Questions and Replies
25 April 2016 - NW1059
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)(a) What type of training is provided to applicants who apply for funding through the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) and (b) what are the full details of the training provided to each separate print media project in the (i) 2013-14, (ii) 2014-15 and (iii) 2015-16 financial years; (2) does the MDDA ensure that the type of printing used by the product owner in any given community print media project is the most cost effective to enable a bigger profit for the specified business owners; if not, why not; if so, does the product owner himself get comparative quotes for printing? NW1192E
Reply:
(1)(a) Annually, once the projects have been approved, the MDDA convenes a grantee orientation workshop. During the workshop various topics are covered, including reporting, basic financial management of the grant funds, financial reporting, and sales and marketing. The projects are exposed to various role players who share their experiences and knowledge of managing a media house. Other trainings and workshops are organised on the recommendations of the monitoring and evaluation unit or based on weaknesses as identified during reporting or during site visits by the officers.
(b)
Year |
(a) Type of training |
(b) Date |
(b) Training Partner |
(b) Cost (R) |
(i) 2013/ 2014 |
Training on broadcast & electronic media |
July 2013 |
Media, Information & Technologies Sector Education & Training Authority (MICT-SETA): The Media Workshop, Spectrum School of Business; & IAJ |
1, 050, 00 |
Grantee orientation workshop |
17-18 February 2014 |
MDDA |
324, 300 |
|
Training in Finance Management & pre-testing for MDDA Finance Management Guidebook |
13 -14 January 2013 |
MDDA |
200, 000 |
|
Media Literacy & Culture of Reading (MKK) |
22-27 September 2013 |
Fried Ebert Stiftung(FES), Whale Coast Monitor & Bush Radio |
200, 000 |
|
Media Literacy & Culture of Reading Summit |
11-13 April 2014 |
Dept of Education Limpopo, GCIS, University of Limpopo & The Star Newspaper |
343, 000 |
|
Media Literacy Photography Workshop |
07 October 2013 |
MDDA |
N/I |
|
Corporate Governance Training |
16 May 2013 |
Sizwe Media |
270, 999 |
|
Spectrum Finance Management |
March – February 2014 |
Spectrum School of business |
200, 000 |
|
People Management & Marketing and Advertising |
June - September 2014 |
IAJ |
270, 835 |
|
Multi Media for Print |
27-31 January 2014 |
IAJ |
500, 000 |
|
Media Journalism course |
October 2013 – April 2014 |
Media Workshop |
230, 000 |
|
(ii) 2014/ 2015 |
Learning Forum |
21-22 May 2015 |
MDDA |
510, 000 |
Grantee Compliance Orientation Workshop |
23-24 March 2015 |
MDDA |
277, 372 |
|
(iii)2015/ 2016 |
Media Literacy Summit |
10 – 12 April 2015 |
Dept of Education Northern Cape/MDDA |
300, 000 |
World Press Freedom Day - May 03 |
5 May 2015 |
MDDA/ UNESCO |
150, 000 |
|
ML Exchange Programme |
5 – 7 October 2015 |
MDDA |
250, 500 |
|
Advanced Radio Certificate |
2015/16 |
Wits Radio Academy |
300, 000 |
|
Station Advisory and Monitoring |
2016 |
Wits Radio Academy |
374, 300 |
|
Grantee Orientation Workshop |
30 March – 1 April 2016 |
MDDA |
800, 000 |
|
Science Journalism |
17 – 18 February 2016 |
MDDA/ SAASTA |
155, 000 |
|
Online Training - The Writers Room Website |
2016 |
Uhuru Press |
161, 220 |
(2) During the Grantee Orientation, all the major print houses are invited to engage with the beneficiaries and they are taken through how the printing business works, how they should submit their work to the printers and on the layout and intricacies involved in printing a newspaper of magazine. As indicated in Question 3, the MDDA negotiates printing discounts and the Publishers are advised of these discounts, with the flexibility to select the nearest, preferred printing house. The MDDA intervenes regularly in instances where it is notified of relationship challenges between the printer and publisher.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
25 April 2016 - NW1064
Mhlongo, Mr P to ask the Minister of Communications
With reference to each community print media project funded by the Media Development and Diversity Agency in the (a) 2013-14 and (b) 2014-15 financial years, (i) what was included in the operational costs, (ii) how many copies did ach project print (aa) weekly and (bb) monthly, (iii) how much did the printing of these copies cost per issue and (iv) how many copies did each project sell (aa) weekly and (bb) monthly in the specified financial years?
Reply:
Project Name |
Funds Allocated |
Frequency |
copies |
Cost |
Operational costs |
(a) 2013/14 Approvals |
|||||
Tshireletso Against Women Abuse |
R100, 000.00 (feasibility study). |
||||
Seipone Sa Sechaba |
R471,400. 00(New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone and internet, Lights and water, Stationery,Bank charges, and Audit fees. |
UmthomboWolwazi Youth Services |
R100,000.00 (feasibility study) |
||||
Greater Alex Today |
R 492, 400.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone and internet, Travel costs, Stationery, Bank charges,Audit fee and Rent. |
Batlhabine Foundation |
R 485, 300.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone and airtime, Internet, Travel costs for Sales Team, Travel costs for Editorial Team, Stationery, Travel & Subsistence (Petrol ) – distribution of the newspaper, Rent, Bank charges and Audit Fees. |
Gandhi Development Trust |
R 572, 800.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
15 000 |
Free |
Audit Fee, Bank Charges, Stationery and Transport. |
Africa Ignite |
R 575, 600.00 (Strengthening) |
Bi-Monthly |
40 000 |
Free |
Telephone, Audit Fees and Bank Charges. |
InquboYabantuAbancici |
R 498, 500.00 (New) |
Bi-Monthly |
20 000 |
Free |
Audit Fees, Bank Charges, Telephone & Internet, Office Rental, and Website Maintenance. |
Gulova Magazine |
R489,999.96 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
5 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution,rent,stipends, layout & design, telecommunications, bank charges and Audit Fees |
Treasure Magazine |
R490,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Bi -monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, telecommunications, bank charges and Audit fees |
Township Times |
R700,000.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, equipment, stipends, rent, furniture, telecommunications, stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
APN Media/Impact 24/7 |
R490,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, telecommunications, bank charges and Audit fees |
North West on Sunday |
R490,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
5000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rent,equipment,stipends, stationery, telecoms, bank charges and Audit fees |
Rise ‘n Shine |
R700,000.00 (New) |
Monthly |
20 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental, stipends, equipment, furniture stationery, insurance, bank charges and Audit fees |
Mmaiseng News |
R700,000.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment, furniture, stipends, telecoms, stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
Fabuleux Magazine |
R979,535.04 (New) |
Bi- monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment, furniture, stipends, mentorship, telecoms, stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
Religious News |
R700,000.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment, furniture, stipends, telecoms,translators, stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
(b) 2014/15 Approvals |
|||||
Mamre News |
R 498, 381.00 (New) |
Monthly |
5000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment,training,Website, insuarance, bank charges and Audit fees |
Ledig Sun |
R 479, 130.32 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone and internet, Office rental, Stationery, Bank charges and Audit fee. |
Bushbuckridge News |
R 350,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Weekly |
4000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution,rent,stipend and Bank charges |
Kuruman Chronicle |
R 350,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
8000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution,rent,stipend and Bank charges |
Phetoho News |
R350,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution,rent,stipend, telecoms,stationery and Bank charges |
2015/16 Approvals |
|||||
The Youth Voice |
R 821,700.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment, furniture, stipends, telecoms,transport, website stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
Ulwazi Newspaper |
R 850,000.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment, furniture, stipends, telecoms, stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
Loxion News |
R 750,000.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Transport, Rent, Stationery, Insurance, Audit Fees and Telephone. |
Arise and Shine |
R 619,251.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone and internet,Stationery, Bank charges, Office Rental and Audit fees. |
Dizindaba News |
R 888,200.00 (Strengthening) |
Fortnightly |
15000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, rent, telecoms, and Audit fees |
Ngoho News |
R 811,120.00 (Strengthening) |
Fortnightly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rent, stipends, equipment, telecoms, website, bank charges and Audit fees |
Ezakwazulu News |
R 746,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Fortnightly |
