Questions and Replies
15 March 2022 - NW107
Seitlholo, Mr IS to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
What is the (a) current status of the 51 criminal cases related to public funds in the North West that are pursued by the (i) National Prosecuting Authority and (ii) Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (details furnished) and (b) breakdown of each and every case highlighted including the person(s) involved?
Reply:
(a) current status of the 51 criminal cases related to public funds in the North West that are pursued by the (i) National Prosecuting Authority and (ii) Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (details furnished):
Summary details of the 51 cases is as follows:
17 of these cases are currently enrolled;
- With a total of 19 accused persons before court
- Amongst the accused are a former head of department, three former municipal managers and a mayor.
Total amount of prejudice involved: R53 551 742.46
2 cases are currently with the NPA/ SCCU for guidance to the DPCI on further investigations to be conducted or decision on whether to initiate a criminal prosecution.
19 cases are with the DPCI for further investigations.
13 cases have been finalised with the following outcomes:
- 5 Convictions: (5 accused persons convicted)
- Total amount of prejudice involved: R2,155,990.00
- 2 acquittals
- 8 cases withdrawn / prosecution declined
Details of the 17 cases enrolled
- Ventersdorp CAS 63/07/2021 (Fraud): partly heard and remanded to 04 April 2022 for arguments before judgment.
- Wolmaranstad CAS 07/07/2015 (Fraud & corruption): Case remanded to 17-19 August 2022 for trial.
- Wolmaranstad CAS 11/09/2015 (Fraud & corruption): Case remanded to 17-19 August 2022 for trial.
- Orkney CAS 15/11/2010 (Fraud): Case remanded to 17 May 2022 for further trial.
- Orkney CAS 17/11/2010 (Fraud): Case remanded to 17 May 2022 for further trial.
- Orkney CAS 18/11/2010 (Fraud): Case remanded to 17 May 2022 for further trial.
- Orkney CAS 62/11/2015 (Fraud): Case remanded to 17 May 2022 for further trial.
- Rustenburg CAS 302/08/2014 (Fraud): Case remanded to 18 February 2022 pending representations by Accused 2.
- Orkney CAS 16/11/2020 (Fraud): Case remanded to 22 February 2022 for a pre-trial conference.
- Makapanstad CAS 83/12/2015 (Corruption): Case remanded to 29 March 2022 for trial
- .Zeerust CAS 54/03/2015 (Fraud): Case remanded to 17 February 2022 for a pre-sentence report and sentencing.
- Mmabatho CAS 206/02/2018 (Fraud): Case is on the High Court roll for trial from 14 February to 18 February 2022.
- Setlagole CAS 09/10/2019 (Corruption): Case remanded to 19 April 2022 for trial.
- Potchefstroom CAS 187/5/2020 (Fraud): Case remanded to 28 February 2022 for further trial.
- Christiana CAS 37/09/2016 (Fraud): Case remanded to 30 May 2022 for trial.
- Taung CAS 94/11/2015 (Fraud): Case remanded to 21 February 2022 for trial.
- Rustenburg CAS 552/05/2016 (Contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act): Case remanded to 04 April 2022 for trial.
Cases pending guidance / decision (2)
Vryburg CAS 120/06/2013 Background of Case (Summary)
Tender awarded to build RDP houses and installation of electricity at Naledi Local Municipality during the period of 2009-02-01 to 2012-12-30. The contractor failed to install the electricity as per specification but invoiced the municipality for building and installation of electricity. The Technical Director confirmed that work has been done by signing the certificate knowing that no work was done.
Current Status:
The prosecutor’s decision is awaited.
Tlhabane CAS 105/7/2014:
ackground of Case (Summary)
It is alleged that Tau Pride Project was appointed as the principal agent for the construction of Rustenburg CHC and Tlhabane CHC without following the correct tender process.
The department of Public Works approved the tender while it was not budgeted for. Tau Pride Project left the site before they could finish the construction and another company was appointed to complete the construction while Tau Pride Project was paid the full amount for the building.
Current Status:
The contract prosecutor who initially dealt with this matter resigned from the NPA with effect from 30 September 2021. A proper hand over was done to the newly appointed prosecutors who are dealing with the matter, including consulting with key witnesses, before a final decision is made.
Matters under investigation (19):
Mmabatho CAS 7/11/2016
Background of Case (Summary)
The complainant alleged that the former HOD of Public Works who is currently the administrator of Public Works, together with the four district directors and the CFO of the Dept. of Public Works colluded to award a tender to construct roads without following the prescribed tender procedures, the tender was for the four districts: Bojanala, Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Ngaka Modiri Molema, and Kenneth Kaunda.
Current Status:
The prosecutor has studied the docket and issued queries to the investigation officer. The forensic audit report is outstanding as there is a dispute between the Department and the forensic auditor regarding payment.
The investigation team is currently engaging stakeholders to address this challenge.
Mmabatho CAS 135/01/2016
Background of Case (Summary)
It is alleged that the Department of Health appointed service providers for the upgrading of Brits hospital unlawfully.
Current Status:
The contract prosecutor who initially dealt with this matter consulted with the witnesses and as a result of those consultations identified certain outstanding issues. The said prosecutor however has resigned from the NPA with effect from 30/09/2021. A proper handover was done to another prosecutor who has studied the docket and has engaged the investigation team on the abovementioned outstanding issues.
Feedback from the investigation team is expected by the end of February 2022.
Rustenburg CAS 331/9/2019
Background of Case (Summary):
It was alleged that CMS Water Engineering was appointed fraudulently without following the procurement processes and procedures. The tender was for upgrading and extension of Bospoort Water Treatment Works in Rustenburg. It was further alleged that the abovementioned company invoiced the Municipality for services that were not rendered or supplied.
Current Status:
The docket was submitted to the DPP for decision. Certain outstanding issues have been identified. The investigating officer is dealing with these issues with the guidance of the prosecutor.
Mmabatho CAS 141/9/2013
Background of Case (Summary)
The department went on tender and the service providers namely Raliform Investment and Mr Property were appointed to deliver and service medical equipment to Vryburg and Brits Hospital. The allegations are that the officials connived with the service provider to defraud the department by inflating prices as well as paying for services not rendered (some of the medical equipment were not delivered and those delivered were not according to specifications).
Current status:
The matter is under investigation. An additional prosecutor has been added to the team with effect from 1 October 2021. Outstanding issues in conjunction with the investigation team has been identified and possible charges have been identified.
Mmabatho CAS 302/01/2014
Background of Case (Summary)
It was alleged that officials of Public Works Road and Transport colluded with service providers and that supply chain management processes were not followed during the appointment of scholar transport tender in the North West Province. A tender was advertised (PWRT 029/10) in 2010 and approximately 150 service providers were appointed in October 2010 of which some were appointed on a month to month basis.
Current Status:
The docket was submitted to DPP for decision. The prosecutor has perused the docket, case planning meetings have taken place and directives for further investigation are being attended to.
Mogwase CAS 43/09/2019
Background of Case (Summary)
Matter involves the disposal of land to the detriment of the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela tribe by their traditional leader and/or council, through collusion with mining companies as well as the misappropriation of tribal funds.
Current Status:
The docket was submitted to DPP for guidance. The prosecutor has issued directives for further investigation. The appointment of a forensic auditor by the administrator of the Tribal Authority is currently awaited.
Mmabatho CAS 345/5/2018
Background of Case (Summary)
A company known as AgriDelight entered into an agreement with the North West Department of Rural Environment and Agricultural Development (“the Department”) as an implementing agent for the Department. The Department would pay money to AgriDelight for the approved projects. Thus far, investigation has established that the Department made payments of approximately six hundred and four million, forty-eight thousand, eight hundred and twenty-eight rand and eighteen cents (R604 048 828.18) into the bank account held by AgriDelight.
Current Status:
Case planning meetings have taken place and the investigation team is dealing with directives issued by the prosecutor on 25/11/2021.
Mmabatho CAS 01/07/2020
Background of Case (Summary)
It is alleged that a service provider in the Office of the Premier of North West Province, namely NEPO Data Dynamic (Pty) Ltd (“NEPO”) received suspicious payments from the Office of the Premier. NEPO was appointed to provide IT services to the Office of the Premier and numerous municipalities in the North West province. There were suspicious payments made to NEPO.
Current Status:
The docket has been submitted for decision. The prosecutor has perused the docket, case planning meetings have taken place and prosecutorial directives for further investigation are being attended to by the investigation team.
Mahikeng CAS 369/06/2017
Background of Case (Summary)
The Former MEC of Public Works misrepresented to the department by signing housing documents pretending to be the MEC of Local Government and Human Settlement whereby houses were registered unlawfully to non-deserving beneficiaries.
Current Status:
Case planning meetings have taken place and the investigation team is dealing with directives issued by the prosecutor. Engagement with SIU investigators on the matter has also taken place.
Mmabatho CAS 63/02/2013
Background of Case (Summary)
The Former MEC of Finance and the Director in her office contracted Morake attorneys to render a service of proceeding over a disciplinary matter against three (3) senior officials within the department. The said law firm delayed the proceedings and inflated prices which were not agreed upon. Upon investigation it revealed that the MEC and the director connived with the service provider to invoice and inflate prices to the department.
Current Status:
The docket was submitted to the prosecutor who has issued directives for further investigation. The docket is still under investigation
Mmabatho CAS 89/03/2018
Background of Case (Summary)
The department of Health appointed a service provider namely Buthelezi Ambulances to render services of transporting patients from the clinics to the hospital. The allegations are that the tender procedures were not followed to appoint the said service provider as well as officials conniving with Buthelezi Ambulances to deviate from their initial contract and render service that they were not supposed to. Further allegations are that the service provider with the assistance of the officials inflated the amount that was supposed to be paid.
Current status:
The docket is still under Investigation, the docket has not yet been submitted to the prosecutor for decision.
Mmabatho CAS 181/5/2020
Background of Case (Summary)
The complainant, HOD of Department of Community Safety and Transport Management alleged that her department unlawfully entered into a contract with SA Express and the contract was never put onto a competitive bidding process.
The contract was for the rehabilitation and reintroduction of flights at Mahikeng and Pilanesberg Airports. The money paid out by the Department into SAX Express was paid out to various entities through a money laundering scheme which involved Koroneka and others.
Current Status:
The prosecutor has studied the docket issued directives for further investigation. The investigation is at an advanced stage.
Mmabatho Cas 36/05/2020
Background of Case (Summary)
The complainant, Administrator of Department of Transport alleged that there were irregular appointments of service providers to provide scholar transport. It is further alleged that the service providers inflated the travelling kilometres.
Current Status:
The docket is still under investigation.
Mahikeng CAS 256/4/2015
Background of Case (Summary)
It is alleged that in December 2012, a public entity known as Social Housing Regulatory Authority (“SHRA”) concluded a Restructuring Capital Grant with Mafikeng Project Securitisation (Pty) Ltd trading as Marang Estate for the construction of 2 400 housing units. It is further alleged that between19 December 2012 and 12 June 2013, an amount of R144 755 020.00 was paid out by SHRA to Marang Estate in three tranches. The said amount came from funds which had been re-directed to SHRA from Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlement and Free State Department of Human Settlement.
Current Status:
The docket was submitted to DPP for decision. Due to the scale of the allegations, the investigation was divided into sections or legs. On the first leg relating to funds paid by the public entity and the department to the private company, a decision to decline prosecution has been taken. The investigation regarding the remaining leg is still outstanding.
Mmabatho CAS 134/03/2018
Background of Case (Summary)
The allegations are that the HoD of the Department DPW misrepresented to the department that he had invoked Section 16a of National Treasury to contractor Ayama Consulting to render service of building roads within the North West Province. Furthermore, an upfront payment of R103 000 000.00 was paid to the said contractor for services not rendered. Preliminary investigations were conducted and revealed that the tender used from Mbombela Municipality was actually for water and sanitation and not for construction of roads.
Current status:
The docket was presented for decision and on 16 November 2020 the prosecutor declined prosecution, indicating the absence of the forensic reports as main reason for the said decision. The DPCI subsequently obtained three separate forensic reports on the matter from the Department of Public Works, which they handed over to the prosecutor 18 November 2021. The prosecutor has studied the three reports and on 25 November 2021 he issued directives for further investigation thereon, which are being attended to by the investigation team.
Mogwase CAS 292/01/2017
Background of Case (Summary)
The complainant alleged that the Company Big Time Strategies was appointed to render Soft Ware services, Training and Hardware (computers etc) to the municipality and they were paid for services not rendered. Investigations were instituted and National Treasury was roped in to assist with the investigation whereby it has been established that the company was appointed unlawfully without going through proper processes as required by PFMA and MFMA.
