope of health professionals is vast. There are nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, psychologists, dentists, ophalmics, scientists, allied workers to name just a few. How will every type of health professional be represented on the board or in these units.

 

We supported the Bill from the outset and we will continue to do so but, be assured we will monitor the establishment of NAPHISA very carefully. There are a lot of unanswered questions and those questions are coming. We expect transparency, we expect honesty and we expect anybody being promoted to these boards as clean, above board and corrupt free. However, we will continue to support the Bill. I thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms N N CHIRWA /mN/ fin @ 15:30 on 27/02/2020 / TAKE ENDS AT 15:49

 

TAKE 8 - STARTS AT 15:18:35

Mrs E R WILSON

 

 

Declarations of vote (cont):

Ms N N CHIRWA: House Chairperson, greetings to the commander-in-chief, Julius Malema and the ground forces and the leaders of the EFF ... [Interjections.] a Bill that is not cushioned by tangible means to address health issues is futile and nugatory as the government of the day. The Bill will not miraculously build 24 hour clinics in rural areas ... [Interjections.]

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Order!

 

Ms N N CHIRWA: ... or pay community health care workers who actually deliver a very vital aspect of primary health care decent salaries. The Bill will alleviate the shortage of workers and skilled doctors. It will not reduce litigation cases the department for negligence, violence, injuries and the killings of our people. In the Mamelodi Hospital, for example, the maternity ward, we only need seven nurses and midwives to alleviate the issue of women giving birth by themselves and when accidents happen, health care workers being blamed for the department’s failure.

 

The Bill will not be a solution for the water crisis experienced in hospitals in Hammanskraal, Thohoyandou, QwaQwa, Middelburg and Seshego, that sees patients not being operated on because there is no water. This Bill will not garner integrity for this department that is still found to be doing heinous crimes against HIV-positive women by not only stealing their antiretrovirals, ARVs, but also sterilising them without their consent.

 

This Bill will not have us wake up with improved security systems to protect our medication that is stolen from our clinics every single week and the department acting shocked every time this happens.

 

This Bill will also not be able to stop your health care workers from turning away our young women from accessing abortion services and telling them that they can’t offer it because it is not done. It will also not be more evidence that young people need pre-exposure prophylaxis, PrEP and post-exposure prophylaxis, PEP, on demand without having to experience trauma and sexual immorality for you to give them PrEP and PEP. This Bill will not deliver hearing aids to toddlers who are expected to pay R15 000 in Limpopo before getting hearing aids.

 

This Bill will not service wheelchairs. This Bill will not fund medical researchers or better health conditioners of minors. It won’t diagnose and treat cancer patients in time. Nor will it provide children within the autism spectrum with the necessary educational developmental and psychological support.

 

The EFF condemns the department, the Minister of Health and the President for the collapse, corruption and failure to prioritise primary health care, prevention, education on health care, building of clinics in each ward and all the aspects as per the aspirations of the Bill which don’t even need the structure to be established for these things to be done.

 

This Bill is merely stealing time from our people, and in essence also taking lives from our people. It is just an opportunity for the thugs to continue to loot, and this is why we reject the Bill. Thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms M D HLENGWA

Ms N N CHIRWA

 

 

Ms M D HLENGWA: Hon House Chairperson, the ... [Inaudible.] service delivery and accountability for public health resources are essential in the public health services of this country. In South Africa where we have unequal resources distribution, poverty and inequality this becomes even more necessary and urgent.

 

Public health care is essential but what we are witnessing in South Africa is a public health care service which is itself on life support. The SA Health Products Regulatory Authority, Sahpra, is for all intents and purposes becoming hostile towards our own doctors who have trained and qualified as medical professionals abroad, instead of finding solutions to fast-track and place these health care professionals in our hospitals, Sahpra is building barriers which prevent and frustrate their entry to practise in South Africa. Why is the Minister not intervening in this crisis?

What we have been witnessing over the last 25 years in South Africa is the gradual erosion of our public service. We spend billions on health care and yet this country still suffers from a high burden of preventable illness and premature death.

 

South Africa is currently affected by what is being termed the quadruple burden of disease which is HIV/Aids, tuberculosis, TB, non-communicable diseases, trauma and a high level of maternal and child mortality. In addition, we are witnessing what we have previously being termed ... disease of influence such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

 

This government has fallen short of its own promises as contained in its own 10-Point Health Care Plan of 2010. There is in fact no delivery. Where is the strengthening of research and development in our 10 Point Plan? The IFP supports. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

Mr P A VAN STADEN

Ms M D HLENGWA

 

 

Mr P A VAN STADEN: House Chairperson, the Bill that is before the House is a good Bill on paper to get South Africa prepared to deal with a major epidemic outbreak like the coronavirus which is knocking on our front doors.

 

This Bill will on paper organise various role-players like the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, NICD, the National Cancer Registry, NCR, and others to collaborate and to work together towards a common goal but we must not forget that this sector should and must have a joint operations committee and I hope that the aim of this Bill is to do exactly that.

 

Attention should and must be given to the concerns of Cancer Association of South Africa, Cansa, about the cancer registry. We all know that this registry was out of date and of limited use, so we hope that this problem will receive attention.

 

The FF Plus has a few concerns with this Bill which is the following; firstly, the institute must not become another state entity as stated under section 2 of this Bill; secondly, the power vested on the Minister to appoint members of the board as stipulated in section 5 of the Bill is a bit problematic as we believe that these powers must not be vested in one person alone but in a broader base of stakeholders.

 

The question must be asked if there will be any money available in the health budget after tomorrow’s Budget Speech to get this institute running and begin its work. This Portfolio Committee on Health or this Sixth Parliament must monitor the Department of Health regarding the implementation of this institution. Therefore, time will tell if this institute will be a success or not. Thank you, House Chairperson.

 

 

Ms M E SUKERS / VW// (Eng) 26/02/2020 @ 13:32 / TAKE ENDS AT 15:26:51

 

 

TAKE 9 - STARTS AT 15:35

Mr P A VAN STADEN

 

Declarations of vote contd.

Ms M E SUKERS: Hon Chairperson, the ACDP recognises the critical importance of legislation that would serve to enhance the health and wellbeing of our nation, given the current challenges we face locally, as well as globally, and the impact of these challenges on our economy.

 

It is stated that the role of a National Health Institute is to provide leadership and directions to programmes that are designed to improve health and to support research in among other things, understanding of mental addictive and physical disorders. There is a critical need for an entity such as the National Institute for Injury and Violence Prevention that forms part of NAFISA. As such, we wish to highlight the following.

 

The ACDP wishes to highlight the critical need for us to research and focus on mental health as a contributor to violence crimes against the most vulnerable people in our society – our women and children. The Minister of Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu, during our discussion on gender-based violence, GBV, said the following, and I quote, “We must get inside the heads of these people who commit such crimes.”

 

Reportedly, a staggering 1 000 children are murdered annually in Cape Town alone. Our communities are suffering under violence. It is as such that the ACDP supports this legislation. We are asking that there needs to be critical research into psychiatric disorders and the significant impact that it has on our communities. We need to research effectively what will stop these violent crimes from being perpetrated upon our children.

 

It has been reported that the man that is responsible for the death of Tasne Van Wyk was kept in his house because his family feared what he would do to children. We have to ask them. We need to then emphasise how important it is for the prevention of violence against women and children - that research be conducted. The ACDP supports this legislation.

Mr A M SHAIK-EMAM

Ms M E SUKERS

 

 

Mr A M SHAIK-EMAM: Hon House Chair, at the very outset, please allow me to tell you that the NFP supports the Bill tabled here today. Let me start of by saying that I just want to respond to the member from the EFF. She is correct when she says that this Bill is not going to give you more doctors, but if implemented, it simply means that you will not need as many doctors as you need today. [Applause.] [Laughter.]

