Questions and Replies

Reply:

(a) The Department has not conducted any research regarding the visa free countries, therefore no results are available.

(b)(i-iii) There were no plans to conduct research in this area as most of the visa agreements were already concluded since 1992.

(c)(i–ii) The list of visa free countries is attached as Annexure A. RSA does not issue visas on arrival.

(c) Agreements are concluded on reciprocity principles based on bilateral agreements. These agreements are concluded as and when agreed upon

END

Reply:

The Bela-Bela Local Municipality has been experiencing water supply disruptions owing to the impact of load shedding by ESKOM. The water purification plant is dependent on electricity to pump water from the source to the treatment plant and from the reservoirs to the network reticulation system.

Ageing infrastructure creates also exacerbates the problem of water shortages due to regular pipe bursts which contributes to water losses and shortages in the area.

The municipality is currently implementing water restrictions as and when necessary, because of high-water demand. Availability of water depends on the reservoir levels to avoid a situation where the taps would run dry.

The Bela-Bela Local Municipality has indicated that steps are taken to notify the community timeously about water supply interruptions.

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Reply:

The question asked falls within the purview of Gauteng Department of Education, the Hon Member is advised to refer the question to the respective province.

Reply:

The Department of Water and Sanitation completed a feasibility study in 2013 for a long-term solution for Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) in the Witwatersrand as per recommendation of the 2011 Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) report. The long-term solution that was recommended involved further treatment of the partially treated water currently produced in the AMD treatment plants through desalination for beneficial socio-economic uses. The department commenced with preparations towards implementation of the long-term solution in 2017, but this was later put on hold due to budget constraints.

The department recognises that a significant amount of time has passed from when the feasibility study was first finalised, and for this reason is currently completing other studies to ensure the relevance of the recommendations made in 2013. This work will culminate in a revised long-term solution to be considered for implementation.

Although financial constraints remain a major challenge, the Department is also in the process to re-establish the Technology Demonstration Programme (TDP) which was also put on hold with the long-term solution in 2017. The programme is being undertaken in partnership with other stakeholders such as Water Research Commission and Department of Science and Technology and is exploring alternative technologies which can provide solutions for the AMD problem in the long-term. The TDP will be integrated with the work done by the Development Bank of South Africa through the National Water Programme.

This process will take time as proper technology selection is imperative in ensuring the most cost-effective, technologically sound, and environmentally friendly solution is implemented.

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Reply:

1.  According to City of Johannesburg (COJ), two of Rand Water’s purification plants, namely, Zuikerbosh and Vereeniging as well as two major pumps stations (Palmiet and Eikenhof) supplying large parts of the city were affected by power failures. The municipality’s entity, Joburg Water, reported that Eikenhof system was not being operated to full capacity to boost the Palmiet system which was at a critical level. This has resulted in portions of the Eikenhof system, which supplies Crosby, Brixton, Hurst Hill, Crown Gardens and Eagles Nest systems to collapse completely on 4 October 2022.

During engagements with Rand Water, it was agreed that the Eikenhof system should be operated at full capacity and to no longer sustain the Palmiet system. This resulted in flows to Crosby, Brixton and Hurst Hill reservoirs being improved.

2. Yes, the Treaty between South Africa and Lesotho remains in force. The project generates hydroelectricity for the benefit of Lesotho citizens, while water is transferred to meet the water needs of South Africans. This water meets 60% of Gauteng’s water demand.

a) Rand Water’s operating philosophy is to maintain the reservoir levels between 60- 80%. This targeted range is intended to enable the network system to be resilient and respond to any challenges. Historically, during September to January, water consumption increases exponentially in Gauteng. It was with this understanding that wrote to the high consumers; City of Tshwane, City of Johannesburg, and City of Ekurhuleni; to encourage and plead for reduced consumption in anticipation of the increased demand for water. Despite these efforts, water consumption continued to increase significantly.

Rand Water’s overall water storage declined from 52% to 38%. Stemming from this decline, a meeting was convened with the Metros to notify them of the intention to apply Stage 1 restrictions. Despite these efforts, water storage levels continued to decline and that prompted Rand Water to apply Stage 2 restrictions. The anticipated heatwave informed the decision to escalate from Stage 1 to 2 (. The restrictions are necessary to stabilize the system and avoid total collapse of the systems.

b) It must be noted that Rand Water’s water treatment plants and booster sites are exempt from loadshedding. However, there are two (2) tertiary booster sites in the network that are subjected to loadshedding where diesel generators are used to manage the impact of loadshedding.

The approach for implementing restrictions involves communication on implementation of restrictions to all municipalities that are supplied by Rand Water and to implement restrictions to the three Metros which utilise approximately 80% of Rand Water’s supply, as well as:

• • Identifying major meters under each municipality that will be restricted (53 meters under Johannesburg, 57 under Ekurhuleni and 28 under Tshwane).
  • These meters are monitored over a period of two weeks to assess and review progress to achieve the desired results. As for the current stages two (30%) water supply restrictions that has been implemented effective from 04 October 2022, will be reviewed
  • If the performance of Rand Water’s supply has not improved after two weeks, the review of the implemented water supply restrictions will dictate if other municipalities will be included
• If the performance of Rand Water’s supply does improve after two weeks, the review of the implemented water supply restrictions will dictate reduction to stage one (10%) or removal of restrictions.

These restrictions are aimed at restoring the overall reservoir storage capacity to approximately 60%. Rand Water has formally consulted with the affected municipalities to inform them of its intention to implement the restrictions. The situation is reviewed on an hourly basis and where improvements are made, Rand Water lifts the restrictions to provide reprieve. Rand Water’s consultation with the customers is designed to ensure that no areas are left without water for a prolonged period.

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Reply:

1.  The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) carries out a number of assessments into the state of water and sanitation infrastructure in the municipalities. These assessments enable the DWS to monitor the condition of municipal water and sanitation infrastructure through three incentive-based regulatory mechanisms:

• The Green Drop Report, which focuses on sanitation (waste-water treatment systems and effluent quality)
• The Blue Drop Report, which focuses on water (water treatment and water quality)
• The No Drop Report, which focuses on non-revenue water and water losses through leakages

Findings of the 2022 Green Drop report 2022 indicated that 334 Wastewater Treatment Systems have been identified to be at critical state by achieving less than 30% during Green Drop Assessment. Letters of non-compliance in terms of green drop report audit findings have been sent to respective water services institutions responsible for the systems at critical state, requiring them to submit a detailed corrective action plans. To date, eighteen (18) municipalities responsible for 81 wastewater treatment systems have submitted action plans. The Department has also collaborated with SALGA and MISA to assist municipalities on the development of action plans.

In line with the National Water Resource Strategy and National Water and Sanitation Masterplan, the Department has also revived the No Drop Programme to facilitate the reduction of Non-Revenue Water and Actual Water Losses. Findings of the No Drop progress report will be published in March 2023. The department is also currently in the process of undertaking blue drop assessments in 1186 water supply systems. The final Detailed Blue Drop Report is targeted for release in March 2023.

The DWS also monitors the capacity of municipalities to deliver water and sanitation through the Municipal Strategic Self-Assessment (MuSSA); a web-based system that enables municipalities to conduct their self-assessment on critical aspects service delivery performance. The outcomes of the assessment position the Department and other sector role players to provide targeted support to local government through various support and intervention programmes aimed at improving services delivery, governance and business health. Priority areas are identified and addressed through the development of a Municipal Priority Action Plan (MPAP).

Lastly, Five-Year Reliability Water and Sanitation Plans will soon be rolled out in all forty-four (44) District Municipalities. The plans are meant to:

• Ensure sustainable and reliable water services with the service-standard yardstick that has a 100% compliance to functionality, water security and effective governance to maintain appropriate levels of service delivery
• Conduct primary situational assessments of the water services and infrastructure supply conditions and classify each situation into a reliability category. The solution options are then integrated to proposed projects, specifically integrating all funding programmes to alleviate new infrastructure needs and achieve reliability of water services.

2. According to Division of Revenue Act and grants frameworks, the Regional Bulk Infrastructure and Water Services Infrastructure Grants; managed by the DWS; do not fund any works related to operation and maintenance.

The department is looking at the current conditions of certain infrastructure and approached National Treasury to repurpose some portion of Regional Bulk Infrastructure and Water Services Infrastructure Grants to assist in the operation and maintenance of infrastructure.

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Reply:

1(a) Panel Members appointed at the NAC were selected in accordance with the NAC Act. Advisory Panel Members have either achieved distinction and/or have special knowledge and/or experience in the field of the arts discipline required by the NAC.

(b) This was indeed the case

(c) Yes, due processes were followed in line with the National Arts Council act.

(i). There is only one list of approved beneficiaries at the NAC. The NAC list of approved funded beneficiaries has been published on the NAC’s website for transparency. Council approved 619 projects for approval, and this brings a total of 39 135 proposed jobs.

(ii). There is no list with changes.

(2). No member of Council has been found guilty of interfering with any process at the NAC in relation to the PESP 3.

(3). No action will be taken against any Council members.

Reply:

1.  The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) carries out a number of assessments into the state of water and sanitation infrastructure in the municipalities. These assessments enable the DWS to monitor the condition of municipal water and sanitation infrastructure through three incentive-based regulatory mechanisms:

• The Green Drop Report, which focuses on sanitation (waste-water treatment systems and effluent quality)
• The Blue Drop Report, which focuses on water (water treatment and water quality)
• The No Drop Report, which focuses on non-revenue water and water losses through leakages

Findings of the 2022 Green Drop report 2022 indicated that 334 Wastewater Treatment Systems have been identified to be at critical state by achieving less than 30% during Green Drop Assessment. Letters of non-compliance in terms of green drop report audit findings have been sent to respective water services institutions responsible for the systems at critical state, requiring them to submit a detailed corrective action plans. To date, eighteen (18) municipalities responsible for 81 wastewater treatment systems have submitted action plans. The Department has also collaborated with SALGA and MISA to assist municipalities on the development of action plans.

In line with the National Water Resource Strategy and National Water and Sanitation Masterplan, the Department has also revived the No Drop Programme to facilitate the reduction of Non-Revenue Water and Actual Water Losses. Findings of the No Drop progress report will be published in March 2023. The department is also currently in the process of undertaking blue drop assessments in 1186 water supply systems. The final Detailed Blue Drop Report is targeted for release in March 2023.

The DWS also monitors the capacity of municipalities to deliver water and sanitation through the Municipal Strategic Self-Assessment (MuSSA); a web-based system that enables municipalities to conduct their self-assessment on critical aspects service delivery performance. The outcomes of the assessment position the Department and other sector role players to provide targeted support to local government through various support and intervention programmes aimed at improving services delivery, governance and business health. Priority areas are identified and addressed through the development of a Municipal Priority Action Plan (MPAP).

Lastly, Five-Year Reliability Water and Sanitation Plans will soon be rolled out in all forty-four (44) District Municipalities. The plans are meant to:

• Ensure sustainable and reliable water services with the service-standard yardstick that has a 100% compliance to functionality, water security and effective governance to maintain appropriate levels of service delivery
• Conduct primary situational assessments of the water services and infrastructure supply conditions and classify each situation into a reliability category. The solution options are then integrated to proposed projects, specifically integrating all funding programmes to alleviate new infrastructure needs and achieve reliability of water services.

2. According to Division of Revenue Act and grants frameworks, the Regional Bulk Infrastructure and Water Services Infrastructure Grants; managed by the DWS; do not fund any works related to operation and maintenance.

The department is looking at the current conditions of certain infrastructure and approached National Treasury to repurpose some portion of Regional Bulk Infrastructure and Water Services Infrastructure Grants to assist in the operation and maintenance of infrastructure.

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Reply:

The requested information is outlined in the attachment. It should be noted that none of these were direct payments and transfers to the Department of Basic Education (DBE). Each of the contributing partners managed their own financial contributions towards the corresponding projects.  

Reply:

The question can best responded to by the KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape Departments of Education. The Hon member is therefore advised to refer the question to the respective provinces.  

Reply:

(1). The Department funds music festivals in three different categories; National Flagships, Provincial Flagships, and the Cultural Events Open Call. These music festivals would vary from large scale, medium and smaller entry-level projects.

Music festivals are funded based on alignment into government mandate like job creation, enhancement of social equity and economic growth in areas where these projects are taking place. These projects would be implemented in line with the memorandum of agreements (MAOs) signed and the reporting should reflect the deliverables as agreed. The Department would also monitor that all procurement processes have been followed in the subcontracting processes that happens in this festival to ensure local economic empowerment and beneficiation of the SMMEs.

Reply:

(1) and (2) Please refer to the attached spreadsheet. 

(3) We have observed that drop-out rates have been declining over the years in the schooling system. While there has been no specific research on the link between the progression policy and changes in drop-out rates, the implementation of the progression policy is likely to be a contributing factor to the decline. Measurement and monitoring of attendance, absence and dropping out at school level of the school are done using SA-SAMs tools. School personnel then use this information to follow up and monitor individual learner to comply with policy and legislation on basic education participation.  

Reply:

Measure to deal with consequence management on cases of Irregular Expenditure

1. The Department has implemented consequence management through the Labour Relations. On some of the cases investigation was completed for officials in the Department, progressive disciplinary process was taken where final written warning and cautionary letters were issued. Other cases of disciplinary processes are still in progress
2. For the irregular expenditure that affected the Implementing Agents the letters were issued to the CEOs of each Implementing Agent to provide response on consequence management taken and corrective action to improve the control environment especially within the Supply Chain Management. The progress reported so far is that the DBSA has received approval for condonation of R800 million on irregular expenditure incurred because of non- compliance with local content requirement.

Measure taken to deal with consequence management for fruitless and wasteful expenditure

1. On consequence management of other cases; the disciplinary process within the Department is still in progress.
2. The Adopt – a -school project , the process of recovery was followed as handled by the Legal Services and subsequently the arbitration process was taken, and final recommendation was obtained from senior counsel to write off the debt.
3. The case on Kha Ri Gude, there was internal investigation in 2017/18 financial year, and the case was referred to the HAWKS, as it is still under investigation. There were some recoveries of some monies on stipend as payments were stopped.
4. A case, for Department of Roads and Public Works (DRPW) – EC; it was investigated and referred to the HAWKS for further criminal prosecution.
5. Other cases are still under investigation.

Reply:

The Social Inclusion in Education Working Group is a South African based group of like-minded civil society organisations and interest groups working in the space of social inclusion and diversity management. It is convened by the DBE on a voluntary association basis. It is an unfunded working group. Each of the members contributes resources for their own participation in the group towards the common purpose of the working group.

Reply:

1.  There have been no reports to the Department of Water and Sanitation that there are currently any decants elsewhere. There are also no decants at the Eastern Basin plant where the TCTA is abstracting and pumping from.

The water level in the void is monitored daily and was 43.06 metres below ground level as of 17 October 2022. The DWS has scheduled a site visit on 25 October 2022 to Gravelotte Mines to assess the situation

It should be noted that each mine is responsible for pumping and treating water within its own mining area and ensuring the safety of its personnel and the environment it holds a mining right for.

2. Mine impacted water / acid mine drainage water in the void is tested daily when the plant is operating, and groundwater tests are conducted quarterly through the use of boreholes. Due to the plant being offline, the frequency of ground water testing has been increased from quarterly to monthly.

Depending on the results, the frequency may be increased to ensure the DWS and TCTA monitors possible ground water contamination closely. As the Eastern Basin AMD Treatment plant is offline, no water is currently being treated.

3. Ingress control measures are the mandate of DMRE and as such, DMRE would be in a better position to provide more clarity regarding the projects it is currently working on to reduce the total amount of water flowing into the Witwatersrand voids.

4. (a) The information is made available to the various forums on a regular basis and the Department and TCTA further responds to all stakeholder queries as and when needed.

(b)TCTA in partnership with Gold-One has procured 3 new motors in July 2022 and the factory acceptance tests for the new motors were conducted successfully on 29 September 2022 in China. The motors will be shipped to RSA on 21 October 2022.

A service provider is busy servicing the pump and will also make the modifications to the pump to be compatible with the new motor from China. It is expected that the plant will be operational early December 2022.

(c) The level at the Eastern Basin AMD Treatment plant was 43.06 metres below surface as of 17 October 2022.

(d) The cost of operations and maintenance in the Eastern Basin for the financial year 2021-2022 was R72 million while the cost of repairing the motors to date is R15.5 million.

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Reply:

The Department aims to publish compulsory National Water and Sanitation norms and standards for public consultation drafted under Section 9 of the Water Services Act, No 108 of 1997. In the draft norms and standards, there is a provision for grey water management. It is therefore critical for the public and various stakeholders to provide comments once the regulations are published to shape these regulations to provide necessary guidance on how water and sanitation can be managed and provided efficiently.

Mitigation measures can be addressed by various water services authorities (WSAs) as prescribed in the Municipal Systems Act, Act 32 of 2000 under section 76 which prescribes mechanisms for provision of services. This section empowers the WSAs to provide these services based on the situation in a particular municipality on how water and sanitation services can be provided, and these includes grey water management, water reclamation, decentralised systems such as septic tanks among others.

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Reply:

1.  The Musina and Makhado Local Municipalities (LM) fall within the jurisdiction of Vhembe District Municipality (VDM). The VDM is the Water Service Authority (WSA) and Water Service Provider (WSP) to the two local municipalities. A total of three (3) complaints were received regarding (i) two (2) sewer spillages from manholes in the Makhado and Musina and; (ii) uncontrolled discharge of effluent from the Harper wastewater treatment works (WWTW) which is disturbing the construction of a nearby road. Both incidents from the manholes have since been resolved.

The 2022 Green Drop Report raised concerns regarding the overall poor state of wastewater services at Biaba, Waterval, Hlanganani, Makhado, Malamulele, Mhinga, Musina, Mutale, Nancefield, Rietvlei, Tshifulanani, Vleifontein and Vuwani systems and the consequential impact on respective water resources. A letter of non-compliance has been issued for the Water Services Authority to submit a detailed corrective action plan within 60 days of publishing the Green Drop Report. The plan must map the activities, responsible persons, timelines, and expected improvements as outlined in the Regulations. To date, no report has been received to date and the Department is engaging the WSA together with MISA and SALGA as indicated below.

In addition, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) conducted compliance monitoring Inspections at Musina WWTW Nancefield (08 March 2022) and Rietvlei WWTW (07 March 2022) to check compliance against the conditions of issued water use licences for these WWTWs. An investigation was also conducted on the 18 August 2022 at the Campbell sewage package plant an to ensure compliance of National Water Act.

• The DWS has issued directives to VDM for non-compliance of the following wastewater systems that are under Musina and Makhado LMs:Musina WWTW and Nancefield WWTW - issued on the 25 March 2022
• Harper WWTW and Makhado WWTW - issued on the 06 September 2021
• Campbell sewage package plant - issued on the10 August 2022In response to the directives issued by the DWS, the Vhembe District Municipality has developed the corrective action plans to address challenges with the WWTWs. Actions to be taken by the VDM include:refurbishment of the WWTW systems
• Improvement operation and maintenance of the existing infrastructure

Furthermore, the DWS has approved business plans to fund the refurbishment projects through the Water Service Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) within the current financial year. The department is monitoring the implementation of the projects which are still at initiation stage and expected to be completed by end of municipal financial year 2022/23.

(2) Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality falls within the jurisdiction of Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM) which assume responsibility of water and sanitation services as the WSA and WSP. Four complaints were received from Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality regarding pollution emanating from Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW). Administrative actions were taken against Sekhukhune District Municipality as a Water Service Authority for Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality.

• Moganyaka Oxidation Ponds for which the DWSissued notice of intention to issue a directive dated 29 October 2021;– a follow up inspection was conducted on 15 June 2022 by the department who found that the issues identified in the notice had not been addressed. A directive is being prepared.

• Dennilton WWTW for which the DWS issued notice of intention to issue a directive dated 31 July 2019; the department conducted a follow up inspection on 08 June 2022 to ascertain compliance with the provisions of the NWA. The municipality was further non-compliant with the directive in terms of Sections 19(3) and 53(1) of the National Water Act, 1998 which is an offence in terms of Section 151(1)(d) of the NWA. The case has been referred for an interdict against Sekhukhune District Municipality to ensure compliance with the directive for the Dennilton WWTW. Therefore, the Department has opened a criminal case for offences outlined in Section 151(1)(d), (i) and (j)) of the NWA. The criminal case will be opened against the Sekhukhune DM.

• Nebo Oxidation Ponds in relation to a directive dated 04 May 2021; - DWS officials conducted a follow up inspection was conducted on 13 August 2020 and 05 November 2021 to ascertain compliance with a directive issued by the DWS. Most of the non-compliances had been rectified and the ponds were empty. The municipality indicated that the Oxidation Ponds will be utilized soon. The department officials recommended that the facility should be monitored continuously to ensure compliance with the directive issued to Greater Sekhukhune Municipality.

• Ephraim Mogale WWTW in relation to a notice of intention to issue a directive dated 29 December 2021; DWS officials conducted a follow up inspection on 15 June 2022 to ascertain compliance with the provisions of NWA. A directive will be issued.

• The 2022 Green Drop Report indicates that Marble Hall Wastewater system declined from a 62.3% score in 2013 to a 52% score in 2022. The inspectorate observed a lack of co-ordination amongst Lepelle Water (which is responsible for the Operation and Maintenance of four (4) WWTWs including Burgersfort, Groblersdal, Marble Hall, Steelpoort) and the WSA, which was noticeable during assessments. Plants operated by Lepelle Water achieved Green Drop scores of between 46% and 58% indicating a decline from 2013 Green Drop scores.

There were no compensation claims submitted to Vhembe DM regarding loss and/or health issues however the department availed funds to Vhembe DM through the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) to refurbish and improve operations and maintenance of the wastewater systems.

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Reply:

(1)  The residents of Ogunjini in Ward 59 of eThekwini Metro have been receiving water supply from a 1Ml/day Ogunjini water treatment works. A project implemented by the eThekwini Metro to upgrade the treatment plant to 2Ml/day is planned for completion by September 2023.

Eight 16 000 litre water tankers with a minimum of two loads per day, have been permanently deployed to the area by the eThekwini Metro. It is expected that this current deployment plan will remain in force until the completion of the treatment works upgrade.

(2) a) The current average cost per tanker to supply the community with water is estimated at R4 000 per day.

b) The cost to sink a borehole is estimated at R331,000 per borehole at varying capacity outputs to be determined upon testing.

(3) The municipality is currently implementing an emergency borehole rehabilitation and installation programme while a full roll-out of the programme is at tender stage. The Ogunjini areas have also been considered for this programme.

(4) The Department of Water and Sanitation will continue to monitor the water services supplied to the area by the Ethekwini Metro and provide support if required.

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Reply:

We are still following up on these matters, we will come back to the Member once the information is verified.

Reply:

The development of the Draft Guidelines for the Socio-educational Inclusion of Diverse Sexual Orientations, Gender Identities, Expression, and Sex Characteristics was funded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2021/22 and the total cost was up to $15000 (approximate R270 000).

Reply:

a)  It is responsibility of municipalities working together with Department Transport to construct roads; and

b)  It is responsibility of municipalities working together with Department Water and Sanitation to provide water to communities.

It is recommended that this question be transferred to the relevant Ministries of the above-mentioned departments for written reply.

Reply:

According to the information received from SAA

The International Air Services Licensing Council has not revoked the licenses of South African Airways (SAA). SAA made representation to the International Air Services Licensing Council (The Council) on its current route allocation and the decision by the Council to review some of the frequencies on the routes that the airline is currently not serving.

SAA continues to ramp up its operations by bringing in additional equipment into the fleet. The airline assures members that the airline is not losing its route rights. SAA continues to operate its current network and schedule with 6 regional and 2 domestic destinations. Currently, the airline has deployed additional capacity on the Cape Town route to meet demand and we have increased the aircraft size on the Harare route.

There is no doubt that SAA still retains a high brand equity and customer loyalty, demonstrated by successful re-entry to regional and domestic markets, with positive occupancy rates.

Reply:

a) The total number of public servants who were dismissed from employment:

(i) (aa) 2019-20 2525

(bb) 2020-21 2295

(cc) 2021-22 3002

(ii) Reason for dismissal:

b) Breakdown of the specified number of suspended public servants:

(i) National Departments:

(ii) Provincial Departments:

c) Number of SMS on precautionary suspension: 57

NOTE: The information used for this response was obtained from the FOSAD reports sent to the DPSA as at 30 June 2022.

End

Reply:

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA)

​3.1 Terminal Optimisation Project (R30 million)

• 3.1.1 Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, a project to optimise the terminal configuration of Chief Dawid Sturman airport was initiated. This project sought update and expand ablution facilities, provide additional security screening capacity and departure lounge capacity as well. There were also plans to improve the commercial facilities in the departure holding lounge (additional private lounge space and coffee shop).  The project had progressed to conceptual design stage, when the project was halted in 2020 and its contract terminated in April 2021 on account of COVID-19 and its impact on the financial sustainability of ACSA.
• 3.1.2 We recently received a traffic outlook in August 2022 which validates the requirements of our capital programmes based on envisaged traffic demand. We therefore intend on re-initiating the project planning processes in early 2023, subject to funding availability. We will complete the design process, and the works are intended to be complete by 2026/2027. The construction period is extended as a result of the works being constructed within an operational environment. This near term project will allow ease of operations and will improve the passenger experience, as we commence work on a major terminal expansion which is required at the airport in the medium term.

3.2 Landside Optimization ​​(R17 million)

• 3.2.1 A project to optimise landside parking was also initiated pre-COVID-19 and was similarly halted and its contract terminated. This project entails the re-organisation and optimisation of the existing parking. The boundary between car rental and public parking will be relocated, with parking re-assigned between car rental and public parking.  The ingress and egress layout will also be re-organised in-line with the parking reassignment. The project had reached detailed design stage and the project planning will be re-initiated (subject to funding availability) in early 2023, with completion expected in 2025.

​3.3  Major Terminal Expansion (R1,3 Billion)

• 3.3.1  We had also partially completed a precinct plan for Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport prior to the COVID -19 pandemic. This precinct plan will inform the landside developments of a multi-storey parkade and the extent to which the full terminal building can be expanded towards the landside to create additional terminal depth.
• 3.3.2 We intend on using these plans to initiate a major terminal expansion for the airport. The design processes for this terminal will commence in 2025. The project is intended to provide a new terminal module with a new processing facility. It is envisaged that the terminal development will entail the demolition of a part of the existing terminal and reconstruction of a new building on the existing site. The new building will have double the footprint of the existing terminal. Passenger loading bridges will be introduced. Due to the magnitude of this project, we anticipate a development period of 8 years including design, approvals, procurement and construction.
• 3.3.3 Capital programmes for the next 5 years are currently under discussion with the aviation industry as part of the economic regulation processes. The extent to which this project can be expedited will be dependent on the overall financial position of ACSA, the capital profile for the group, as well as affordability and fundability considerations from industry.
• 3.3.4 We also intend on reviewing the master plan for the airport within the medium term.

Reply:

Integrated law enforcement operations will be scaled up targeting trucks, public transport and bakkies in Pongola and across all provinces including Pongola in KZN. These operations are monitored regularly to determine impact and to decide on further cause of action and interventions.

The KwaZulu Natal Road Inspectorate and the local municipal traffic officers are part of the integrated plan to address the question of bakkies transporting learners and freight in general.

The National Traffic Police will also be deployed on an ad-hoc basis to assist the province informed by analysis of traffic information to assist in areas with insufficient traffic policing capacity

Block patrols will also be undertaken to ensure considerate driving in the area.

The MEC in the province has been advised to invoke the provisions of Section 50 of the National Road Traffic Act to conduct investigations with a view of suspending the operators permit with regards to freight transport.

Reply:

The road from Colenso to Estcourt is P1-9

(a) The amount budgeted for the road is R 5 937 172.24

(b) The planned maintenance activity is blacktop patching on main road P1-9 from 6.000 km to18.000 km in Estcourt Area Office.

(c) The section of the road to be repaired is from 6.000km to 18.000km.

(d) The Projected start date is on 02 October 2022.

(e) There is no actual expenditure for (i) 2021-22 Financial Year and (ii) April 2022 to date for this project.

Reply:

A national integrated plan identifying hazardous routes in each province has been developed. Law enforcement operations will be held along these routes by provincial and municipal traffic departments.

Mobile vehicle testing equipment will also be deployed along the routes to tests the roadworthiness of the trucks.

Block patrols will also be intensified to ensure that drivers conduct themselves appropriately and drive with due consideration for other road users.

The National Traffic Police will be deployed to assist provinces in areas where there is insufficient capacity.

Section 50 of the National Traffic Act, which empowers MECs to deal with repeat offenders, will be invoked to enable MECs to initiate investigations against operators and to obtain information about vehicle and driver fitness.

Regulations to strengthen the current rules relating to the operation of trucks on a public road, the construction and equipment of such vehicle and the conditions on which it may be operated are being considered.

Department of Transport is working closely with Department of Public Enterprises to move cargo from road to rail.

Sanral will implement engineering solution, where required, to provide median barrier to prevent vehicle from overtaking onto oncoming traffic.

Monitoring mechanisms have been put in place and reports will be analysed regularly to ensure that these interventions have the desired impact.

Reply:

According to the information received from Transnet

The matter is being handled by the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality as it is their sewer pump that has failed. TNPA is the affected party in this case. It is recommended that the question be referred to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) as they are the responsible ministry in this instance. 

Reply:

According to the information received from Eskom:

1. The supply requirements for the water infrastructure from Spioenkop dam to the raw water pump station is dedicated infrastructure for the sole use of Uthukela District Municipality, as such all cost needs to be recovered from the customer. Eskom does not carry the cost for dedicated infrastructure.
2. Eskom submitted a cost estimate fee in March 2017 to Uthukela District Municipality, and there was no response to the letter.
3. Scope of Works: To make the supply available, it was necessary to do the following work:

• Remove the existing 10MVA transformer and replace it with a 20MVA transformer at Spioenkop substation and upgrade the protection from 3TM to 4TM (add diff protection).
• Establish a new 22kV feeder bay at Spioenkop substation and build a foundation and all necessary civil works.
• Build approximately 5 km of 22kV Hare conductor from the proposed feeder bay at Spioenkop substation to the proposed water treatment works plant.
• Build approximately 2 km of 22kV Hare conductor from the proposed water treatment works to the proposed Command reservoir site and install a 50kVA transformer at the Command reservoir.
• Build approximately 10 km of 22kV Hare conductor from the Command reservoir site to a raw water pump station.
• Install a meter at all three points of supply.

NOTE:

On acceptance of the cost estimate fee and payment of the quotation fee below, Eskom will provide a budget quote. The Distribution standard connection charge is payable upfront before construction.

(b)(i) Full Cost:

The estimated charges are as follows, in 2017 Rand values:

(b)(ii) Completion is estimated from 12 to 24 months depending on long lead time materials.

Reply:

a) (i) Total number of public servants currently on suspension with full pay: 305

(ii) Cost to the Government: R 130 964 676,15.

b) (i) Breakdown of suspended public servants in National Departments:

(b) (i) Breakdown of suspended public servants in Provincial Departments:

c) Number of senior public servants on precautionary suspension: 57

NOTE: The information used for this response was obtained from the FOSAD reports sent to the DPSA as at 30 June 2022.

End

Reply:

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA)

ACSA acknowledges that from time to time some passengers may have difficulty in way finding; and where it is established that there are recurring problem areas, these are resolved at an operational level either by installing temporary or permanent new signage. Other initiatives taken to assist passengers are passenger agents who are on the floor as well as at strategically placed information desks located in the terminal.

We are also aware that there are opportunities for further enhancement of our signage in general, however this is not a current key priority. The limited funding that we have available for repairs, maintenance and capital projects is deployed to essential assets that need to be brought back into operations after being mothballed during COVID, and for asset maintenance and refurbishments to ensure operations are sustainable. As traffic recovers further, and the financial resources are made available we will embark on other projects that will further enhance our operations, signage being one of them. The signage interventions that will be considered for implementation at that stage includes fixed and variable electronic signage, further enhancements to the ACSA app way finding section, and floor maps.

Reply:

According to information received from ALEXKOR

1. Alexkor has a Social and Labour Plan (SLP). This is a requirement from the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002. The SLP projects are reported on in Quarterly Reports and Integrated Annual Reports.
2. The PSJV Board appointed a certain person with effect from 1 August 2021 on a 5-year fixed term contract. This person was a former employee and met the requirements of the post. He was head hunted as the position needed to be filled immediately as an Operations Manager is a requirement of Section 3(1)(a) of the Mine Health and Safety Act 29 of 1996.
3. This person was appointed to a critical position and resigned for personal reasons 5 years prior to a certain persons suspension and not shortly before he was suspended.
4. The specified person (referred to 3(b)) is the brother in-law of the person (referred to 2(a)).
5. The PSJV financial position is precarious and Mr T Fowler was interviewed by the PSJV Board and appointed as the interim CEO of the PSJV, in addition to serving as the interim CEO of Alexkor. There is no additional remuneration for the additional position.

Reply:

According to the information received from Transnet

(a) (i)(ii) and (b)

The planning phase of the port and Rail development has shown that there exists a potential of 13 000 jobs that will be required for the port construction. Transnet’s short-term goal is to prioritize the training, development, and skilling of the local community from Richtersveld.

Reply:

According to information received from Alexkor

1. The person concerned has declared that he has private businesses which are dormant.
2. He has completed the declaration of interest forms which indicate there is no conflict of interest since the companies are dormant.

Reply:

In order to ease congestion and accidents caused by trucks on the road, a key development in revitalising railway networks is the approval of the White Paper on National Rail Policy (Rail Policy) by Cabinet on 23 March 2022. The Department of Transport is responsible for creating the enabling policy and legislative frameworks and co-ordinating the implementation of these initiatives for the transport sector.

To promote the movement of cargo from road to rail, the Rail Policy introduces reforms to open up the space for private sector investment and equitable third-party access on the primary and secondary rail network. This will open up the rail market for other operators to compete and improve operational efficiencies and service quality which will attract cargo from road to rail.

A key player in the implementation of these reforms is Transnet, which falls on the shareholding of the Department of Public Enterprises, as it owns, operates and maintains the majority of the rail freight network in the country. The Department of Public Enterprises as part of its responsibility for the implementation of the National Rail Policy, must ensure optimal restructuring of Transnet’s rail relates businesses to ensure operational effectiveness and efficiency to make rail an attractive alternative for the movement of cargo from road to rail.

Reply:

According to the information received from Transnet

This question does not apply to TNPA (Transnet National Ports Authority) and should be redirected to the Northern Cape Provincial Government.

Reply:

The road is P1-10 from Ladysmith to Colenso and the maintenance activities are as follows for:

FINANCIAL YEAR 2021-2022

The internal maintenance team was also involved in the pothole patching on this road throughout the year.

APRIL 2022 TO DATE

The internal maintenance teams have to date repaired 15 Signs and have repaired a total of 67 m2 of pothole repairs to date.

Future plans

There is allocation for a grass cutting and tree felling contractor to start the works in January 2023 with a total allocated budget of R968 100.00.

Under capital project we have anticipated to Reseal P1-10 for 11 km.

Reply:

(1) (a) Railway Operators are required to report operational occurrences and

incidents as prescribed by South African National Standards (SANS) 3000-1 categories (Railway Safety Management standard) to the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR).

The table below depicts a year-on-year comparison of derailments and the associated consequence for occurrences reported to the RSR. A total of 290 derailments during the movement of rolling stock were recorded during the 2021/22 reporting period. In addition, the data received indicates that there were ten (10) injuries and three (3) fatalities as a result of derailments recorded during the 2021/22 reporting period.

(b) The table below depicts the number of derailments during the movement of rolling stock for the first quarter of the 2022/23 reporting period. A year-on-year analysis reveals an increase from the fifty eight 58) derailments reported in the first quarter of 2021/22 compared to the current year under review at ninety one (91) derailments.

(aa) The geographical distribution of derailments by province can provide a substantive baseline to make inferences on the rail value chain. The data suggests that most derailments happen in Gauteng (51%), KwaZulu-Natal (17%), and Western Cape (12%). The rail value chain is adversely affected due to delays caused by such occurrences, often because of the time, it takes to clear the occupied sections.

(bb) Transnet Freight Rail reported a total of two hundred and twelve (212) derailments during the 2021/22 reporting period. This number represents 73% of the overall derailments reported by the railway industry.

(cc) An efficient railway industry creates significant economies of scale. The haulage of dry bulk freight and metal ore(s) are notably the most impacted sectors.

(2) The RSR is not required to by law and has not to date collected and verified information pertaining to the Rand amount in costs to the economy and the cost of repairs in each case for Transnet.

Reply:

According to the information received from Transnet

(1)

a) (i) - (ii) The land that was identified and chosen for the development of the liquid bulk facility is Erf 312 in Zone 5 of the Coega SEZ, approximately 13 hectares.

b) Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has earmarked 20 hectares of land within the Port of Ngqura for the development of the liquid bulk facility.

c) TNPA has not purchased any piece of land outside the designated port limits of the Port of Ngqura for the development of the liquid bulk facility.

d) TNPA envisages completion and commissioning of the Port of Ngqura Liquid Bulk site by December 2026.

(2)

The Ports Regulator (PRSA) issued its record of decision (ROD) in respect of the appeal on 26 April 2022, in which it set aside TNPA’s decision to terminate the leases of Astron & Others and found that their lease had not been terminated by effluxion of time on 30 April 2022. TNPA advised the Oil Industry (Astron, Engen and Total) on 19 May 2022, that operations may continue as per the terms and conditions of the lease agreement and supplementary agreement.

(3)

The appeal process has not affected the commissioning of the site at the Port of Ngqura as the date of December 2026 was always an indicative date communicated to the stakeholders.

Reply:

a) The total funding requirement is R5.2billion, Denel will be raising R1.8billion from disposal of non-core assets with over R900million already received in August 2022. Below is a breakdown of items the funds will be used for: 

1. Funding to stabilise business (R977million)
2. Funding for Growth and Sustainability (R900million)
3. Current and Legacy obligations (R3326million)

b) The Department has applied and supported Denel’s funding request through the 2022 MTBPS and 2023 MTEF process. With regards to proceeds from non-core disposals, the Department is in constant communication with Denel on the progress made in order to fast-track the necessary PFMA approvals by the Minister.

Reply:

According to information received from ALEXKOR

1. The contract was signed on or about 09 September 2011.
2. There was a rigorous tender process (based on stringent criteria) which was preceded by consultation with the Richtersveld community in early 2010, as indicated in the annual report of 2011. The procurement process was compliant with the PFMA and Treasury Regulations and there were no findings by the external auditors Price Waterhouse Coopers Inc.
3. The contract was signed by the CEO at the time, Ms Khetiwe McClain on 09 Septemeber 2011. No end date is specified on the contract and this is currently being reviewed. The contract is with Alexkor SOC Limited for the benefit of the Pooling and Sharing Joint Venture.

Reply:

According to information received from ALEXKOR

1. The SIU is still busy with its investigation. However, an interim briefing did not implicate officials employed by Alexkor nor the PSJV. Should the final report implicate any official appropriate action will be taken.
2. Security at the mine has been increased and a special unit has been appointed to maintain safety and prevent illegal activity.
3. An initiative through the Departments of Mineral Resource and Energy is in progress. Three local women have been identified and areas of work identified to accommodate them.

Reply:

1. The road P31 from the intersection with N3 Van Reenen’s pass to Ladysmith in the Alfred Duma local municipality has an extent of 28km. The maintenance repair for this road includes various maintenance activities listed in the table below.

Reply:

After a review of the previous Eskom Board, the Minister announced the appointment of a new Board with a full complement of 15 directors, with effect from 1 October 2022, for a three-year term, subject to annual review. The new Board includes 13 new Non-executive Directors and two existing Executive Directors, namely the CEO and CFO.

In line with proper corporate governance, the performance management of the executive directors falls within the purview of the Board.

Reply:

The response for question 1 and 2 are as detailed below for Free State, Limpopo and North West.

Please see attached:

Annexure A- Free State Province

Annexure B: Limpopo Province; and

Annexure C: North West Province

Reply:

1. There was no extension provided to departments, departments are gradually responding to circular HRD0301 by updating data on PERSAL.

2. Below are the responses for question 2 (a) and (b):

a) PERSAL is specifically designed for payment of employees’ salaries. The capturing of qualifications on PERSAL is currently not mandatory and until such time, when capturing of qualification on PERSAL is made mandatory, the Department cannot employ any punitive measures.

b) The Department of Public Service and Administration continues to monitor compliance in terms of the implementation of the PSR, 2016 and the Directive on compulsory capacity development, mandatory training days and minimum entry requirements for members of senior management service. Individual letters are prepared to Head of Departments requesting them to provide proof of qualifications for Senior Managers who were appointed during the implementation of the Public Service Regulations, 2016 and the said Directive.

End

Reply:

According to information received from Alexkor

1. The person resigned for personal reasons.

(2)(a) The information at my disposal is that the person (Company Secretary) accompanied the Board and the CPA representatives on a sales and marketing business trip to India (via Dubai). The purported objective of the trip was to meet with the leading diamond cutting and polishing companies in Surat and lobby them to set up diamond cutting and polishing units in the Northern Cape, as well as to meet with jewelers in Jaipur and lobby them to set up operations in South African and especially in the Northern Cape.

(b) The names of the community members who were on the trip are:

• Mr Willem Vries (Sanddrif, Richtersveld);
• Mr Dennis Farmer (Eksteenfontein, Richtersveld);
• Mr Brian Koopman (Lekkersing, Richtersveld); and
• Mr Ryno Thomas (Kuboes, Richtersveld).

(c) The trip was approved by the former Minister of Public Enterprises and was paid for by the Alexkor RMC Joint Venture.

Reply:

The road R34 is P393

As a Short-term intervention, the local office has a maintenance contract responsible for the drain cleaning and verge maintenance in addition, the district has utilised the internal teams to repair the current potholes on the R34 on a regular basis.

As a Medium-Term intervention The Department does have a plan for the Rehabilitation of road P393. However, the department has appointed IDT as the implementing agent with the 1st batch of projects in the planning stage to be implemented later in 2022/23 financial year. P393(R34) is anticipated to be in the 2nd batch which considering design procurement and all the applicable stages will anticipate work on the ground in the 2024/25 financial year.

Reply:

The Zondo Commission recommends the establishment of a standing Appointment and Oversight Committee tasked to ensure, by way of a public hearing, that any person nominated for Board appointment or as the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, or Chief Procurement Officer of an SOE meets the professional, reputational and eligibility requirements for such a position. The Committee must also investigate and act upon any complaints received concerning the misconduct of any Board member or senior executive in the discharge of his or her duties.

Currently, the DPSA Guide on the Appointment of Persons to Boards of State and State-controlled Institutions is in place and is under review. Government will collectively deliberate on how the Guide can be enhanced to incorporate the recommendations of the Commission.

As a long-term intervention the SOE Bill and its regulations will codify the appointment process so that the principles and process become legally binding and those sanctions for non-compliance are put in place.

Reply:

Transnet Freight Rail, which falls under the shareholding of Department of Public Enterprises, largely owns and operates the country's freight rail infrastructure, locomotives and wagons.

The obsolete state of much of the rail infrastructure and rolling stock do not make it attractive for the private sector to shift cargo from road to rail. Safety and security, mainly due to rampant theft and vandalism of railway infrastructure is also a concern. The unavailability of rolling stock and locomotives is key for third party access and currently hinders new operators from operating on the rail network.

As the freight rail operator, Transnet Freight Rail is best positioned to engage with the innovative concepts proposed by stakeholders such as the Road Freight Association and to articulate what interventions can be implemented at an operational level to develop intermodal collaboration and to achieve road-to-rail shift of cargo. It should be noted that innovative concepts may also need to comply with relevant procurement legislation to ensure transparency, fairness and competitiveness.

The Department of Transport in terms of its mandate of developing policy and regulatory frameworks, has developed the National Rail Policy which was recently adopted by Cabinet. Inputs provided by the Road Freight Association have been considered in the development of the National Rail Policy. The National Rail Policy intends to place rail on a sound footing to play a meaningful role as a backbone of a seamlessly integrated transport value chain. The National Rail Policy introduces secondary interventions that will give effect to institutional repositioning and allows for on-rail competition. This will open up the rail market to other operators to compete and improve operational efficiency that is needed to improve service quality and encourage a shift from road to rail.