Current Status:
The docket was submitted for decision and on 19 April 2021 the prosecutor has decided to decline prosecution. The DPCI followed up on the deficiencies pointed out by the prosecutor and has re-submitted the docket for guidance. A new prosecutor has been allocated to the matter with effect from 1 October 2021, who has studied the docket and issued directives for finalising the investigation.
Matters finalised (13):
Bloemhof CAS 187/03/2014
Background of Case (Summary)
The Bloemhof municipality had assets which were worn out and wanted to dispose them off. They then appointed an auction company to dispose the properties and the auction took place, of which the auctioneer did not pay the municipality the proceeds.
Outcome:
The accused was convicted and was sentenced on 2020-11-18 as follows:
5 years imprisonment
Mmabatho CAS 159/02/2014
Background of Case (Summary)
The complainant alleged that they appointed an auctioneer to sell property belonging to Botshelo water, and the auctioneer did not pay the proceeds to Botshelo water
Outcome:
The accused was convicted and was sentenced as follows:
3 years imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years.
Klerksdorp CAS 392/06/2015
Background of Case (Summary)
Matlosana Local Municipality complained that certain municipal employees at the Financial Section, Indigent Unit were manipulating the system. It was further alleged that payments were done to volunteers at the Indigent Unit without them doing any work. The volunteer will then be contacted and the money would be withdrawn from the bank account and handed over to the municipal employee.
Outcome:
Accused was convicted on 2019-02-08 and was sentenced as follows:
-Accused to repay R68 530 in terms of Sec 300 of Act 51 of 1977 to Matlosana Local Municipality.
-All counts taken together for the purpose of sentences and he was sentenced to a fine of R50 000.00 or 3yrs imprisonment. He was further sentenced to 3yrs imprisonment which was suspended for 5yrs on condition that he does not commit any crime of the same nature during the period of suspension.
Rustenburg CAS 302/08/2014
Background of Case (Summary)
The complainant alleged that three employees within the salary department employed at Rustenburg Local Municipality connived with their colleagues that monies will be deposited in their accounts as acting allowances, of which they will withdraw the money and share it amongst themselves.
Outcome:
On 2019-08-26, Accused 1 was found guilty and sentenced to 10 years imprisonment of which 5 years is suspended for 5 years on each count.
Accused 1 previously entered into an agreement with the municipality after a disciplinary hearing and paid an amount to R57, 767.60
The case against Accused 2 is remanded to 18/2/2022 pending representations.
Accuse 3 passedd away during 2021.
Vryburg CAS 72/02/2012
Background of Case (Summary)
It is alleged that during 2007, Naledi Local Municipality made an application for the approval of housing projects in respect of Vryburg extensions 25 and 28. The Municipal Manager appointed Khasu Engineering Services without following procurement processes for the establishment of the 3 000 low cost houses. It is further alleged that the service provider submitted claims for the work not done.
(R60, 000, 000.00).
Outcome:
Accused Zwelakhe Erick Phukwana was convicted on 2021-02-11 and sentenced to an effective period of imprisonment of 8 years. A confiscation order in the amount of R454,000.00 was obtained against the accused.
The second leg of the case relating to Khasu Engineering is pending decision by the prosecution team. Consultation with witnesses are underway. This matter is investigated by DPCI, Pretoria
Wolmaranstad CAS 92/12/2020
Background of Case (Summary)
The municipality advertised a tender for refuse trucks whereby the complainant was one of the service providers that bid for the tender. The complainant alleges that he was approached by the employees of the municipality whereby they promised to influence the committee to award the said tender to him for benefit.
Outcome:
Matter was before court on 2019-04-24. The accused was acquitted.
Mahikeng CAS 165/01/2018
Background of Case (Summary)
The department of Health Advertised a vacancy for a HoD post. The appointed HoD misrepresented by submitting false information during his application. Information was received that the appointment was irregular as he did not make the requirement as per the Advert of the post. Preliminary investigations were conducted and proved that there was a prima facie case that needs further investigation.
Outcome:
The case was prosecuted in the High Court. On 9 November 2021 the Court acquitted the accused. The court found their versions in light of all circumstances to be reasonably possibly true.
Lichtenburg CAS 259/8/2016
Background of Case (Summary)
Financial Intelligence Centre (“FIC”) identified several deposits into the bank account of the Chief Financial Officer of Ditsobotla Local Municipality from the following entities:
Khoisan Roads Cc, Ipes-Utility Management Services (PTY) LTD; and Bay Breeze Trading 241 Cc Two of the abovementioned entities are service providers of Ditsobotla Local Municipality.
Outcome:
The main suspect has passed away and prosecution was declined on 22 July 2021.
Potchefstroom CAS 81/05/2011
Background of Case (Summary)
Docket was opened by the Department of Education North West in Potchefstroom. The complainant alleges that two tenders were awarded during 2007. These two tenders were allegedly awarded to four companies. During investigations by the Department of Education it was discovered that two of these four companies were allegedly front companies.
Outcome:
The DPP declined to prosecute, due to insufficient evidence to prosecute
Hartbeespoortdam CAS 174/6/2016 & 175/06/2016
Background of Case (Summary)
Docket was opened by the Department of Water and Sanitation North West at Hartbeespoortdam. The complainant alleged that the suspects contravened sec 57 (e) of the PFMA, by appointing a company to upgrade the road at Hartbeespoortdam and Lindleyspoort dam whereas the terms of the contract does not make provisions for such services. It was also found the same service provider had received other tenders without following tender procedures.
Outcome:
The DPP declined to prosecute.
Mogwase CAS 204/03/2013
Background of Case (Summary)
The Department appointed a contractor to disburse an amount of R1.5m to create projects to alleviate poverty for 100 indigent’s community members but the contractor allegedly disbursed for only 22 indigents. The said contractor allegedly failed to return to the site to continue with the project as agreed in the service level agreement and stole the remaining amount.
Outcome:
The DPP declined to prosecute (Suspect deceased).
Mmabatho CAS 270/05/2011
Background of Case (Summary)
The department of Education Advertised a tender seeking a motivational speaker who will render service to different districts within the province for a period of six (6) months. The MEC, Superintendent General and officials connived with the appointed service provider to defraud the department by inflating prices and claiming for services not rendered.
The case was before the Mahikeng High Court and was struck off the roll on 2014-08-25 because the prosecutor needed to finalise the charge sheet and get permission from the DPP North West to re-enrol the matter.
Outcome:
Application for re-enrolment was submitted to the DPP. The DPP requested the DPCI to follow up on certain aspects before a final decision could be made. On 21 September 2021, the DPP refused authorisation in terms of section 342A of Act 51 of 1977 for re-enrolment of the matter, and the matter is now deemed finalised.
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14 March 2022 - NW488
Abrahams, Ms ALA to ask the Minister of Social Development
(a) What are the titles of the funded vacant positions that were referred to in the 2021 Annual Report of her department (details furnished), (b) in what (i) programmes and (ii) sub-programmes are the specified vacancies located, (c) for what period have the positions been vacant, (d) by what date will the critical vacancies be filled, (e) which vacant positions have officials in an acting capacity and (f) how have the critical vacancies affected performance within the various programmes and sub-programmes?
Reply:
(a) Titles of funded vacant positions |
(b)(i) Programme |
(b)(ii) Sub-programme |
(c) Vacan=cy period as on 31 March 2021 |
(d) Date to be filled |
(e) Officials in an acting capacity |
(f) How was performan= ce affected |
Director-General |
P 1: Administration |
Office of the Director-General |
46 mnths |
Process is underway |
Yes |
Acting appointment ensures continuity in the management of operations. |
Deputy Director-General: Strategy & Organisational Transformation |
P 1: Administration |
Branch: Strategy and Organisational Transformation |
10 mnths |
Process is underway |
Yes |
Acting appointment ensures continuity in the management of operations. |
Director: Gender Focal Point |
P 1: Administration |
Chief Directorate: Strategy Management & Transformation |
42 mnths |
1/12/ 2021 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
Director: Population Policy & Strategy Monitoring & Evaluation |
P 1: Administration |
Chief Directorate: Population & Development |
45 mnths |
1/2/ 2022 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
Director: Population Development Programmes and Capacity Building |
P 1: Administration |
Chief Directorate: Population & Development |
8 mnths |
1/12/ 2021 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
Director: Population and Development Research |
P 1: Administration |
Chief Directorate: Population & Development |
3 mnths |
Process to reprioritise funding for critical posts. |
Yes |
Acting appointment ensures continuity in the management of operations. |
Director: Legal Services |
P 1: Administration |
Chief Directorate: Legal Services |
1 mnth |
1/04/ 2022 |
No |
Post filled with effect from 1/04/2022. There was no impact on the performance of the Department. |
Chief Director: Information Management Systems Technology |
P 1: Administration |
Branch: Corporate Support Services |
4 mnths |
1/05/ 2022 |
Yes |
Acting appointment ensures continuity in the management of operations. |
Director: Medical Case Assessment |
P 2: Comprehen= sive Social Security |
Chief Directorate: Social Assistance Appeals |
41 mnths |
1/04/ 2021 |
No |
Post filled with effect from 1/04/2021. There was no impact on the performance of the Department. |
Deputy Director-General: Welfare Services |
P 4: Welfare Services |
Branch: Welfare Services |
6 mnths |
Process is underway |
Yes |
Acting appointment ensures continuity in the management of operations. |
Director: Families Services and Programmes |
P 4: Welfare Services |
Chief Directorate: ECD & Families |
3 mnths |
Process to reprioritise funding of critical posts. |
Yes |
Acting appointment ensures continuity in the management of operations. |
Chief Director: Governance and Compliance of Children’s Rights |
P 4: Welfare Services |
Branch Welfare Services |
3 mnths |
Function will be migra ting to the Presi dency |
Yes |
Acting appointment ensures continuity in the management of operations. |
Director: VEP and Prevention of GBV |
P 4: Welfare Services |
Chief Directorate: Social Crime Prevention & Anti-Substance Abuse |
35 mnths |
22/10/2021 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
Chief Director: Community Mobilisation and Empowerment |
P 5: Community Development |
Branch Community Develop= ment |
48 mnths |
11/08/2021 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
Chief Director: Poverty Alleviation, Sustainable Livelihood & Food Security |
P 5: Community Development |
Branch: Community Development |
39 mnths |
13/08/2021 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
Chief Director: NPO Registration, Funding & Compliance Monitoring |
P 5: Community Development |
Branch: Community Development |
70 mnths |
11/08/2021 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
Director: NPO Compliance Monitoring |
P 5: Community Development |
Chief Directorate: NPO Registration, Funding & Compliance Monitoring |
14 mnths |
27/08/2021 |
Yes |
There was an employee acting in the post and the post has subsequently been filled. |
14 March 2022 - NW452
Opperman, Ms G to ask the Minister of Social Development
Whether, given that the National Development Agency applied for condonation of irregular transactions to the value of R96,1 million from the National Treasury, dating back to the 2013-19 period, there has been any response in this regard; if not, why not; if so, what has been the outcome?
Reply:
On 12 April 2021, National Treasury responded to the application from the NDA for condonation of 421 irregular transactions, committed by employees no longer in the NDA’s employ, dating from the 2015-16 financial year to the 2019-20 financial year, to the value of R96,1 million. National Treasury did not condone the irregular expenditure, because no evidence of consequence management and additional measures to prevent future occurrences of similar cases, and no determination reports were submitted with the application.
On 27 October 2021, the NDA submitted to National Treasury determination reports for the irregular transactions and appealed the decision by National Treasury not to condone.
On 21 January 2022, National Treasury responded to NDA’s request for appeal, and requested evidence that the root causes of non-compliance have been addressed to prevent future occurrences of non-compliant transactions; a determination, where possible, that services were provided at a market related price; and proof of the termination of employees linked to the irregular transactions.
The NDA collated all the required supporting information, and submitted these documents to National Treasury on 21 February 2022 to assist in a review of the condonement decision, and include namely:
a) Evidence of market analyses confirming that costs incurred were reasonably market related;
b) Evidence that the NDA officials identified to have caused the transgressions, have left the NDA’s employ;
c) Evidence of the control processes that have been put in place by the NDA to prevent and mitigate the occurrence of irregular expenditure of a similar nature in the future, including reviewed and approved SCM policies and standard operation procedures and tools;
d) Evidence of appointment and training of SCM staff to enhance the capacity of the function, and training of NDA staff in general on the SCM policy and attendant processes.