 

She is correct when she says it is not going to give you medicine, but if implemented, there will be a need for less medicine than we have at the moment. The reason for that is – she goes on to say – that there is no research. If you read the amendment to the Bill, it clearly talks about training and research, if necessary, in order to address challenges in the health sector.

 

So, the purpose of this is – let me give you a good example and I hope that the department is taking cognisance of this: This particular province has the highest incidents of diabetes. We know the challenges of cancer we face in the country. I had the opportunity of sitting next to somebody on the plane recently and everyone in this House knows who she is but I won’t mention her name. Her research shows that even Sunlight liquid soap is one of the root causes of cancer.

 

So, this Bill can address these issues in terms of its research to prevent people from picking up illnesses like cancer and diabetes – the effects of Coca Cola and everything else! I think we must welcome this initiative. This started previously with the former Minister of Health. He came and gave a detailed briefing to the committee. Let me also add that even the members of the EFF were there, supported it and made input in that committee – the Portfolio Committee on Health.

 

So, let us not come here and run everything down. When there is a good initiative which is going to benefit our people, let us support it. Equally, if there is a problem, we can address that too. However, if you run down everything – let me tell you that the emphasis here is on prevention, to be able to identify certain diseases and other things before they get out of hand. I think it is a commendable thing.

 

Yes, there are going to be implications in terms of cots, but then we have to measure the value of the money that you are spending and what returns we are getting. If you save a hundred lives and spend R1 0000000, then you equate that, you basically saved R100 000000 in the country. So, yes indeed, the NFP will support this amendment. Thank you. [Applause.]

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Again, I will ask: Are there any objections to this amending Bill being passed? [Interjections.] Ja, it is a long time. My apologies: The ANC should close the declarations. My apologies! The seats he took. Please hon members, sit here. I look at the seats; they remind me. Thank you. Continue!

 

 

 

 

 

Mr K L JACOBS

Mr A M SHAIK-EMAM

 

 

Mr K L JACOBS: Hon Chairperson, I am also happy that you didn’t deny me my first opportunity at this podium. [Applause.]

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): That means it is his maiden speech. We know the Rules about that.

 

Mr K L JACOBS: Chair, access to health care became a basic human right in the democratic South Africa, with a right to health care services being provided for in three sections of the Constitution of South Africa. Section 27 of the Constitution of South Africa provides that every person has a right to have access to health care services and further places the state as a central role player in ensuring that it takes reasonable legislative and other measures within its available resources to achieve the progressive realisation of these rights.

 

The National Development Plan, NDP, envisions a health system that works for everyone and produces positive health outcomes. Goal 6 of the NDP addresses the need for a complete reform in health systems through integrating the different parts of the health system. The NDP also emphasises the need for the development of an information system for managing diseases – a function which National Public Health Institute of SA, Naphisa, will fulfil through its integrated and co-ordinated disease and injury surveillance.

 

The National Public Health Institute of South Africa Bill before us speaks to the establishment of a single national public entity. For the co-ordination of public health services to ensure that such services are evidence based through its research, surveillance, training, monitoring and evaluation.

 

To hon Chirwa, I want to say the following: The Bill is not intended to provide clinical services. Please go and read the Bill and you will find that it is for the establishment of an expert national body to the further improvement of the health of the people of South Africa, responding to the major health problems affecting our people. It will monitor the welfare and health of the population on silly factors which could cause harm and develop and promote measures to improve the situation.

 

We are reminded of the leadership and support that South Africa provided to Sierra Leon as some of the first responders in January 2015 with the outbreak of Ebola. There, south Africa showed that it is at the forefront and a leader in the health care system of the world, and contributing to health in the entire world. This institute will provide a national capacity to drive evidence-informed preventive health policy and programmes, as well as providing evidence on the social determinants of health. The research should generate new knowledge; make it easier to absorb innovations from international science network; and the application of such knowledge for new development.

 

I wish to say to the FF-Plus, the ANC will also make certain that it is not just another state entity. In fact, if you look at the definition of this entity, then it will say that national Parliament thus will have oversight over this entity. So, this puts at rest those points which he raised. As the ANC, we remain committed to the promotion of health through preventive measures.

The establishment of National Public Health Institute of SA will be one such method towards achieving the intended health goals and objective of the country. In conclusion thus, the ANC supports the National Public Health Institute of South Africa Bill as well as the committee report on the above subject matter. Thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto) / Mosa 28.02.2020 @13:55 / TAKE ENDS AT 15:45

 

TAKE 10 - STARTS AT 15:46

Mr K L JACOBS

 

 

 

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): I thank you, hon Jacobs. [Applause.] Hon members, are there any objections? [Interjections.] It is the EFF. That will be noted. In a way, the motion is carried through. The Bill will be sent to the President for ascend. Thank you very much. [Applause.]. We now revert back to what we were supposed to do at the beginning. We all know the reasons why we couldn’t proceed. So, can we proceed to the first item, which is the Member’s Statement?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr M G MAHLAULE (ANC)

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto)

 

 

 

 

CENTRE OF SPECIALISATION AT BOLAND TVET COLLEGE

(Member’s Statement)

 

Mr M G MAHLAULE (ANC): Thank you, hon Chair. The ANC has always maintained that unlocking the energy and creativity of South Africa’s young and working people by building their skills and capacities is critical to the eradication of poverty, unemployment and inequality.

 

We thus welcome the recent official opening of the centre of specialisation at the Boland Tvet College in Worcester, Western Cape focus on welding robotics.

 

The Centres of Specialisation Programme is a Department of Higher Education and Training initiative designed to meet two objectives simultaneously. Firstly, to address the demand for priority trades needed for the implementation of government’s National Development Plan in general and National Infrastructure Plan in particularly.

Secondly, to contribute towards the building of the capacity of its public Tvet college system to deliver trade qualifications with the support of employer partners. This programme was created to assist selected Tvet, Technical and Vocational Education and Training, colleges to improve their capacity to develop competent artisans with industry partners, and to pioneer the way for transformation of the college system to make them more relevant and responsive to the demand of industry labour needs. Thank you.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Thank you. Just a reminder, it’s quiet sometime having been doing this. Its 90 seconds for the statement, just a reminder.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms A L A ABRAHAMS (DA)

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto)

 

 

 

 

KILLING OF TAZNE VAN WYK IN WESTERN CAPE

(Member’s Statement)

 

Ms A L A ABRAHAMS (DA): Thank you, House Chair. The use of the horrendous and senseless killing of Tazne van Wyk must shake this Parliament to its core for not protecting this young girl’s life.

 

The DA sends our condolences to Tazne’s family, friends and her bereaved community. May her soul rest in peace and eternal glory. Tazne’s life was allegedly cut short by a man let out on parole, a violent offender with a criminal record dating back to the 1980s.

 

The DA demands that Minister Lamola accounts to Parliament on the failure of the justice system in letting dangerous criminals back into society and putting citizens lives at risk. That is why the Minister must provide answers on what the conditions on which Tazne’s killer was granted parole and how was he being monitored by his department. It’s clear that the criminal justice system does not protect women and children. How many more women and children will need to die before this Parliament acts to keep them safe? Let her death not be in vain, act now. The Minister is not here and the Deputy Minister is just sitting there doing what - when women and children are dying every single day. We have so many incidents here in this country. But as time goes by, we have to take these issues. [Time expired][Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms N V MENTE (EFF)

Ms A L A ABRAHAMS (DA)

 

 

 

 

EFF MARCH TO ESKOM ON 28 FEBRUARY THIS WEEK

(Member’s Statement)

 

Ms N V MENTE (EFF): Thank you, House Chair. This coming Friday, 28 February 2020, the EFF will carry the cries of young and old, mothers and fathers, children, workers, professionals, business people and organised civil society when we march to Eskom.