10000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rent, stipends, equipment, telecoms, website, bank charges and Audit fees |
Khanyisa News |
R 1,081,248.00 (Strengthening) |
Weekly |
10000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution and Audit fees |
Puisano News |
R 680,880.00 (Strengthening) |
Fortnightly |
10 000 |
Free |
Rent, Bank Charges, Audit Fees, and Telephone and Internet. |
Eastern Cape Women Magazine |
R 807,000.00 (Strengthening) |
Bi-monthly |
10000 |
Printing, distribution, rental, stipends, stationery, telecoms and Audit fees |
|
InquboYabantuAbancinci |
R 530,242.00 (Strengthening) |
Bi-Monthly |
30 000 |
Free |
Audit Fees, Bank Charges, Telephone & Internet, Office rental, and Website maintenance. |
SMME News |
R 793,500.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment, furniture, stipends, telecoms, website, stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
Xplore Magazine |
R 1,232,600.00 (New) |
Bi-monthly |
10000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, rental,equipment, furniture, stipends, telecoms,website, stationery, bank charges and Audit fees |
Nkomazi Observer |
R 603, 800.00 (Strengthening) |
monthly |
10000 |
free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, rental, telecoms, website and Audit fees |
Mmaiseng News |
R 626, 600.00 (Strengthening) |
Fortnightly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, rental, telecoms, website and Audit fees |
Religious News |
R 615,600.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, rental, telecoms, website and Audit fees |
Die Horison News |
R 615,299.28 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, rental, telecoms, website and Audit fees |
Children Resource Centre |
R 760,594.04 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone & Internet, Stationery and Bank charges. |
Metro News |
R 436, 800.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
10000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, rent telecoms and Audit fees |
InhlosoYesizwe |
R 430,200.00 (Strengthening) |
Monthly |
10000 |
Free |
Printing, distribution, stipends, rent telecoms and Audit fees |
Elitsha News |
R 776,800.00 (New) |
Monthly |
200 000 |
Free |
Office rent fee, Telecommunications(internet &telephones), Bank charges and Audit Fees |
Nhlala News |
R 696,000.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone and internet, Stationery, Office rental, Audit fees, Insurance and Bank charges. |
Community News |
R 663,244.00 (New) |
Bi-Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone & Internet, Stationery, Bank charges, Insurance, Audit fees, Maintenance and build of database and website. |
Youth Mate News |
R 606,950.00 (New) |
Monthly |
10 000 |
Free |
Telephone, Cell phone allowance (Editor & Sales & Marketing Officer), Travel costs for editorial team, Stationery, Office rent, electricity and water, Audit Fees, Insurance and Bank Charges. |
(a) and (b) (iv) Treasure prints 10 000 copies bi-monthly. Treasure Magazine sold at R 24.95 per copy, Eastern Cape Women Magazine sold at R15,00 per copy and Gulova Magazine is sold at R5 per copy
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
11 April 2016 - NW704
Steenkamp, Ms J to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) What are the legal costs to be paid by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) after the High Court in Pretoria set aside ICASA`s approval of the transfers of Neotel`s operating and spectrum licenses to Vodacom; (2) whether any steps will be taken against the persons responsible for (a) meeting allegedly unlawfully with Vodacom and (b) taking alleged unlawful decisions with regard to the transfer of Neotel`s operating and spectrum licenses to Vodacom; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) The legal costs to be paid by ICASA are yet to be determined. The full extent of these costs will only be determined upon taxation by the Taxing Master of the High Court. In terms of the Court Order the taxed costs are to be borne jointly and severally by ICASA, Vodacom and Neotel.
(2) The court found that meetings conducted between ICASA and Vodacom, without the participation of all interested parties, were improper and unlawful in that they were impermissible in respect of a public process and that gave credence to the suspicion of bias. As a result the court concluded that ICASA’s decision is hereby reviewed and set it aside.
Kindly be informed that the Minister is currently in a process of obtaining the relevant information pertaining to the transfer of Neotel`s operating and spectrum licenses to Vodacom. Therefore, once ICASA submits all the information that the Minister requested, the Minister will be able to assess the matter and take the necessary and appropriate steps.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 April 2016 - NW702
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) With reference to a certain publication that is based in Cape Town (name furnished), which was allocated R839 000,00 in 2011 and thereafter R490 000,00 in 2012, (a) how was the costing done for the specified funding in each case and (b) what is the printing cost for the magazine which sells at R24,95; (2) whether the specified magazine, which sells 8000 copies per month, is considered a successful project according to the Media Development and Diversity Agency’s funding criteria, given that the magazine is supported by local advertisements in almost a third of the magazine; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) (a) All project applicants submit their business plans and requested budgets. After engagement with MDDA Project Staff members through on site assessment, a needs analysis is conducted with the applicants, this entails interrogating each budget line item and a recommended budget is decided based on that need analysis. Below is the costing for 2011 and 2013 funding to Treasure Magazine:
2011
Item description |
Quantity |
Cost |
Printing |
10 000 copies @ R 70,100.00 (bi monthly, 64 pager, full colour) x 6 annually |
R 420, 600.00 |
Distribution |
10 000 @ R 3,000.00 (bi monthly, 64 pager full colour) x 6 annually |
R 18, 000.00 |
Software – in design |
@ R8,000.00 |
R 8,000.00 |
Public Relations & Promotions |
@ R 2,000.00 per month x 12 |
R 24,000.00 |
Email & internet connection |
@ R500.00 per month x 12 |
R 6,000.00 |
Website developer and hosting |
@ R 1,000.00 per month x 12 |
R 12,000.00 |
Photo & Illustration |
@ R 2,000.00 per issue x 6 |
R 12,000.00 |
Bank charges |
@ R 400.00 per month x 12 |
R 4,800.00 |
Stipends |
1 x Journalists @ R 5,500.00 per month x 12 |
R 66,000.00 |
1 x Layout & Graphic Designer @ R6,500.00 x 6 editions |
R 39,000.00 |
|
Publisher @ R 8,500.00 x 12 |
R 102,000.00 |
|
1 x Marketing and Sales Officer @ R 5,500.00 per month x 12 |
R 66,000.00 |
|
1 x sub-editor @ R 8,500.00 per edition x 6 |
R 51,000.00 |
|
Audit & Accounting fees |
Once off |
R 10,000.00 |
Total |
R 839,400.00 |
2013
Item Description |
Quantity |
Costs per month |
Total Costs |
Printing |
10 000 copies @ R72,400.00 (bi monthly) x 6 editions |
R 72,400.00 |
R 434,400.00 |
Distribution |
10 000 copies @ R 2,000.00 (bi monthly)x 6 editions |
R 2,000.00 |
R 12,000.00 |
Bank Charges |
12 months |
R 400.00 |
R4,800.00 |
Telecommunications |
12 months |
R2, 000.00 |
R24,000.00 |
Audit Fee |
Once off |
R 14,800.00 |
R 14,800.00 |
Total Budget |
R490,000.00 |
- (b) The printing costs are reflected on the costing above as quoted by Paarlcoldset printers in Cape Town
- The MDDA funding criteria is embedded in Section 3 of the MDDA Act of 2002. Treasure Magazine meets all the objects as stipulated in the Act and therefore a successful project established and managed by a black young woman. The MDDA measures the success of each supported project based on its sustainability which is driven by the publication’s ability to generate revenue through advertising and other promotion, sales and marketing activities. A magazine that sells 8000 copies can per month be deemed to be successful if it has managed to generate enough advertising that will enable it to continue printing, cover all its operational costs including staff retention.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 April 2016 - NW698
Bhanga, Mr BM to ask the Minister of Communications
What amount was (a) budgeted for and (b) spent by her department on Metro FM’s annual Metro FM Music Awards Show in the (i) 2012-13, (ii) 2013-14 and (iii) 2015-16 financial years (aa) in total and on (bb)(aaa) hiring the venue, (bbb) venue décor, (ccc) fees for master of ceremonies, (ddd) individuals who presented awards to winners, (eee) prize monies awarded to each award winner in each category, (fff) performers who performed at the awards, (ggg) catering and (hhh) alcohol in each specified financial year?
Reply:
The new Department of Communications was only established by President Jacob Zuma after the 2014 national and provincial general elections. The changes in the structure and administration of government were introduced in the 5th democratically-elected government thorough the introduction of the Proclamation to split the then Department into two Departments namely, Department of Communications (now the new Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services), and the New Department of Communications. The Presidential proclamation issued in December 2014, also re-organized the reporting structure of entities, which historically reported to one old Department while other entities including the public broadcaster, the SABC were transferred to the new Department.