In addition, given that some of the contracts were still active at the time of compiling the report of irregular expenditure for the period 2015/2016 to 2019/2020, totalling R96 115 315.51 in value, which was submitted for condonement, the NDA included in this submission (21 February 2022), an updated list of irregular expenditure transactions for the 2020/2021 and 2021/22 financial years, that relate to the same irregular contracts that remained active from the previous years, totalling an additional amount of R2,637,679.45 of irregular expenditure.
The total irregular expenditure that now forms part of the request to National Treasury for condonement, against these irregular contracts amounts to R98,752,994.96, totalling 484 transactions covering the financial period from 2015/16 to 2021/22. All these irregular contracts have since been terminated. The NDA now awaits a response from National Treasury on the revised condonement application.
14 March 2022 - NW487
Abrahams, Ms ALA to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)With regard to the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Stimulus Relief Fund, in each province, what number of (a) early childhood development centers (ECDs) are still awaiting (i) verification and (ii) payment, (b) ECDs have already been paid and (c) ECD employees (i) are still awaiting payment and (ii) have already been paid; (2) what is the total amount that (a) her department allocated to each province and (b) has been reportedly spent by each province to date?
Reply:
(a)(i) The number of early childhood development centers (ECDs) are still awaiting verifications per province
Province |
No. of ECD centres still awaiting site verifications |
No. of ECD centres still awaiting CSD-Bank verifications |
EC |
287 |
21 |
FS |
14 |
10 |
GP |
2 102 |
1764 |
KZN |
53 |
101 |
LP |
18 |
82 |
MP |
10 |
83 |
NC |
0 |
73 |
NW |
157 |
217 |
WC |
The province is in the process of appointing a service provider to assist with site, bank , staff verification as well as duplications, i.e. the work that was previously performed by Data Innovators |
The province is in the process of appointing a service provider to assist with site, bank , staff verification as well as duplications, i.e. the work that was previously performed by Data Innovators |
TOTAL |
2 641 |
2 351 |
(a)(ii) The number of early childhood development centers (ECDs) awaiting payments per provinces
Province |
ECD Programmes |
Staff |
EC |
580 |
1 338 |
FS |
58 |
171 |
GP |
613 |
3 267 |
KZN |
390 |
2 757 |
LP |
611 |
1 784 |
MP |
85 |
333 |
NC |
42 |
115 |
NW |
105 |
398 |
WC |
86 |
283 |
TOTAL |
528 |
10 446 |
(b) ECDs already been paid
Province |
ECD Pogrammes paid |
EC |
1 899 |
FS |
1 266 |
GP |
2 327 |
KZN |
2 946 |
LP |
2 648 |
MP |
1 138 |
NC |
375 |
NW |
621 |
WC |
1 327 |
TOTAL |
14 547 |
(c) ECD employees are still awaiting payments and employees already paid.
There was total of 115 661 staff members associated with the initial 27 884 applications. This figure reduced to 114 446 staff members due to the following: cancellations, applications becoming incomplete and data cleaning whilst resolving duplications, individuals linked to persal and deceased staff members. The figures above show the payment status of the 114 446 staff members. Of the total applications that have been received, only 13 268 ECD programmes consisting of 61 798 staff members are still outstanding for payments
15 075 ECD programmes consisting of 63 094 staff members was send to province for payment processing. To date, 14 547 ECD programmes with 54 661 staff members have been paid.
It must be noted that out of the 61 798 staff outstanding for payments, there might be a drastic drop as provinces continue with the verifications. Already there are challenges with staff, site and CSD-Bank verifications, untraceable programmes, deceased and the closed ECD centres.
Province |
|
|
EC |
1 338 |
5 307 |
FS |
171 |
5 589 |
GP |
3 267 |
8 900 |
KZN |
2 757 |
10 816 |
LP |
1 784 |
9 136 |
MP |
333 |
5 046 |
NC |
115 |
1 471 |
NW |
398 |
2 594 |
WC |
283 |
5802 |
TOTAL |
10 446 |
54 661 |
(2) The department has received the total of R496 million of which 2% of the total allocation has been taken out for administration and R474 million for implementation of the stimulus package. R264.4 million has been disbursed to provinces. From the R264.4 million, provinces managed to pay R220 342 million. The below table provides a breakdown of the total allocations and the amounts paid.
Province |
(a) Total amount allocated to each province |
(b) Total amount reportedly spent by each province |
EC |
R54 370 000 |
R22 215 638 |
FS |
R32 851 728 |
R23 395 584 |
GP |
R115 081 512 |
R37 255 000 |
KZN |
R85 177 000 |
R36 805 625 |
LP |
R73 732 204 |
R38 243 296 |
MP |
R36 694 476 |
R21 122 556 |
NC |
R12 306 840 |
R 6 157 606 |
NW |
R29 101 072 |
R10 859 410 |
WC |
R54 711 020 |
R24 329 123 |
TOTAL |
R496 000 000 |
R220 342 978 |
14 March 2022 - NW539
Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of Transport
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) price and (e) purchase date of each vehicle purchased for use by (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 29 May 2019?
Reply:
(i) Minister Vehicles Mr Fikile Mbalula, MP
(a)Make |
(b)Model |
(c)Year of Manufacture |
(d)Price |
(e)Purchase Date |
Office |
Order Date |
Comments |
Mercedes Benz |
Benz |
2017 |
984,990.00 |
12/07/2017 |
Pretoria |
28/06/2017 |
Returned for Disposal |
BMW |
5 Series Sedan |
2021 |
748,624.04 |
27/01/2022 |
Pretoria |
29/11/2021 |
|
Toyota |
Fortuner |
2017 |
557,927.65 |
28/04/2017 |
Cape Town |
15/ 02/2017 |
(ii)Deputy Minister Hon. Sindisiwe Chikunga, MP
|
|
|
||||||
(a)Make |
(b)Model |
(c)Year of Manufacturer |
(d)Price |
(e)Purchase Date |
Office |
Order date |
Comments |
|
BMW |
X5 |
2017 |
924,146,24 |
12/05/2017 |
Pretoria |
12/05/2017 |
||
Jaguar |
XJ |
2017 |
800,000.00 |
31/03/2017 |
Cape Town |
29/03/2017 |
14 March 2022 - NW284
Mohlala, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
What (a)(i) is the total accumulated cost of raising the Hazelmere Dam wall from 2016 to date and (ii) by what date will the specified project be completed, (b) what are the main reasons for the protracted delays in raising the dam wall and (c) is assistance being offered to the affected settlements along the uMdloti River bank?
Reply:
a) (i) As of January 2022, the accumulated expenditure for the project was R646 111 833.
(ii) It is expected that the project will be completed in October 2022.
b) The main delays on the project were due to:
- Unforeseen technical challenges during construction
- Delays in the procurement of critical instrumentation
- Longer than anticipated timeframes for the re-appointment of the contractor through the legally required National Treasury concurrence and appointment of Engineers.
However, the contractor returned to site on 14 October 2021 and construction work has commenced.
c) There are 15 households affected by the raising of the dam wall. Compensation will be provided in the form of 100m2 houses being constructed at an alternative site for each affected household. The affected households are being accommodated in the temporary housing erected on the stands allocated to affected families at Oakford. There are two families that have opted to remain on existing properties until the permanent houses have been constructed. The department is finalising the appointment of the contractor for the new houses.
14 March 2022 - NW297
Mohlala, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
What steps has his department taken to resolve the water crisis that Polokwane and surrounding areas are facing because of the lack of infrastructure maintenance at the (a) Ebenezer and (b) Olifantspoort bulk water schemes?
Reply:
The Lepelle Northern Water Board (LNW) is implementing a preventive maintenance plan that is combined with condition-based, predictive, and corrective maintenance on the bulk water infrastructure as a short-term solution to address water supply challenges in Polokwane.
The Department of Water and Sanitation is implementing the Olifantspoort and Ebenezer Water Supply Schemes (O&E WSS) project to upgrade and refurbish the schemes and increase capacity to meet demand in Polokwane and surrounding areas which is projected to grow to 272,3 ML/day by 2043.
Upon completion of the project, it is envisaged that water supply will be improved as follows:
- The capacity of the Olifantspoort scheme which is currently 60 ML/day will be increased by 40 ML/day.
- The capacity of the Ebenezer scheme which is currently 54 ML/day and will be upgraded by 15ML/day to 69 ML/day.
---00O00---
14 March 2022 - NW506
Mabika, Mr M to ask the Minister of Transport
In view of the announcement by the President of the Republic, Mr M C Ramaphosa, that Government will provide the private sector with access to Transnet’s freight rail network from April 2022, on what date will the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) provide the private sector with access to its passenger rail network and allow the private sector to manage and operate key routes in every province and city as it is clear that Prasa is unable to do so themselves?
Reply:
There is currently no determined date for Prasa to allow private sector access and operation of key routes. The Department of Transport is currently finalising the White Paper on National Rail Policy which pronounces on concessioning of commuter rail as an alternate method of delivery for rail services. Once approved by Cabinet , Prasa will implement the policy provisions.
14 March 2022 - NW394
Mabhena, Mr TB to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)Whether, with reference to (a) the incident where an empty Transnet Freight Rail Blue train derailed at the Union Station Loop in Germiston on Sunday, 7 November 2021 and (b) two Blue train coaches derailing within the Salvokop Blue Train train-yard in January 2022, the Railway Safety Regulator can guarantee the safety of the public on these blue train coaches; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether the safety permits are still valid and in place; if not, why not; if so, on what date is it anticipated that the permits will be reviewed?
Reply:
1. Operators are required to investigate all occurrences and report them to the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) in terms of section 38 of the National Railway Safety Regulator Act, 2002. The type of investigations the RSR conducts is where occurrences result in any of the following:
(i) Multiple (more than 1) injury or fatality in any occurrence category.
(ii) Significant damage to property including assets.
(iii) Significant environmental damage.
(iv) Any occurrences on the network which may attract media attention or may give rise to a possible evacuation of a community or part thereof, occurrences which may affect the normal public road usage or an injury/death to a public figure.
a) On 7 November 2021, at approximately 00h35 it was reported that Transnet Blue train that was staged at Union station had run away and derailed at SCAW SA siding. The RSR responded to the occurrence site to determine facts which contributed to the derailment.
Transnet Freight Rail has indicated that they are conducting a Board of Inquiry (BOI) into the cause of the derailment to establish facts surrounding the occurrence and develop recommendations aimed at reducing the recurrence of the occurrence.
b) On 16 January 2022 at 11h18 it was reported that A Blue train derailed during shunting at the TFR yard in Pretoria at 11h00. No injuries were sustained, no impact on assets and operations.
This occurrence does not meet the requirements for RSR to respond to site in accordance with the RSR procedures. Since it did not result in fatalities and/or injuries to operators’ employees, members of the public, and passengers. There were no injuries sustained and no impact to asset and operations as a result of this occurrence.
2. Transnet has one safety permit; the safety permit expires on 30 June 2022. Following a request from Transnet to submit their safety application in May month, their safety permit will be extended to expire in August 2022.
14 March 2022 - NW395
Mabhena, Mr TB to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether, with reference to (a) the incident where an empty Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) Blue train derailed at the Union Station Loop in Germiston on Sunday, 7 November 2021 and (b) two Blue train coaches derailing within the Salvokop Blue Train train-yard in January 2022, the TFR has provided any proactive internal incident and/or accident report for the two derailments; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Railway Safety Regulator has received reports with regards to (a) the incident where an empty Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) Blue train derailed at the Union Station Loop in Germiston on Sunday, 7 November 2021 and (b) two Blue Train coaches derailing within the Salvokop Blue Train train-yard in January 2022.
The reports are currently being reviewed by the Railway Safety Regulator.
14 March 2022 - NW535
Mphithi, Mr L to ask the Minister of Social Development
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) price and (e) purchase date of each vehicle purchased for use by (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 29 May 2019?
Reply:
(i)Minister |
||||
(a)Make |
(b)Model |
(c)Year of Manufacture |
(d)Price |
(e)Purchase date |
None |
None |
None |
None |
None |
(ii) Deputy Minister |
||||
(a)Make |
(b)Model |
(c)Year of Manufacture |
(d)Price |
(e)Purchase date |
Lexus |
NX300 |
2020 |
R664 723 |
06/03/2020 |
Lexus |
NX300 |
2020 |
R664 723 |
06/03/2020 |
14 March 2022 - NW556
Arries, Ms LH to ask the Minister of Social Development
In light of the fact that more than half of the struggling educare centres in the Western Cape which applied for the Employment Stimulus Relief Fund are still waiting for much-needed funding, what (a) total number of early childhood development centres have received their payment from the specified fund, (b) was the total cost and (c) total number are still awaiting payment?
