Questions and Replies
22 September 2022 - NW3006
Spies, Ms ERJ to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Whether she and/or her Office submitted a policy review document and/or any other government policy document to structures outside of the Government, either to private and/or external structures or structures of any political affiliation during the past five years; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) will she furnish Ms E R J Spies with copies of all such documents and (b) what are the reasons that the Government documents were provided to each structure?
Reply:
My office did not submit a policy review document and or other government policy document to structures outside of Government either private or political affiliations during the past five years.
_________________________
Approved by Minister
Ms M Nkoana-Mashabane, MP
Date………………………..
22 September 2022 - NW3029
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Considering that one of the resolutions at the National Gender-based Violence and Femicide Summit in 2018 was to establish a national, multisectoral co-ordinating body that will oversee the co-ordination and response to gender-based violence and survivor support within six months of signing the summit declaration, after more than three years, (a) how (i) far is her Office in the process to gain approval from Cabinet for the National Council on Gender-based Violence and Femicide Bill and (ii) did her Office execute the roles and functions of the council as set out in the specified Bill whilst awaiting approval and (b) what alternatives have been put in place in the event that the Bill is not approved?
Reply:
a) (i) The Department presented the Bill to Cabinet on 21 September 2022, and the Bill was approved and referred to Parliament.
(ii) Yes, the department did execute some of the roles within the mandate of the department.
Other oversight roles require the Council itself as it is the ultimate custodian of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF and will have powers in line with the Bill.
To facilitate a coordinated multi-sectoral approach a END GBVF Collective was established. The END GBVF Collective has a platform that serves as the one stop centre for information pertaining to GBVF. The platform has room to grow and currently through the department and the DPME we are also establishing a knowledge hub that will house relevant information and best practices in line with priorities such as the GBVF social ill.
The department coordinated the development of the National Strategic Plan and the monitoring and evaluation framework for 2020-2024 and has provided oversight on the implementation of the National Strategic Plan since adoption by Cabinet in March 2020.
The department led the development of a comprehensive GBVF prevention strategy. The strategy is in place now and is being institutionalised to ensure implementation by multi-stakeholders.
b) In the event that the Council is not approved, the department will continue to strengthen the END GBVF Collective and revitalise the National Gender Machinery including the Gender, Youth and Persons with Disabilities joint forums.
The END GBVF Collective requires formalisation as it is currently a voluntary structure.
The END GBVF Collective, National Gender Machinery including the Gender, Youth and Persons with Disabilities joint forums will be used for ensuring a cohesive national response to the GBVF pandemic.
The Department will liaise with DPSA and National Treasury timeously to extend the contract period of the current serving secretariat until the Bill is finalised and accented into law and a Council is in place. This will ensure that the current state of coordination does not regress.
_________________________
Approved by Minister
Ms M Nkoana-Mashabane, MP
Date………………………..
22 September 2022 - NW3201
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Whether, in light of reported acts of obstetric violence, which can be regarded as a form of medical xenophobia, that is committed against female refugees and foreign nationals at public hospitals in Gauteng, her Office has provided any support to female refugees in respect of healthcare in any way; if not, why not; if so, (a) what plans are in place to work with the Department of Health to ensure that pregnant asylum seekers get the healthcare services they need, (b) how is her Office ensuring that public hospitals implement and adhere to the specified plans and (c) what are the penalties enforced on hospitals that are guilty of committing obstetric violence?
Reply:
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has developed Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework and Plan that identifies clear Gender Based Violence and Femicide outcomes, indicators and time bound interventions that have to be implemented by various government departments and other stakeholders, including the Department of Health (DoH).
_________________________
Approved by Minister
Ms M Nkoana-Mashabane, MP
Date………………………..
22 September 2022 - NW2723
King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation:
With reference to his department’s Draft Policy for the Recognition of South African Higher Education Institutional Types published on 8 August 2022, how will technical and vocational education and training colleges be classified since the draft policy only refers to universities, university colleges and higher education colleges?
Reply:
The Policy for the Recognition of South African Higher Education Institutional Types will have no bearing on the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges. The policy is directed at higher education institutions only. The TVET colleges will remain as they are and
operate in the same manner they are operating currently. However, my Department is working on improving articulation between TVET colleges and universities and the introduction of Higher Education Colleges and University Colleges by institutional types policy should add impetus
towards that improvement.
22 September 2022 - NW3001
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether she and / or her department submitted a policy review document and /Or any other government policy document to structures outside of the Government, either to private and / or external structures or structures of any political affiliation during the past five years; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) will she furnish Mr M S Malatsi with copies of all such documents and (b) what are the reasons that the Government documents were provided?
Reply:
To the best of our knowledge, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation has not submitted any policy review document and/or any other government policy document to structures outside of the Government, nor to private and/or external structures or structures of any political affiliation during the past five years. a) There are no documents to be furnished as the Department has no information in respect to any of these matters.
22 September 2022 - NW2767
Winkler, Ms HS to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1)Whether his department is considering visas on arrival particularly from the priority tourism markets of the Republic; if not, why not; if so, what are the (a) timelines, (b) time frames, (c) milestones and (d) deadlines in this regard; (2) whether his department is considering digital nomad visas, particularly from the priority tourism markets of the Republic; if not, why not; if so, what are the (a) timelines, (b) time frames, (c) milestones and (d) deadlines in this regard; (3) what are the (a) criteria and (b) conditions of extension of tourism visas?
Reply:
1. There is no provision for visas on arrivals in the current Immigration Act. The Department can therefore not issue visas on arrival.
2. In his State of the Nation Address on 14 February 2022 the President announced that he had appointed former Department of Home Affairs Director-General, Mr Mavuso Msimanag to Review the Visa Regime.
I therefore request the Honourable Winkler to await outcomes of the report.
(3)(a) An application for a visitor's visa not exceeding a period of three months shall be accompanied by-
- a statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit;
- a valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof; and
- proof of sufficient financial resources.
(3)(b) An application for a visitor's visa exceeding a period of three months shall, in addition to complying with the requirements mentioned above, be accompanied by a police clearance certificate. The proof of sufficient available financial resources shall be in the form of a recently bank certified statement, for the last three months.
END
22 September 2022 - NW2732
Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation:
Whether, with reference to a surge in the number of calls received by the SA Depression and Anxiety Group from students who are experiencing mental health challenges in relation to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and in view of the shocking number of student suicides that are witnessed in the Republic, his department has taken any steps to capacitate institutions of higher learning to deal with the crises; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
The Department acknowledges the surge in the number of students who are experiencing mental health challenges, especially in relation to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the number of student suicides that are reported. The Department regards addressing mental health is part of a holistic approach to the health and wellbeing of staff and students. Therefore, the Department is funding HIGHER HEALTH to the tune of R20,604 million (2022/3); R27,530 million (2023/4); R28,440 million (2024/5) and R29,714 million (2025/6) to implement a comprehensive and integrated programme promoting health and well-being of students and staff additional to the allocated budget in the baseline for each institution.
HIGHER HEALTH is the implementation arm of the Department to implement a comprehensive and integrated programme promoting health and wellbeing of students across South Africa’s public universities and TVET colleges and provide on-campus support to PSET institutions in 7 priority areas:
Mental Health, as seen in the diagram is central to the approach. HIGHER HEALTH is skilled in facilitating both first and second curriculum activities in the form of peer-to-peer education and in-classroom interventions through the integration of general health and wellness, addressing the wide range of social and health challenges experienced by staff and students. It is done at all campuses of universities and TVET colleges.
HIGHER HEALTH provides psycho-social support services through several means, including: (1) pro-active screening; (2) prevention and awareness programmes (3) organised programmes such as first-thing-first and second curriculum activities (4) the HIGHER HEALTH toll-free helpline, and (2) through interventions provided by on-campus and off-campus counselling and clinical psychologists. HIGHER HEALTH's activities also include focussed campus activities, campus radio programmes and peer support mechanisms. HIGHER HEALTH has set up campus and community radio stations to engage young students routinely on matters related to specific Sexual and Gender Based Violence and mental health as a matter of priority. There is also HIGHER HEALTH's 24-hour toll-free helpline available in all 11 official languages. The line offers health, wellness and psychosocial risk assessment toolkits for early screening, empowerment and referral related to gender-based violence, mental health, HIV, TB and other matters.
This year, over 14 000 students accessed the various HIGHER HEALTH models of psychosocial support. Academic stress and anxiety (30%), general stress and substance abuse (22%) depression and suicide (18%) and sexual, physical and emotional abuse (19%) present the main reasons for accessing support care. The Honourable Member also asked what are the relevant details in each case. Information on individual reported cases are captured by institutions and HIGHER HEALTH, and reported in aggregated form to the Department's University Branch. Information on each case is confidential and cannot be shared.
INSTITUTIONAL INITIATIVES
All universities and TVET Colleges have measures in place to raise awareness, offer guidance and advice and support students and staff through Campus Services and Student Support Services. These include, but are not limited to: workshops or presentations during orientation weeks and during various parts of the year for students; roadshows; training; production and dissemination of brochures and other literature for the university community; and information on institutional websites.
The Department plays an oversight role, monitoring institutions to ensure that institutions take full responsibility for addressing health and well-being of students and staff on their campuses.
22 September 2022 - NW2733
Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
Whether, with reference to the University of Pretoria that has recently increased its registration fees by around 50%, his department intends to set a benchmark which would prevent institutions of higher learning from implementing exorbitant fee increases, which many South Africans cannot afford; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? MEMORANDUM FROM THE PARLIAMENTARY OFFICE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY FOR WRITTEN REPLY QUESTION 2733 DATE OF PUBLICATION OF INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 2/09/2022 INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 29 OF 2022 Mrs N I Tarabella Marchesi (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation: [ê457] [Question submitted for oral reply now placed for written reply because it is in excess of quota (Rule 137(8))]: Whether, with reference to the University of Pretoria that has recently increased its registration fees by around 50%, his department intends to set a benchmark which would prevent institutions of higher learning from implementing exorbitant fee increases, which many South Africans cannot afford; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3302E REPLY: In March 2016, the Minister requested the CHE to advise him on a “framework for managing future university fee structures through which increases should be developed and agreed upon”. The CHE undertook the work in two phases: the first phase to make recommendations for increases for the 2017 academic year, and the second phase to recommend a framework for the longer term. The Department with the support of Universities South Africa (USAf) established a Working Group in 2019 and has developed a first draft of a proposal towards a national framework for regulating fees. The proposed proposal towards a framework outlines the background and need for a fee regulation framework as well as the advice received from the CHE to the Minister in 2017. However, the framework requires further engagements with the Minister. Work is currently continuing on the draft policy framework in 2022, aiming for a final framework and three-year agreement to be approved by the Minister by December 2022.
Reply:
In March 2016, the Minister requested the CHE to advise him on a “framework for managing future university fee structures through which increases should be developed and agreed upon”. The CHE undertook the work in two phases: the first phase to make recommendations for increases for the 2017 academic year, and the second phase to recommend a framework for the longer term.
The Department with the support of Universities South Africa (USAf) established a Working Group in 2019 and has developed a first draft of a proposal towards a national framework for regulating fees. The proposed proposal towards a framework outlines the background and need for a fee regulation framework as well as the advice received from the CHE to the Minister in 2017. However, the framework requires further engagements with the Minister. Work is currently continuing on the draft policy framework in 2022, aiming for a final framework and three-year agreement to be approved by the Minister by December 2022.
22 September 2022 - NW2517
Boshoff, Dr WJ to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1)(a) What (i) total number of employees of his department are currently working from home, (ii) number of such employees have special permission to work from home and (iii) are the reasons for granting such special permission and (b) on what date will such workers return to their respective offices; (2) whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE AND INNOVATION
1. (a) What (i) total number of employees of his department are currently working from home?
The Department has 377 employees as of 1 September 2022 of which 50% (188) work remotely at any given day while the other 189 report to the office at any given day. Employees rotate reporting to the office and maintain 50% attendance. Senior Management Service (SMS) are required to report the office 3 days per week and 2 days for non-SMS.
(ii) Number of such employees have special permission to work from home?
There are 2 employees who have applied for reasonable accommodation to work from home due to ill-heath in line with the Policy and Procedure on Incapacity and ill-heath Retirement. Their applications are currently being processed for consideration and therefore work from home until the outcome of their applications.
(iii) Are the reasons for granting such special permission?
The Department has approved a staggered return to the office with a 50% rotation in line with Code of Practice on Managing SARS-COV2 in the Workplace and the Environmental regulations for Workplaces. In ensuring that the department does not expose employees to unconducive working conditions, it has maintained the staggered reporting to the office as a mitigation. There is a long-term project registered with the Department of Public Works to upgrade the building.
(b) On what date will such workers return to their respective offices?
Employees will continue reporting to the office in the staggered manner until the department has secured an alternative office which is June 2023. Employees who have applied for reasonable accommodation due to ill-heath will work from home until the outcome of their applications as recommended by the Health Risk Manager.
2. Whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Not applicable.
DEPARTMENT OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING
CORPORATE SERVICES BRANCH
a) BRANCH: |
CORPORATE SERVICES (ALL DIRECTORATES) |
i) Total number of employees currently working from home |
0 |
ii) Number of employees who have special permission to work from home |
0 |
iii) Reasons for granting such special permission |
Not Applicable |
b) What date will such workers return to their respective offices? |
|
Not Applicable |
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AND DIRECTORATES/UNITS REDERING DESIGNATED FUNCTIONS UNDER ITS AUSPICES
a) Directorate: |
Chief financial Officer |
Financial Management |
Supply Chain Management |
Development Support |
Public Entities |
i) Total number of employees currently working from home |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
ii) Number of employees who have special permission to work from home |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
iii) Reasons for granting such special permission |
None |
None |
None |
None |
None |
b) What date will such workers return to their respective offices? |
|||||
Not Applicable |
PLANNING, POLICY AND STRATEGY BRANCH
a) BRANCH: |
PLANNING, POLICY AND STRATEGY (ALL DIRECTORATES) |
i) Total number of employees currently working from home |
0 |
ii) Number of employees who have special permission to work from home |
0 |
iii) Reasons for granting such special permission |
Not Applicable |
b) What date will such workers return to their respective offices? |
|
Not Applicable |
COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND TRAINING BRANCH
a) BRANCH: |
COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND TRAINING BRANCH (ALL DIRECTORATES) |
i) Total number of employees currently working from home |
0 |
ii) Number of employees who have special permission to work from home |
0 |
iii) Reasons for granting such special permission |
Not Applicable |
b) What date will such workers return to their respective offices? |
|
Not Applicable |
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT BRANCH
a) BRANCH: |
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT BRANCH CHIEF DIRECTORATES: INDLELA, NSA AND SETA COORDINATION |
i) Total number of employees currently working from home |
1 employee is currently working hybrid (from home and office) at SETA Coordination. |
ii) Number of employees who have special permission to work from home |
1 employee stated above was given special permission to work hybrid. |
iii) Reasons for granting such special permission |
She was granted special permission due to her critical but stable condition with comorbidity (lung problem). |
b) What date will such workers return to their respective offices? |
|
It is not possible to specify when she will fully return to office since her ill-health and state of vulnerability is unpredictable. She needs to be given reasonable accommodation to continue working. |
BRANCH: |
University Education |
Total number of employees currently working from home |
2 |
Number of employees who have special permission to work from home |
2 |
Reasons for granting such special permission |
Ill-health and family responsibility |
What date will such workers return to their respective offices? |
|
It is not possible to specify when they will fully return to office since her ill-health |
BRANCH: |
TVET |
Total number of employees currently working from home |
0 |
Number of employees who have special permission to work from home |
0 |
Reasons for granting such special permission |
N/A |
What date will such workers return to their respective offices?: N/A |
22 September 2022 - NW2465
Maotwe, Ms OMC to ask the Minister of Police
What assistance did the (a) SA Police Service and/or (b) crime intelligence agents provide in (i) tracking down the alleged perpetrators and (ii) recovering the stolen loot from the Phala Phala farm?