Having given this background, it is therefore clear that the new Department of Communications has not allocated or spent any public money towards the hosting of the annual Metro FM Awards. In addition, the Annual Metro FM Awards takes place at no costs to the SABC. The annual awards are fully funded through sponsorships and partnerships.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
11 April 2016 - NW686
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Communications
(a)What are the anticipated total costs of (i) producing and (ii) installing the 5 million subsidized Set-Top Boxes (STBs), (b) How much funding has been approved by the National Treasury in the Medium Term Expenditure Framework in this regard and (c) from which (i) departmental votes and/or (ii) other government sources will this be drawn?
Reply:
(a) The anticipated total costs of producing and installing the 5 million subsidized STBs, as appropriated, is R2.45 billion.
(b) Over the MTEF period the National Treasury has allocated R1.1 billion.
(c) The funds will be drawn from the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services’ vote.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
11 April 2016 - NW696
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether she was informed of the SA Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) decision to ban call-ins on its radio stations; if not, why not; if so, what is her department’s position on the SABC’s decision to ban call-ins on its radio stations; (2) whether the SABC Board was informed of the SABC’s decision to ban call-ins on its radio stations; if not, why not; if so, (a) when and (b) what are the further relevant details?
Reply:
There was no decision to ban call-ins on radio SABC’s stations. The SABC management did not prohibit talk shows hosts from having open lines discussions during programmes. Talk show hosts of religious or sport programmes are subject matter experts and will have open line discussions on relevant religious or sporting matters. At the same time, political discussions can only be dealt with during News and Current affairs programmes where presenters/hosts are skilled to deal with these matters. Therefore, the SABC strives to ensure that political discussions are dealt with on the correct platforms.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 April 2016 - NW239
Ndlozi, Dr MQ to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether she and/or her department has bought advertising space in The New Age in the (a) 2012-13, (b) 2013-14 and (c) 2014-15 financial years; if so, (i) what number of times and (ii) for what amount in each specified financial year?
Reply:
a) Yes, the GCIS has placed advertising in The New Age in 2012-13, regarding (i) and (ii), insertions detailed in table below.
b) Yes, the GCIS has placed advertising in The New Age in 2013-14, regarding (i) and (ii), insertions detailed in table below.
c) Yes, the GCIS has placed advertising in The New Age in 2014-15, regarding (i) and (ii), insertions detailed in table below. In the period October 2014 – April 2015, the GCIS merged with the Department of Communications to facilitate the start-up of the Department of Communication, hence the reference to Department of Communications.
|
2012-2013 |
|
DEPARTMENT |
CAMPAIGN NAME |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
GCIS |
National Orders |
R 450 000.00 |
|
Orders of Companions of OR Tambo |
R 77 319.36 |
|
SONA |
R 893 475.29 |
|
State Funeral |
R 92 836.93 |
GCIS Total |
|
R 1 513 631.58 |
|
2013/2014 |
|
GCIS |
Mandela Memorial campaign: State Funeral |
R62 928.00 |
|
Recruitment |
R50 068.80 |
|
SONA |
R821 128.32 |
GCIS Total |
|
R934 125.12 |
|
2014/2015 |
|
Communications |
Database Registration |
R 14 945.40 |
|
Profiling Campaign |
R 720 990.72 |
|
Recruitment |
R 301 195.75 |
|
Recruitment Phase 3 |
R 57 078.43 |
|
SONA 2014 |
R 100 137.60 |
|
SONA 2015 |
R 101 888.64 |
Total Communications |
|
R 1 296 236.54 |
MR DONALD LIPHOKO
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
08 April 2016 - NW345
Mackenzie, Mr C to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether the website of the Government Communication and Information System was allegedly hacked by a certain group (name furnished) in February 2016; if so, in each case, (a) was any restricted area of the website accessed, (b) was any data lost and (c) have any steps been taken to correct the vulnerabilities in the website; (2) whether any other websites of (a) her department and/or (b) entities reporting to her have been hacked over the past 12 months; if so, (i) which websites were hacked and (ii) on what dates respectively?
Reply:
(1) An unused sub-site on the Government Communication and Information System website that housed a redundant contact database was hacked exploiting an SQL injection vulnerability.
(a) No restricted area of the website was accessed. All the information on the sub-site database is public information and the log files of the content management system (CMS) of the sub-site database indicate that none of the exposed user information was used to log onto the CMS before the vulnerability was closed.
(b) No data was lost.
(c) The vulnerability was removed, all redundant accounts on the user table were locked and active accounts were reset.
(2) The Department’s website and the websites of the entities reporting to it have not been hacked over the past 12 months.
MR DONALD LIPHOKO
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
08 April 2016 - NW857
Ndlozi, Dr MQ to ask the Minister of Communications
With reference to the Kurara FM and Radio Teemaneng in the Northern Cape which face the possibility of collapse due to dire financial difficulties, (a) what is her department doing to assist the specified radio stations, which, on numerous occasions, have tried to bring the matter to the attention of her department and (b)(i) what are the relevant details of the number of community radio stations in each province that her department has assisted and (ii) how was each specified station assisted in the period 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2015?
Reply:
a) Kurara FM received a total grant funding of R 1,575,946.59 from the Media Development & Diversity Agency in October 2010 which was to cover the Purchasing of a digital broadcast studio; Transmission costs; Stipends; and Operational costs. The allocated funds were to be disbursed to the station on a tranche payment basis, meaning for every tranche of the funds released, the station was or is contractually obligated to submit a comprehensive financial and narrative report accompanied by supporting documents. The station could not adequately report on the first tranche of the funds and the Agency sent an official to the station to assist with the report. As a result, the station was then able to receive its second of the four tranche payments.
Subsequently, as contractually required, the station once again could not submit a thorough report and the Agency once more visited the station to intervene and assist the station. Upon the Agency’s engagement with the project, it learnt that the station had undergone a change in management and the management, together with its board, declared that the station had no records of the funds. As such, it claimed, it could not furnish the Agency with the required report, a key prerequisite before any further funds could be disbursed to the project. In light of this impasse, the Agency has since advised the station to request that the grant be written-off and reapply for another grant with the Agency. The station is yet to respond after the last engagement with the Agency. It should be noted that the recommendation to the station from the Agency’s officials is based on the fact that the station has declared that it cannot account for and has no record whatsoever of the funds in question.
Radio Teemaneng received a total grant funding of R 954,773.62 from the Media Development & Diversity Agency in July 2011 which was to cover Equipment and Operational costs. The station has so far received two payments of the four tranches as per its contract with the Agency. While the Agency has tried to assist the station to adequately report on the latest funds it received, the contract the station has with the Agency lapsed as a result of slow reporting from the station. It also emerged that the station could not provide the Agency with a valid tax clearance certificate. As part of requirements, before any payment can be made to any entity or beneficiary, a valid tax clearance must be submitted to the Agency, and the station is yet to do so do date. As it stands, the Agency has given the station an opportunity to resolve its tax certificate issues with SARS before any further payment can be made. The process will also require that the station’s contract with the Agency be extended, provided that the station can adequately report on its previous tranche and also provide a valid tax clearance certificate.
(b)(i) A total number of 57 community radio stations have been assisted by the Media Development & Diversity Agency from the period 1st January 2012 to 31st of December 2015, as follows: Limpopo (10); North West (9); KZN (12); Eastern Cape (5); Western Cape (4); Free State (3); Mpumalanga (7); Northern Cape (3); Gauteng (4).