Reply:
(a) A total of 1327 ECD services have received payment as at 23 February 2022.
(b) The total amount paid is R24 287 263,00 to these ECD services
(c) A total of 1 798 ECD service are still awaiting payment which translate to 3125 staff.
14 March 2022 - NW290
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
What interventions has his department taken to ensure that residents of the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality, who are subjected to drinking polluted water, are provided with clean water?
Reply:
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has engaged the Sol Plaatjie Local Municipality on the matter and the municipality confirmed that at times the turbidity of treated water was elevated, but that there were no failures on bacteriological contamination as all E. coli results were within requirements.
The DWS officials conducted investigations at the Riverton WTW on 04 February 2021 and the following findings were reported:
a) Aged infrastructure on both the old and new plant and poor operations and maintenance of the works.
b) The old plant was non-operational due to chemical and chlorine pumps failure
c) The new plant has 48 sand filters in total with some sand filters out of operation; those that were operational were overloaded and full of scum due to pd) or operation and maintenance
d) From the on-site physical testing, the final turbidity count was ranging from 34.4, 18.08, 9.41 to 4.79 NTU
e) The bulk water network supply lines could be corroded or full of sand; with no routine cleaning of reservoirs; and no maintenance program for existing infrastructure.
f) No full chemical and bacteriological analysis of final treated water is available on the Blue Drop Information system.
On 21 February 2022 DWS directed the municipality, in terms of 53(1) of the NWA to:
a) In terms of the Water Services Act (Regulation relating to Compulsory National Standards, No. 5) to provide water services within its area of jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with the Compulsory National Standards for the Quality of Potable Drinking Water (DWAF, 1996), SANS 241 and subsequent updated versions.
b) Ensure all water supplied to a household is tested by the water service authority/provider, with the frequency of testing depending on the size of the community in accordance with SANS 241.
c) Establish a suitable programme for sampling the quality of drinking water; specify the sampling points, frequency and which substances will be tested for in the water; compare the results with SANS 241 and if such results indicate that the water poses a health risk - inform the DWS, the Department of Health, and consumers immediately; and
d) Ensure that all consumers are educated about water quality and its importance for human health.
Furthermore, in terms of Schedule 3(1)(2) of the NWA the municipality was directed to provide an action plan within five (5) working days including short- and long-term solutions with financial and human resource implications and assigned responsibilities on how the municipality will address all the areas of non-compliance identified above. The municipality is also expected to provide monthly reports (by the first working day of following month) indicating:
- Progress with implementation of actions,
- Operation and maintenance of treatment water,
- Storage and conveyance and the water quality test results to indicate ensure safe drinking water that meets the required standards
The response of the municipality with the action plan and implementation of the action plan is being monitored by the department of Water and Sanitation.
---00O00---
14 March 2022 - NW521
Sharif, Ms NK to ask the Minister of Finance
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) price and (e) purchase date of each vehicle purchased for use by (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 29 May 2019?
Reply:
(i) Minister |
ii) Deputy Minister |
|
(a) Make |
Mercedes-Benz |
None |
(b) Model |
C-Class (C180) |
|
(c) Year of manufacture |
2016 |
|
(d) Price |
R653 943.27 |
|
(e) Purchase date of each vehicle purchased since 29 May 2019 |
28 June 2019 |
11 March 2022 - NW136
Van Minnen, Ms BM to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)In view of the oversight visit to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s Head Office in Gauteng undertaken by the Standing Committee on Public Accounts recently to deal with issues pertaining to their outstanding audit and troubled audit history, and in view of the Board’s ongoing instability over recent years with the current Board not meeting the requirements of the Legal Succession to the Transport Services Act, Act 9 of 1989, as there are ongoing vacant positions, (a) what is the current situation in this regard and (b) how does he intend to fill the vacant positions; (2) what has he found are the ramifications on the decision-making powers of the current Board given that they do not meet the requirements of the Legal Succession to the Transport Services Act, Act 9 of 1989?
Reply:
1 The Board of Control of PRASA is governed by section 24 of the Legal Succession to the South African Transport Services Act, 1989 (Act No. 9 of 1989) which provides that –
“(1) the affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by a Board of Control of not more than 11 members including the chairman, who shall be appointed and dismissed by the Minister.
(2) At least-
(a) one of the members of the Board of Control shall be an officer in the Department of Transport;
(b) one of the members of the Board of Control shall be an officer in the Department of Finance;
(c) one of the members of the Board of Control shall be nominated by the South African Local Government Association recognised in terms of section 2 (1) (a) of the Organised Local Government Act, 1997 (Act 52 of 1997);
(d) three of the members of the Board of Control shall have expertise and experience in the management of a private sector enterprise.”
(a) There are currently nine Board members, with only two vacancies
(b) The two vacancies have been advertised through a mass advertisement for all Transport entities, and the process of filling the positions is underway.
(2) The Board of Control of PRASA does quorate with the 9 members as the Act requires not more than 11 members rather than 11 members. What will cause the Board of Control not to quorate will be vacancies emanating from non-compliance with section 24 (2) of the Act, of which the 2 vacancies mentioned above are not related to the provisions of section 24(2).
11 March 2022 - NW499
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
Whether her department owes any outstanding monies to the Port St Johns Local Municipality; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) amount is owed, (b) periods over which the monies are owed, (c) measures are in place to address the historical debt and (d) measures are in place to ensure that current payments are kept up to date?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
I have been informed by the Department that in terms of the Department’s books no money is owed to the Port St Johns Municipality.
As at 31st January 2022, the age analysis obtained from the Port St Johns Municipality (PSJ) reflected an outstanding amount of R10 million compromising mostly of historical debt that is broken down as follows:
NATIONAL DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS MUNICIPAL SERVICES, RATES & TAXES DEBT AS AT 31 January 2022 |
||||||
Municipalities |
Opening Balances as at 01 April 2021 |
Billing Rates and Services: 01 April 2021 to Jan 2022 |
Payments made since 01 April 2021 to 31 January 2022 |
Total Debt After Payment |
Custody/Ownership Dispute Under Investigation for Verification by Department |
Amount Disputed By the Department due to non-allocation of payments |
PSJ |
10 312 579 |
83 806 |
946 442 |
9 449 943 |
2 521 886 |
6 928 057 |
GRAND TOTAL |
10 312 579 |
83 806 |
946 442 |
9 449 943 |
2 521 886 |
6 928 057 |
The total amount billed and invoiced by the municipality in the current year (2021/22) amounts to R83 806.00. The payments made since April 2021 to Jan 2022 amounts to R946 442. The amount paid includes the invoices emanating from the opening balance (1 April 2021).
The amount in dispute amounts to R9.4 million. The Department has arranged for a working session from the 7th March 2022 until the 11th March 2022 to resolve the disputed amount.
The Department remains committed and continues to settle all valid invoices within 30 days.
11 March 2022 - NW134
Van Minnen, Ms BM to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)Whether, with reference to her reply to question 220 on 4 June 2021 regarding the property belonging to her department located at the corner of Jubilee Crescent and Andries Pretorius Street in Somerset West (details furnished), she has been informed of the current condition of the building; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) immediate steps does her department intend to take to address the matter and (b) are the (i) plans for the building and (ii) time frames for the (aa) repairs, (bb) Investment Analysis undertaken to ascertain the future utilisation of the property and (cc) Structural Report?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
1 (a) I have been informed by the Department that the building was boarded up to prevent any unlawful occupation.
(b) (i) The outcome of the Investment Analysis report recommended that the portion of land on which the damaged house is situated be subdivided and sold on the open market, subject to obtaining all the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
(ii) (aa) The damaged house will not be repaired as the intention is to sell the property via open tender.
(bb) The investment analysis report has been finalised, and the outcome was that the property be sold on an open market, subject to obtaining all the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
(cc) The outcome of the report recommended that the property be sold on an open market, subject to obtaining all the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
11 March 2022 - NW337
Brink, Mr C to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)Whether he and/or his department shared information with provincial governments about the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act, Act 46 of 1998, (AARTO) since 1 January 2021; if not, why not; if so, (a) what was the substance of the specified information and (b) on what date was the information disseminated; (2) Whether he and/or his department received any substantive responses from provinces in response to such information; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Yes, the Minister and the Department of Transport did share information with provincial governments about the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act, 1998 (Act No 46 of 1998)
(a) Minister of Transport through the Entity issued a Letter “LINKING OF SAPS OFFICERS TO ISSUING AUTHORITIES” dated 14 January 2021. The substance of the correspondence clarified the linking of the SAPS to the local traffic authorities.
The Minister of Transport issued a circular on “AARTO ROLL-OUT FROM 01 JULY 2021” as pronounced. The aforesaid circular is dated 9 July 2021. Was forwarded to all provinces.
The Minister further through the Entity facilitated virtual meetings with the all provinces regarding the AARTO Rollout. The engagements further presented the following:
- AARTO Master Implementation Plan;
- AARTO Readiness assessments;
- System Deployments and NaTIS Connectivity;
- AARTO Training for Law Enforcement & Back-Office Staff;
- AARTO Service outlets to be deployed per province;
- Signing of MoU’s between stakeholders to give effect to the rollout;
(SAPO & GPW issues)
- AARTO Education and Awareness Campaigns;
- Monitoring & Evaluation of the AARTO Implementation.
The virtual consultation dates with provinces were as followed:
Schedule of AARTO Meetings with HoDs in Provinces
Province |
Meeting Date |
Eastern Cape |
09 March 2021 |
Mpumalanga |
16 March 2021 |
North West |
16 March 2021 |
Free State |
17 March 2021 |
Limpopo |
30 March 2021 |
KZN |
19 April 2021 |
NC & WC |
No confirmation of availability was received as requested |
Gauteng |
Currently implementing AARTO |
August 2021 schedule of meetings held with Provincial Management
Province |
Date |
MP |
17 August 2021 |
LP |
17 August 2021 |
WC |
19 August 2021 |
EC |
19 August 2021 |
KZN |
19 August 2021 |
GP |
20 August 2021 |
NC |
20 August 2021 |
FS |
20 August 2021 |
NW |
25 August 2021 |
September 2021 schedule of meetings held with Provincial Management
PROVINCE |
DATE |
FS |
02 September 2021 |
GP |
08 September 2021 |
MP |
13 September 2021 |
LP |
13 September 2021 |
WC |
14 September 2021 |
EC |
14 September 2021 |
KZN |
14 September 2021 |
NC |
16 September 2021 |
NW |
16 September 2021 |
(b) The Minister & the Department of Transport have established an AARTO National Steering Committee (ANSC) that convenes quarterly for AARTO Stakeholders to engage on matters of mutual interest in the implementation of AARTO. The ANSC is preceded by technical support committees before the main committee could convene. The following are dates and issues deliberated upon in the ANSC:
ITEM |
DATE |
ANSC |
28 January 2021 |
ANSC |
29 March 2021 |
ANSC |
11 June 2021 |
Special ANSC |
14 July 2021 |
ANSC |
24 August 2021 |
ANSC |
28 September 2021 |
ANSC |
17 February 2022 |
ANSC Issues:
The following are standard agenda items discussed at the ANSC:
- Feedback on Executive Directives & Shareholder Engagements
- AMIP/ Draft AARTO roll out plan and related updates
- AARTO IT equipment deployment report
- System enhancement update
- Technical support committee reports
- Municipal Monitoring and Oversight Sub-Committee/ SALGA Engagements
- Provincial AARTO Coordinating Committee meeting feedbacks
2. The Minister & the Department through its Entity received the following substantive responses from the Western Cape in response to information shared, all stating that the province will not be ready to implement of AARTO by 01 October 2021and further raised the following concerns:
2.1. The RTIA Capacity to implement AARTO
2.2. Lack of meaningful consultation;
2.3 The issues around the AARTO Regulations and the need to review AARTO legislation;
2.4. Delays in Training;
2.5. The challenges around the successful rates of representations;
2.6. Transparency in reporting; and
2.7. Absence of an implementation report in the two jurisdictions where AARTO was piloted.
2.8 The province further requested the Entity, the RTMC and the Department to accommodate the e-force interface for the province since the province was already using smart law enforcement, which request is still under discussions;
11 March 2022 - NW501
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)What (a) criteria were used for appointing Coega Development Corporation (CDC) for the independent assessment of the fire damage at the parliamentary precinct, given that the National Treasury waived the existing requirements for appointment, (b) is the value of the contract and (c) are the specialist skills of the team performing the assessment; (2) whether the specialists are registered with the relevant professional bodies; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether the CDC will be precluded from tendering for work identified by the assessment it is undertaking; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
1. (a) I have been informed by the Department that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure used the competitive process on the waived existing requirements by requesting the two Implementing Agents to compete against each other for the appointment on the assessment phase.