 

Our people have suffered enough loadshedding, their lives are interrupted unnecessarily so. Their lives are threatened and this has gone too long enough. Business have lost many days, many stock and many had to retrenched workers because of the loadshedding that impacted the performance of the economy.

 

Many workers have lost their jobs because without stable electricity supply business cannot have long term plan, create jobs and contributes to the growing economy.

 

The people’s march will be taking place on Friday. It will start at nine o’clock in the morning from Innesfree Park. We will march to megawatt park.

 

We call on the residents of Soweto, of Mamelodi, of Hammanskraal, of Thokozani, the residents of Orange Farm, of Vosloorus, Alexander, Diepsloot and all other areas to join people’s march to demand the stable affordable electricity.

 

We call on all workers in factories, farms, constructing side and households. We call on South Africa to join us to call on Jamnadas must fall! [Time expired.] [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

Mr M R MASHEGO (ANC)

Ms N V MENTE (EFF)

 

 

 

ENGEN GIFTS FUEL TANKS TO GIFT OF GIVERS

(Member’s Statement)

 

Mr M R MASHEGO (ANC): Thank you, Chair. The ANC want to welcome the generosity of a three-year contract as signed between Gift of the Givers and Engen, which will support the organisation’s humanitarian efforts.

 

Engen donated R2 million and 150 JoJo tanks to Gift of the Givers, which will speed up their disaster relief work. Gift of the Givers was founded upon the principle of providing unconditional humanitarian assistance despite religion, race, colour, class or geographical boundaries.

 

It is hoped that the donation would assist Gift of the Givers to deploy team members faster in an emergency. With the effects of climate change and the impact it has had on our weather patterns, natural disasters are becoming more prevalent and less predictable. Heat waves, droughts and floods are expected to get worse over the coming decades.

 

Gift of the Givers founder and Chairperson Dr Imtiaz Sooliman said that the organisation’s convoys traveled long distances to deliver relief to those most in need, which was why this commitment from Engen would strengthen their ability to make an impact on the lives of our people.

 

We urge all sectors in our society to work together and share collective responsibility to make a sustainable impact.

 

Tshivenḓa: 15:53

Vho M R MASHEGO: Ndi khou livhuwa, Mudzulatshidulo.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms M D HLENGWA (IFP)

Mr M R MASHEGO (ANC)

 

 

 

 

STATE OF PUBLIC HEALTH IN SOUTH AFRICA

(Member’s Statement)

 

Ms M D HLENGWA (IFP): Hon Chairperson, the state of public health in South Africa leaves in a lot to be desired. The states in which hospitals in many parts of the country are indeed suddenly if they are at least descend looking and still standing, they either suffer or a shortage of staff and there are long queues or there is no medication.

 

Public hospitals in the greater part of this country are in the need of the attention from the government. Those are live experiences. The recent report that HIV positive woman has lodged complains that there were sterilised in public hospitals without their informed concern comes as the last straw to have their rights to dignity, bodily integrity and freedom and security over their bodies violated at the hands of institutions that should be providing much needed protection and comforts is indeed a course for grave concern. We cannot keep quiet about this as investigation must be done because people need answers and there need to be guarantees in their dignity progress. [Time expired.] [Applause.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms H JORDAAN (FF PLUS)

Ms M D HLENGWA (IFP)

 

 

 

 

MUNICIPALITY VIOLATING ENVIRONMENTAL ACT

(Member’s Statement)

 

Ms H JORDAAN (FF PLUS): Hon House Chair, the Moqhaka Local municipality in the Free State has permitted the Vals River to be polluted by raw sewage that flows into the river from various sewage overflows for a number of years.

 

Recently, the municipality intentionally permitted the local toilet paper factory to render research system around it in such chaos that these too are now contributing to the pollution problem.

 

The local Anglo-Boer War Concentration Camps, a national heritage sites is completely covered in west coast by this creating a most unfortunate and unacceptable situation.

 

The FF Plus laid criminal charges against the municipal manager of Moqhaka Local Municipality for the contravention of the relevant National Environmental Management Act. We employ the Department of Co-operative Governance to intervene in Moqhaka and ensure that they enforce their own bylaws.

 

We also employ the Department of Water and Sanitation to prioritise the contravention of the Nema, National Environmental Management Act, by local government on an urgent basis. Let us make no mistake. The pollution of our water sources which are already under immense stain is a criminal act and those responsible must held accountable. I thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr A M SEABI (ANC) MALUTA 27/02/2020 / TAKE ENDS AT 15:56

 

 

TAKE 11 – 15:48:00

Ms H JORDAAN

 

 

DEPARTMENT OF ARTS AND CULTURE HOSTED INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY CELEBRATIONS AT AMANGWE VILLAGE SPORTS GROUND IN KWAMBONAMBI, UMFOLOZI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

(Member’s Statement)

 

Mr A M SEABI (ANC): Hon House Chairperson, the ANC-led government has been consistent in its pronouncements to ensure that we fast-track the promotion and implementation of indigenous languages in our country, including finalisation of language legislation in provinces for inclusion in the school curriculum.

 

The Department of Arts and Culture, in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal provincial Department for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation and PanSALB hosted the International Mother Language Day Celebrations to promote cultural diversity and multilingualism on 21 February 2020, at Amangwe Village Sports Ground in KwaMbonambi, uMfolozi Local Municipality.

The International Mother Language Day is used to create awareness and appreciation for cultural and linguistic diversity around the world. Worldwide, people identify themselves through their mother tongues. Mother language is the first language people use to communicate, to express their thoughts, emotions and ideas.

 

The celebrations were aimed at highlighting the importance of indigenous languages and to inspire all South Africans, including those with special needs, to promote, preserve and protect all South African languages. Thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr A G WHITFIELD

Mr A M SEABI

 

 

DA CONGRATULATES WESTERN CAPE PREMIER FOR THE DEPLOYMENT OF 500 LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS ON THE STREETS OF THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN

(Member’s Statement)

 

Mr A G WHITFIELDS (DA): Hon House Chairperson, the DA congratulates Premier Alan Winde and his team on the groundbreaking provincial safety plan and the deployment of the first 500, out of 3000 law enforcement officers unto the streets of Cape Town. [Applause.] Regrettably, the Minister of Police is not here today. He is presiding over the worst violent crime statistics in recent memory. He has instead chosen to put politics before the safety of the people of the Western Cape. Acting more like a cowboy than a Minister he referred to law enforcement officers as thugs, calling the deployment illegal while casting aspersions on the Premier and his government suggesting that they be arrested.

 

The Minister would do well to take notes at this point. Not only can the city’s law enforcement officers much information, they know their left from their right and are appointed 100% in line with the Criminal Procedure Act. All criminal records are verified by SA Police Service, SAPS prior to their appointments. Officers have received all of the relevant training and every certificate and piece of paperwork is in place and signed off by the relevant authorities, including the SA Police Service.

 

All staff on the city that carry firearms are fully competent to do so and have the required legal authority. Instead of playing politics, the Minister should give praise where it is due and get behind this excellent plan by providing us full support. It is not clear why the Minister of Police does not support this plan when it has already received the full support of the SA Police Service. I thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

Ms N N SIHLWAYI

Mr A G WHITFIELD

 

 

 

ANC-LED GOVERNMENT LAUNCHED THE HUMAN SETTLEMENTS DUNCAN VILLAGE REDEVOLOPMENT PROJECT IN THE EASTERN CAPE

(Member’s Statement)

 

Ms N N SIHLWAYI (ANC): Hon House Chair, the launch of the ambitious project to redevelop Duncan Village in the Eastern Cape...