(ii) The stations were funded for various line items and the breakdown per province is as follows:
Limpopo Province
- Maruleng FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Giyani Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends, Programme Production)
- Greater Tzaneen FM ((Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, and stipends)
- Sekhukhune FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Botlokwa FM (Programme production)
- Lephalale Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Mohodi FM (Programme Production and stipends)
- Malamulele FM (Digital broadcast studios, operational costs and stipends)
- Tshepo ya Sechaba Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Hlanganani FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs and stipends)
North West
- Kgatleng FM (Digital broadcast studios, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Madibogo Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Mafikeng Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Mmabatho FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Radio Mafisa (Transmission equipment, operational cost)
- Village FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Motsitle Community Radio(Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Aganang Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, stipends and programme production)
- Star FM (Operational Costs, Office Equipments, Salaries and Programme production)
KwaZulu Natal
- ICORA (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Ngquthu Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Nqubeko Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Umgungundlovu Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- KZN Capital Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Inanda FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Ugu Youth Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Siyathuthuka Community Radio ( Transmission equipment, operational costs and stipends)
- Maputaland Community Radio
- Vibe FM ((Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs and power back- up)
- Radio Khwezi (Programme Production)
- Nongoma FM(Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
Eastern Cape
- Mdantsane FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Kumkani FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Izwilethemba Community Christian Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Isajonisi Youth Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- LA FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
Western Cape
- Radio KC (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, security costs, marketing costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Bush Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio and stipends)
- Radio Kaapsepunt (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Radio Namakwaland (Programme production)
Free State
- Koepel Stereo (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Naledi Community Radio(Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Mozolo Community Radio(Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
Mpumalanga
- Mash FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs and stipends)
- Emalahleni Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, stipends and Programme production)
- Bushbuckridge Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios and signage)
- Nkangala Community Radio(Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs and operational costs)
- MP East Community Radio (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Nkomazi FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Kanyamazane Community Radio(Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, stipends and Programme production)
Northern Cape
- Radio Riverside (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming, stipends and audio streaming)
- N FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming, stipends and audio streaming)
- Revival FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
Gauteng
- Eldos (Digital broadcasting equipment, Transmitter, Training and Operational Costs)
- Hweletsa Hope FM (Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs, audio streaming and stipends)
- Ekasi Connexion (Power back up, Digital Broadcasting Equipment)
- Bagaka FM(Digital broadcast studios, transmission costs, operational costs)
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
08 April 2016 - NW806
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) What was the purpose of her attendance at the 2016 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland from 7 to 10 March 2016, (b) what are the (i) names and (ii) positions of the persons who accompanied her and (c) what was the (i) total cost and (ii) breakdown of the costs of the specified trip?
Reply:
(a) Minister was not invited to the World Economic Forum in Davos.
(b) (i) not applicable
(ii) not applicable
(c) (i) not applicable
(ii) not applicable
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
08 April 2016 - NW430
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)What percentage of the advertisements of the (a) (i) national and (ii) provincial government departments, and (b) all entities reporting to the specified departments, was distributed to community media such as (aa) community radio stations, (bb) community print media, (cc) community television stations and (dd) small commercial publications during the period 1 July 2015 to 31 January 2016; (2) why, with reference to her reply to question 3806 on 21 December 2015, did the Government Communications and Information System only spend money on advertising in community radio stations, and not in all other forms of community media as detailed above, if not, why not, if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. During the period 1 July 2015 to 31 January 2016, GCIS placed advertisements to the value of R153 138 655.73 on behalf of its clients (national and provincial departments and entities reporting to these departments). R22 187 761.61 of this advertising expenditure was allocated to community media (community radio stations, community print media, community television stations and small commercial publications), representing 14% of the allocated budget. A detailed breakdown follows below:
(a)(i) 13% of advertising allocated by national departments as listed in the accompanying table
(ii) 12% of advertising allocated by provincial departments as listed in the accompanying table
(b) 18% of advertising allocated by all entities reporting to specified departments as listed in the accompanying table
2. Community media offers government the opportunity to direct communications messages at specific and highly localised audiences. Whilst this is adequate for tactical interventions on community print or community television, interactive campaigns requiring the targeting of multiple communities simultaneously are best suited to community radio.
The Government Communication and Information System primarily focuses on such high reach multi-site campaigns which often use interactive phone-in community radio programmes. In this advertising format, a minimum of 75 community radio stations are connected via satellite to enable a single interview to be broadcast to multiple community radio stations. In turn, listeners resident in the broadcast footprint of any of the participating community radio stations can call in to the GCIS studio and interact live with the studio guests.
This capability is not available on other forms of community media as detailed in the question.
MR D LIPHOKO
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
01 April 2016 - NW695
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) How many times has the SA Broadcasting Corporation Board of Directors met since 1 January 2015, (b) what was the agenda for each meeting, (c) who was present at each meeting and (d) what decisions were taken at each meeting?
Reply:
The SABC Board reports directly to the Shareholder. Information about the frequency of meetings and attendance registers thereof are contained in the annual report of the SABC, the same will apply to meetings of SA Broadcasting Corporation Board of Directors held from 1 January 2015 to date. The agendas and decisions that were taken at these meetings are confidential and not intended for public discussion.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
23 March 2016 - NW508
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether the Media Development and Diversity Agency’s (MDDA) internal audit function is still being outsourced; if so, (a) why and (b) how much is it costing the agency to outsource this function; (2) whether the vacant positions for the (a) Communications Manager, (b) Programme and Research and Development Manager, (c) Information and Technology Manager, (d) Supply Chain Management Officer and (e) Financial Administration Officer within the MDDA have been filled; if not, (i) why not, (ii) what measures have been put in place to fill the specified vacant positions and (iii) by when will it be filled; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
(1) (a) Yes, the internal audit function of the MDDA is being co-sourced due to the inability by the Agency to build internal audit capacity. The contract of the outsourced auditors is coming to an end on the 30th March 2016 and permanent in-house Internal Audit Manager will be appointed. In this regard, the MDDA has since revised the organogram and the position of the Internal Audit Manager has been advertised.
(b) The function is costing the Agency R721 227.00 inclusive of VAT.
(2) (a) The position of Communications & Stakeholders Manager position was filled during the last quarter of 2015.
(b) The position of Programme & Research and Development Manager has not been filled.
(c) The position of Information and Technology Manager was filled on the last quarter in December 2015.
(d) The position of Supply Chain Management Officer was filled during the last quarter of 2015.
(e) The position of Financial Administration Officer has not been filled.
i) The MDDA led by the Board revised its strategy in September 2015 and subsequently has revised its organogram to align to the revised deliverables in line with the MDDA Act. On the 20th February 2016 the MDDA Board approved the revised structure. This will be followed by filling of the vacancies. The process of advertising is underway to fill all positions by the 1st quarter of 2016 financial year.
ii) The work, duties and responsibilities of vacated positions, has been distributed amongst employees. In some of the vacant positions, there are persons who have been contracted externally from suppliers whilst the process of filling, continues. The MDDA Board has approved the revised structure/organogram. This will be followed by filling of the vacancies.
iii) The MDDA is aiming to fill all positions by the 1st quarter of 2016/17 financial year.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
23 March 2016 - NW606
Carter, Ms D to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether, in view of the fact that the Portfolio Committee on Communications obtained a legal opinion regarding matters under consideration by the SABC Board of Directors which led to the dismissal of three board members, she has taken steps to (a) request the specified legal opinion from the Portfolio Committee on Communications, or (b) obtain her own legal opinion to ensure that she did not transgress the law in any way and result in action taken against her for the said transgression; if not , why not in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (2) whether she will make a statement on (a) what she had exactly done and (b) the action she has taken in dealing with the board of directors of the SABC at the time; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Communications has scheduled meetings in 2015 where this matter was discussed in detail. Parliament Legal team has presented their legal opinion before the Parliament Portfolio Committee on Communications and subsequently this legal opinion together with the legal opinion that was sought by Minister of Communications were debated in detail during the Portfolio Committee on Communications meeting in 2015. Portfolio Committee on Communications in its meeting which was opened to the public, resolved to close this matter following the said debates.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
23 March 2016 - NW555
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether, the recommendations of the National Integrated Information and Communication Technology Policy Review Report published in 2015 have been implemented by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) in terms of (a) stakeholders being provided an opportunity to make representations to the National Assembly regarding the ICASAs discharge of its mandate, (b) ICASA conducting regular research in the information and communications technology sector to determine public needs and views and (c) minutes of meetings of the ICASA Council being made public within a reasonable time, subject to appropriate safeguards to protect confidential information; if not, why not in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
The DoC has, in developing the Green Paper on Audio Visual and Digital Content Policy for South Africa, considered the recommendations of the National ICT Policy Review report in relation to the work of the Department. Once finalized, the DoC will publish the Green Paper to solicit public comments. It is only after the White Paper on Audio Visual and Digital Content Policy for South Africa has been adopted by Cabinet, that implementation will commence.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
23 March 2016 - NW554
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether, in line with the National Integrated Information and Communication Technology Policy Review Report published in 2015, a legislative review was undertaken of the Independent Communications Authority of SA’s legislation to ensure that the general duties of the regulator are included in law, including promoting competition across networks and services, equal treatment of technologies, reviewing regulatory burdens, regular impact assessments, increasing the ease of doing business in the sector, publishing decisions promptly adhering to timeframes, and conducting appropriate and relevant international benchmarking; if not, (a) why not, and (b) when will the legislative review be undertaken; if so, (i) which organisation conducted the legislative reviews, (ii) what were the terms of reference and (iii) what budget was allocated to this process?