(b) The value of the contract is R383 295.00 (Three Hundred and eighty three thousand) inclusive of VAT
(c) The first output of the first phase, being the initial assessment report that seeks to determine the structural integrity of the fire damaged building consists of Structural Engineers and Occupational Health and Safety Professionals. The second output of the first phase, being the comprehensive assessment report that seeks to determine the extent of the damage caused by fire, restorative scope and associated cost consists of all built environment professionals including Heritage Architects, Civil/structural Engineers, Electro/Mechanical Engineers, Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Quantity Surveyors.
2. All the identified professionals are professionally registered with their relevant Councils.
3. If the Department will adopt the Implementing Agent approach to implement the recommendations that emanates from CDC report, CDC won’t be considered for the work it is currently implementing as it will be conflict of interest and defeating the competitive process. The Department has not yet made a decision on the approach it will take until the assessment report is finalised.
11 March 2022 - NW674
Sharif, Ms NK to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
(1)With reference to the National Bargaining Council of the Leather Industry of South Africa, what is the total number of members of the Bargaining Council who are (a) leather handbag manufacturers and fall into the handbag section, (b) paid-up members and compliant and (c) based in Gauteng; (2) what is the breakdown of union membership in each province for the leather handbag manufacturers who fall into the Handbag Section of the Bargaining Council?
Reply:
674. (1) (a) Total number of employers registered with Bargaining Council = 93:
Total employees in the Sector = 2 064
(b) Total number of employers belonging to party Employer Organisation that are registered and compliant = 58:
Total number of employees employed by the party employer
Organisation = 1 402
(c) Total number of employers based in Gauteng = 26
Total number of employees based in Gauteng = 505
(2) Breakdown of party trade union membership per province:
- Western Cape: 681
- Eastern Cape : 32
- Kwa Zulu Natal: 128
- Gauteng : 331
END
11 March 2022 - NW363
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether his department has any plans in place to undertake heavy rehabilitation of the R74 within the Uthukela District Municipality; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (2) whether he will furnish Mr R A Lees with the details of the (a) section and/or sections of the R74 that will be a part of the heavy rehabilitation, (b)(i) start and (ii) end dates for the heavy rehabilitation for the various stages of work on the R74, (c) the extent of work to be undertaken and (d)(i) start date and (ii) extent of maintenance work to be undertaken prior to the heavy rehabilitation work being undertaken given the dangerous conditions of potholes and road collapses along the R74; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Yes, the KZN Department of Transport has a plan to undertake the heavy rehabilitation of R74 known as P11 and will be executed utilising the EPC approach (Engineer, Procure and Construct).
2. a) The sections for the rehabilitation of R74 will be from 10.00 km to 33.00 km only.
b) Work of the section for heavy rehabilitation will start at the beginning of 2022/23 financial year and is expected to be completed at the end of 2022/23 financial year.
c) Prior to the heavy rehabilitation ,the province is planning to undertake the following maintenance activities, that is:-
- Design and construct of pavement layers that include sub base layer, base layer and wearing course
- Road markings and installation of road studs
- Construction of fixing of the drainage, and
- Reinstating the damaged road signs and guardrails.
d) (i) All maintenance activities will start in June 2022 and are expected to be completed by December 2022.
(ii) Considering the dangerous condition of the road, especially potholed during the rainy season, the department will continue with preventative maintenance such as pothole fixing using internal maintenance team until this section of road (10.00 km to 33.00 km) is rehabilitated.
11 March 2022 - NW320
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)What are the details of the surveys conducted by (a) his department and (b) the SA National Roads Agency Limited on the state of roads in the Uthukela District Municipality from 1 October 2021 to 31 December 2021; (2) whether he will furnish Mr R A Lees with copies of the survey reports; if not, why not; if so, on what date?
Reply:
1. (a) The Department of Transport’s mandate relates to the monitoring of adherence to Committee of Transport Officials (COTO) requirements with regard to condition surveys performed by the SA National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) and the various Provincial Authorities. Therefore, the Department of Transport does not conduct its own condition surveys. (Department to verify response)
(b) As per COTO requirements, road condition surveys are required to be performed at least once after every 2 years for Class 1 roads. For the 69.1 km of National Roads (Class 1) under SANRAL administration in Uthukela District Municipality, the road condition surveys were performed on 9 October 2021 and 3 November 2021. For the 229 carriageway km (both directions) of National Roads (Class 1) under N3TC administration the road condition surveys were performed between 23 and 26 September 2021.
In addition to the above road condition surveys, both SANRAL and N3TC also perform daily route patrols to monitor for any accident damage, broken fences, flood damage, potholes, etc. and then issue appropriate job instructions for repairs to appointed service providers.
2. The outcome of the automated road condition surveys performed with road condition survey vehicles for the National Road sections in Uthukela District Municipality is summarised in Table 1 below for each km of National Road. The condition parameters measured include:
a) Roughness (m/km) - Measures smooth ride and wear and tear on vehicles and cargo.
b) Ruth Depth (mm) - Measures accumulation of surface water in wheel tracks and risk of vehicle aquaplaning
c) Texture Depth (mm) - Measures friction for safer wet weather travel at speeds exceeding 60km/h
d) Stuctural Strength – Measures structural strength to withstand the axle loads been applied.
e) Overall Condition Index – Weighted combination of the above condition parameters on a scale of 0 to 100, where 100 is perfect
11 March 2022 - NW682
Cardo, Dr MJ to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
Whether the Compensation Fund received a return of earnings from 222,382 companies in the 2020-21 financial year, while his department reportedly inspected 2 million companies; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the reasons that the Compensation Fund is just administering 11% of all companies in the Republic?
Reply:
The Compensation Fund received 223 644 return of earnings in the 2020-21 financial year.
Only companies who employ a person are required to register with the Compensation Fund in terms of section 80 of the COIDA and submit Return of Earnings in terms of section 82 of COIDA. Employers who meet the requirements of submission of return of earnings and do not do so, are levied penalties and referred to the Inspection and Enforcement Branch in the Department of Employment and Labour.
The Inspection and Enforcement Services (IES) Branch of the Department of Employment and Labour conducts inspections for the assessment of employer compliance against a number of legislations; namely, Employment Equity, Occupational Health and Safety, Unemployment Insurance, Basic Conditions of Employment as well as the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COID).
The reported number of 2 million inspections includes all inspections against the abovementioned legislations and not just those of the Compensation Fund against the COID Act. In addition, the Inspectors visit and inspect workplaces, one registered employer can have multiple workplaces from which his/her business operations are carried out.
11 March 2022 - NW332
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)Whether, with reference to the terrible state of the building housing the SA Police Service’s (SAPS) official offices or headquarters of the Bomb Disposal Unit in Tshwane which is situated at 29 Glyn Street on the corner of Amos Road, Colbyn in Tshwane, (details furnished), any facilities management contract exists for the horticultural maintenance of the specified property and others like it; if not, why not; if so, (a) who is the contractor and (b) what is the value of the contract; (2) whether her department intends to enter into a horticultural maintenance contract regarding the specified property; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) on what date was the last facilities management contract in place for horticultural maintenance of the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit Headquarters?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
- I have been informed by the Department that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) does not have any Service Level Agreement (SLA) to render any Horticultural service to SAPS. This is a client function so SAPS is responsible for this function.
- The DPWI is not in a position to enter into any such agreement for the same reason indicated above.
- There was never a contract in place by DPWI to provide gardening/horticultural services at the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit.
11 March 2022 - NW15
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Transport
In respect of road works in KwaZulu-Natal in the 2020-21 financial year, what (a) total number of contractors received contracts from (i) the SA National Roads Agency and (ii) his department, (b) are the names of the specified contractors, (c) are the relevant details of the work that each contract entailed, (d) are the roads on which the work took place and (e) is the date of completion for each contract?
Reply:
(a)(i) |
(b) |
(c) |
(d) |
(e) |
Number |
Name of Contractor |
Type of work |
National Route |
Estimated Completion Date |
1 |
Geomech Africa (Pty) Ltd |
GEOTECHNICAL DRILLING SERVICES FOR THE UPGRADING OF NATIONAL ROUTE 2 BETWEEN UMTENTWENI INTERCHANGE (SECTION 22, KM 34.8) AND HIBBERDENE INTERCHANGE (SECTION 23, KM 5.3) |
N2 |
June 2021 |
Geomech Africa (Pty) Ltd |
GEOTECHNICAL DRILLING SERVICES FOR THE UPGRADE OF NATIONAL ROUTE 2, SECTION 32 FROM PONGOLA (KM 30.80) TO THE MPUMALANGA BORDER (KM 70.16) |
N2 |
June 2021 |
|
Geomech Africa (Pty) Ltd |
GEOTECHNICAL DRILLING INVESTIGATION FOR THE DESIGN OF THE UPGRADE TO NATIONAL ROUTE 2 SECTION 24 AND SECTION 25 BETWEEN LOVU RIVER (KM 12.0) AND UMLAAS CANAL (KM 2.7) |
N2 |
October 2021 |
|
2 |
Leomat Construction (Pty) Ltd |
WIDENING OF NATIONAL ROUTE R22 SECTION 5, THROUGH KWANGWANASE TOWN |
R22 |
June 2023 |
3 |
Martin & East (Pty) Ltd |
MANUFACTURE OF A TEMPORARY VEHICLE RESTRAINT CONCRETE BARRIER SYSTEM FOR THE UPGRADING OF NATIONAL ROUTES 2 AND 3 IN THE EASTERN REGION |
N2 & N3 |
April 2023 |
4 |
Raubex Construction (Pty) Ltd |
THE UPGRADE OF NATIONAL ROUTE 3, SECTION 2 FROM DARDANELLES (KM 26.6) TO LYNNFIELD PARK (KM 30.6) |
N3 |
June 2024 |
Raubex Construction (Pty) Ltd |
THE UPGRADE TO NATIONAL ROUTE 3, SECTION 2, FROM CATO RIDGE (KM 20,2) TO DARDANELLES (KM 26,6). |
N3 |
April 2025 |
|
Raubex Construction (Pty) Ltd |
THE UPGRADING OF NATIONAL ROUTE 2 FROM KWAMASHU INTERCHANGE, SECTION 25 (KM 28.6) TO UMDLOTI RIVER BRIDGE, SECTION 26 (KM 14.0) |
N2 |
December 2025 |
|
5 |
Raubex KZN (Pty) Ltd |
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE OF THE NATIONAL ROUTE N2, BETWEEN SECTION 21, IZINGOLWENI (KM 101.1) AND SECTION 22, MURCHISON (KM 18.4) |
N2 |
June 2022 |
Raubex KZN (Pty) Ltd |
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE OF NATIONAL ROUTE 2 SECTION 22 FROM MTAMVUNA RIVER (KM 0.00) TO KANDANDLOVU (KM 12.40) - Package 1 |
N2 |
April 2022 |
|
Raubex KZN (Pty) Ltd |
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE OF NATIONAL ROUTE 2 SECTION 22 FROM KANDANDLOVU (KM 12.40) TO MBIZANA RIVER (KM 24.00) - Package 2 |
N2 |
April 2022 |
|
Raubex KZN (Pty) Ltd |
RECONSTRUCTION OF THE SLOW LANE ON NATIONAL ROUTE 3 SECTION 3 FROM SANCTUARY ROAD INTERCHANGE (KM 15.2) TO LINK ROAD (KM 21.2) |
N3 |
August 2022 |
|
6 |
Rumdel Construction Cape (Pty) Ltd |
THE UPGRADE TO NATIONAL ROUTE 3, SECTIONS 2 AND 3 FROM LYNNFIELD PARK (KM30.6) TO ASHBURTON (KM0.8) |
N3 |
January 2025 |
7 |
Tau Pele Construction (Pty) Ltd |
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE ON NATIONAL ROUTE 2, SECTION 29 FROM EMPANGENI T-JUNCTION (km 13.00) TO km 28.80 |
N2 |
July 2022 |
Tau Pele Construction (Pty) Ltd |
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE ON NATIONAL ROUTE 2, SECTION 29 FROM km 28.8 TO ETEZA WEIGHBRIDGE (km 44.6) - Package 2 |
N2 |
July 2022 |
|
8 |
Telegenix Trading 799 (Pty) Ltd |
MOOI RIVER TRAFFIC CONTROL CENTRE OPERATIONS |
N3 |
May 2026 |
9 |
Trench and Blasting (Pty) Ltd |
THE PROVISION OF CRUSHED AGGREGATE FROM THE RCL 9 QUARRY FOR THE UPGRADE OF THE N3 BETWEEN CATO RIDGE TO NEW ENGLAND ROAD |
N3 |
August 2026 |
10 |
Triamic Construction (Pty) Ltd |
CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW KOKSTAD INTERCHANGE AND TRAFFIC CONTROL CENTRE ON NATIONAL ROUTE 2, SECTION 21 (KM 6.4) |
N2 |
November 2023 |
11 March 2022 - NW683
Cardo, Dr MJ to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
Whether the International Labour Organisation conducted any reviews on behalf of his department regarding comparisons with similar departments in other parts of the world; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) which countries were compared, (b) what were the findings and (c) what were the recommendations?
Reply:
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) is one of the Specialized Agencies of the United Nations whose mandate is to advocate for decent work at the workplace. It carries out this mandate through a number of interventions which include setting and supervision of international labour standards, policy and technical advice, capacity building and advocacy. One area of technical support that the ILO provides to its member States is the review of labour administration systems as embodied in ministries responsible for employment and labour, and other related institutions, with a view to assessing their performance and ability to discharge their mandates, implement policies and laws within their remit, and to provide services to the public.
I would like to hasten to indicate that, in the performance of this review function, the ILO does so on the basis of requests from individual member States who are entitled to such support by virtue of their membership to the Organization. The reviews are not being done on behalf of my Department, since we do not have the power to influence the ILO to do these on our behalf, neither do we have the authority to decide whether reviews should be undertaken in other member States.
In addition, the ILO does not currently have any official benchmarking methodology which would enable the Organization to objectively compare national labour administration systems in the member States. These systems differ rather substantially in terms of their mandate, political systems they operate in, and forms of public administrations which make any direct comparison difficult, if not impossible.
However, the ILO Labour Administration Convention, 1978 (No. 150) as well as its accompanying Recommendation 1978 (No. 158) provide a useful guidance by establishing some basic criteria that any labour administration system should draw from, such as, effectiveness, coordination, involvement of social partners, sufficient funding and material means, availability of qualified and independent staff, etc. These two international standards also provide other details concerning the role of labour administration in the areas such as labour standards, labour relations, employment and research and give guidelines on the organization of a national system of labour administration.
I therefore would like to indicate that the main purpose of the reviews is not to compare the different countries, but to assess their systems in the context of their individual circumstances, using international standards as a form of guidance.
I would like to inform this Honourable Member that my Department has gone through a process of review twice, in 2010 and in 2016. A number of findings were made and useful policy advice proffered resulting in significant changes in the Department. The findings touched on institutional shortcomings, performance management deficits, insufficient use of existing technologies, and inadequate human resources policies.
Based on the 2010 review recommendations, the following have been achieved:
a) Creation of the labour inspection and enforcement branch;
b) Strengthening of the oversight role of CCMA and NEDLAC by the Labour Market Policy / Industrial Relations Branch;
c) Passing of the new Public Employment Services Act, 2014;
d) Increase in the number of labour inspection staff and change in their terms and conditions of employment, including their qualification requirements; and
e) Development of a national labour inspection framework.
Another review was made in 2016/17 to assess the implementation of the recommendations of the 2010 review. Satisfied with the rate of implementation of the past recommendations, a set of new recommendations were made, which include:
a) Strengthening of the employment promotion mandate of the Department to coordinate other government departments;
b) Addressing the existing vacancy rate and filling of positions at the technical level;
c) Revision and strengthening of the performance management system;
d) Strengthening of data collection, research, and analytical capacity on labour market and employment conditions, as well as on performance of the Department;
e) Strengthening of social dialogue around labour inspection; and
f) NEDLAC and CCMA be encouraged to make their skills available in the resolution of disputes which have been prevalent in society.
According to the information that I got from open sources in ILO / Pretoria, similar reviews have been undertaken in some countries in Eastern and Southern Africa since 2010; namely; in Botswana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania. Findings are generally the same, pointing to common weaknesses found in labour ministries in most countries. These include weak institutional structures; low resource allocation; poor coordination mechanisms between the headquarters and the field offices; poor working conditions for staff; unsatisfactory legal enforcement and sanction capacity; and insufficient articulation of employment policies.
Specific recommendations have been made to address the findings with due regard to country specificities. These have generally covered restructuring or creation of new departments or units; reforms of public employment services; strengthening of the coordination function and role by the headquarters; enhancement of the enforcement capacity; support by labour administration to social dialogue institutions for enhanced policy dialogue; development of human resource policies, including improvement in working conditions, career advancement and initial and continuous training; labour law reforms; improved performance management; and ratification of relevant ILO conventions.
I thank you
11 March 2022 - NW514
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)With reference to both the Gordons Bay and Hout Bay Harbours that have now seen access control boom gates being erected which restricts access for residents and patrons to both the restaurants and the sick bay and neither set of booms are being correctly operated, who (a) gave instruction for the erection of the boom gates and (b) gave permission for the booms to be erected; (2) whether correct procedures were followed for the awarding of the tenders for the erection of the booms; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) to whom is the revenue for the booms being paid; (4) whether all the tenants affected by the booms were consulted before the process begun; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (5) whether she will furnish Mrs M B Hicklin with copies of the public participation records; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
Question 1:
a) I have been informed by the Department that both Hout Bay and Gordon’s Bay Harbours respectively have always had boom gates. The new boom gates have merely been automated to assist our client, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) with better control over revenue collection, management of the harbour precinct and access control.
b) No permission was required as this is in line with the gazetted tariffs for the entry of a Proclaimed Fishing Harbour as per the Marine Living Resources Act. The Department did, however, consult all Interested and Affected Parties (I&AP) on the new automated system.
Question 2:
Yes, the correct procedures were followed to award the tenders for the erection of the booms. The automated boom gates were only one component of the Land Infrastructure upgrades which falls within the current repair and maintenance programme to the 13 Proclaimed Fishing Harbours in the Western Cape. All tenders were issued through our Implementing Agent, Coega Development Corporation (CDC) and are in line with all National Treasury prescripts and regulations for procurement. As CDC is a state entity, complying with the PFMA is mandatory.
Question 3:
As mentioned in the previous question, the boom gates were part of the land infrastructure upgrades project. The boom gates were formalised from a manual system to an automated system which intended to aid the client DFFE to collect the revenue for gate entry which is contained within the Marine Living Resources Act i.e. cars: R5 per day. Our client Department: DFFE presides over the revenue collection which adds to the financial resources of the State via the Marine Living Resources Fund.
Question 4:
Yes, as mentioned all Interested and Affected Parties were consulted throughout the entire repair and maintenance programme to the Proclaimed Fishing Harbours. The Interested and Affected Parties include the tenants as well as all harbour users i.e. boat owners, day-to-day harbour users, including fish fleckers and surrounding communities that obtain a livelihood from the harbours. The respective harbour masters played a critical role in keeping all harbour users abreast of progress against the scope of work for each project under the repair and maintenance programme.
Question 5:
Public Participation in the Hout Bay and Gordon’s Bay precincts were managed through the appointment of Community Liaison Officers (CLO) for each project package via the main contractor and/or the appointed local Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME).
DPWI can make copies of the public participation process records available subject to complying with the POPI Act. These records contain the names, surnames and contact details of each Interested and Affected Party that submitted comments during the various projects phases.
11 March 2022 - NW385
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether, following the Inter-Ministerial Committee meeting he hosted together with the Minister of Employment and Labour, the Minister of Police, the Minister of Home Affairs with representatives of the trucking industry, including other engagements related to the meeting, there has been a successful outcome of the resolutions taken in the meeting which fall under the mandate of his department; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Yes, although the issue relates to a large extent to employment and labour portfolio and the impasse plays itself on the public road, my Department has taken upon itself to actively participate in resolving the matter. My Department is currently in the process of amending its regulations to ensure that it supports the legal framework that Employment and Labour operates with regard to the acknowledgement of the driver documentation for the purposes of driving in the Republic.
My Department has established a Task Team of all the stakeholders within the transport sector, wherein issues that needs to be resolved are being presented and interventions developed. To this end there is some consensus with all the Stakeholders on those issues and they are currently being dealt with.
11 March 2022 - NW520
Spies, Ms ERJ to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) price and (e) purchase date of each vehicle purchased for use by (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 29 May 2019?
Reply:
OFFICE |
Financial Year |
a) Make |
b) Model |
© Year Manufacture |
Price |
Purchase Date |
Minister |
2019/20 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
2020/21 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Office |
Financial Year |
a) Make |
b) Model |
(c) Year Manufacture |
d) Price |
|
Deputy Minister |
2019/20 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
2020/21 |
Audi Q5 4.0 TDI |
Audi Q5 TDI Quattro 5 Line Tronic |
2020 |
R748 018. 65 |
18 Oct 2021 |
11 March 2022 - NW196
Mabika, Mr M to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(a) What number of supplier invoices currently remain unpaid by (i) her department and (ii) each entity reporting to her for more than (aa) 30 days, (bb) 60 days, (cc) 90 days and (dd) 120 days, (b) what is the total amount outstanding in each case and (c) by what date is it envisaged that the outstanding amounts will be settled?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
1. DPWI:
a) I have been informed by the Department that the total number of supplier invoices that currently remain unpaid (i.e. on the 15 February 2022) for the Department (DPWI) is:
Category |
Number of Invoices Outstanding |
Total Amount Outstanding |
more than 30 days |
0 |
R 0 |
more than 60 days |
0 |
R 0 |
more than 90 days |
0 |
R 0 |
more than 120 days |
0 |
R 0 |
- Not applicable;
- Not applicable.
PMTE:
a) As at Friday, 25th February 2022 the number of invoices that were unpaid and beyond 30 days were 0:
Category |
Number of Invoices Outstanding |
Total Amount Outstanding |
more than 30 days |
0 |
R0 |
more than 60 days |
0 |
R 0 |
more than 90 days |
0 |
R 0 |
more than 120 days |
0 |
R 0 |
Summary Narrative:
(i) DPWI and PMTE handles and pays on average 858 and 11 300 number of invoices on a monthly basis respectively:
(ii) The department used to have more than 11 500 unpaid invoices over 30 days before the introduction of Reapatala Tracking System;
(iii) Reapatala system is a platform where all invoices of the department are internally received and managed to ensure effective tracking of invoices to be paid timeously;
(iv) Weekly meetings with our regional offices and regular interventions by the Minister through Reapatala reports resulted in the zero (0) and ten (10) outstanding invoices for DPWI and PMTE respectively as illustrated above.
11 March 2022 - NW621
Mkhonto, Ms C N to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
What total number of (a) employers were registered in the CompEasy System of the Compensation Fund and (b) the specified employers were registered in the previous system?
Reply:
a) Total number employers registered on CompEasy is 28 596 that includes users linked to multiple organizations.
b) Employers registered on the previous system (Umehluko): 45 336
11 March 2022 - NW319
Mabhena, Mr TB to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)What (a) are the relevant details of the plan regarding the mooted R90,00 temporary driving licence card fee and (b) measures are in place for persons who cannot afford to pay the specified amount; (2) whether there is a plan to subsidise citizens who cannot afford the amount; if not, why not; if so, how will the subsidy process be implemented? NW330E
Reply:
(1) What (a) are the relevant details of the plan regarding the mooted R90,00 temporary driving licence card fee and (b) measures are in place for persons who cannot afford to pay the specified amount;
The Temporary Driving Licence (TDL) Fees vary from Province to Province and that is from R54 to R94. It is Government plan to standardise the TLD fees so that the TDL holders can remain within their Provinces for service. All motoring public who have vehicles and are driving are encouraged to renew their driving licenses before end of March 2022.
(2) whether there is a plan to subsidise citizens who cannot afford the amount; if not, why not; if so, how will the subsidy process be implemented? NW330E
The Honourable Minister has expressed a desire to engage with the Shareholder’s Committee to offer a bouquet of incentives to encourage the public to comply before deadline. At present there is no subsidy for the people who cannot afford to pay for the TDL.
11 March 2022 - NW500
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
What (a) is the status of the litigation between Get Connected and her department on the Tlotlang-Thuto Secondary School and Loreto Convent School, (b) is the progress on the building of the specified schools, (c) measures has her department taken to resolve the issues without resorting to litigation and (d) is being done to ensure that the projects proceed and that children can go to school?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
Response in respect of Loreto Convent School:
I have been informed by the Department that the status regarding Loreto Convent School in Gauteng can be best dealt with by the Department of Basic Education as it is not in the purview of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
Response in respect of Tlotlang-Thuto Secondary School:
I have been informed by the North West Administrator that:
a) Litigation is in the Mmabatho High Court.
b) Progress is at 98%. Building work was declared structurally unsound, non-salvageable and recommended to be demolished.
c) The contractor opted to terminate the contract and follow the litigation route. The Department is defending the matter.
d) The project is deemed as evidence in the SIU investigation and all materials on site are being treated as such.