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Can you please talk to your microphone, hon member?

 

Ms N N SIHLWAYI (ANC): ... proves the commitment by the ANC-led government of ensuring that sustainable human settlements help transform the spatial legacy. Duncan Village is one of the old townships in South Africa and is a century old. There was hope and despair when ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa and the ANC NEC members visited this poor township in 2018, as part of ANC door-to door campaign and taking note of residents’ complaints. The ANC leadership witnessed first-hand the dejection of this area over their quality of life where shacks outnumbered formal households in the township of 80 000 people.

 

Recently, the three spheres of government signed a memorandum of understanding, paving the way for the reconstruction of the Duncan Village Development. After the signing ceremony the Housing Development Agency, HDA has identified land parcels for housing development within the area, in and around the city. [Time expired.]

 

 

 

Mr Z MLENZANA

Ms N N SIHLWAYI

 

 

 

ANC DISMAYED AT CITY OF CAPE TOWN METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY’S UNDERSPENDING AND LACK OF SERVICE DELIVERY FOR POOR PEOPLE

(Member’s Statement)

 

Mr Z MLENZANA (ANC): Hon House Chairperson, the constant underspending of the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality and lack of provision of basic services for the many impoverished people in this province, is a huge concern. Once again the Auditor-General Kimi Makwetu, flagged the city for materially underspending its operating budget to the amount of R2,4 billion and the capital budget to the amount of R1,3 billion. The Auditor General also flagged the appointment of law firms representing the city. According to the report, approval to procure legal services was granted to the legal department by means of a council system of delegations that was not in line with the regulations.

 

Not long ago the Cape Argus reported that the city’s water and sanitation directorate failed to spend R417 million meant to provide an additional supply to the city’s drinking water resources. It also emerged that the city’s transport directorate did not spend over R120 million of its annual budget. The ANC takes issue with the manner in which the budget is spent in the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality, given that many of our people are affected by the underspending, which should be used to build a better life for all and their communities. Thank you.

 

 

 

Mr L MPHITI

Mr Z MLENZANA

 

 

YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT RATE STILL HIGH UNDER ANC-LED GOVERNMENT

(Member’s Statement)

 

Mr L MPHITI (DA): Hon House Chairperson, Statistics SA’s quarterly labour force survey reveals that youth unemployment amongst young people is at a staggering 3,3 million. More alarming is that unemployment amongst young people, particularly those aged between 25 and 34 is more than double that of those who are aged between 45 and 54.

 

IsiXhosa: 15:54:56

UMongameli makathethe inyaniso emsulwa. Ubalibele abahlali nolutsha lwaseSterkpruit, kwaSkisazana, kwaKhiba, eMjikelweni, eBlue Gums nezinye ilali endingazikhankanyanga.

 

 

 

English: 15:55:12

The ANC-led government is indeed incapable of creating an economic environment that is conducive for job creation. This affirms that young people still find themselves fighting for their dignity, livelihoods and survival. The facts speaks for themselves because 8,2 million of South Africa’s 20,4 million young South Africans are without jobs. There is however one place that is giving young people hope; that things can be better and that is the DA-led Western Cape government. [Applause.] It has created 24 000 jobs in the last quarter and maintained the lowest unemployment rate in the country.

 

Therefore, the DA calls for this House to congratulate the Western Cape for creating job opportunities for the many young people in these devastating economic times. I thank you. [Applause.]

 

 

 

Nk H O MKHALIPHI

Mr L MPHITI

 

 

PUPILS NOT ATTENDING SCHOOLS DUE TO ADMISSION PROBLEMS

(Member’s Statement)

IsiZulu: 15:56:11

Nk H O MKHALIPHI (EFF): Sihlalo weNdlu, kusukela kuvulwe izikole kulo nyaka zingu-15 kuMasingana 2020, kusenezingane ezihleli emakhaya ezingazi noma zizogcina zithathiwe yini.

 

English:

Why? Because the Department of Basic Education lacks proper planning.

 

IsiZulu: 15:56:25

Lokho kuthinta izingane zethu. Zizogcina ziyimidlwembe, sizogcina zingabadlwenguli, zizogcina zibamba inkunzi ngoba uHulumeni ka-ANC ...

 

English:

 ... hates the youth of South Africa.

IsiZulu: 15:56:39

Ngikhuluma ngoNoluthando Nxumalo ...

 

English:

 ... a girl child who is looking to be admitted for Grade 11.

 

IsiZulu: 15:56:53

Akekho-ke ofuna ukumamukela.

 

English:

I have been speaking to the department. I have been speaking to the Minister of Basic Education.

 

IsiZulu: 15:57:03

Akukho mpendulo ephumayo ngalezi zingane. Ake nilaleleni la. [Ubuwelewele.]

 

English:

Seven kids in Sasalentsha Primary School were not admitted by principal Dlamini, saying to these kids that they must write a test. Thanks to the EFF ground forces and the EFF councillor who went and challenged principal Dlamini to say why was he saying that these kids must go and write a test before they get admitted. The department is there but it is not intervening. In higher education, the University of KwaZulu-Natal, UKZN, in the Durban University of Technology, DUT, Nzimande, is burning. [Interjections.]

 

IsiZulu: 15:57:42

USIHLALO WENDLU (Nk M G Boroto): Siyabonga, ima nje lapho. Siyabonga, isikhathi siphelile.

 

English:

No man! But this is very important House Chairperson.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Thank you very much. The time is up.

 

Mr L M NTSHAYISA / LN (Eng&Xho) 27/02/2020 @ 11:55 / VW// (Zul) 27/02/2020 @ 11:05 / TAKE ENDS

TAKE 12 - STARTS AT 16:06

MEMBERS STATEMENT CONTD - Ms H O MKHALIPHI

 

 

 

SOUTH AFRICA’S LACK OF COMPLIANCE WITH INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS IN CAR SAFETY REGULATIONS A CONCERN

(Member’s Statement)

 

Mr L M NTSHAYISA (AIC): Hon House Chairperson, the Transport and the Trade and Industry departments are said to have failed to comply with the international standards in modernising the country’s antiquated car safety regulations. Even the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications admits much to these allegations.

 

We learned through credit agencies, domestically and abroad, as in the Global New Car Assessment Programme and Automobile Association that South Africa still lacks both the electronic stability control, i.e, ESC, and antilock breaking systems which all have been made compulsory to be fitted as standard into our vehicles.

 

In countries such as ours where car accidents claim innocent lives almost on a daily basis, these recent revelations have come as a great shock to us. Can these departments assure South African motorists that their vehicles are risk averse and safety proof? These departments must pull up their socks; the house is on fire. Maziye ke! [Let us do it.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MINISTERIAL RESPONSES - MINISTER OF HEALTH

 

MINISTER OF HEALTH

 

 

INVESTIGATIONS INTO FORCED STERILISATION SPECULATIONS IN SOUTH AFRICAN HOSPITALS

(Minister’s Response)

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH: House Chairperson, there was an issue raised about the report released by the Commission for Gender Equality. I just wish to indicate that we have now been informed about that as it happened yesterday, unfortunately the report had not been brought to the attention of the Minister or the department before it was released, so we are not able to deal with it immediately.

 

Today we have asked for an urgent meeting with the commissioner so that we can look into the matter. The truth of the matter is that there is no government policy that should force anyone into sterilisation. We don’t believe that it is correct for anyone to be sterilised under duress. The matter will need attention and we will announce as soon as we have looked at the report and had a briefing. Thank you very much.

THE MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH

 

 

INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY CELEBRATION AND PROMOTION OF MOTHER TONGUE BY ARTS AND CULTURE DEPARTMENT

(Minister’s Response)

 

THE MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE: House Chairperson, thank you very much hon Seabi for observing a very important event, which is the International Mother Language Day. Every year the department gives bursaries to students studying languages in major universities like Wits University, University of Cape Town, University of Johannesburg, and so on.

 

Firstly, we do this because it is quite important to emphasise the importance of mother tongue because our erstwhile colonisers couldn’t annihilate our languages, so we should continue to preserve them for posterity. Secondly, in Makhanda area, we have taken a decision to change the National English Literary Museum to be Amazwi South African Museum of Literature so that it doesn’t only develop English, but it also develops IsiXhosa in the Makhanda area.

 

The last point is a call to our compatriots - especially white compatriots, to start learning African languages, especially basics, as it will augur well for social cohesion. We need to do that. We had a young lady there from Italy who was learning African languages - IsiZulu and IsiXhosa. If foreigners can do that, surely, South Africans can. Thank you very much.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE MINISTER OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

 

 

THE MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE

 

 

 

 

A CALL TO UNITE AND FIGHT AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

(Minister’s Response)

 

THE MINISTER OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT: Hon House Chairperson, I firstly would like to thank the member of the ACDP who reminded us that one of the biggest challenges we have in South Africa is about us pointing fingers to each other when we are supposed to deal with a very serious matter. The issue of violence against women and children is not a matter to politicise about; it is a matter for us to make commitment across party political lines. It is a matter that we need to be able to commit house to house, street to street, and family to family, in order for us to be able to deal with it.

 

This is a matter that I would also like to say that the Minister of Police, the Minister of Justice, including the President himself, today are going to the field to visit the families of those that have been affected. The plea from me and the Minister of Social Development, and also from the branches of the ANC is that we should commit to working in our communities because this is a societal problem. It is a societal problem that we live with. Some people see it happening on a day-to-day basis, and they don’t lift a finger. So, this is not an issue for us to really make jokes about it, it is a matter that we all need to commit to do, and act in the best way we can. I thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY / kn (27-02-2020) / TAKE ENDS AT

 

TAKE 13 - STARTS AT 16:13

THE MINISTER OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

 

 

CENTRE OF SPECIALISATION AT BOLAND TVET COLLEGE

(Minister’s response)

 

The MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: Chair, I want to thank hon Mahlaule for raising the issue of centres of specialisation, the aim of which is to accelerate quality artisan training. We intend to take this programme forward in our technical co-operation with the Germans, as per the agreement signed between President Ramaphosa and Chancellor Merkel.

 

In particular, the centre of specialisation at Boland TVET college recently received robotic welding machines for student training. There is a very strong partnership with industry and the process of recruiting 820 apprentices has been started. The centre is also equipped with some of the latest technology in line with industry standards.

 

I thank the member for raising such an important matter.

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY

The MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

 

 

KILLING OF TAZNE VAN WYK IN WESTERN CAPE

(Minister’s response)

 

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY: Chair, I concur with Minister Zulu that we need to intensify our community efforts to fight against gender-based violence. Equally, we concur with the colleague from the DA who said that the death of Tazne van Wyk is just one death too many. We need to do more. Enough is enough.

 

But all of us as a society need to deal with this phenomenon of killing of women and young children in our country. We need to hold hands.

 

Of course, we continue to arrest those who kill, but the killings continue.

 

An HON MEMBER: You release them!

 

 

 

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY: Therefore, we agree that we should work together in our communities, in our streets, everywhere we are to fight against gender-based violence, the killing of our women and the killing of our children. Let’s fight this with everything we have in our power. Thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS WATER AND SANITATION

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY

 

 

 

ANC-LED GOVERNMENT LAUNCHED THE HUMAN SETTLEMENTS DUNCAN VILLAGE REDEVOLOPMENT PROJECT IN THE EASTERN CAPE

(Minister’s response)

 

IsiXhosa:

USEKELA MPHATHISWA WEZOKUHLALISWA KOLUNTU, AMANZI NOGUTYULO: Sihlalo weNdlu, ndiphakamisela ukubulela umama uSihlwayi ndisithi ewe, iDuncan Village isayinelwe kwiiofisi ezintathu. Ukunyathela kukaMongameli Ramaphosa eDuncan Village kwenze umahluko omkhulu. Kuza kwakhiwa izindlu ezinga-5 500 kwaye abantu abaza kuxhamla ngama-20 000. Sithi halala Duncan Village, halala! [Kwaqhwatywa.]

 

 

 

 

 

The MINISTER OF CO-OPERATIVE GOVERNANCE AND TRADITIONAL AFFAIRS

THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS WATER AND SANITATION

 

 

 

 

 

MUNICIPALITY VIOLATING ENVIRONMENTAL ACT

(Minister’s response)

 

The MINISTER OF CO-OPERATIVE GOVERNANCE AND TRADITIONAL AFFAIRS: Chair, I just want to say to the hon member who raised the issue of the pollution of the Vaal that it is indeed a very important matter. Government is seized with it. We are led by the Deputy President as we look at the matter.

 

But it is clear that the problem is the aging infrastructure in the various municipalities. Therefore we have to address that and we are doing our best to do so. But it will not happen overnight because the aging infrastructure needs a lot of resources. It’s not just one municipality that needs its infrastructure refurbished.

 

 

 

However, thank you for raising the issue. We are seized with it. Thank you.

 

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Those who are not recognised today, this item has been moved to be the first item on days that we have motions.

 

Mr J J W JULIUS: Chairperson, I rise on a point of order.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Wait, I’m still addressing the House; I will come to you.

 

So, I’m just saying, we need to realise that it has changed. It is now the first item on those days. Hence we could not do it because the executive was not here when we started. But we heard seven of them, and that is the new Rule.

 

Yes, what is your point of order, hon member?

 

Mr J J W JULIUS: House Chair, I think you would have given us our daily bread ... Minister Cele, to please come and apologise today. I think the responses were very poor.

 

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): No, hon member, that is not a point of order. I don’t understand what you mean by “daily bread” anyway!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr D M NKOSI / nvs(Eng)[03/03/2020] / Litha(Xho)[02/03/2020] / TAKE ENDS AT 16:18

 

TAKE 14 - STARTS AT 16:18

THE MINISTER OF CO-OPERATIVE GOVERNANCE AND TRADITIONAL AFFAIRS

 

 

 

DEATH OF MARCELINO DOS SANTOS

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr D M NKOSI: Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that one of the founders member of the Mozambique Liberation Front, Frelimo, Marcelino dos Santos, died in Maputo on 11 February 2020, at the age of 90;

 

  1. recalls that Marcelino’s activism began when he was elected Secretary-General of the Conference of Nationalist Organizations of the Portuguese Colonies at Casablanca;

 

  1. further recalls that under surveillance from Portuguese police, he escaped to France where he worked with many other exiled African nationalists such as Guinea-Bissau’s Amilcar Cabral;

 

  1. remembers that in 1962, dos Santos with other leaders from other formations merged and formed Frelimo, under the leadership of Eduardo Mondlane;

 

  1. further remembers that after the assassination of Mondlane in 1969, Samora Machel was elected President of Frelimo with dos Santos as the Deputy President;

 

  1. understands that after independence in 1975, dos Santos became Minister of Planning and Development in Machel’s first government and later held several other senior positions including Speaker of Parliament; and

 

  1. conveys its condolences to the government of the People’s Republic of Mozambique and the family of Marcelino dos Santos.

 

Thank you.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Thank you. Again, let me remind you about this that we also do the motions in 90 seconds, neh? And please move as we continue.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms S J GRAHAM

Mr D M NKOSI

 

 

 

 

DR BEYERS NAUDE MUNICIPALITY IN THE WORST DROUGHTS

(Draft Resolution)

 

Ms S J GRAHAM: House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that the Dr Beyers Naude municipal area in the Eastern Cape has been in the grips of one of the worst droughts in recent memory, leading to the drying up of the Nqweba Dam outside Graaff-Reinet;

 

  1. acknowledges that Ms Corene Conradie established the Graaff-Reinet Water Crisis, which reached out to the Gift of the Givers for assistance;

 

  1. recognises that the Gift of the Givers have subsequently drilled eight boreholes at local schools and one at the Midlands Hospital, with eight JoJo tanks per borehole, enabling local residents to collect water;

 

  1. further recognises that the Gift of the Givers established a permanent team in Graaff-Reinet that continues to deliver 25 000 litres of fresh water daily to residents by means of 34 community tanks throughout the town; and

 

 

  1. conveys its heartfelt thanks to Ali Sablay, Dr Gideon Groenewald and the Gift of the Givers organisation for their role in averting a potential humanitarian crisis in Graaff-Reinet.

 

I so move. [Applause.]

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon members, allow me to go back to the first motion because you didn’t remind me about this in time, I wonder why. We need to find out if there is an objection to the motion. So, we all forgot. Please accept my apologies.

 

The first motion was moved by the ANC. Is there any objection? No objection, agreed to. The second motion was moved by the DA. Is there any objection? No objection, agreed to.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms N P SONTI

Ms S J GRAHAM

 

 

 

 

ANC GOVERNMENT DEFENDING PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA IN THE MASSACRE OF MINEWORKERS

(Draft Resolution)

 

Ms N P SONTI: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that, since the massacre of mineworkers in 2012 by the ANC government in defence of President Ramaphosa’s Black Economic Empowerment, BEE, scheme, and white bosses of Lonmin mine, the people of Marikana lives side by side with death and murder;

 

  1. further notes that between November 2019 and February this year, four people have been shot and killed, namely, Kaizer Lungisa Madiba who was shot and killed in Marikana, Cebilisile Ngongo was shot and killed in Marikana, Mahamba Ngomti was shot and killed in Marikana, and Siyamthanda Mabhentsela was stabbed and killed in Marikana;

 

  1. acknowledges that Noziphiwo Ziya was also shot in Marikana and she is fighting for her life at the hospital;

 

  1. further acknowledges that the killings in Marikana leave many wives, sisters and brothers, parents, and children without breadwinners;

 

  1. condemns these senseless killings that continue while those responsible continue to kill without consequences;

 

  1. realises that we are on our own, and those that are responsible for protecting us and maintain law and order don’t do that; and

 

  1. sends its condolences to the bereaved families and wishes Noziphiwo Ziya a speedy recovery.

Thanks, Chair.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Thank you very much. Are there any objections to the motion? No objection ... [Interjections.]

 

Mr T N MMUTLE: Hon Chair, the ANC objects this mischievous motion.

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G Boroto): Hon member, just say you object and leave out the other things. In light of the objection this will become a notice of a motion.

 

 

 

 

Ms V P MALOMANE

Ms N P SONTI

 

 

 

 

DR ESTHER MAHLANGU MAKING HISTORY BY CREATING A PAINTING INSIDE THE NEW ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM

(Draft Resolution)

 

Ms V P MALOMANE: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that South Africa’s renowned and award-winning creative artist, Mama Dr Esther Mahlangu, has again made history by being the first African to be commissioned to create a painting for the gallery inside a new Rolls-Royce Phantom;

 

  1. understands that she was commissioned by the esteemed brand to design the interior and exterior trim with her Ndebele heritage inspired artwork for the new Rolls-Royce Phantom;

 

  1. remembers that she is no stranger to collaborating with prestigious brands as she previously collaborated with the BMW Group to redefine a BMW 7 Series in 2016; and

 

  1. congratulates Dr Mahlangu on her achievements and wishes her well as she continues to soar to greater heights in her passion for the Ndebele inspired designs.

 

I so move.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

 

Mr N SINGH

Ms V P MALOMANE

 

 

 

RECENT INTERNATIONAL ACCOLADE OF THE WORLD CUP-WINNING SPRINGBOK RUGBY TEAM

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr N SINGH: Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. congratulates the World Cup-winning Springbok rugby team on their most recent international accolade, namely the awarding of the internationally acclaimed and prestigious Laureus Team of the Year Award, which was conferred upon the team in Berlin on Monday, 17 February;

 

  1. notes with pride that this is the second occasion in which the Springboks have won the Laureus accolade, the first being shortly after their World Cup victory in 2007;

 

  1. recognises the important role that South African sportsmen and women play in not only creating social cohesion and nation-building in South Africa, but also the fine example they display as ambassadors on the international stage for the country and its citizens;

 

  1. encourages all other South African sportsmen and women to emulate the example of the Springboks in reaching for the heights of the various sporting codes; and finally

 

  1. calls upon government to capacitate every school in South Africa with adequate sporting codes and facilities, and to identify and nurture the vast sporting talent pool we have in this country from a young age, so that all South Africans can have the opportunity of excelling to the greatest heights of their sporting activities, should they wish to do so.

 

I so move.

 

Agreed to.

 

Dr C P MULDER

Mr N SINGH

 

 

OBSERVATION OF INTERNATIONAL MOTHER TONGUE DAY ON 21 FEBRUARY 2020

(Draft Resolution)

 

Dr C P MULDER: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. recognises that on 21 February 2020, International Mother Tongue Day was observed;

 

  1. notes that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO, proclaimed this day, in 1999, to promote the preservation and protection of all languages;

 

  1. further notes that:

 

  1. this day, commemorated the day in 1952 when students were shot dead by the police while protesting for the recognition of their language, Bangla, as one of the two national languages of the former Eastern Pakistan (now Bangladesh); and

 

  1. the purpose of this day is to promote language and cultural diversity;

 

  1. agrees that mother tongue languages are powerful instruments and linguistic freedom is a basic human right;

 

  1. further agrees that education in mother tongue is important and should be promoted;

 

  1. believes that in accordance with section 30 of the South African Constitution which says, everyone has the right to use the language of their choice; and therefore

 

  1. reaffirms the protection and promotion of all languages in South Africa.

 

I so move.

 

Agreed to.

 

Ms T M A TONGWANE

Dr C P MULDER

 

 

 

 

ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCING A TEMPERATURE SPIKE

(Draft Resolution)

 

Ms T M A TONGWANE: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes with great concern that the Antarctic has experienced a temperature spike as part of a warming climate trend that could impact on South African weather;

 

  1. acknowledges that scientific findings have shown that higher temperatures over Antarctica may lead to massive melting of glaciers, contributing to a rise in the heights of sea levels with negative consequences for coastal areas, especially in South Africa;

 

  1. further acknowledges that steps in finalising the Climate Change Bill which provides a regulatory framework for the effective management of inevitable climate change by enhancing adaptive capacity, strengthening resilience and reducing South Africa’s vulnerability to climate change is at an advance stage; and

 

  1. welcomes the fact that governments must continue to help people to alleviate the effects of climate change, and most importantly, that our people must be ready to embrace adaptation strategies.

 

Thank you.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

Ms T L MARAWU  / EKS/ 26/02/2020@13:44 / TAKE ENDS AT 16:29

 

 

 

TAKE 15 - TAKE STARTS AT: 16:21:00

Ms T M A TONGWANE

 

 

Ms T L MARAWU: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that notes that Thulisile Khanyile, a six-month pregnant lady, was admitted at Mariannhill Hospital on 14 February 2020;

 

  1. further notes that after being allegedly neglected by the hospital staff, she was assisted by fellow patients when she went into labour at 03h40 in the morning;

 

  1. understands that her premature baby passed on eight hours after she was born; and

 

  1. calls on the Ministry of Health to launch a full investigation into this unfortunate matter.

I so move.

Agreed to.

Mr A C ROOS

Ms T L MARAWU

 

 

 

MIDVAAL LOCAL MUNICIPALITY AWARDED 6TH SUCCESSIVE CLEAN AUDIT

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr A C ROOS: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that the Midvaal Local Municipality was recently awarded its 6th successive clean audit by the Auditor-General of South Africa;

 

  1. further notes that the municipality continues to punch above its weight by attracting significant investments in its economy from local and international companies, including Heineken, Ferrero Rocher, Paramount Trailers, New Hope, BSI Steel and Twin Boats;

 

  1. acknowledges that, as a result of the municipality’s ability to cut red tape, simplify procedures and by-laws to make it easier to do business and invest within the boundaries of the municipality, Sedibeng Brewery made a further R3,5 billion investment in the municipality, resulting in the creation of 3500 construction jobs and 32 local farmers being supported on a regular basis;

 

  1. further acknowledges the role that the municipality’s committed personnel and its senior management’s willingness to go the extra mile, played in delivering another clean audit;

 

  1. commends Mayor Bongani Baloyi and the municipality’s personnel for their commitment to good governance and service delivery to the residents of Midvaal; and

 

  1. congratulates the municipality on achieving its 6th successive clean audit.

 

I so move. [Applause.]

 

Agreed to.

 

 

Mr K CEZA

 

Mr A C ROOS

 

 

 

LEARNERS SOLD DRUGS AT L.D MOETANALO SECONDARY SCHOOL IN STEVE TSHWETE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr K CEZA: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that L.D Moetanalo secondary School in Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, in extension five ward 28 has been turned into a drug house by drug pushers in that area;

 

  1. further notes that learners are fed drugs in school on a daily basis instead of education;

 

  1. acknowledges that the majority of learners never completed their studies and dropped out of school to roam around and commit crime;

 

  1. further acknowledges that the matter has been reported many times and the school together with the members of the community have reported the matter to the police and the Department of Social Development, yet nothing has been done;

 

  1. recognises that gangsterism and violence are happening inside schools in Mhluzi township, one area where learners are supposed to feel safe, learn and prepare for their future as productive members of the society and improve their living conditions;

 

  1. realises that the youth of today that we failed to protect, are the ones we will protect from tomorrow as a society;

 

  1. calls on the people of Steve Tshwete local municipality to come together, organise and fight the problem of drug abuse, gangsterism and protect the future of our children.

I so move.

 

Not agreed to.

 

Ms D P SIBIYA

Mr K CEZA

 

 

 

 

TWO FINAL YEAR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS AT THE TSHWANE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY INVENTED A DEVICE CALLED C4ME

(Draft Resolution)

 

Ms D P SIBIYA: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that two final year Information Technology students at the Tshwane University of Technology, have invented a device called C4Me that will assist visually impaired people to move freely and know exactly where they are going;

 

  1. acknowledges that Siphamandla Mgcina and Philanjalo Ndlovu have been working on the device since June 2019 and have recently travelled to Toronto in Canada, where they presented their device;

 

  1. further acknowledges that their encounter with a visually impaired student at the Tshwane University of Technology campus inspired their innovative invention of C4Me;

 

  1. understands that the device contains several sensors that guide the wearer by pinpointing their location and destination, and provides audio instructions to guide them; and

 

  1. congratulates Mgcina and Ndlovu on their achievement and hopes that this will encourage and inspire more young people to study technology.

 

I so move. [Applause.]

 

Agreed to

 

 

 

 

Mr A M SHAIK EMAM

 

 

Ms D P SIBIYA

 

 

The HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Ms M G BOROTO): GOOD Party! Please send notes if you don’t want me to call your name and that you will not be doing anything on that item. And, I won’t call it at all if you send a note.

 

 

 

SPEEDY RESPONSE BY THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT TO A FIRE THAT BROKE DOWN IN GOODWOOD

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr A M SHAIK EMAM: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes that on Sunday, 23 February 2020, a fire broke out near Voortrekker road in Goodwood;

 

  1. further notes that it is alleged that vagrants who were burning cables started the fire;

 

  1. understands that an emergency call was made to the City of Cape Town Fire Department,

 

  1. further understands and that within five minutes the fire department responded positively with various vehicles from different fire stations - Goodwood, Bellville, Belhar, Brooklyn, Kraaifontein and Landsdowne;

 

  1. acknowledges that the Station Commander from the Goodwod Fire Station, the Station Commander from Belhar, Senior Fire Fighters from the Brooklyn Station, Senior Fire Fighter Staedler from the Kraaifontein Station, Platoon Commander from the Landsdowne Station and the Station Commander from Bellville acted in the most exemplary manner and with the utmost of urgency ensuring the fire was extinguished; and

 

  1. also acknowledges that action by the above-mentioned officers prevented a major disaster in the area as the area is surrounded by many businesses;

 

  1. therefore calls on this hon House to commend these officers for the speedy response to prevent a disaster; and

 

  1. congratulate the City Of Cape town for the quick response time.

 

I so move.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms Z NKOMO

 

 

Mr A M SHAIK EMAM

 

 

 

 

THE APPOINTMENT OF MS HONEY MAMABOLO AS THE NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN MINT COMPANY

(Draft Resolution)

 

Ms Z NKOMO: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. welcomes the appointment of Ms Honey Mamabolo as the new Managing Director of the South African Mint Company, effective from 1 February 2020;

 

  1. acknowledges that she has 20 years of experience across various industry sectors, including mining, retail banking, energy, development finance and manufacturing;

 

  1. further acknowledges Ms Mamabolo’s role as Lead Co-ordinator of the Industrial Development Corporation’s Green Energy Efficiency Fund, and the launch thereof, which played a significant part in the energy market’s transformation by providing competitive funding for the implementation of energy efficiency and small-scale renewable energy projects by small and medium-sized enterprises and energy services companies;

 

  1. proudly notes that she graduated as one of three first black female Chemical Engineering graduates from the University of Pretoria, and holds postgraduate qualifications in Financial Management, Strategy Planning and Change Management; and

 

  1. congratulates her on the appointment and believes that her agile leadership is critical in today’s volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous business environment.

 

I thank you.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

 

Mr L M NTSHAYISA

Ms Z NKOMO

 

 

 

 

MEC FOR EDUCATION IN GAUTENG, MR PANYAZA LESUFI’S EFFORTS IN INTRODUCING AN ACCESSIBLE ONLINE SCHOOL ADMISSION APPLICATION SYSTEM FOR LEARNERS

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr L M NTSHAYISA: Hon House Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

            That the House-

 

  1. notes the efforts by the MEC for Education in the Gauteng province, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, in introducing an accessible online school admission application system for learners in the province;

 

  1. further notes that the MEC has responded to the broader school infrastructure challenges, especially in light of the reported incidents of pit latrines and drowning;

 

  1. commends the MEC for his forthrightness in exercising urgency to cases of learner-bullying in public schools;

 

  1. implores all the stakeholders in public schools, including educators, School Governing Bodies, teacher unions and parents to support this determined MEC; and

 

  1. notes that this MEC is also equal to the task of dealing with the issues of Fourth Industrial Revolution.

 

I so move.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr W T LETSIE /TB [02-03-2020]  / TAKE ENDS AT 16:31

 

 

 

TAKE 16 - STARTS AT 16:39

Mr L M NTSHAYISA

 

 

 

ATTACK OF A FEMALE METRORAIL TRAIN DRIVER

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr W T LETSIE: House Chairperson, the ANC moves without notice:

 

That the House -

  1. notes with great concern the criminal attack of a female Metrorail train driver, Ms Nonhlanhla Dlamini, by commuters for refusing to stop between stations in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday, 18th February;

 

  1. further notes that the attack took place between 06:00 and 07:00 in the morning, and was left bleeding and emotionally distraught whilst waiting for an hour for help to arrive;

 

  1. understands that the train was en route from Durban to Stanger when commuters wanted her to stop between stations;

 

  1. further understands that when she refused, as it is not allowed and would have created a very dangerous situation for the commuters and train crew, she was then assaulted;

 

  1. acknowledges that commuters had threatened to kill Ms Dlamini and hit her on the head and ear by some of the stones and was bleeding profusely;

 

  1. urges Passenger Rail Agency of SA, Prasa, to ensure that systems are put in place to protect both the employees and commuters and to address the vandalism, arson and fare evasions that have negatively impacted on the services of the Prasa; and

 

  1. wishes Ms Dlamini a speedy and full recovery.

Agreed to.

 

Ms C V KING

Mr W T LETSIE

 

 

 

 

SOUTH AFRICA WINS 5TH INTERNATIONAL MOOT COURT COMPETITION

(Draft Resolution)

 

Ms C V KING: House Chairperson, the DA moves without notice:

 

That this House -

 

  1. notes the participation of the South African team in the 5th International Schools Moot Court Competition held in Poland;

 

  1. further notes the South African team competed against six countries which includes Bulgaria, Romania, Mongolia, St Maarten, USA and Venezuela;

 

  1. also notes the 5th International School Moot Court Competition was a scene of conflict over the past decade in Tabanath;

 

  1. acknowledges that in 2014, 2016 and 2018 South Africa obtained first, second and best presenter awards; and

 

  1. congratulates Mihlali Stotile, Ondele Bede, Okhela Sigwela, Lizalise Dlomo, Sureshka Naidoo, Caitlin Schwarer, Nondumiso Ntshangase and Nosipho Dube on the victory after winning this competition against USA.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

Mr M G E HENDRIKS

Ms C V KING

 

 

 

 

MUSLIM JUDICIAL COUNCIL CELEBRATES 75TH ANNIVERSARY

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr M G E HENDRIKS: House Chairperson, Al-Jama-ah moves without notice:

 

That the House –

 

  1. congratulates the Muslim Judicial Council, MJC, on its 75th anniversary;

 

  1. notes that today, South Africa remembers the foundation presidents of the MJC, Imam Achmat Behardien, leader of the MJC; Sheikh Sharkie Gamieldien and his successor Sheikh Nazeem Mohammed, who had close relationship with former President Nelson Mandela; and

 

  1. wishes the Muslim community as the most peaceful community in South Africa; rejecting any form of extremism and responding with all its resources to relieve efforts to sow its unqualified patriotism and love for South Africa.

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTICES OF MOTIONS - Mr E T MYENI

 

Mr M G E HENDRIKS

 

 

 

 

NOTICES OF MOTION

 

Mr E T MYENI: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates assessing the progress made at the October 2019, Jobs Summit to assist small businesses through township supplier development programmes as well as development of youth entrepreneurship.

 

 

 

Ms D VAN DER WALT

Mr E T MYENI

 

 

 

 

Ms D VAN DER WALT: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates the true status of Basic Education and what could be done to ensure viable solutions to enable our learners to be ready to participate in the 4th Industrial Revolution.

 

 

 

Ms D B NGWENYA

Ms D VAN DER WALT

 

 

 

 

Ms D B NGWENYA: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the EFF:

 

That the House -

 

  1. debates the vicious cycle of triple oppression based on race, class and gender that has not been broken for South African women, in particular black women in the past 25 years.

 

 

 

Ms A GELA

 

Ms D B NGWENYA

 

 

 

 

Ms A GELA: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates the critical role that the private sector needs to play in improving the health system; and with the combined strength between the public and  the private sector ensure action for real change.

 

IsiXhosa:

Sihlalo ohloniphekileyo, amacandelo abucala mawayeke ukuzenza oongcwele-ngcwele ekubeni nawo enamabibi awo. Siza kuyixoxa loo nto ngosuku esiyixoxa ngalo kuba kufuneka siyixoxile.

 

Ms M D HLENGWA

Ms A GELA

 

 

 

 

Ms M D HLENGWA: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the IFP:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates the issue of nonconsensual sterilization at public hospitals.

 

 

 

Mr P MEY

Ms M D HLENGWA

 

 

 

Mr P MEY: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the FFPlus:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates the possibility of allowing commercial farmers to construct earth dams with their own resources on their properties, with a view to provide water for their own purposes as well as to local rural communities and small emerging farmers who are suffering from a lack of water supply.

 

 

 

Ms A MOTAUNG

Mr P MEY

 

 

 

Ms A MOTAUNG: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates strengthen competitions legislation to address concentration and barriers to new entrants, administered prices and improve ease of doing business.

 

 

 

Mr S N SWART

Ms A MOTAUNG

 

 

 

Mr S N SWART: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ACDP:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates the complete overhaul of the parole system given the brutal murder of an eight-year-old, Tazne van Wyk from Elsies River by a convicted criminal who was released on parole in 2018 after being sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for kidnapping, child abuse and culpable homicide of his own two-year-old son.

 

 

 

Ms A WINKLER

Mr S N SWART

 

 

 

Ms A WINKLER: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates how it intends to, as a matter of urgency, discuss the state of our river health in South Africa as result of environmentally debilitating, toxic sewerage spills and excessive pollution. It is time that environmental issues are treated with the urgency that they deserve.

 

 

 

Mr B S MADLINGOZI

Ms A WINKLER

 

 

 

Mr B S MADLINGOZI: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the EFF:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates fast-tracking of having our indigenous languages to be used in our national schools set books.

 

 

 

Ms T I LEGWASE

Mr B S MADLINGOZI

 

 

 

Ms T I LEGWASE: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates tightening the current laws dealing with the activities of Foreign Intelligence Services, the abuse of the diplomatic immunities and acts of espionage in order to provide for the imposition of harsher sentences to serve as deterrent.

 

 

 

Mr A M SHAIK EMAM

Ms T I LEGWASE

 

 

 

Mr A M SHAIK EMAM: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the NFP:

 

That the House –

 

  1. deliberates and resolves on the immediate unconditional downgrading of the South African embassy in Israel to a liaison office until Israel respects international law, respects the rights of Palestinian people to exist and comply with all international resolutions and agreements.

 

 

 

Ms M A MOLEKWA

Mr A M SHAIK EMAM

 

 

 

 

Ms M A MOLEKWA: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates implementation of the Border Management Authority, BMA, to address the question of irregular migration and border management.

 

 

 

Ms A S HLONGO

Ms M A MOLEKWA

 

 

 

Ms A S HLONGO: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates stopping the sexual exploitation of the girl-child so that they are allowed to grow up in safe, loving and nurturing environments and have the opportunity to play their important roles in society.

 

 

 

Ms B S MASANGO

Ms A S HLONGO

 

 

 

Ms B S MASANGO: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates the status of the government’s taking over the Bosasa Youth Development Centres throughout the country to protect the children receiving services from these centres.

 

 

 

Ms T MGWEBA

Ms B S MASANGO

 

 

 

Ms T MGWEBA: House Chairperson, I hereby give notice of motion that on the next sitting of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the House –

 

  1. debates increasing the levels of women empowerment especially in the private sector, so that through the empowerment of women in this sector, we are contributing to social transformation.

 

 

Business concluded.

 

The House adjourned at 16:45

 

 

 

AR [26-02-20] ND (Xho) 27/02/2020 /