Reply:
The DoC has, in developing the Green Paper on Audio Visual and Digital Content Policy for South Africa, considered the recommendations of the National ICT Policy Review report in relation to the work of the Department. Once finalized, the DoC will publish the Green Paper to solicit public comments. It is only after the White Paper on Audio Visual and Digital Content Policy for South Africa has been adopted by Cabinet, that implementation will commence.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
23 March 2016 - NW553
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether, in line with the recommendations of the National Integrated Information and Communications Technology Policy Review Report published in 2015, a review of her department’s public entities has been undertaken in order to consider whether these entities are fulfilling policy objectives; if not, (a) why not and (b) when will such a review be undertaken; if so, what were the outcomes in each case; (2) whether, in line with the recommendations of the National Integrated Information and Communications Technology Policy Review Report published in 2015, regular assessments of public entities reporting to her have been scheduled in the relevant policies; if not, (a) why not, and (b) when will regular assessments of the specified entities be included in the relevant policies; if so, (i) which organisations will be conducting such reviews, (ii) what are the terms of reference and (iii) what budget has been allocated to these processes?
Reply:
The DoC has, in developing the Green Paper on Audio Visual and Digital Content Policy for South Africa, considered the recommendations of the National ICT Policy Review report in relation to the work of the Department. Once finalized, the DoC will publish the Green Paper to solicit public comments. It is only after the White Paper on Audio Visual and Digital Content Policy for South Africa has been adopted by Cabinet, that implementation will commence.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
23 March 2016 - NW552
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
what progress has been made to date with the review of the SA Broadcasting Corporation’s editorial policy; (2) whether any form of public consultation has taken place during the review process of the specified policy; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the details of the public consultation process followed to date, (b) (i) how and (ii) when were notices for public consultations published, (c) which, if any, organisations submitted written comments, and (d) will she make each of such written representations submitted during the public consultation process available to Ms P T van Damme; (3) (a) when does the SABC envisage that a new draft editorial policy will be completed and (b) when will such a new draft policy be tabled in Parliament?
Reply:
- The revised SABC editorial policy has been approved by the SABC Board and is currently being implemented.
- (a) Yes public consultation has taken place. Stakeholder engagements were held with more than 30 organisations and interest groups from across the country and were followed by 17 public hearings, where each province hosted at least one. Almost 2,000 people attended these hearings.
(b) (i) & (ii) The public consultations were advertised on SABC platforms and in selected print media.
(c) The SABC received 216 written submissions from individuals and organisations.
(d) Not applicable.
3) (a) The policy has been completed
(b) The editorial policy are submitted to the Authority, not Parliament.
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
23 March 2016 - NW551
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether she can state the reasons why the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) suspended Mr Frans Matlala as the Chief Executive Officer on or about 18 November 2015; if not, on what statutory authority is she refusing to state the specified reasons; if so, what were the reasons for the SABC to suspend the specified person?
Reply:
The Department is unable to respond due to the fact that the matter is before the Courts.
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
23 March 2016 - NW509
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) What (a) sustainability challenges are faced by community small commercial media (CSCM) and (b) intervention processes are in place to address the sustainability challenges faced by CSCM; (2) whether a specific programme to address the slow pace of transformation in the print media has been put in place by her department; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of such a programme; (3) whether she has put any measures in place to facilitate a discussion with the Print and Digital Media of South Africa to review decreased print media contributions; if not, why not; if so, what (a) measures were put in place and (b) was the outcome of such discussions?
Reply:
(1) (a) The following are amongst the sustainability challenges faced by community small commercial media:
- Inadequate of support with regard to advertising from government and private sector;
- Print and Digital Media South Africa (PDMSA) has withdrawn its funding and government allocation to Small Commercial Media;
- High printing costs; and
- Inability to attract and retain skilled personnel due to limited funding.
(b) Liaising with the GCIS in order to secure advertising revenue for CSCM
- Liaising with Media Buyers for advertising bookings to the sector
- Negotiated printing discounts with the major houses such as CAXTON, Paarlcoldset and Rising Sun Printers
- Providing support for the establishment of Provincial Cooperatives in order to lobby for advertising bulk buying
- Capacity building and skills development through partnership with relevant training institutions such as the Wits Radio Academy, finalising MoA with MICTSETA; and
- For 2016/17 we will be focusing on enterprise development training to equip projects on financials, fundraising skills.
(2) The Ministry of Communications is facilitating the discussions and debates around the discussion document “Towards a Policy on Media Transformation and Diversity” which was drafted to focus on media transformation and diversity issues. This is currently being updated/revised with further desktop and commissioned research. Meetings have also been held with government statutory bodies, non-governmental organisations and media agencies to solicit their views. This has included organisations such as MDDA, ICASA, NABSA, Right to Know and Freedom of Expression. Issues raised in these meetings are being further investigated and incorporated into the Discussion Document. A colloquium is further being considered for 2016 to deepen our understanding of key transformation issues within the environment, to finalise scope and allow stakeholders an opportunity to present their views.
(3) (a) The MDDA Board is engaging the individual members of the PDMSA, who have requested details on the funding previously allocated; this will also be covered as part of the Social Impact Study currently being commissioned by the MDDA Board.
(b) So far meeting has been held with the Media 24 and the outcomes were positive, however the MDDA has been requested to develop a report reflecting on how the funds have been allocated to projects. There are meetings due with The Times Media, Caxton and Sekunjalo.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
23 March 2016 - NW607
Carter, Ms D to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether she had (a) ascertained if the SABC bosses had issued any directives prohibiting talk show hosts from keeping open lines on current affairs until the end of the local government elections and (b) made it clear that Sections 15 and 16 of the Constitution had to be honoured irrespective of the political affiliation of the SABC bosses, if not, why is she failing in her duty to provide constitutionally directed leadership; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
a) The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) management did not prohibit talk show hosts from having open lines discussions during programmes. Presenters / talk show hosts of for example religious or sport programmes are subject matter experts and will have open line discussions on relevant religious or sporting matters. At the same time political discussions can only be dealt with during News and Current affairs programmes where presenters/host are skilled to deal with these matters. The SABC therefore wants to ensure that political discussions are dealt with on the correct platforms to ensure that political parties do not misuse entertainment, religious and sports programmes for their political expediency.
b) Not applicable
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
11 March 2016 - NW431
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
Who will build the Independent Communications Authority of SA’s (ICASA) third Digital Terrestrial Transmission radio frequency network, Multiplex (MUX) 3, and (b) who will operate MUX 3, since it will be shared by new free-to-air television licensees and Pay TV operators?
Reply:
(a) Multiplex 3 network does not belong to ICASA. ICASA regulates and facilitates the deployment of Multiplex 3 network as prescribed in the approved digital terrestrial television (DTT) Regulations and Terrestrial Broadcasting Frequency Plan of 2013.
(b) The capacity of Mux 3 is earmarked for a new subscription television licensees and a new Free-To-Air (FTA) licensee with an allocation capacity of 45% and 55%, respectively. Licensing processes in respect of 45% capacity for subscription broadcasting service is currently underway. The licensee will select a signal distributor build the Mux 3 network. The selected signal distributor is expected to also distribute the 55% Mux 3 capacity that would be assigned by the Authority pursuant to finalisation of a process to license additional FTA licensee through a commercial arrangement and without prejudice.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 March 2016 - NW229
Ndlozi, Dr MQ to ask the Minister of Communications
Has her department awarded any contracts to companies indirectly or directly owned by certain persons (names furnished) in the (a) 2012-13, (b) 2013-14 and (c) 2014-15 financial years; if so, in each specified financial year, (i) how many times were such contracts awarded and (ii) for what amount?
Reply:
The Department has not awarded any contract to companies directly or indirectly owned by the said persons.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 March 2016 - NW432
Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Communications
How much (a) did the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) pay to collect its television license fees in the (i) 2011-12, (ii) 2012-13, (iii) 2013-14 and (iv) 2014-15 financial years and (b) revenue did the SABC generate from the collection of its television license fees in financial years?
Reply:
a) (i)- (iv) The SABC paid a total of R543 873 573.26 to collect television license fees.
b) For the same period, the SABC generated a total revenue of R3 647 764 688.63 from the collection of television fees.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 March 2016 - NW433
Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether print media can see where its contributions in the form of funding to the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) have been allocated; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the relevant details, (b) how can the print media monitor where its funding to the MDDA is allocated, and (c) does the MDDA ensure that investors from the print media receive feedback on where their funding is allocated?