In the interim there is a high level discussion between the Department of Public Works and Roads and the Department of Education in the North West to facilitate temporary school accommodation.
11 March 2022 - NW583
Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
What is the percentage of (a) finalised medical invoices that were paid within 40 days and (b) claims that were rejected by the Compensation Fund in the 2021-22 financial year?
Reply:
a) The percentage of finalised medical invoices that were paid within 40 days is 87% (464 532 invoices out of a total of 533 211 invoices received) as at 31 December 2021.
b) The total number of claims (invoices) rejected by the Compensation Fund in the 2021-22 financial year is 39 057.
11 March 2022 - NW555
Arries, Ms LH to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)What total amount was spent on training of staff at the Mohlakeng Old Age Home in Randfontein; (2) whether the training received by staff at the specified old age home is accredited training; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the training received?
Reply:
(1) There was no budget that was allocated for training of staff at Mohlakeng Old Age Home in Randfontein; however, the Department transferred the total amount of R 480 000 (R 120 000 per quarter) for managing the affairs of the Organisation.
(2) The staff did not receive any accredited training, instead focus was on the mentoring and coaching was conducted to prepare them to perform their duties.
11 March 2022 - NW624
Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
Whether the Compensation Fund outsources the management of the Call-Centre, Help desk, CompEasy and other Call Centre mailboxes; if so, (a) who are the main contractors, (b) on what date(s) were they appointed, (c) what is the total value of the contract for each contractor and (d) what total number of unregistered claims are in inboxes and mailrooms waiting to be registered?
Reply:
The Compensation Fund does not outsource the management of the Call Centre, Help Desk, CompEasy and other call centre mailboxes.
The claim registration process is automated through the CompEasy system where employers can register claims on their own. Where manual claims are submitted, these are sent to the Labour Centres by employers.
11 March 2022 - NW584
Langa, Mr TM to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
What process does the Compensation Fund follow to obtain outstanding information from employers to finalise outstanding claims?
Reply:
The claims processors and client service officers utilise the contact details on the claim forms to contact the employer, medical service providers and/or claimants in order to obtain information required to finalise claims.
11 March 2022 - NW202
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Transport
(a) What number of supplier invoices currently remain unpaid by (i) his department and (ii) each entity reporting to him for more than (aa) 30 days, (bb) 60 days, (cc) 90 days and (dd) 120 days, (b) what is the total amount outstanding in each case and (c) by what date is it envisaged that the outstanding amounts will be settled?
Reply:
(a) Department
Invoice Age Analysis |
Number of Invoices |
Total Amount (b) |
More than 30 days (aa) |
29 |
R 71,851.69 |
More than 60 days (bb) |
13 |
R 35,607.16 |
More than 90 days (cc) |
0 |
R 0.00 |
More than 120 days (dd) |
223 |
R 1,187,235.53 |
Total |
265 |
R 1,294,694.38 |
(c) The invoices more than 30 days and 60 days will be paid within the next 30 days. The invoices more than 120 days are disputed Phakisa invoices. A final offer was accepted by the supplier and once the supplier provides the new invoices, it will be paid.
Airport of South Africa (ACSA)
Days |
Amount |
Number of Invoices |
120 |
18 770 475,26 |
499 |
90 |
1 267 884,84 |
25 |
60 |
2 791 207,73 |
20 |
30 |
5 280 488,09 |
56 |
Current |
38 047 207,76 |
118 |
Total |
66 157 263,68 |
718 |
As a response to the Covid-19 pandemic, ACSA undertook a rental reprieve process for its tenants by giving out credit notes for the rental owed, amounting to R2,8 billion. In addition, the traffic volumes decline significantly reduced ACSA’s total revenues in the last two financial years. For the financial year ended 31 March 2021, revenues declined by about 80% i.e., from R7,2 billion to R2,2 billion, and this has led to decreased cashflows. ACSA engaged its suppliers for relaxed payment terms where possible, particularly among the bigger suppliers, leading to days average creditor days exceeding 30 days. The monthly payment to suppliers averages R150m to R200m. Invoices for which there are no queries are paid on a monthly. Invoices older than 30 days are those wherein there are queries with the suppliers pertaining to contractual matters pertaining to scope of works/goods delivered, timing and budgets/fees. |
Air Transporting Navigating System ( ATNS)
Based on 31st January 2022 age analysis
(aa) |
(bb) |
(cc) |
(dd) |
|||
Current Period |
31 - 60 Days |
61 - 90 Days |
90 - 120 Days |
120 Days and over |
Total |
|
|
R |
R |
R |
R |
R |
R |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) No. of invoices |
101 |
57 |
48 |
35 |
390 |
631 |
|
16% |
9% |
8% |
6% |
62% |
100% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(b) Total Amount |
12,197,617 |
4,155,346 |
5,927,040 |
1,665,189 |
3,775,262 |
27,720,453 |
|
44% |
15% |
21% |
6% |
14% |
100% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total No. of suppliers |
|
|
|
|
|
150 |
(c) All suppliers where there are no disputes will be paid in 30 days
Cross Board Transport Agency( CBRTA
a) There are eleven (11) supplier invoices that currently remain unpaid at (b) Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA) and are shown in the table below.
(a) |
(aa) – (dd) |
(b) |
(c) |
Total number of invoices |
Period of non-payment |
Amount Outstanding |
Envisaged date on which amount will be paid |
2 |
180 days |
R127 123.89 |
The Service Provider has invoiced us incorrectly. They have agreed to re-invoice and once we receive the updated invoices, payment will be processed. The envisaged payment date is 28 February 2022. |
9 |
90 days |
R63 357.97 |
The Agency has raised a dispute with the service provider regarding the billed amounts. Disputed amounts will be settled once engagements are concluded. The envisaged payment date is 28 February 2022. |
11 |
South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL)
(a)(ii) SANRAL has 5 outstanding invoices, which are older than 30 days. The age analysis of the creditors is indicated in the Table below.
Age |
Number of invoices |
(b) Value (R) |
Reason |
|
|
1 |
1 268 262.99 |
Rejected by bank due to banking details incorrectly supplied |
|
|
1 |
1 738.00 |
||
|
||||
|
3 |
12 405.80 |
||
TOTAL |
5 |
1 282 406.79 |
b) The invoices will be paid immediately, once the vendor has supplied the correct banking details, as verified by the bank. SANRAL has a payment run twice a week.
Road Accident Fund (RAF)
(a)(ii) The number of supplier invoices that currently remain unpaid by the Road Accident Fund for more than |
(aa) 30 days, is |
(bb) 60 days, is |
(cc) 90 days, is |
and (dd) 120 days, is |
33 |
109 |
65 |
170 |
|
b) the total amount outstanding in each case is |
R2,196,378.25 |
R5,921,095.21 |
R2,647,942.17 |
R11,881,697.38 |
and (c) the processing for payment of the outstanding amounts is an ongoing process, which is subject to certain challenges, including, unresolved queries relating to suppliers’ invoice details; suppliers’ change of banking details; disputes with suppliers on services or goods provided; and a lengthy and labour-intensive process involved in perusing itemised legal invoices, per item of cost incurred, having regard to different rates allowed per item. |
Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC)
A) We have 8 invoices that are unpaid, please see table below:
Except for the one service provider, SAPO, all other invoices will be paid within 14 days and they are still within 30 day.
There is currently a dispute that is being resolved with SAPO, invoice to be paid within 7 days.
Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA)
a) What number of supplier invoices currently remain unpaid by
(ii) each entity reporting to him for more than
(aa) 30 days =0,
(bb) 60 days = 2,
(cc) 90 days = 3 and
(dd) 120 days = 4,
(b) what is the total amount outstanding in each case and
(aa) 30 days =0,
(bb) 60 days = R121 034.52,
(cc) 90 days = R117 134.56 and
(dd) 120 days = R25 136.72
(c) by what date is it envisaged that the outstanding amounts will be settled?
(aa) 30 days =Not applicable,
(bb) 60 days = January 2022,
(cc) 90 days = January 2022 and
(dd) 120 days = under dispute
Drivers Licence Card Agency (DLCA)
(aa) 0
(bb) 0
(cc) 0
(dd) As at 10 February 2022, the DLCA has one invoice that remains unpaid for longer than 120 days, the invoice was received in February 2021. However, the DLCA has paid the portion of the invoice that was not disputed. The other portion is still under dispute.
(c) By 31 March 2022 after the legal dispute is resolved.
South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA)
a) (i) Not applicable
(ii) (aa) 48
(bb) 10
(cc) 16
(dd) Included above, system ages up to 90+ days
b) (i) Not applicable
(ii) (aa) R95 043.21
(bb) R2 819.35
(cc) R205 930.79
(dd) Included above, system ages up to 90+ days
c) All outstanding invoices are planned to be settled in February 2022.
Ports Regulator of South Africa (PRSA)
(a)(ii) The Ports Regulator does not have any invoices that are outstanding for more than (aa) 30, (bb) 60, (cc) 90 or (120) days. The Ports Regulator has systems and processes in place to ensure that all invoices are paid within average of 14 to 21 days after the receipt of the invoice from supplier with no required amendments. This was further confirmed by the Auditor General during the 2020/2021 financial year audit.
(b) N/A
(c ) N/A
Railway Safety Regulator (RSR)
Number of invoices outstanding
Number of invoice outstanding |
|||
(aa) 30 days |
(bb) 60 days |
(cc) 90 days |
(dd) 120 days |
3 |
0 |
0 |
6 |
a) The total amount outstanding in each case is:
Period outstanding |
Amount |
30 days |
R179,591-23 |
60 days |
R0 |
90 days |
R0 |
120 days |
R19,923,304-65 |
b) The date envisaged for the outstanding amounts to be settled is:
Period outstanding |
Amount |
Envisaged date of payment |
Notes |
30 days |
R179,591-23 |
28 February 2022 |
- |
60 days |
R0 |
Not applicable |
- |
90 days |
R0 |
Not applicable |
- |
120 days |
R1,855,767-89 |
31 March 2022 |
- |
R16,264,306-26 |
Unknown |
The amount is being disputed and payment date is therefore unknown. |
|
R1,696,738-74 |
Unknown |
The amount is being disputed and payment date is therefore unknown. |
|
R106,491-76 |
31 March 2022 |
- |
South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA)
(ii) The SACAA currently has (aa) zero 30 days outstanding invoices (bb) zero 60 days outstanding invoices and (dd) only has one invoice outstanding as per the creditors age analysis that is in 120 days (b) amounting to R33 741. (c) The invoice is currently in dispute and will be paid once the dispute is resolved.
Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA)
Number of invoices outstanding
c) The total amount outstanding in each case is:
Please refer to table above in (a).
d) It is impossible to specify the date on which the outstanding amounts will be settled given the current situation that PRASA finds itself in, especially with the OPEX.
- The total group debt amounts to R4,8 billion, with OPEX accounting for 92% of this debt.
- Most of the debt, 53%, is owed to Transnet, with other suppliers constituting 39% and municipalities a further 8%.
- PRASA is currently not able to pay its debt as they become due with most of its debt being in excess of 180 days.
- Only invoices over 180 days will be settled monthly except for payroll, critical suppliers (i.e. ICT, security, municipal rates, etc.), statutory items, insurance related claims, legal disbursements and court orders.
11 March 2022 - NW550
Mkhonto, Ms C N to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
In light of the fact that the Compensation Fund has been getting adverse and disclaimer audit outcomes from the Auditor-General for the past 10 years, what (a) disciplinary measures have been taken to remedy the situation and (b) action has been taken regarding backlogs that result from infrastructure challenges and poor network challenges?
Reply:
a) Compensation Fund has developed an Audit Action Plan to remedy the negative audit outcomes. The aim is not to deal with the symptoms of these audit outcomes, but to drill down to the root causes of them. The root causes of the audit disclaimer are not as a result of a specific person but the systemic issues related to business processes, skills shortages, ICT systems and policies. Action Plan that is currently in place, one of its key objectives is to remedy the defects that lead to the negative audit outcomes.
b) No backlogs have been reported as a result of infrastructure challenges and poor network challenges.
11 March 2022 - NW580
Mkhonto, Ms C N to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
(a) What total number of (i) labour inspectors are employed by his department and (ii) funded vacancies are there in the labour inspector directorate of each province and (b) on what date is it envisaged that each position will be filled?
Reply:
a) What total number of:
(i) And (ii) Inspectors in the employ of the Department, including vacancies:
Province/Office |
Filled posts |
Vacant funded posts |
Total posts |
Eastern Cape |
211 |
12 |
223 |
Free State |
170 |
13 |
183 |
Gauteng |
345 |
82 |
427 |
KwaZulu Natal |
410 |
16 |
426 |
Limpopo |
174 |
21 |
195 |
Mpumalanga |
147 |
10 |
157 |
Northern Cape |
87 |
8 |
95 |
North West |
128 |
17 |
145 |
Western Cape |
201 |
18 |
219 |
Head Office |
18 |
1 |
19 |
Total |
2089 |
198 |
2089 |
b) On what date is it envisaged that each positions will be filled?
Posts should be filled over the next 6 to 12 months.
About 50% of these posts are already at one or the other stage of recruitment and selection.
11 March 2022 - NW262
Shembeni, Mr HA to ask the Minister of Transport
What (a) measures has his department put in place to monitor the usage of the Komatipoort bridge as a parking spot for trucks transporting chrome over weekends and (b) has he found to be the possible dangers to the road caused by this practice?
Reply:
a) The Department of Transport and /or its Entities do not manage road traffic at the mouth of the border, it falls within the Nkomazi Local Municipality jurisdiction supported by the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works in line with Schedule 5 Part B of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. However, the Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA) supports and contributes to the unimpeded flow of goods and passengers between South Africa and her neighbouring states through its law enforcement arm.
b) Since the Department of Transport and or its entities does not monitor traffic as stipulated above it has not done surveys to ascertain the impact of this practice. However, such a practice can contribute to the bridge collapse, congestion, reduction of efficiencies, lack of compliance to road traffic regulations and does not promote road safety.
Looking into the future, the C-BRTA is in a process of implementing a pilot, with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), on an Operator Compliance Accreditation System (OCAS) and Authorised Economic Operator (AEO). This pilot will fast-track accredited trucks to cross the border with limited interventions from border stakeholders. Furthermore, the C-BRTA is also in a process of negotiating with other government and private stakeholders regarding the implementation of a new electronic Queue Management system that will allow trucks to the border to be allocated designated time slots, the electronic queue management system will also be implemented together with a holding facility closer to the mouth of the border as there is no parking space along the corridor for such truck volumes. If trucks arrive at the border before their allocated time slots, they will then be allocated numbers on arrival and be released when called by border authorities to cross. These measures will alleviate congestion at the border and eliminate the possible utilisation of the Komatipoort Bridge as a parking space for trucks.
11 March 2022 - NW623
Mkhonto, Ms C N to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
(1)Whether any labour inspectors visited any farms in Limpopo for inspection in the 2020-21 financial year; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) which farms and (b) on what dates; (2) whether any labour inspectors intend to visit any farms in Limpopo in the current financial year; if not, why not; if so, (a) which farms and (b) on what dates?
Reply:
1. Yes, Honourable Mkhonto, Labour Inspectors visited farms in the financial year 2020-21. A total of 1150 inspections were conducted and only 169 workplaces were not compliant with the labour legislations.
Legislation |
Number of Inspections |
Compliant |
Non-compliant |
Number issued with Enforcement document |
EE |
72 |
21 |
51 |
51 |
BCEA |
877 |
836 |
41 |
41 |
OHS |
87 |
39 |
48 |
48 |
UI |
46 |
27 |
19 |
19 |
COIDA |
67 |
57 |
10 |
10 |
TOTAL |
1149 |
980 |
169 |
169 |
2) Labour inspectors intend to conduct 1 174 inspections in the farming sector during the financial year 2022/23.
11 March 2022 - NW344
Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)With reference her reply to question 2608 on 3 December 2021 on the illegal occupation at Knoflokskraal Grabouw, Western Cape, (a) on what date did the property belong to the State, (b) who were the owners before it became State property and (c) what is the (i) size and (ii) value of the land; (2) whether the land was used productively prior to the occupation; if not, what are the future land use plans; if so, what was the activity; (3) whether she will consider transferring the land to the local municipality; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
I have been informed by the Department that:
1 (a) Caledon RD, Grabouw : The Farm Vlakte No. 445 was registered in Name of the Republic of South African in 1975.
Caledon RD, Grabouw: Farms No. 335 & 336 were registered in the Name of the Republic of South Africa in 1911.
(b) - The Farm Vlakte No. 445 was previously an unregistered piece land.
The Previous owner The Farms Knoflokskraal No. 335 & 336 was Daniel Eliza Klem.
(c)(i) -The Farm Vlakte No. 445 measures 1355, 17.78 hectares.
The Farm Knofloskraal No. 335 measures 311.4212 hectares and Farm No.336 measures 166.5197 hectares.
(ii) The current value of the properties is not yet determined.
(2) The land parcels were allocated the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) for forest plantation purposes and those leases have since expired.
(3) DEFF must re-apply for the use of the said properties and has not yet done so officially. Once the application is received, it will be considered and processed in line with G.I.A.M.A.
11 March 2022 - NW622
Mkhonto, Ms C N to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour
What (a) total number of claims were registered with the CompEasy System of the Compensation Fund by registered (i) employers, (ii) labour centres and (iii) third parties and (b) are the relevant details in each specified case?
Reply:
a. Total number of claims registered on CompEasy as between October 2019 and 04 March 2022: 329 655. The claims are registered by employers, labour centres and third parties but we do not keep reports per category as all claims are considered valid registered claims if they meet the requirements of the law.
11 March 2022 - NW318
Mabhena, Mr TB to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether there is any ongoing process to enable the digital driving licence cards to come into operation; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date is it envisaged that the cards will come to operation and (b) what are the milestones of the process thus far?
Reply:
The Department of Transport has plans to introduce the digital driving licence card in 2024/25 financial year. This project is the responsibility of the Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) which is the trading entity responsible for the production of driving licence cards in South Africa. The introduction of the digital driving licence (commonly referred as the eDL) will be preceded by the introduction of the new driving licence card which is set to be launched in October 2023.
The design for the new driving licence card has been completed and is undergoing process for cabinet approval.
10 March 2022 - NW615
Arries, Ms LH to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)Â Â Â Â Â Â What total number of temporary teachers are employed in all public schools; (2) whether her department has any plans to place such teachers in permanent positions; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) There are three categories of educators appointed in a temporary capacity. Those appointed in posts that are temporary in their nature or posts that are additional to the declared school post establishment. These include educators appointed in temporary posts such as Dinaledi posts, growth posts, class size reduction posts etc. Those that are appointed against vacant substantive promotional posts. This is to address the temporary workload increase as a result of the vacant promotional post. And those that are appointed in vacant substantive post level one posts. These are vacant post level one posts that are part of the post establishment of a school and are filled through matching and placement in order to ensure that there is a teacher in front of the class and are continuously being converted to permanent in terms of section 6B of the Employment of Educators Act (EEA) and Collective Agreement 1 of 2018. Therefore only the latter group can be converted to permanent if they meet the requirements of the posts.
As of the end of December 2021, there were 8 713 temporary educators that were appointed in vacant substantive post level one posts.
(2) As indicated above these educators are continuously being considered for permanent placement upon confirmation by the Head of Department after consultation with the school governing body and confirmation that they meet the requirements of the post.
10 March 2022 - NW472
Nodada, Mr BB to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What (a) is the current backlog of schools requiring (i) sanitation, (ii) electricity, (iii) water, (iv) replacement due to inappropriate materials and (b) total number of the schools was provided with the specified infrastructure in the (i) 2019-20 and (ii) 2020-21 financial years?
Reply:
a) (i) 35 of the scope on the ASIDI programme
(ii) The scope for electricity is completed
(iii) 101 of the scope defined on the ASIDI programme
(iv) 41 of the scope defiend on the ASIDI programme
b) (i) Sanitation: 544 on the ASIDI & SAFE programmes
Electricity: Scope completed
Water: 87 on the ASIDI programme
Inappropriate Structures: 28 on the ASIDI programme
(ii) Sanitation: 263 on the ASIDI and SAFE programmes
Electricity: Scope completed
Water: 100 on the ASIDI programmes
Inappropriate Structures: 32 on the ASIDI programme
10 March 2022 - NW594
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
What (a) lessons has his department learnt from COVID-19 about the state of public health provision in the Eastern Cape and (b) measures does his department intend to put in place to revamp the state of public health in that province?
Reply:
a) Covid-19 showed that there are challenges within the province that are because of fiscal constraints and the impact of medico-legal litigations which impact quality of care provisioning. This was also because of critical staff shortage because of the fiscal constraints impact. Further exacerbating staff morale. The pull of these already tight resources to mitigate Covid-19 resulted in service backlogs in other priority programmes such as HIV and Aids, TB, and Immunisation.
b) The department has developed a five-pillar strategic approach to mitigate and improve the quality of care within the province. These are –
(i) Financial sustainability.
(ii) Medico-legal mitigation strategy
(iii) Service Optimisation.
(iv) Digitalisation and eHealth implementation.
(v) Healthy Communities initiatives with focus on:
- Maternal and child health.
- Communicable and non-communicable diseases.
- Mental health.
- Clinical governance.
- NHI implementation strategies.
On Covid-19 mitigation, the department had an intra-action review sessions in-between the covid-19 waves and shared the lessons were learnt that led to improvement of the response. These included:
(i) Empowering the Community Health Workers to use oxymeters for monitoring home isolated patients and educating communities to seek early intervention and hospital admissions.
(ii) Increased bed capacity to ensure all patients could be accommodated. This was further supported with increased oxygen point availability.
(iii) Improved clinical protocols and monitored management of patient care by clinical managers including ensuring all patients were seen daily including weekends.
END.
10 March 2022 - NW686
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)Â Â Â Â Â Â (a) How is the equitable share calculation to provinces made and (b) what is the formula that is used for the portion allocated to public ordinary schools; (2) whether there is an allocation to public special needs schools; if not, (a) why not and (b) how are the learners of such schools funded; if so, what is the formula that is used; (3) whether there is an allocation for learners outside the compulsory school-going age of 7 to 15 years; if not, (a) why not and (b) how are such learners funded; if so, how is it calculated?
Reply:
Answer: 1(a): In terms of the equitable share, 48% of the overall budget should be allocated to Basic Education in the provinces but this is not always the case. The allocation of the budget (i.e. equitable share) in the provinces is the prerogative of the Provincial Executive.
Answer 1(b): The Public Ordinary Schools’ operations are funded through the National Norms and Standards for School Funding (NNSSF). The NNSSF takes into account the quintile (Q) ranking of the schools which is pro poor with the poorest (Q1 to Q3) which are no fee schools receiving the highest subsidy.
Answer question 2: The Department of Basic Education (DBE) does not have policy relating to the funding of Special schools. The draft policy was not approved due to budget constraints. The DBE has developed Guidelines for Resourcing for Inclusive Education System in a quest to guide the PEDs whilst working towards a policy document in this regard.
Answer question 3: According to the National Treasury 2022 Budget, the equitable share formula for basic education is based on the age cohort 5 to 17 for school-going age and not 7 to 15. Table 2 is an example of the 2022 Budget. There is no earmarked or specific funding for learners above 17 years. The same allocation for the age cohort 5 to 17 is also extended to learners above 17 years.
10 March 2022 - NW625
Nolutshungu, Ms N to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What total number of schools in (i) the Eastern Cape and (ii) KwaZulu-Natal are still without scholar transport, (b) by what date will each specified school that needs assistance from her department with scholar transport be provided with such assistance and (c) what is the total budget allocation by her department for scholar transport for each specified province?
Reply:
a) (i) 00 and (ii) 397
b) The shortage of scholar transport in KwaZulu Natal is attributed to shortages in funding from the Equitable Share. Discussions are however, ongoing with the respective Provincial Treasury to ensure that the Learner Transport Programme in KwaZulu Natal is funded, adequately. The Sector is also working towards an integrated sectoral school infrastructure planning, in trying to ensure that schools are build where there is a massive need, to relief pressure off the Learner Transport Programme. In the interim, the Sector is also working closely with the Department of Transport through the Shova Khalula Bicycle Programme, with the primary target being learners in rural, remote and poorly resourced areas, who walk longer distances to schools are provided with bicycles. The intended outcome is to reduce travel time for learners and improve school attendance thereby providing relief to the Learner Transport programme.
c) (i) Eastern Cape-R791 380 256.52 and (ii) KwaZulu Natal-R457 000 000.00