Reply:
(a)(b)(i)(ii) The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is still busy with the criminal investigation, since it was reported in June 2022 and as such, the DPCI would like to maintain the integrity of this ongoing criminal investigation without publicly divulging the steps that are being taken
Reply to question 2465 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
SF MASEMOLA
Date: 19-09-2022
Reply to question 2465 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 21/09/2022
22 September 2022 - NW2611
Khanyile, Ms AT to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1)With reference to allegations that his department spent R300 million to pay certain companies (names furnished) to upgrade the Home Affairs National Identification system to an automated biometric identification system, but that it was never completed (details furnished), what steps has his department taken to recover the amounts it has paid with nothing to show, (2) whether his department intends to claim damages due to nonfulfillment of the contract; if not, why not; if so, what are the time frames in this regard; (3) what disciplinary action has his department taken internally against its (a) employees and (b) managers who (i) oversaw the contract for over a 5-year period without reporting non-performance and (ii) authorised payment to the specified company and/or its subcontractors despite no work being completed? NW3127E
Reply:
1. There has been a deliberate misinformation campaign on this ABIS issue and we were shocked to read a headline on a Sunday paper that claimed that Home Affairs has blown R300 million. Another one followed a few days later and claimed that the amount that has been blown is R450 million rand. It looks like there was a competition to misinform. On 2 August 2022 I did address this matter in my media response to these claims and outlined that an amount of R113 million was spent on hardware which is still in our possession and the warranty of the hardware is still valid. R110 million was spent on software that the project is still using and EOH delivered project services worth R56 million. The Department has outlined the steps it was taking to recoup its money in the form of penalties from EOH for not completing the project on time, as stipulated in the original contract. That legal process is on-going.
2. In relation to the current service provider for the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS), the department has already invoked penalty clauses for missing delivery deadlines.
3. The ABIS contract is milestone based meaning that once certain milestones are completed the department is duty bound to pay for the cost of the milestone. It must be noted that the recommendations of the forensic audit which was presented to the Portfolio Committee are being implemented. Names of those involved in any wrongdoing have been submitted to the Hawks, and other law enforcement agencies. Home Affairs has already opened a criminal case against certain individuals at the Pretoria Central Police Station on 5 March 2021. The case number is CAS 145/3/2021.
END
22 September 2022 - NW2804
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1)With reference to his department’s briefing to the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs on 12 July 2022 on the review of permits issued since 2014, which highlighted widespread fraud, fake users being created on the system, key logging and identity theft and that staff of his department was operating a visa fraud syndicate, with most of the alleged perpetrators still working in permitting to this day, what (a) is the timeframe to complete the in-depth investigation and (b) processes have been put in place to halt the fraudulent activity given that the outdated systems and corrupt staff remain in place; (2) whether the investigations will include staff who have left the department since the commencement of the investigation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether he will take steps to institute criminal charges against both current staff and former staff where prima facie evidence of criminal wrongdoing is found; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1)(a) The report from the Ministerial Review Committee was received by the Department, which outlined areas for further investigation. The report’s main recommendation is that a Multi-Disciplinary Task Team be appointed to conduct an in-depth investigation into the identified areas. The appointment of the Multi-Disciplinary Task Team is at an advanced stage. The Task Team is to consist of experienced senior counsels, forensic investigators, Data analyst and other related skills. The time frame to complete the investigation will be determined once the multi-disciplinary team is appointed following a procurement process.
(b) The following has been implemented:
Access control: All users have been requested to re-apply for user access to the Visa Adjudication System (VAS) to process permits and Visas online. This will limit abuse and access. Authorisation only granted to those approved to use the system to avoid ghost users
Fake users will be probed by the multidisciplinary team through data analytics/system analysis.
Legacy: DHA is in the process of implementing a new biometric information system called ABIS (Automated Biometric Information Sysem). The system will host information from the following: HANIS, NIIS, VAS and MCS.
Recommendations from the Nexia SAB&T investigation report on key loggers will be pursued by the Multi- Disciplinary Task Team.
(2) This will be determined once the Multi–Disciplinary Task Team has completed their investigation.
(3) This will be determined once the Multi- Disciplinary Task Team has completed their investigation.
END
22 September 2022 - NW2696
Zungula, Mr V to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1)Noting that he has put together a team of advocates to probe citizenship certificates issued since 2004, and that there is a preliminary report on the matter, what total number of Home Affairs officials have been implicated in the report; (2) which areas are hotspots for the issuing of illegal citizenship certificates; (3) what measures are being put in place to proactively curb the criminal behaviour; (4) whether such citizenship statuses will be revoked; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (5) what mechanisms will be used to track all illegal recipients? NW2880E
Reply:
1. The report from the Ministerial Review Committee was received by the Department, which outlined areas for further investigation. The report’s main recommendation is that a Multi-Disciplinary Task Team be appointed to conduct an in-depth investigation into the identified areas. The appointment of the Multi-Disciplinary Task Team is at an advanced stage. The Task Team is to consist of experienced senior counsels, forensic investigators, Data analysts, and other related skills. This is because the team will do deep-dive investigations and may end up preparing dockets, develop plans to trace people, prepare documents for possible DCs, go to court to recover Government documents obtained fraudulently, and where appropriate trace people who need to be deported. This team will provide the details of the implicated officials after the in-depth investigation has been concluded.
2. The report from the Multi-Disciplinary Task Team will determine the hotspots which will be investigated.
3. Once the Multi-Disciplinary Task Team has completed their in-depth investigation, a report on what measures must be put in place to curb the criminal behaviour will be provided and then implemented.
(4)&(5) The report will inform the Department on the process to follow to revoke illegally obtained citizenship and the information needed to trace the illegal recipients.
END
22 September 2022 - NW2524
Majozi, Ms Z to ask the Minister of Police
(1) In view of the gang rape of eight women in Krugersdorp, what preventative measures have since been put in place to address rape endemic scourge of rape in the Republic; (2) besides the identification of the perpetrators, what (a) progress has been made on the investigation to date and (b) steps has the police in the area taken to protect the survivors against victimisation; (3) how has the specified incident affected the approach of the SA Police Service to prevention of sexual crimes in the Republic?
Reply:
Find here: Reply
22 September 2022 - NW2449
Marawu, Ms TL to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
What total amount in student loans do students from both (a) private and (b) public tertiary institutions owe to South African banks?
Reply:
The Department does not collect data on student loans of students from both (a) private and (b) public tertiary institutions who owe South African banks. South African financial institutions are the owners of loan contracts between students/parents and guardians and subsequently the requested data. Financial institutions should have such data.
22 September 2022 - NW2534
van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
Whether, with regard to early indications that up to 40% of all work, study and retirement permits might have been fraudulently obtained and/or issued by his department, his department will consider freezing all permits in order to review them; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The report from the Ministerial Review Committee was received by the Department, which outlined areas for further investigation. The report’s main recommendation is that a Multi-Disciplinary Task Team be appointed to conduct an in-depth investigation into the identified areas. The appointment of the Multi-Disciplinary Task Team is at an advance stage. The Task Team is to consist of experienced senior counsels, forensic investigators, Data analyst and other related skills. The team will conduct a deep-dive investigations.
The Multi-Disciplinary Task Team will provide advice on all permits issued fraudulently.
END
22 September 2022 - NW2635
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1) Whether any security risk assessment has been performed on Home Affairs Information Technology systems, including operating systems, anti-virus and database security at all Home Affairs offices; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether the software licenses of the systems are up to date; if not, what is the (a) process and (b) timelines to get the licenses up to date; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The Department does vulnerability assessment and penetration tests from time to time. These are done by internal resources and also by external resources through the Internal Audit unit. The reports from these exercises are then shared with internal stakeholders like Application Management, Data Centre, and Networks. These reports come with findings of what needs to be fixed and by whom. The third party to do these vulnerability and penetration tests yearly is the Auditor General
2. The Department uses a variety of licences for different systems. These licences expire at different times based on when they were bought. The Department has not renewed licences for antivirus as there were delays in the procurement process of these licences. The specification has now been completed and approved by the Bid Adjudication Committee and is ready to be advertised.
END
22 September 2022 - NW2636
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
Whether, with reference to the requirement that a South African father of a child born to a foreign mother has to produce a DNA test result to confirm parentage before the child can receive South African citizenship, a fee waiver process is in place for the fathers who are indigents and cannot afford the cost of the DNA test; if not, will he put such a fee waiver process in place; if so, what is the process to apply for a fee waiver?
Reply:
No, there is no waiver of fees process in place by the Department for the parents who cannot afford DNA tests, as the fees and tariffs hereto are administered by the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS). The National Health Laboratory Service is a South African national government institution established in terms of the National Health Laboratory Service Act 37 of 2000 to provide quality, affordable and sustainable health laboratory and related public health services to all public healthcare providers, other government institutions.
The Department however has a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Health regarding registration of births at health facilities. The DHA and DOH are exploring the provision of providing paternity tests free of charge or at a minimal fee to indigent clients. This will be done within the current MOA between the two departments once modalities are finalised.
END
22 September 2022 - NW2803
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1)Regarding the project for 10 000 youths to scan the archived documents of his department, what will be the respective roles of his department and the Department of Employment and Labour in the appointment process; (2) what process will be put in place to ensure that the application and appointment process is transparent and subject to parliamentary scrutiny? NW3396E
Reply:
1. Roles of the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Employment and Labour are outlined hereunder:
Department of Home Affairs:
- Project Plan including, project costs, deliverables and milestones. This was submitted by DHA to National Treasury on 26 August 2022.
- Drafting and compiling the advertisements;
- Exercising oversight role through weekly meetings with officials working on the project from the Department of Employment and Labour.
- Monitoring and assessing the process on the response handling process which includes assessing response per role through the online portal of the Department of Employment and Labour, email as well as its walk-in centres. This further includes monitoring of the process in terms of the principles of fairness and transparency which is obtained through ensuring access to unemployed youth graduates in rural and township areas;
- Accountable for the final selection process which includes shortlisting and interviews;
- Appointment, overseeing the signing of the contract as well as the administration of payment of the unemployed youth graduates; and
- Overseeing administrative processes for the unemployed youth graduates e.g leave, training etc.
Department of Employment and Labour
- Providing Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) – portal for online applications.
- Running the advertisement on its website; and
- Monitoring the number of applications per role and providing weekly reports to the DHA in terms of numbers of applications received on its online platform as well as the walk-in centres.
2. The acquisition process will be guided by the following principles:
- Fairness and transparency;
- Inclusivity of Females (60%) and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs);
- Open to unemployed youth across the country; and
- Ensure accessibility as the applications will be received through walk-in centres, Labour Centres and on digital platforms.
END
21 September 2022 - NW2515
Denner, Ms H to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1) (a) What (i) total number of employees of his department are currently working from home, (ii) number of such employees have special permission to work from home and (iii) are the reasons for granting such special permission and (b) on what date will such workers return to their respective offices; (2) whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
(1)(a)(i) One (1) employee of the Department of Public Service and Administration is currently partially working from home.
(ii) The employee has special permission to work from home,
(iii) The reason for granting such special permission is health experts.
(1)(b) it is expected that the employee will be returning to the office on a full-time basis in January 2023 as per the recommendation the health expects.
(2) I do not have any objection to making a statement on the matter.
End
21 September 2022 - NW2644
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1) Whether he will furnish Dr L A Schreiber with a copy of the latest version of the Guide for Members of the Executive, also known as the Ministerial Handbook; if not, why not; (2) on what date (a) was the Ministerial Handbook last revised and (b) did it come into operation?
Reply:
(1) The Guide for Members of the Executive is publicly available of the website of the Department of Public Service and Administration and is available to Dr Schreiber. (2)(a) The Guide for Members of the Executive was last amended on 13 April 2022; and (b) The last amended Guide for Members of the Executive came into operation on 13 April 2022.
End
21 September 2022 - NW2583
Powell, Ms EL to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
With reference to his reply to question 2954 of 16 December 2020, (a) what is the current status of the National Norms and Standards for Domestic Water and Sanitation Services, (b) what actions must be taken before the Draft Norms and Standards are published for public comment and (c) on what date may the public expect to see and make comments on the Draft Norms and Standards?
Reply:
a) The draft Compulsory National Water and Sanitation Services Norms and Standards has been certified by the State Law Advisor.
b) Certification of the initial phase Social Economic Impact Assessment by the Presidency is expected by the end of September, whereafter it will be published for public comment for a period of 60 days.
c) Publication of the Norms and Standards for public comments depends on the certification from Presidency, but the target is to publish by 15 October 2022.
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21 September 2022 - NW2641
George, Dr DT to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether any specific incident resulted in the warning from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) that the Republic must improve the prosecution of financial crimes; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what was that incident; (2) whether the FATF set out any conditions that the Republic must comply with to avoid being listed on the grey list; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what conditions were set; (3) whether the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) was tasked with ensuring the required improvements are made; if not, why not; if so, what steps has the FIC taken to improve the situation?
Reply:
1. No, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) does not generally operate by issuing warnings to a country or focusing on specific incidents. I refer the Honourable Member to the Mutual Evaluation Report on South Africa (MER) (http://www.treasury.gov.za/publications/other/Mutual-Evaluation-Report-South-Africa.pdf) that the FATF published in October 2021, which is the core (and only) document that guides its assessment of South Africa’s performance or effectiveness with regard to the prosecution of financial crimes, particular its assessment of Immediate Outcomes 2 (on international co-operation), 6 (on financial intelligence), 7 (on money laundering investigations and prosecutions) and 8 (on confiscation). The Mutual Evaluation report does conclude that money laundering cases relating to state capture had not been sufficiently pursued in the past (up to November 2019 when the FATF assessment team came to South Africa for an onsite evaluation), and that cases referred to the National Prosecuting Authority by the Special Investigating Unit, were not being dealt with expeditiously.
The Mutual Evaluation report also identified that money laundering activities, in particular, major proceeds of crime generating offences, were being investigated and prosecuted to some extent, but only partly consistent with South Africa’s risk profile, and that wider money laundering activities by organized crime syndicates, including from those outside of South Africa, were not being sufficiently identified and targeted in the context of South Africa’s role as a regional financial hub.
2. FATF does not generally set any conditions against a country, and follows a specific methodology (https://www.fatf-gafi.org/media/fatf/documents/methodology/FATF%20Methodology%2022%20Feb%202013.pdf) to follow-up on a country’s deficiencies as identified in the mutual evaluation report that it has adopted for a country. As you are aware, South Africa received a very poor ratings assessment in its 2021 mutual evaluation, and as a result, has been placed in an enhanced follow-up process, which involves more frequent reporting to the FATF, until South Africa has addressed all the deficiencies that were identified. South Africa was also placed in a one-year observation period (from October 2021 to October 2022). The methodology FATF follows is outlined in various documents adopted by FATF, and are all available on its website.
To avoid a FATF greylisting, South Africa would need to demonstrate to the FATF that it has addressed the deficiencies that were identified both in relation to technical compliance (the adequacy of Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) legal frameworks) and effectiveness (the implementation of the AML/CFT frameworks). South Africa needs to demonstrate to the FATF that it has made sufficient progress in addressing the 20 (out of 40) technical deficiencies that were identified, and show significant progress in addressing all 11 immediate outcomes deficiencies on effectiveness. The FATF Plenary in February 2023 will determine whether South Africa has made sufficient progress or not and whether to greylist South Africa.
3. No, it is not the sole responsibility of the FIC to address the deficiencies, but for Government as a whole to do so. Aside from Cabinet, responsible government departments and agencies include the National Treasury, the FIC, the South African Reserve Bank, the South African Revenue Service, the Prudential Authority, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the Special Investigating Unit, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, the State Security Agency, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the National Prosecuting Authority, the South African Police Service’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS), the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of International Relations and Co-operation. Cabinet has mandated the National Treasury to lead and co-ordinate all the above-mentioned departments and agencies, and hence the Director-General of National Treasury chairs an Interdepartmental Committee on AML/CFT that comprises all these departments and agencies.
21 September 2022 - NW2642
George, Dr DT to ask the Minister of Finance
Whether, with regard to the warning from the Financial Action Task Force that the Republic must improve the prosecution of financial crimes, any consultation has taken place with the banking sector to discuss the consequences of a grey listing; if not, why not; if so, what are the details of the discussion held?
Reply:
Yes, Cabinet has put in place a process for government to consult all relevant players to not only discuss the consequences of a grey-listing by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), but what steps to take to prevent it. Such consultations have included the banking sector, but also many other stakeholders, in both the private and public sector.
Such consultations have been coordinated and led by the National Treasury, in its capacity as the chair of the Interdepartmental Committee on Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) that was established by Cabinet. The Committee includes officials from the Financial Intelligence Centre, the South African Reserve Bank, the South African Revenue Service, the Prudential Authority, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the Special Investigating Unit, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, the State Security Agency, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the National Prosecuting Authority, the South African Police Service’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS), the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of International Relations and Co-operation. to address the deficiencies that were identified in the Mutual Evaluation report.
The Honourable member should note that the Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) on South Africa (http://www.treasury.gov.za/publications/other/Mutual-Evaluation-Report-South-Africa.pdf) published by the FATF in October 2021 did not identify weaknesses that relate to the prosecution of financial crimes only, but a variety of weaknesses in the country’s AML/CFT system. Some of the weaknesses relate to the availability of beneficial ownership information, weaknesses in confiscation, weaknesses in investigations, weaknesses in the generation of financial intelligence information and weaknesses in the implementation of targeted financial sanctions for terrorist financing and proliferation financing. Such consultations have already assisted the government in the drafting of the General Laws (Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Terrorism Financing) Amendment Bill [B18-2022] that we I have just introduced in Parliament at the end of August 2022.
National Treasury has engaged with the Banking Association South Africa (BASA) and its member banks since the publication of the Mutual Evaluation report on the potential impact of a greylisting. The discussions have centred around the country’s efforts to avert a FATF greylisting as it could have adverse consequences for the country, including for trade and transactions with other countries. In particular, in the worst scenario where a country does not take remedial steps to address the deficiencies identified in the mutual evaluation report, domestic banks risk losing critical correspondent banking relationships with overseas banks, and more likely to be exposed to significant fines and penalties from overseas regulators, limiting or increasing the cost of doing business with foreign trading partners.
21 September 2022 - NW2743
Gondwe, Dr M to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1)What (a) informed the policy proposal of increasing the term of office for Heads of Department (HODs) and Directors-General (DGs) to 10 years from the existing five years, subject to performance and (b) will be the impact of the specified policy proposal on the existing performance management development system of (i) HODs and (ii) DGs; (2) whether his department conducted a study and/or benchmarking exercise to arrive at the policy proposal; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) (a) how will the policy proposal benefit the Public Service and (b) by what date is the policy proposal likely to come into effect and/or be implemented; (4) whether the proposed amendment of the Public Service Act, 1994, will provide for the appointment of a Head of Administration in the Office of the President to manage the career incidents of DGs; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. (a) (i) (ii) A decision has not yet been taken on whether the term of office for Heads of Department (HODs) should be increased or not. Research and internal consultations are ongoing. This includes recommendations from the National Development Plan (NDP, 2012) which highlights the importance of the stability of the administrative leadership of the Public Service as well as a stable political-administrative interface on the performance of State institutions and for effective service delivery. The initial intent of a 5-year contract was to ensure that there is synergy in terms of the MTEF and MTSF to improve planning and execution of budgets and strategy. Experience has shown that this practice is often not aligned, as HoDs exit the system for various reasons and new ones come in more often than not in the middle of these cycles. Incumbents in HoD posts should ideally be in a position beyond the tenure of the political head for purposes of business continuity and delivery of the mandate.
(b)(i)(ii) Noting that the PMDS policy for HoDs require annual performance contracting and assessment, it is unlikely that changes to the tenure of HoDs will impact policy changes to the PMDS. It should be noted that measures to improve the performance of HODs and the rest of the Public Service are an ongoing process. The Department is however reviewing the Performance Management and Development System for the entire Public Service, including for HODs to ensure that the administrative capacity at DG level becomes about their capability; performance and capacity to manage and deliver.
2. Yes, research was conducted. This research considered data of DGs and HoDs from 1994 in terms of the measures that contributed to long lasting contracts, institutional performance and stability. The research conducted presented the option to keep the five (5) year contracts or increase them. Further consultations held on the outcome of the research, encouraged different schools of thought in the context of the research. This gave rise to considering the tenure with the options to retain the 5-year contracts or consider longer contracts with stricter performance reviews. Benchmarking was also conducted on the tenure of HoDs around the world and the impact on service delivery and performance of both the institution and the HODs.
3. (a) The intended impact is likely to be improving the stability at the leadership level which will in turn improve the operational and service delivery output of a department. As reported in 2 above, research has shown that where there is stability at the HOD level, the operational and organisation performance increases.
(b) This is a policy position which is being considered as part of the professionalization of the Public Service, there is no date, at this stage for implementation and a decision regarding the tenure of HoDs needs to still be formalised. The work related to this is in progress and still being consulted.
4. The amendments to the Public Service Act, 1994 consider the proposals made pertaining to same and an Amendment Bill is being proposed with due regard to the functions expected from the Head of Public Service. The consideration for longer term contracts go hand in hand with the original powers to be given to a HoD and the involvement of the Head of Public Service to support the President in the management of career incidents of Heads of Departments and at Provincial level the DG of the Province supporting the relevant Premier.
End
21 September 2022 - NW2447
Zungula, Mr V to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1)What total number of non-citizens have been employed by the State since 2021; (2) are such employees in scarce skills sectors; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (3) is the employment of such employees a result of a thorough countrywide skills search; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) According to PERSAL for 2021/2022, the total number of foreign nationals appointed are 1901. It must be noted that PERSAL is limited in terms of statistics specifically in circumstances where persons may have dual citizenship.
(2) Of the 1901 majority, 1475, are in Professional posts (Occupational Specific Dispensation).
(3) The policy on the utilisation of foreign nationals to address human resource and skills needs in the public service advocates to provide mandates and processes according to which departments can address their human resource and skills needs in respect of critical occupations and critical skills by utilising foreign nationals. In terms of section 10(1)(a) of the Public Service Act, 1994 no person shall be appointed permanently to a post unless he or she is a South African citizen or permanent resident. Foreign nationals who are not in possession of a permanent residence permit may therefore only be employed temporarily in departments. The central principle is that the employment of South African citizens and permanent residents must receive preference and the utilisation of foreign nationals through their appointment in Public Service departments must be effected as a last resort.
End
21 September 2022 - NW2922
Hlengwa, Mr M to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
With regard to her comments during the United States of America (US) and SA Strategic Dialogue that the economic recovery in Africa should be placed at the front and centre of the agenda, (a) how does her department plan to fulfil economic recovery through the partnership with the US and (b) what will the Republic contribute to the US in exchange for their investments; (2) Whether the position of youth, women and people with disabilities in the strategic partnership has been outlined; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in this regard?
Reply:
1.a) During the Strategic Dialogue, the delegations of South Africa and the United States held fruitful discussions in the Trade and Investment and Infrastructure Commissions, amongst others. Discussions centred largely around the following topics, which are aimed at supporting economic recovery in South Africa and the continent.
- The establishment of a bilateral Trade and Investment Forum/Advisory Council: This body will have a strong focus on investment matters at a strategic level but will also deal with trade issues as they emerge. Its objective is to significantly boost trade and investment levels. It was proposed that the Forum be anchored by the DTIC, but also include participation by organisations such as Business Unity SA (BUSA) and business chambers.
- JET-P: The US indicated that it would consider providing additional funding based on the strength of the Investment Plan and its level of ambition. The Investment Plan will outline the investments required to achieve South Africa’s ambitious NDC targets and enable a just transition. The US offer amounts to just over US$1 billion. The bulk of this funding will be deployed to private sector projects through the US Development Finance Corporation (DFC), with the rest of the funding comprising small grants provided through a range of US aid agencies in the energy sector (up to $10m of grants and $10.5m of technical assistance).
- Extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): South Africa advocated for the renewal of AGOA beyond 2025 in line with the African Common position, as it will open opportunities for enhanced exports to the US market, including value-added products from South Africa. The US pledged to support South Africa to maximise its advantages in this regard.
- Agriculture: South Africa called on the US to address non-tariff barriers around expanded market access for animal and plant products, which include poultry, egg products, avocado and citrus. An Agriculture Task Force has been established to focus on constructive collaboration, which will assist in resolving some of these market impediments on a product by product basis.
- Removal of tariffs: The removal of Section 232 tariffs on South African steel and aluminium imports into the US will allow for increased exports and assist with job creation. South Africa lobbied for a country exemption from these tariffs.
- Improvement of the Trade and Investment climate: Both sides agreed to review regulatory issues that stand in the way of greater levels of two-trade and investment, such as incentives in the film production and electric vehicle industries and South African concerns around anti-dumping duties.
- African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA): Both sides agreed that the AfCFTA and AGOA could play a pivotal role in boosting economic relations.
- Global Supply Chains: The parties expressed concern about the challenges posed by dysfunctional global supply chains and undertook to collaborate, support and learn from each other to overcome obstacles. This issue also impacted negatively on continental trade and on food security, where it is believed the two sides could cooperate.
1. (b) The trade and investment relationship with the US is mutually beneficial and has created jobs in both countries. South Africa offers an attractive investment proposition because of its solid industrial base, manufacturing capacity, advanced technology, and world-class financial sector. South Africa is well placed to be a springboard for manufactured exports in the region and to foster the drive for enhanced regional integration, industrialisation, and infrastructure development under the auspices of the AfCFTA. The US private sector sees numerous opportunities for productive investments, including in the digital and green economy, that could be a catalyst for the development of regional supply chains. This would boost employment in South Africa, especially for the youth, and contribute to skills development and technology transfer.
2. The Strategic Partnership encompasses targeted support for vulnerable groups. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provides funding and technical support for programmes and interventions, which include the following, amongst others:
- The PEFPAR DREAMS programme, which contains various interventions to address key risk factors that make girls and young women particularly vulnerable to HIV. These address social vulnerabilities of adolescent girls and boys and young men and women by expanding testing options for youth and specialised prevention, including through pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV, among children, adolescents, and youth.
- Partnership with the Department of Basic Education to strengthen the capacity of teachers to teach healthy sexuality and HIV education lessons that can improve life skills and reduce risky behaviours and early drop-out amongst school-going youth. The support is at national, provincial, district, and school levels to reduce the rate of new HIV infections among vulnerable youth, include the reduction of unwanted early teenage pregnancies, supporting direct linkages to health services, including the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) and retention of adolescent girls in schools.
- Through its Democracy, Rights, and Governance work, USAID supports the Masiphephe Network to strengthen the local governance response to Gender Based Violence (GBV). For the 2022-2024 financial years, the priorities will include improving access to justice to decrease the incidence of violence against children, adolescents, and young women.
21 September 2022 - NW2491
Mey, Mr P to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1) (a) What (i) total number of employees of his department are currently working from home, (ii) number of such employees have special permission to work from home and (iii) are the reasons for granting such special permission and (b) on what date will such workers return to their respective offices. (2) Whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
1. (a) (i) None.
(ii) Not applicable.
(iii) Not applicable.
(b) Not applicable.
2. No. there is no need to make a statement. The Department implemented the provisions of DPSA Circular no 38 of 2022 dated 29 June 2022.
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21 September 2022 - NW2744
Gondwe, Dr M to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(a) By what date does he envisage will a Head of Administration for the Public Service be appointed to manage the career incidents of (i) Heads of Department (HODs) and (ii) Directors-General (DGs) and (b) will the specified appointment be done before and/or after the coming into effect of the policy proposal to increase the term of office for HODs and DGs from the existing 5 years to 10 years, subject to performance?
Reply:
(a) & (b) (i) (ii) The role of a Head of the Public Service is provided for in legislative amendments to the Public Service Act, 1994. The draft Public Service Amendment Bill envisages this role to be undertaken by the Director-General in the Presidency to, amongst others, support the President in managing the appointment and career incidents of national heads of department. The processing of the Public Service Amendment Bill is underway and it is anticipated that the Bill will be submitted to Parliament in the 2022/2023 financial year. As an interim measure, the Director-General in the Presidency has already been tasked with this role and support in this regard has been provided for in the Presidency. The matter related to tenure is still subject to consultation. The research and the policy development to inform the tenure of heads of department is still underway as part of the project on the professionalization of the Public Service. Once completed, the necessary amendments will be factored in the further amendment to the Public Service Act.
End
21 September 2022 - NW2921
Hlengwa, Mr M to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether, in light of the unrelenting invasion of Ukraine by Russia, she has found that the continuation of the cooperation and working relations with Russia are a transgression and/ or are contrary to the guiding principles of human rights in the foreign policy of the Republic; if not, why not; if so, how does her department intend to redress this?
Reply:
South Africa is not indifferent to what is going on in Ukraine. We are deeply concerned about the continuing conflict, the loss of lives and the deteriorating humanitarian situation. As a matter of urgency, there must be a cessation of hostilities, which would be the first step in a comprehensive response to the humanitarian crisis. We continue to stress that dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy are the only means to end the current conflict. As South Africa stated in the General Assembly, wars end when dialogue begins, and wars endure when there is no dialogue.
The international community must focus on finding a sustainable solution. It will not be found in isolating one party or bringing it to its knees. We do not want to go down the route following the Treaty of Versailles.
Constructive solutions focussed on addressing the humanitarian situation and promoting peaceful dialogue remains imperative. President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed to all key stakeholders that South Africa stood ready to support the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine, with a view to bringing the violence to an end as speedily as possible. We are fully cognisant of the deliberate opposition to our call for peace and negotiations and continue to hold the view that in the end, negotiations will end the conflict.
South Africa encourages all parties to return to the negotiating table and to approach dialogue with the spirit of compromise in order to move the process forward without accusing any party, something that will not be helpful in the efforts to resolve the conflict. South Africa would like to see intensified efforts at increased diplomacy utilising the United Nations, particularly the Secretary-General and other leaders who may be of weight in terms of persuading the interlocutors to negotiate a settlement to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
20 September 2022 - NW2507
Maseko-Jele, Ms NH to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
What (a) has he found to be the impact of the many arrests that have been taking place recently, particularly of the illegal informal miners called zamazamas, on the Republic’s correctional centres and (b) steps is his Department taking to cope with the situation?
Reply:
a) The table below provides a contrast of Remand Detainee populations at the various Correctional Centres before the admission of illegal minors and after admission. The arrested persons are detained at Heidelberg, Krugersdorp and Modderbee Correctional Centres.
Name of correctional centre |
Number of remand detainees (18 July 2022) |
Number of remand detainees (25 August 2022) |
Percentage increase |
Heidelberg |
157 |
259 |
64.97% |
Krugersdorp |
1624 |
1901 |
17.06% |
Modderbee |
1791 |
1984 |
10.78% |
b) Measures in place focused on strategies to reduce overcrowding as follows:
- Monthly Management Area Overcrowding Task Team meetings are held to distribute offenders between centers to alleviate overcrowding;
- A Regional transfer plan is implemented by transferring sentenced offenders to reduce overcrowding. Remand detainees cannot be transferred due to eminent court appearances;
- Implementation of section 63A of the Bail Protocol which makes provision for Heads of the Centre to lodge an application with the clerk of the court for review of bail for certain categories of remand detainees. Referrals to court are also done in line with section 49G of the Bail Protocol which also includes submission of details of remand detainees who have been in detention for longer than three months;
- The Department as participates in Case Flow and SAPS District Joint meetings during which overcrowding and more specifically arrests, prosecution, sentencing, detention, release and deportation of foreign nationals are discussed.
END
20 September 2022 - NW2495
Engelbrecht, Mr J to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
Whether, with reference to the release on parole of Mr Morné Harmse on 03 March 2022, who was serving a sentence of 20 years after being convicted of murder and attempted murder, any of the victims of the three counts of attempted murder he was convicted of, participated in the Victim Offender Participation programmes prior to the specified offender’s release on parole; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The mentioned parolee was sentenced to twenty years in 2009 for murder and three counts of attempted murder. His sentence is set to expire on 2029/03/09. He completed his legislated Minimum Detention Period (MDP) on 2019/06/09 and was placed on parole on 2022/03/03 after serving twelve (12) years and nine (09) months of his 20 year sentence. He appeared before the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board (CSPB) on numerous occasions during which he was granted (07) further profiles because of outstanding issues which needed to be well addressed before he could be granted parole placement.
The involvement or participation of victims in the CSPB processes of considering the offenders for parole placement is directed primarily by section 299A of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 which explains the right of a complainant to make representations in certain matters with regard to placement on parole, on day parole, or under correctional supervision further outlining that the court is to inform complainants and relatives (in the case of murder) when sentencing a person to imprisonment. In the event that the complainant intends to make representations they are to inform the Commissioner of correctional Services in writing and provide their address and to inform the Commissioner in the event there is a change of address.
Section 75(4) of the Correctional services Act 111 of 1998, provides that “Where a complainant or relative is entitled in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act, to make representations or wishes to attend a meeting of a Board, the National Commissioner must inform the Board in question accordingly and that Board must inform the complainant or relative in writing when and to whom he or she may make representations and when and where a meeting will take place”.
Numerous attempts to trace the victims of the crimes of parolee Mr M Harmse, were made with the assistance of Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and efforts were successful in tracking the victims on the count of murder, however, the victims of three attempted murder cases could not be found. Subsequent to successful tracing the victims were invited to participate in the Parole Board sitting which was held on 09 December 2019, during which both verbal and written submissions were made as part of the consideration for possible placement.
The Head Community Corrections confirmed that the Parolee is fully complying with his parole conditions.
END
20 September 2022 - NW2493
Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
Whether, in view of his statement on 20 May 2022, that a total number of 176 beds would be added to Parys to counter overcrowding, the prison infrastructure has enough space to house the specified beds and inmates; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether his department has enough human capital to manage such additions; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The current approved bed space at the Parys Correctional Centre is 68 and it should be noted that the infrastructure is aging. The construction of a new correctional centre has commenced on the existing site with an intention to add 176 new bed space.
2. The design of the new correctional centre as mentioned above is based on the new generation Unit Management principle which limits overreliance on human capital. Based on the design concept the Department will be in a position to manage the operational requirements with the current personnel establishment.
END.
20 September 2022 - NW2469
Ntlangwini, Ms EN to ask the Minister of Police
What are the reasons that Major-General Wally Rhoodes has been removed and/or suspended from his position following the investigation of the burglary and theft at the Phala Phala farm?
Reply:
Attached find here: Reply
20 September 2022 - NW2657
Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the President of the Republic
Concerning the dedicated team in The Presidency headed by Mr Sipho Nkosi to improve the business environment and to cut red tape across government, which he announced in his 2022 State of the Nation Address, what (a) specific progress deliverables has the team achieved to date and (b) priority (i) reforms and (ii) obstacles to investment and business growth has it identified?
Reply:
The Red Tape Reduction initiative comprises officials from the Presidency working with officials from the Department of Small Business Development and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, under the direction of Mr Sipho Nkosi. We are finalising securing of dedicated resources to bolster this capability.
This work builds on existing government efforts to reduce red tape and improve the business environment.
Engagements have been held with stakeholders to identify a range of impediments on which to focus.
So far, over 100 impediments and obstacles have been identified. A shortlisting process has identified issues where it is possible to make progress in a relatively short time.
For example, work is currently underway to assist with:
- the backlog and delays in the issuing of tourism transport licences, together with the Department of Transport and the industry;
- the backlog and delays in issuing work visas especially with respect to inter-company transfers, together with the Department of Home Affairs;
- obstacles to small business growth in the informal and township economy.
20 September 2022 - NW2788
Terblanche, Mr OS to ask the Minister of Police
(1). Whether the allegations that big criminals syndicates are operating within Eskom at the moment are supported by intelligence gathered by the SA Police Service (SAPS); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what ate the relevant details; (2) whether any case involving serious crimes that were allegedly committed during the recent illegal strikes were reported to the SAPS; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Find here: Reply
20 September 2022 - NW2473
Meshoe, Rev KR to ask the President of the Republic
(1) Whether, with reference to his address on 27 April 2018 on Freedom Day, he has found that he has succeeded in using the Republic’s membership in the Southern African Development Community, BRICS, the G20, the Commonwealth and other international bodies to forge a new world order founded on equality, dignity and mutual respect; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether the goals of the envisaged new world order align with and/or advance the goals of the Republic’s National Development Plan; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
South Africa has successfully used its membership of multilateral formations of the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), Southern African Development Community (SADC), BRICS, Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), G20 and G77 to promote a fairer, just, inclusive, equitable and representative multipolar international rules-based system, based on international law and the principles of the sovereign equality of all States, respect for their territorial integrity and mutual respect for the interests and concerns of all.
South Africa believes that multilateralism needs to be built on solidarity and cooperation between international, regional and sub-regional mechanisms, which will lead to more effective and adaptive responses to crises. This has been South Africa’s experience in championing UN and AU cooperation during the three terms South Africa has served so far on the UN Security Council.
South Africa used its participation in the G20, G7 and BRICS to secure practical actions to address contemporary global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. We were able to achieve important outcomes. One of these was an agreement that multilateral financial institutions would implement a year-long debt standstill to provide liquidity for the economies of low- and middle-income countries and funding for businesses that experienced losses under COVID-19 restrictions.
We also actively argued in these fora for Africa to be a vaccine producer to reverse inadequate vaccine access for Africa. Today, six African countries are developing vaccine production processes and establishing facilities for this.
In 2021, the UN Secretary General gave the global community new hope when he presented a global vision of inclusive and transformed multilateralism. He proposed adoption of a common agenda for humanity that will see us address climate change, conflict, poverty and insecurity in a manner that promotes inclusion, shared development and equality.
South Africa continues to derive great value from the BRICS partnership. Our joint call with India, a fellow BRICS member, at the World Trade Organisation for the temporary suspension of intellectual property rights so that COVID-19 vaccines and other new technologies treatments and diagnostics are accessible for developing countries was an important intervention in the fight against COVID-19.
The virtual BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Centre was launched in March this year, and that is one of South Africa's BRICS Chairship legacy projects.
One of the important priorities in the AU agenda is the maintenance of peace and the prevention of conflict. In August 2021 South Africa assumed the rotational chairship of the SADC organ on politics, defence and security cooperation. Our Chairship focused on the political and security situation in the Kingdom of Lesotho, in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
The goals of the international rules-based system are aligned with and advance the goals of South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP). South Africa’s foreign policy objectives are outlined in the vision set out in the NDP, namely, that by 2030, South Africa, informed by its national interests, should be a globally competitive economy and an influential and leading member of the international community.
By achieving Vision 2030, South Africa should promote and contribute to democracy, the rule of law, human rights and peace and security. Through the NDP, South Africa aims to address the challenges of unemployment, inequality and poverty with a focus on driving a strong and inclusive economy.
20 September 2022 - NW2908
Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of Police
(1). (a) What number of police stations were robbed in each of the (i) 2018-19, (ii) 2019-20, (iii) 2020-21 and (iv) 2021-22 financial years and (b) at which specified police station did each robbery take place in each of the specified financial years; (2) what number of (a) firearms of each calibre and (b) rounds of ammunition of each calibre were (i) stolen and (ii) recovered in each of the specified periods; (3) what number of persons were (a) arrested and (b) successfully prosecuted in this regard?
Reply:
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20 September 2022 - NW3004
Mabika, Mr M to ask the Minister of Police
Whether he and/or his department submitted a policy review document and/or any other government policy document to structures outside of the Government, either to private and/or external structures or structures of any political affiliation during the past five years; if no, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) will he furnish Mr M S Mabika with copies of all such documents and (b) what are the reasons that the Government documents were provided to each structures?
Reply:
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20 September 2022 - NW2496
Engelbrecht, Mr J to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1) What is the current status of the review of the parole policy of his Department; (2) What total number of serious crimes have been committed by parolees since 01 March 2020?
Reply:
1. The Department produced a draft Position Paper on the revised parole system for South Africa which was intended to form a basis for discussion and consultation with all role-players and other interested parties on proposals with a view to finalise an appropriate new parole system for South Africa. The Position Paper was consulted with National Council for Correctional Services (NCCS), Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (JICS), Medical Parole Advisory Board (MPAB), and Parole Boards for inputs.
Thereafter, the Minister referred the matter to the National Council for Correctional Services in terms of section 84(2) of the Correctional Services Act, 111 of 1998.
The recommendations of the NCCS have been submitted to the Minister for consideration with a view to the way forward.
2. The table below reflects the serious crimes have been committed by parolees since 01 March 2020:
Nature of offence |
01 March 2020 to 31 March 2021 |
2021/2022 |
Q1 of 2022/2023 |
Attempted rape |
5 |
2 |
0 |
Murder |
111 |
176 |
50 |
Rape |
180 |
167 |
47 |
Robbery |
360 |
247 |
71 |
Assault GBH |
144 |
159 |
31 |
Domestic violence |
90 |
103 |
0 |
Robbery Aggravating |
10 |
37 |
38 |
Attempted Murder |
33 |
29 |
6 |
Sexual Assault |
20 |
4 |
7 |
Theft |
132 |
260 |
123 |
Fraud |
46 |
25 |
3 |
Assault |
14 |
18 |
26 |
Possession of firearm |
16 |
11 |
11 |
Arson |
7 |
11 |
0 |
Kidnapping |
6 |
7 |
4 |
House breaking with intent to rob |
9 |
16 |
0 |
Damage of property |
9 |
19 |
19 |
House breaking and theft |
9 |
18 |
66 |
Pointing of firearm |
12 |
11 |
0 |
Possession of drugs |
5 |
4 |
13 |
Possession of stolen property |
1 |
9 |
17 |
Conspiracy to commit murder |
0 |
1 |
0 |
Damage/ interfering with essential infrastructure |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Hijacking |
10 |
7 |
1 |
Indecent assault |
2 |
1 |
0 |
Culpable homicide |
3 |
0 |
0 |
Violation of the protection order |
2 |
0 |
15 |
Theft from car |
1 |
0 |
1 |
Stock theft |
1 |
2 |
0 |
Intimidation |
0 |
1 |
0 |
Trespassing |
0 |
0 |
5 |
TOTAL |
1 239 |
1 346 |
555 |
END.
19 September 2022 - NW3059
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether she has been informed that Sindawonye Primary School in Coega, Eastern Cape, has an infrastructure crisis and is using a broken bus to accommodate learning and the teaching of learners; if not, why not; if so, what interventions have been provided for the specified school?
Reply:
The question asked has direct implication to the work of the Member of Executive Council (MEC) of the Eastern Cape Department of Education, not the Minister of Basic Education and therefore the Hon Member is advised to submit the question to the MEC for education in the Eastern Cape province.
19 September 2022 - NW2931
Opperman, Ms G to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) What (a) total amount was budgeted for the repair project of the Hantam High School, (b) budget line item does the money expended come from and (c) amount has already been spent to date; (2) whether she has been informed that the supporting beams allegedly cost R9 000 in each month; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) what is the overall extent of the repair work that needs to be conducted to ensure that the school structure is safe again; (4) whether she will furnish Mrs G Opperman with the original safety report from the (a) Department of Employment and Labour and (b) engineers, Neil Linners, that have been outstanding for nine months; if not, why not; if so, on what date?
Reply:
The question asked has direct implication to the work of the Member of Executive Council (MEC) of the Northern Cape Department of Education, not the Minister of Basic Education and therefore the Hon Member is advised to submit the question to the MEC for education in the Northern Cape province.
19 September 2022 - NW2967
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What number of teachers teach in each of the 11 official languages?
Reply:
The configuration of Education Management Information System (EMIS) at the current stage does not support the collection of this type of information.
19 September 2022 - NW2891
Opperman, Ms G to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) Noting that her department was informed that Hantam High School was declared unsafe by the Labour Department in October 2021 and that the specified school building was also found to be high-risk by the engineering company that conducted assessments on it, what are the reasons that her department allows schooling to continue in the building; (2) (a) who was ultimately responsible for allowing schooling to continue at Hantam High School, since the Member of the Executive Council for Education in the Northern Cape, Mr Zolile Monakali, admitted to only learning of the high-risk school building on 20 July 2022 and (b) will any action be taken against the responsible official?
Reply:
The question asked has direct implication to the work of the Member of Executive Council (MEC) of the Northern Cape Department of Education, not the Minister of Basic Education and therefore the Hon Member is advised to submit the question to the MEC for education in the Northern Cape province.
19 September 2022 - NW2810
Steenhuisen, Mr JH to ask the President of the Republic
With reference to the expenses on catering and accommodation amounting to R600 million in each year, which is an average of R1,4 million per day that was incurred by the SA Police Service (SAPS) since Mr B H Cele became Minister of Police on 26 February 2018, while over the same time period, SAPS has reduced its frontline personnel, detectives and reservists while more and more citizens of the Republic are being raped and murdered, what conditions need to pertain before he will consider replacing the Minister of Police with someone who is able to provide the leadership that the Republic’s police service so desperately requires, if this approach to allocating scarce public resources and the current crime levels do not constitute sufficient reason?
Reply:
The expenditure of the South African Police Service (SAPS) on catering and accommodation since February 2018 was incurred in the fulfilment of the constitutional and statutory responsibilities of the police.
Like all other expenditure items in the SAPS budget, catering and accommodation are a normal part of the cost of running a police service.
This includes instances where officials have to be accommodated away from their normal place of work due to specific operational needs and deployment requirements. Examples in recent years include public order interventions in various provinces, securing the national and local government elections, deployments in response to COVID-19, and deployments to police the July 2021 unrest.
There is no reason to replace a Minister on the basis of expenditure that forms part of the operational requirements of a police service.
19 September 2022 - NW2809
Steenhuisen, Mr JH to ask the President of the Republic
How does the Government justify spending almost R2 billion of the budget of the SA Police Service, which equates to about R8 million each year, to protect the Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers and other top-ranking politicians, whose generous salaries can comfortably cover their own armed response subscriptions, alarm installations and perimeter security, when 67 people are murdered and 153 people are raped in the Republic every day?
Reply:
Since the Interim Constitution came into effect in 1994, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has been responsible for a national protection service.
The budget for the VIP protection services, which accounts for less than 2% of the total SAPS budget, includes:
- Provisioning of comprehensive protection to the President and Deputy President of the Republic, former Presidents and former Deputy Presidents, visiting Heads of State and spouses;
- Provisioning of comprehensive protection to 62 national dignitaries (28 Ministers, 34 Deputy Ministers, Speaker of Parliament, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Chairperson of the NCOP, Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP) and 124 provincial dignitaries (9 Premiers, 9 Provincial Legislature Speakers, 9 Provincial Legislature Deputy Speakers and 87 MECs), as well as ad hoc and foreign dignitaries that visit South Africa;
- Provisioning of comprehensive protection to the Chief Justice, Former Chief Justice, Constitutional Courts Judges, Judge Presidents and President of the Supreme Court of Appeal.
It is a well-established principle in jurisdictions across the world that the state should provide adeuqate protection to officials whose personal safety may be at risk by virtue of the positions they occupy.
19 September 2022 - NW3058
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Which agencies have been assigned by her department to ensure the successful migration process of early childhood development?
Reply:
The Department of Basic Education requested and assigned Government Technical Advisory Centre (GTAC) to assist with shifting the Early Childhood Development (ECD) function from the Department of Social Development (DSD) to the Department of Basic Education(DBE). GTAC is a legally constituted government component of the National Treasury and provided technical and advisory services on the ECD function shift.
19 September 2022 - NW2925
Ngcobo, Mr SL to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) What number of schools that were destroyed and/or damaged by floods in (a) KwaZulu-Natal and (b) Eastern Cape (i) have been repaired and are fully functional and (ii) are still using temporary shelter, (2) what agreements were (a) proposed and (b) signed by her and the Minister of Basic Education in Zimbabwe during the visit by the latter; (3) what steps are being taken to counter maladministration and corruption related to restoration of schools destroyed by floods in Gauteng and Eastern Cape?
Reply:
(1) and (3) The two questions have direct implication to the work of the Members of Executive Council (MECs) of the KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape Provinces, not the Minister of Basic Education and therefore the Hon Member is advised to submit the two parts of the question to the MECs of the two provinces.
(2) The Minister of Basic Education in South Africa signed a cooperation agreement with the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education of Zimbabwe on 18 August 2022. The agreement is for cooperation in the field of basic education; including sharing best practices in curriculum, teacher development, national examinations, assessments, and infrastructure.
19 September 2022 - NW3057
Motsepe, Ms CCS to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What steps have been taken by her department to abolish the policy of civvies day at schools, as it forces some learners to miss school on Fridays due to not having R20 each week?
Reply:
The Department has no policy on civvies. This is an SGB driven programme to raise funds for an identified project and has never been made compulsory to learners in schools where such practice is adopted.
19 September 2022 - NW2932
Opperman, Ms G to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) With regard to phase two of the Hantam High School repair project, (a) what are the reasons that the contractor was never paid in full for setting up the supports, (b) what amount is still outstanding to the contractor and (c) which department is responsible for the payment; (2) whether there are any additional costs involved for the extended lease of the supports; if not, why not; if so, who must carry the costs of the extended lease; (3) (a) who are the contractors that have been awarded tenders for the project and (b) on what date will phase three commence?
Reply:
The question asked has direct implication to the work of the Member of Executive Council (MEC) of the Northern Cape Department of Education, not the Minister of Basic Education and therefore the Hon Member is advised to submit the question to the MEC for education in the Northern Cape province.