Reply:
Yes the MDDA has over the years published in its annual report details on all projects that have been funded from the Print and Digital Media South Africa (PDMSA) funding and these reports have been made available to the PDMSA, which has a representative in the MDDA Board.
a) The details included the name of the project; whether it is a magazine or newspaper; the district municipality; the province; the language of the publication; the nature of funding allocated - e.g printing, distribution, operational costs etc; and the grant amount allocated.
b) The print media can monitor the funding allocated by reviewing the Grant in Aid Agreements signed with individual projects, reviewing MDDA Monitoring and Evaluation reports, requesting copies of the publications and reviewing annual reports.
c) Yes, the MDDA is in a process of meeting all the print funders, and finalising commissioning an impact assessment study, which will be shared with the investors including the Government.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 March 2016 - NW361
Brauteseth, Mr TJ to ask the Minister of Communications
With reference to President Jacob G Zuma’s undertaking in his State of the Nation Address delivered on 12 February 2015, that the Government will set aside 30% of appropriate categories of state procurement for purchasing from Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs), co-operatives, as well as township and rural enterprises, what percentage of the total procurement of (a) her department and (b) every entity reporting to her went to (i) SMMEs and (ii) co-operatives from 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?
Reply:
(a) The percentage of the total procurement in the DoC is:
(i) 57.98%
(ii) 0%
(b) GCIS
(i) 64.76
(ii) 0%
SABC
(i) 12%
(ii) 0%
MDDA
(i) 100%
(ii) 0%
Brand SA
(i) 22%
(ii) 0%
ICASA
(i) 40%
(ii) 0%
FPB
(i) 81.4%
(ii) 0%
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
27 February 2016 - NW126
Gqada, Ms T to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Are any regulatory amendments to the Broadcasting Act, Act 4 of 1999, being drafted to waive the requirements for recipients of the government-subsidised set-top boxes to have valid TV licenses; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether any discussions have taken place with the SA Broadcasting Corporation on the specified issue; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of (a) any such discussions and (b) any (i) decisions and/or (ii) action plans emanating from the specified discussions?
Reply:
- No amendments to the Broadcasting Act, Act 4 of 1999 have been drafted for the waiver of TV Licenses.
- The need for TV license as a requirement for recipients of the government subsidized set-top-boxes issue has been tabled by the DoC before
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
27 February 2016 - NW76
Brauteseth, Mr TJ to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether she has entered into a performance agreement with the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma, with regard to the implementation of the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) 2014-2019; if not, why not; if so, (a) which key indicators and targets from the MTSF are reflected in the agreement, (b) how many performance assessments has she undertaken in consultation with the President since the agreement was signed, (c) what progress has been made in meeting the key indicators and targets from the MTSF, (d) what are the key obstacles to implementation and (e) what is the plan to address such obstacles?
Reply:
Yes, the Minister of Communications has signed the Performance Agreement with the President JG Zuma.
(a) The following indicators and targets are reflected in the Minister’s Performance Agreement:
Impact Indicators |
Target 2019 |
Identity based on self-description |
60% of population describing themselves as South Africans |
Pride in being South African |
75% of South African reflecting to be South African by 2018/19 |
Pride in our national sporting teams |
66% percent of South Africans proud of our national sporting teams |
A diverse broadcasting system that preserves informs and reflects the cultural heritage of all South Africans |
70% of content reflects South Africans |
b) Performance assessments are done on a quarterly basis, and presented to Cabinet.
c) The following is a synopsis of the progress made thus far:
Impact Indicators |
Target 2019 |
Q3 |
Identity based on self-description |
60% of population describing themselves as South |
82% of population describe themselves as South Africans |
Pride in being South African |
75% of South African reflecting to be South African by 2018/19 |
96% of South African are proud to be South Africans |
Pride in our national sporting teams |
66% percent of South Africans proud of the national sporting teams |
82% of South Africans are proud of the national sporting teams |
A diverse broadcasting system that preserves informs and reflects the cultural heritage of all South Africans |
70% of content reflects South Africans |
70% of content reflects South Africans |
d) None
e) Not applicable.
MR N MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
27 February 2016 - NW38
van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether her Ministry has any frozen vacant positions; if so, (a) how many of the specified positions are vacant, (b) what are the designations of the specified positions and (c) for how long have the specified positions been vacant?
Reply:
(a) There are no frozen vacant positions in the Ministry.
(b) Not applicable.
(c) Not applicable.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
21 December 2015 - NW4152
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether (a) her department and/or (b) any of the entities reporting to her (i) purchased and/or (ii) leased any buildings in the (aa) 2012-13, (bb) 2013-14 and (cc) 2014-15 financial years; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, (aaa) what is the (aaaa) cost and (bbbb) size of the specified buildings, (bbb) why was it bought or leased, (ccc) what will it be used for, (ddd) who will occupy it and (eee) approximately how many persons will occupy the total space of each building?
Reply:
Department of Communications
Since inception, the Department of Communications has not purchased or leased any buildings considering that it is housed within the Government Communications and Information Systems
Government Communications and Information Systems
(a) (i) The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has not purchased any buildings.
(ii) GCIS has a combination of self-managed and Department of Public Works managed leases for its offices in all nine provinces which
(see Annexure A with respect to (aaa), (bbbb), (bbb), (ccc), (ddd) and (eee)
South African Broadcasting Corporation
(a) See attached response as Annexure B for further details
Media Development and Diversity Agency
(b) (i) MDDA has not bought any building
(ii) Yes
(aaa) (aaaa) 2012-13 R1,920,208.08
2013-14 R2,100,960.48
2014-15 R2,278,688.64
(bbbb) 2012-13 1400 square meters, and 30 parking bays
2013-14 1400 square meters, and 30 parking bays
2014-15 1400 square meters, and 30 parking bays
(bbb) The decision to lease is based on various factors including availability of funds, the size of the organisation and staff complement.
(ccc) The premises leased are used for administrative activities of the MDDA
(ddd) MDDA staff
(eee) MDDA’s budgeted staff complement of 32
Brand South Africa
(b) (i) Brand South Africa has not bought any building
(ii) Yes
(aaa) (aaaa) 2012-13 R1,722,880
2013-14 R2,933,378 (acquired additional space)
2014-15 R3,171,756 (acquired additional space)
(bbbb) 2012-13 Approximately 1,711.43m2
2013-14 Approximately 1,711.43m2
2014-15 Approximately 1,711.43m2
(bbb) The building was leased for Locality and proximity to the stakeholders.
(ccc) The building is used for administrative purposes and facilitating meetings and marketing events when required.
(ddd) The building currently accommodates the employees of BRAND SA
(eee) The number of people that occupy the building space:
2012-13, 33 out of 43 funded positions;
2013-14 32 out of 43 funded positions;
2014-15 41 out of 57 funded positions
Film and Publications Board
(b) (i) Brand South Africa has not bought any building
(ii) Yes
(aa) 1. Gauteng Head Office
2. Durban Regional Office
3. Cape Town Regional Office
(aaa) (aaaa) 2012-13 R 3,247,344
2013-14 R 3,204,015
2014-15 R 3,756,160
(bbbb) Size of the Gauteng Head Office is 1,775 m2
(bbb) For office accommodation/administration/regional compliance monitoring
(ccc) For office accommodation/administration/regional compliance monitoring),
(ddd) FPB employees
(eee) 79 employees
Independent Communications Authority of South Africa
(b) (i) ICASA has not bought any building
(ii) Yes
(aa) 1. Cape Town
2. Bloemfontein
3. Port Elizabeth
4. Sandton
5. Durban
(aaa)
1. Cape Town:
2012-13 R0
2013-14 R0
2014-15 R57,130.42 monthly
2. Bloemfontein:
2012-13 R72,732.00 monthly
3. Port Elizabeth
2012-13 R113,000.00 monthly
4. Sandton
2012-13 R1,418,311.00
2013-14 R1,536,562.68
2014-15 R1,664,720.98
5. Durban
2013-14 R108,988.53
(bbb) 1. Cape Town 109 square meters
2. Bloemfontein 827 square meters
3. Port Elizabeth 791 square meters
4. Durban 591
(ccc) & (ddd) For use and occupation
(eee) 1. Cape Town: 12
2. Bloemfontein: 11
3. Port Elizabeth: 11
4. Sandton: 249
5. Durban 11
MR J RANTETE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
21 December 2015 - NW4060
Madisha, Mr WM to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether his department has taken steps to strengthen the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) in order to promote the development of Information Communication Technology infrastructure that is reliable, secure and affordable; if not, why not; if so, (a) how has ICASA been strengthened, (b) what has ICASA done with its additional powers and (c) to what extent does South Africa now have Information Communication Technology infrastructure that is robust, reliable, secure and most importantly, affordable?
Reply:
(1) The Ministry of Communications has taken steps to strengthen the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) in order to promote the development of Information Communication Technology infrastructure that is reliable, secure and affordable. The Minister will be tabling the ICASA Amendment Bill 2016 to specifically address these issues. Some of the issues will also be dealt with in the Green Paper on Broadcasting Policy Review:
(a) ICASA will be strengthened once we finalized and agree on the policy positions in the Green Paper and Bill.
(b) ICASA will use its additional powers, if any will be given, once the above processes have been finalized.
(c ) The Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services is the one addressing infrastructure issues, Ministry of Communications is now dealing with media and content issues
MR J RANTETE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
21 December 2015 - NW4030
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether (a) her department and/or (b) any of the entities reporting to her purchased any 2015 Rugby World Cup (i) tickets, (ii) clothing and/or (iii) other specified paraphernalia; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, (aa) what (aaa) are the details and (bbb) is the total cost of the items purchased, (bb)(aaa) how many items were purchased and (bbb) why, (cc)(aaa) to whom has each specified item been allocated and (bbb) why have the specified items been allocated to the specified persons and (dd)(aaa) on what basis was the decision taken to purchase each specified item and (bbb) on whose authority was the decision taken to make the specified purchases?
Reply:
Department of Communications
(a) The Department of Communications has not purchased any 2015 Rugby World Cup tickets, clothing and other specified paraphernalia.
South African Broadcasting Corporation
(b) (i) No tickets were bought, the Production crew accessed the games through accreditation?
(ii) 4600 Rugby Shirts were bought for Some Staff members, as part of the Bok Friday Marketing campaign to create awareness and interest of the campaign to support our on air HABASHWE campaign.
(iii) None
(aa) None
(bbb) Total Cost of T-Shirts is 1.8 Million
(bb)(aaa) 4600
(bbb) Rugby Shirts were bought for some Staff members, as part of the Bok Friday Marketing campaign to create awareness and interest of the campaign to support our on air #HABASHWE campaign
(cc)(aaa) allocation was to most of SABC Employees including on air personalities within our RADIO NEWS TV Platforms and the SABC Staff
(dd)(aaa) the items were purchased to drive the SABC On Air and Below the line brand campaign of #HABASHWE,
(bbb) The Operations Committee of the SABC took the decision.
Media Development and Diversity Agency
(b) The Media Development and Diversity Agency has not purchased any 2015 Rugby World Cup tickets, clothing and other specified paraphernalia.
Brand South Africa
(b) (i) There were no tickets purchased for the Rugby 2015 World Cup,
(ii) Yes there was clothing
(iii) Yes there was paraphernalia
(aa) Scarves, Hand held South African Flags and South African flag branded tote bags.
(aaa) 500 scarves were distributed and 500 South African Flag branded tote bags and 500 hand held South African flags were purchased
(bbb) The total value for the scarves distributed is R40 000 (taken from the BSA existing stock), South African Flag branded tote bags purchased for GBP1257.60 and South African hand held flags is R9975.00
(bb)(aaa) 500 scarves, 500 South African hand held flags and South African Flag branded tote bags
(cc)(aa) The above stated collateral was distributed to all the fan zones
(bbb) To create awareness about South Africa
(dd)(aaa) The decision to purchase each specified item was on the basis of Brand South Africa to market South Africa as a brand.
(bbb) The decision was taken on the Acting Chief Marketing Officer Brand South Africa delegation of authority.
Independent Communications Authority of South Africa
(b) ICASA has not purchased any 2015 Rugby World Cup tickets, clothing and other specified paraphernalia.
Film and Publications Board
(b) FPB has not purchased any 2015 Rugby World Cup tickets, clothing and other specified paraphernalia.
MR J RANTETE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
21 December 2015 - NW4023
Shinn, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether, with reference to her reply to question 3656 on 3 November 2015, she will provide a comprehensive answer to all questions posed; if not, why not; if so, by when can the comprehensive reply be expected?
Reply:
The Department of Communications is of the view that the reply provided to Parliamentary Question 3656 is comprehensive enough, unless if the Honourable member can be more specific.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
21 December 2015 - NW3833
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) How regularly is Vuk’unzenzele published, (b) how many copies of the specified newspaper are distributed in each (i) province and (ii) town and (c) in which towns is the specified newspaper distributed?
Reply:
Minister of Communications
- Vuk’uzenzele is a monthly newspaper, however since August 2015, the frequency of the newspaper has changed from once-a-month to twice-a-month production (one edition per fortnight) with the exception of December and January months when it’s published once a month. The paper is also available online as an App for Android and Apple phones and tablets.
- Vuk’uzenzele is distributed as follows;
- Refer to Annexure A
(ii) Vuk’uzenzele is being distributed through Bulk Drop and Knock and Drop distribution to 166 bulk points (87 285 copies) and 1 391 urban areas (762 715) via knock and drop situated in and around towns, townships and rural areas. (Refer to Annexure B) |
MR DONALD LIPHOKO
ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
21 December 2015 - NW3806
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) (a) What total amount has the Government Communications and Information System (GCIS) spent on advertising in each month on (i) community radio stations, (ii) community print media entities, (iii) community TV stations and (iv) small commercial publications in the period 1 April 2014 to 30 June 2015, (b) what individual amounts were spent on each (i) community radio station, (ii) community print media entity, (iii) community TV station and (iv) small commercial publication and (c) on what dates were the specified adverts placed; (2) what percentage of the GCIS’s advertising budget is spent on (a) community media and (b) commercial media? NW4550E
Reply:
Minister of Communications:
(1) (a) In the period 1 April 2014 to 30 June 2015, the GCIS has placed advertising to the value of (i) R 5 497 932.58 in community radio stations, (ii) R 0 (nil) in community print media entities, (iii) R 0 (nil) in community TV stations, (iv) R 0 (nil) in small commercial publications as detailed per Annexure A
(b) A summary of the above advertising spend by (i) community radio station, (ii) community print media entity, (iii) community TV station and (iv) small commercial publication is attached as Annexure B.
(c) The dates of the specified adverts and individual radio stations are reflected in Annexure B.
(1) (a) 38% of the GCIS’s advertising budget is spent on community media, (b) 62%
on commercial media as per Annexure C.
MR DONALD LIPHOKO
ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
21 December 2015 - NW3955
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
With reference to R93 million that was written off by her department as reflected in its 2014-15 Annual Report, (a) what are the names of the (i) companies and/or (ii) persons whose debt was written off and (b) what are the reasons in each case?
Reply:
Minister of Communications:
No debts were written off in the 2014/15 financial year.
MR DONALD LIPHOKO
ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
21 December 2015 - NW2140
Davis, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) What amount has the SA Broadcasting Corporation budgeted to upgrade its gym at Auckland Park to a wellness studio (details furnished), (b) what is the difference between a gym and a wellness studio which motivated for a wellness studio, (c) how much does the current gym cost per annum to (i) staff and (ii) maintain and (d) how much will the envisaged wellness studio cost per annum to (i) staff and (ii) maintain? NVV2451E
Reply:
(a) Business Case still to be compiled.
(b) They are complimentary to each other as it is a service offered to staff to improve on their wellness.
(c) R1 .9million
a. Gym is managed and
b. maintained by the current service provider
(d) same as above
a. same as above
b. same as above
Parliamentary question 2140 of 2015
18 December 2015 - NW3961
Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) What is her department’s policy position in respect of the established practice of the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) to broadcast live coverage of the monthly breakfast briefings of The New Age and (b) what are the relevant details of the (i) cost incurred by the SABC to cover the specified briefings and (ii) who is responsible for paying these costs?
Reply:
(a) The SABC's core principle in such partnerships is that the SABC maintains its editorial control and objectivity in line with the Editorial policy and conduct. The New Age/ SABC Business Briefings affords SABC news content that is extraordinary. Based on the news value brought about by this partnership, the SABC will continue to seek similar partnerships with other stakeholders with same vision.
(b) (i) SABC is responsible for the technical and Editorial production of the broadcast
while The New Age covers logistical costs.
(ii) This means the SABC provides human resources like Presenters and cameraman while The New Age is responsible for venue hiring costs, breakfast, as well as branding and marketing costs.
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
18 December 2015 - NW4028
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether the contract awarded by the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) to a certain company (name furnished) to secure a studio for the 2015 Rugby World Cup was put out to tender; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the names of the companies that submitted bids for the tender and (b) what are the further relevant details of each tender; (2) whether any written submissions were received by the SABC before the specified contract was awarded; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the written submissions that were received; (3) whether the SABC Board of Directors approved the final amount offered to the specified company in the specified contract; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of its approval; (4) Whether the awarding of the specified contract involved any deviation from the SABC’s tender procedures; if not, what is her department’s position in this regard; if so, (5) whether any form of approval was sought from the SABC Board of Directors for said deviation; if not, (a) why not and (b) on what statutory provisions did the SABC’s (i) Chief Operating Officer and (ii) Chief Financial Officer rely to deviate from the SABC’s tender procedures; if so, on what date was the deviation in the SABC’s tender procedures (aa) approved and (bb) communicated to the (aaa) National Treasury and (bbb) Auditor-General in line with Treasury regulations?
Reply:
(1) The contracts awarded to the companies were not put to tender. A deviation from tender processes in terms of the SABC policies was used to appoint them.
(a) Not applicable
(b) none
(2) Written submissions were received from the company responding to the needs of the SABC, including Architectural design, including references
(3) The approval of the amounts offered was in terms of the Delegation of Authority Framework. The amount of the awards was below the threshold necessitating Board approval.
(4) The contracts were awarded as a result of a deviation process. The deviation was in terms of an approved Delegation of Authority Framework (DAF).
(5) No
(a) As per the DAF, the amount of the awards was below the threshold necessitating Board approval.
(b) PFMA section 51(1)(a) (i), (iii) & (iv) , 51(1)(b)(ii) , 51(1)(c) read together with the DAF.
(aa) Deviations were approved on 9/12/2014, 2/3/2015 & 1/10/2015 (aaa) &(bbb) There is no requirement for the SABC to report this.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
18 December 2015 - NW4022
Shinn, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether, with reference to her reply to question 3655 on 3 November 2015, she will provide a comprehensive answer to all questions posed; if not, why not; if so, by when can the comprehensive reply be expected?
Reply:
The Department of Communications is of the view that the reply provided to Parliamentary Question 3655 is comprehensive enough, unless if the Honourable member can be more specific.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
18 December 2015 - NW4029
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether the contracts awarded by the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) to certain companies (names furnished) were put out to tender; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the names of the companies that submitted bids for the tenders and (b) what are the further relevant details of each tender; (2) whether any written submissions were received by the SABC before the specified contracts were awarded; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the written submissions that were received; (3) whether the SABC Board of Directors approved the final amounts offered to the specified companies in the specified contracts; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of each approval; (4) whether the awarding of the specified contracts involved any deviation from the SABC’s tender procedures; if not, what is her department’s position in this regard; if so, (5) whether any form of approval was sought from the SABC Board of Directors for said deviations; if not, (a) why not and (b) on what statutory provisions did the SABC’s (i) Chief Operating Officer and (ii) Chief Financial Officer rely to deviate from the SABC’s tender procedures; if so, on what date was the deviation in the SABC’s tender procedures (aa) approved and (bb) communicated to the (aaa) National Treasury and (bbb) Auditor-General in line with Treasury regulations? NW4897E
Reply:
(1) The contracts awarded to the companies were not put to tender. A deviation from tender processes in terms of the SABC policies was used to appoint them because of the need for specialised skills on one hand and for continuity on the other hand.
(a) N/A
(b) N/A
(2) Written submissions were received from the companies responding to the needs of the SABC.
(3) The approval of the amounts offered was in terms of the Delegation of Authority Framework. The amount of the awards were below the threshold necessitating Board approval.
(4) The contracts were awarded as a result of a deviation process. The deviation was in terms of an approved Delegation of Authority Framework (DAF).
(5) (a) As per the DAF, the amount of the awards were below the threshold necessitating Board approval.
(b) PFMA section 51(1)(a) (i), (iii) & (iv) , 51(1)(b)(ii) , 51(1)(c) read together with the DAF.
(aa) Deviations were approved on 9/12/2014, 2/3/2015 & 1/10/2015
(aaa) &(bbb) There is no requirement for the SABC to report this.
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
15 December 2015 - NW4126
Shinn, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)(a) What are the terms of reference of the enquiry that she asked National Treasury to conduct into the manufacturing and procurement process of the Set Top Box tender and (b) what is the deadline for the (i) completion and (ii) delivery of the report; (2) Whether the report of the specified enquiry will be made public; if not, why not; if so, what are further relevant details?
Reply:
(1) (a) The scope of investigation covers the supply chain processes followed by the Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa in the appointment of Ernest and Young to oversee the procurement process and companies to supply digital terrestrial (DTT), direct to home (DTH), satellite dishes and antennas.
(b)(i) & (ii) The investigation is expected to be finalised by end December 2015.
(2) The sensitivities regarding the information contained in the final report will determine whether the report will be made public or not.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
15 December 2015 - NW3953
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) With reference to the Auditor-General’s note in the SA Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) 2014-15 Annual Report that a specific vendor was overpaid by R 2 million, what is the (a) name of this vendor, (b) nature of the service that the vendor rendered and (c) reason for overpayment; (2) Whether the overpaid moneys have been recovered since the findings were made by the Auditor-General in the SABC’s 2014-15 Annual Report; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details
Reply:
(1) (a) King James Advertising
(b) Advertising
(c) Quoted amounts for retainer fees and invoiced amounts did not correspond, invoiced amounts were much higher than quoted amounts
(2) The matter is being investigated
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
15 December 2015 - NW3874
Steenkamp, Ms J to ask the Minister of Communications
What was the basis of the statement she made in the meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Communications on 21 October 2015 that royalties accruing to actors from the SA Broadcasting Corporation aired shows will be paid from 2007 only, despite the fact that television started broadcasting in 1976?
Reply:
The SABC has a database of actors. The database is made up of details of actors from recent productions. Historically, databases were not maintained and this means that a list of actors from old productions can only be obtained by watching the tapes and recording the information. Contracts for actors from old productions were also not kept by actors and producers. This complicates the payment of royalties as the SABC has to rely on affidavits and use rates there were averages from the year of production.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
15 December 2015 - NW3872
Van Dalen, Mr P to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether the respective actors are being paid royalties on the Showmax, a netflix-like video-on-demand with the SA Broadcasting Corporation-dramas which was launched by Naspers as part of their variety content; if not, why not; if so, when?
Reply:
Not yet, these are recent deals and payment will be made after payment is made to the SABC and the 2015-16 financials are signed-off by the auditors.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
15 December 2015 - NW4153
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether she will provide the exact details of the formalised communications relations agreement with Vietnam entered into by her in October 2015; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether the specified formalised agreement includes a programme for the training of journalists; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) & (2) The Department is unable to provide exact details of a formalised communications relations agreement with Vietnam because it has not entered into any agreement with Vietnam.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
15 December 2015 - NW4154
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
With reference to her reply to question 2953 on 3 November 2015, what is the detailed breakdown of the expense allowances afforded to the (a) Chief Executive Officer, (b) Chief Financial Officer and (c) Chief Operating Officer, as executive board members as indicated in her department’s 2014-15 Annual Report, in terms of their (i) housing allowances, (ii) car allowances, (iii) cell phone allowances, (iv) other cash allowances, (v) entertainment allowances, (vi) subsistence allowances, (vii) benefit replacement allowances, (viii) insurance allowances, (ix) acting allowances and (x) special allowances, in each specified case?
Reply:
The information on the total expense allowance afforded to the CEO, COO, and CFO is contained in the 2015 Annual Report of the SABC.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
15 December 2015 - NW3871
Van Dalen, Mr P to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether, in view of the SA Broadcasting Corporation providing content to new television channels such as Zambezi Magic and GauTV, the relevant actors are paid royalties for such content; if not, why not; if so, when will they start receiving royalties?
Reply:
Not yet, these are recent deals and payment will be made after payment is made to the SABC and the 2015-16 financials are signed-off by the auditors.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
15 December 2015 - NW4129
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) (a) How many TV licenses were (i) issued and (ii) renewed by 30 September 2015 and (b) how many were not renewed; (2) (a) what amount is owed to the SA Broadcasting Corporation for unpaid licenses and (b) what is the cost of actions taken to recoup the specified debts?
Reply:
(1)(a) (i) 4 434 000
(ii) 1 741 000
(b) 2 692 000
(2)(a) R32 502bn
(b) April to 30 September 2015, collection costs were R75.4m, projected for Apr – Mar 2016 is R168m.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE: