Questions and Replies
21 February 2022 - NW101
McGluwa, Mr JJ to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
What number of illegal immigrants have been arrested for undocumented entries at the Beit Bridge border?
Reply:
During the period 22 December 2021 and 15 January 2022 the number of arrests for attempted unlawful entry at Beit bridge Border and its surrounding areas was 5124.
END
21 February 2022 - NW17
Hlengwa, Mr M to ask the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Person with Disabilities
(1) Whether her Office has made progress in addressing the severe underrepresentation of women in (a) various economic sectors and (b) decision-making positions in the private sector; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) What challenges have been identified in this regard?Attached find here: Reply
Reply:
Attached find here: Reply
21 February 2022 - NW86
Powell, Ms EL to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
What are the full names of each new board member in each entity reporting to her?
Reply:
(a) Community Schemes Ombud Service
Names of new board members:
(i) Ms Marvellous Phindile Mthethwa (Chairperson);
(ii) Mr Donovan Vincent Goliath (Deputy Chairperson)
(iii) Mr Sediko Rakolote;
(iv) Ms Julia Ramataboe;
(v) Ms Deshni Subbiah;
(vi) Mr Mthokozisi Daluxolo Xulu; and
(vii) Ms Ntombikayise Sithole.
(b) Housing Development Agency
Names of new board members
- Dr Tshilidzi Ratshitanga (Chairperson);
- Ms Marina Dumakude (Deputy Chairperson);
- Dr Manqoba Soni;
- Ms Nalini Maharaj;
- Mr Rajesh Makan; (Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Representative); and
- Ms Magdeline Tshabalala (Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Representative).
(c) National Home Builders Registration Council
Names of new council members
- Ms Nomusa Mufamadi (Chairperson);
- Mr Francois Beukman (Deputy Chairperson);
- Mr Kganki Matabane;
- Ms Nontuthuko Chiluvane;
- Ms Mandy Jayakody;
- Mr Refilwe Lediga;
- Ms Morwesi Ramonyai;
- Ms Siphindile Memela;
- Ms Nomthandazo Lucia Ncalane-Ngcobo;
- Ms Kedibone Tsiloane;
- Mr Roy Mnisi;
- Ms Shelly Huntley;
- Ms Sasa Subban (Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Representative); and
- Ms Zodwa Matiwane (Department of Trade, Industry and Competition Representative).
(d) Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority
Names of new board members
- Mr Steven Piet Ngubeni (Chairperson);
- Ms Pamela Nonkululeko Makhubela;
- Adv Mxolisi Sphamandla Nene;
- Mr Terry Kevin Johnson;
- Mr Thato Ramaili;
- Ms Thokozani Radebe;
- Ms Thuthuka Siphumezile Songelwa;
- Mr Shaheed Peters;
- Ms Nokulunga Makopo;
- Ms Pamela Beatrice Snyman;
- Ms Verushka Gilbert (Department of Trade, Industry and Competition Representative); and
- Mr Johan Van der Walt (Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Representative).
(e) Social Housing Regulatory Authority
Names of new council members
- Ms Busisiwe Nzo (Chairperson);
- Ms Pulani Thobejane-Mogotsi
- Ms Lahlane Malema;
- Ms Sanele Masiza;
- Ms Yvonne Deliwe Mbane;
- Ms Lebogang Shole;
- Ms Ayanda Olifant;
- Ms Zimbini Hill;
- Ms Confidence Tshilande;
- Mr Kevin Kiewitz;
- Mr Ashley Latchu; and
- Mr Mashukudu Maboa.
21 February 2022 - NW102
McGluwa, Mr JJ to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
Whether he has plans to address the allegations that his department’s officials in Zimbabwe are accepting bribes from illegal immigrants entering the Republic; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
All allegations of wrongdoing which includes information from whistle blowers are thoroughly investigated by department. This was evidenced by the arrests for corruption done at Beit bridge Port of Entry during the latter part of 2021. The department has a zero tolerance approach to corruption and bribery and is implementing plans to tackle this scourge.
END
21 February 2022 - NW44
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) Whether, with reference to the (a) Siloe School for the Blind, (b) Setotolwane Secondary School for Learners with Special Education Needs, (c) Rivoni School for the Blind and (d) Yingisani School for Special Education, all teacher posts are filled; if not, (i) why not and (ii) by what date will each specified position be filled; (2) whether, with reference to the specified schools, all hostel and/or house staff posts are filled; if not, (a) why not and (b) by what date will each such position be filled; (3) whether any therapists are available to the schools; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
(1), (2) and (3). The Question has been referred to the Limpopo Department of Education and the response will be forwarded as soon as information is received from the province.
18 February 2022 - NW152
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
Whether she and/or her department ever received correspondence from a certain political organisation (details furnished), via email, WhatsApp, hardcopy and/or in any other format of which the original file is dated June 2020; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) on what date was the specified correspondence received, (b) who was the sender of the correspondence and (c) what steps were taken by her department in this regard?
Reply:
No, the department did not receive such correspondence from the Political Party in question.
A rigorous procedure guided by Public Service prescripts is followed in the recruitment and appointment processes in the department.
11 January 2022 - NW2703
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1) Since the establishment of the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs Unit of the National Prosecuting Authority in 1999, (a) what total number of (i) reports, (ii) studies and (iii) research papers have been commissioned internally and/or externally on the (aa) reasons for, (bb) effects of and (cc) eradication of the pandemic of sexual offences in the Republic, (b) by whom was the research conducted and (c) what was the topic of the research; (2) Whether he will furnish Mrs D van der Walt with a copy of the reports; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3216E
Reply:
- The Sexual Offences and Community Affairs (SOCA) Unit did not commission any research. However, the Unit participated in research projects commissioned by others (institutions and individuals) by making relevant National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) officials available to be interviewed or assist with data. The list of research projects that were approved by the SOCA Unit through the NPA’s research unit from 2017 to date is attached as Annexure A.
- The NPA is not able to share any research reports due to the fact that authors only granted permission for internal use by the organisation but not for sharing with external parties. The NPA respects the intellectual property of the researchers or authors.
11 January 2022 - NW2746
Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(a) In what way has she found that infrastructure and logistical issues such as rail and shipping in the Republic affected the (i) export of produced goods and (ii) production figures thereof and (b) what are the full, relevant details in this regard?
Reply:
We are in the process of verifying the information pertaining to this question. A detailed response to this question will be submitted to Parliament as soon as possible.
11 January 2022 - NW2670
Buthelezi, Mr EM to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1) Whether, with regard to the media briefing on 19 November 2021, wherein the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Eskom discussed a plan by alleged saboteurs to shut down some of the units at Lethabo Power Station, he will furnish Mr E M Buthelezi with the full, relevant information on the comments by the CEO of Eskom that the entity is being sabotaged from within by low-end managers; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether his department is investigating any of these allegations; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
- The Hon Member will be supplied with Eskom’s media briefing record of the 19th November 2021, regarding loadshedding.
- The Department will also contact your office for further clarity and then respond accordingly.
11 January 2022 - NW2637
Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What (a) practical plans does the Perishable Produce Export Control Board have to avail training and financial support to small-scale fruits vendors in Tshakhuma in Limpopo and other popular open free markets and (b) is the breakdown by area, gender and age of export-market participation and benefits by (i) commodity and (ii) farmer category?
Reply:
- The Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) is a schedule 3A National Public Entity that is primarily responsible for regulating the export of perishable produce from South Africa. PPECB therefore conducts temperature monitoring and equipment certification of all perishable products and related equipment destined for export.
In addition, PPECB is appointed in terms of Section 2(3) of the Agricultural Products Standards Act, 1999 (Act No 119 of 1990) as an assignee of the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), to conduct product inspections on regulated agricultural products destined for export. PPECB has as such not budgeted any funds towards training and financial support of small-scale fruit vendors of Tshakhuma and other open free markets. However, aligned with its organisational strategy, the PPECB also runs an export readiness training programme in conjunction with DALRRD and all 9 provinces. The Export Readiness Program is a national food safety certificate program that focuses on:
-
- Good agricultural practices;
- Food safety; and
- Responsible use of pesticides.
Smallholder farmers are selected by relevant Province through DALRRD and then provided to the PPECB for training.
- To date the PPECB has trained 20 women and 10 youth from Nwanedi, Tzaneen and Polokwane areas as follows:
- Commodity: Vegetables; and
- Farmer category: Small scale farmers who sell to retailers and fresh produce market.
The PPECB will however engage the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development about the training needs for the Tshakhuma Region.
11 January 2022 - NW2835
King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1) With reference to the 2020-21 annual report of his department that indicated that R45,7 million was directed towards cleaning materials for community education and training (CET) colleges, (a) what (i) service providers were used, (ii) were the unit costs for each item, (iii) were the total quantities purchased and (iv) was the total payment of cleaning products for each CET and (b) how were the cleaning materials distributed to local training CET centres; (2) (a) what CET programmes were funded from the R8 975 000 that was made available by the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) to higher health for CET programmes and (b) from which budgetary line item of higher health were the funds taken?
Reply:
(1)(a)(i)-(iv)
CET College |
(i) Name of Service Provider |
(ii) Total Cost Allocated |
(iii) Total Quantities |
(iv) Total Payment |
Eastern Cape |
|
R6 943 000 |
30 Main CLCs and 239 Satellite Centres |
R295 015 |
Free State |
|
R4 748 000 |
181 Main CLCs and Satellite Centres |
R516 151 |
Gauteng |
Abanqobe Cleaning Services |
R8 015 000 |
9 CLCs and 45 Satellite Centres |
R0 |
KwaZulu- Natal |
K Mathole Investment |
R7 658 000 |
11 Main CLCs and 40 Satellite Centres |
R153 999 |
Limpopo |
Not yet appointed |
R6 254 000 |
248 Main CLCs and Satellite Centres |
R0 |
Mpumalanga |
|
R4 544 000 |
64 Main CLCs and Satellite Centres |
R1 572 962 |
Northern Cape |
To be confirmed. |
R2 221 000 |
87 Main CLCs and Satellite Centres |
R0 |
CET College |
(i) Name of Service Provider |
(ii) Total Cost Allocated |
(iii) Total Quantities |
(iv) Total Payment |
North West |
Bid Consultancy (Pty) Ltd |
R3 472 000 |
11 Main CLCs and 125 satellite centres |
R868 000 |
Western Cape |
Bidvest Prestige |
R1 863 000 |
15 main CLCs and 58 Satellite Centres |
R0 |
Total |
R45 718 000 |
R3 406 127 |
- There is no distribution of cleaning material taking place. Each college appointed a service provider to clean the centres.
- (a) Higher Health submitted a proposal to HWSETA to request funding towards building a comprehensive health and wellness intervention for CET Colleges. HWSETA considered the proposal and approved to limit their funding to COVID-19 interventions. The initial proposal requested funding for the following:
- COVID-19 capacity development and establishment of COVID-19 Screening volunteers at CET colleges;
- Capacity development on Gender-Based Violence;
-
- Mental Health;
-
- Sexual and Reproductive Health including contraception and Substance Abuse;
-
- Coordination of Health & Wellness programmes in the CET colleges;
-
- Establishment of Campus Health & Wellness programmes at CET college;
-
- Establishment of a peer to peer health promotion, awareness, and prevention programme in CET colleges;
- Social behavioural change campaign; and
-
- Enable a safe teaching & learning environment in the face of COVID-19
HWSETA considered COVID-19 to be a priority area and approved funding of R 8 099 000.00 to be utilised as follows:
-
- Stipends for a period of 18 months for 9 college coordinators and 3 600 volunteers to set up screening stations and conduct screening at R 5 940 000.00
- Provide personal protection equipment (PPE) for frontline staff, regular staff, student volunteers, students, among others who are involved in the daily screening programme for COVID-19 at R500 000.00
- Improve the monitoring and evaluation system, with real-time reporting to assist towards early decision making, early detection, identifying trends and leading into process evaluations for programme implementation efficacy at R180 000.00
- Provision of computers, tablets, data and airtime costs for project staff members and screeners at R993 000.00
- Travel costs for Coordinators at R486 000.00
The allocation will be transferred in 3 tranches upon achievement of set project milestones between Higher Health and HWSETA.
-
- The budgetary line item of Higher Health from which the funds were taken, is line item
CET Programme Implementation which covers the following broad line item expenditure:
-
-
- Salaries for HIGHER HEALTH Centre Coordinators
-
-
-
- Stipends for Student Volunteers
-
-
-
- PPE Material for student volunteers who man screening stations
-
-
-
- Information, Education and Communication Material
-
-
-
- Setting up of screening stations and maintenance of the HealthCheck app
-
-
-
- ICT and equipment costs
-
-
-
- Travel costs
-
11 January 2022 - NW2614
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
1. What total number of inmates were incarcerated at each correctional facility in the period (a) 01 January 2017 to 31 December 2017, (b) 01 January 2018 to 31 December 2018, (c) 01 January 2019 to 31 December 2019, (d) 01 January 2020 to 31 January 2020 and (e) 01 January 2021 to 15 November 2021; 2. What happens to illegal foreign nationals (a) when they are eligible for parole and (b) after they have served their sentence? NW3090E
Reply:
- See response attached as Annexure A.
(2)(a) Approximately six (06) months before an offender reaches the Minimum Detention Period (MDP) the Case Management Committee (CMC) prepares the offender’s profile report (G326) and submits its recommendation to the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board (CSPB) on the possible placement on parole in line with section 42(d) of the Correctional Services Act 111/1998
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is responsible for identifying foreign nationals in its detention facilities and reporting such individuals to the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is responsible for establishing the nationality of such offenders and initiating the deportation of those whose stay in the Republic
of South Africa (RSA) is illegal or undesirable. It is the responsibility of the DCS to hand over such offenders to the relevant authorities either for release or deportation based on status confirmed by DHA.
In cases where the offender who is a foreign national is found to be suitable for parole placement the following conditions will be set for all sentenced foreign nationals who will be deported:
-
- Offenders should not return to the Republic of South Africa (RSA) before the expiration of the parole period;
- Offenders may not commit crime while on parole;
- He/ she must seek authorisation from the DHA to return to the country after expiration of the parole period; and
- His/ her personal details must be circulated to all South African boarders, South African Police Services (SAPS) and Criminal Record Centres until expiry of the parole period. The circulation of personal details to South African boarders, SAPS, Criminal Records Centres will assist in tracking the deported foreign nationals should he/ she re- offend and get re-arrested.
(2)(b) The offender will be handed over to Department of Home Affairs who must sign for receipt of the parolee for detention at a Repatriation Centre pending deportation to their country of origin.
END
11 January 2022 - NW2873
Terblanche, Mr OS to ask the Minister of Police
With reference to flying squad units in each province in the (a) 2019-20, (b) 2020-21 and (c) 2021-22 financial years, what total number of vehicles (i) have been allocated to each unit, (ii) are being boarded and (lii) have been non-operational for more than 30 days in the specified financial years and as at the latest specified date for which information is available;
Reply:
(1)(a)(b)(c)(i)(ii)(ii)(2)(a)(i)(ii)(iii)(b)
The required information is not readily available and must be obtained from the provinces. A request is made for an extension of 14 days, to provide the response.
Reply to question 2873 recommended/
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2022-01-09
Reply to question 2873 approved/not approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
DATE: 11-01-2022
11 January 2022 - NW2700
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1) What is the (a) extent of the commonage land in KwaZulu-Natal and (b) current usage of the commonage land; (2) whether the commonage land has water rights to allow farming to take place; if not, what steps will her department take to ensure that there are water rights; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether there are farming activities taking place on the commonage land; if not, why not; if so, what farming activities are taking place on the parcels of land; (4) whether she will furnish Mr N P Masipa with the relevant information regarding (a) commonage land that has been invaded and (b) the action(s) that were taken regarding the situation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3213E
Reply:
(1) (a) 1 636,6086 hectares.
(b) The current usage of the land is for livestock production, dairy and poultry.
(2). The commonage land belongs to different municipalities and they will assist the beneficiaries should the need for water rights arise.
(3). Yes. Please refer Annexure A.
(4). No. There are no reports of any invasion of commonage land that has been reported to the Department by the Municipalities.
(a),,(b) Falls away.
ANNEXURE A OF NA-QUESTION 2700 OF 2021
Property Description |
Total Hectares Acquired (Extent in Hectares) |
Production Type 1 |
Water rights |
Land invasion |
Remainder of Portion 27 (of 2) of the Farm Ellerton No. 2226, ET |
10,9635 |
Dairy Cattle |
Unknown |
Unknown |
Portion 4 and the Remainder of the farm Krantz Fontein No. 258, ES |
513,8821 |
Poultry and Livestock |
Unknown |
Unknown |
The farm Bromsgrove No. 2 No. 10392; & the farm ET (New) Broomsgrove No. 17454 |
441,1825 |
Livestock |
Unknown |
Unknown |
Remainder of Portion 1 of the farm Riet Vallei No. 3285 |
670,5805 |
Livestock |
Unknown |
Unknown |
11 January 2022 - NW2668
Majozi, Ms Z to ask the Minister of Police
(1) In light of the testimony from the SA Police Service (SAPS) Commissioner in the SA Human Rights Commission hearings, who admitted that police were understaffed and lacked the intelligence to deal with the modus operandi used’ to organise protests, what plans has his department put in place to make SAPS more protest ready in future, given the lessons learnt from the July 2021 riots that took place in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng and the Republic's history of protests; (2) what are the full, relevant details and update on the recent robbery at the Malamulele Police Station where firearms and ammunition were taken and later used during robberies in the vicinity; (3) whether he will furnish Ms Z Majozi with the relevant information on the statistics relating to robberies that target police firearms and ammunition in the Republic in the past three years; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Between July 2021 and March 2022, the target is to train members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), at police stations, as first responders and equip them with pyrotechnics.
The continual training of SAPS members at police stations, as first responders and equipping them with Crowd Management equipment, will reduce the risk of such incidents. It will enhance the response time as the police station members will be closer to the incidents, until such time that the Public Order Policing (POP) capacity is deployed. The target for training is 10 000 members, based on the proximity to hotspot areas. To date, 8 000 members have been trained and training is continuing.
2. On 22 November 2021, at approximately 22:00, a group of armed suspects entered the Community Service Centre (CSC) of Malamulele Police Station and overpowered four SAPS members and disarmed them. A female Data Typist was locked in a patrol vehicle, which was parked outside the police station.
The suspects took four R5 assault rifles, four shotguns and four pistols from the SAPS members and from the safe, in the CSC. The suspects then left the Police Station and locked the main gate with a padlock, on their way out.
Thereafter, the suspects robbed the Sasol Garage, the Wisani Total Garage and a nearby shop. During the attack, the suspects blasted a safe at the Total Garage and fired several shots. One community member was wounded in the process and two vehicles were hijacked, which were recovered a few kilometers from the scene.
Find here: The following criminal cases were opened, as a result of the above crimes
11 January 2022 - NW2636
Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What number of (a) smallholder producers, in each province and area, have received support in international marketing and access to markets and (b) producers who are (i) black, (ii) women and/or (iii) persons living with disabilities have been assisted?
Reply:
Please refer to Annexure A
ANNEXURE A OF NA-QUESRION 2636 OF 2021
Financial Year |
(i) Race |
(ii)Gender |
Age |
Information |
COTTON |
Mpumalanga; Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal Provinces This breakdown per province and area is not available. It can be obtained during January 2022 |
|||
2018/19 |
Black |
Male: 879 Female: 1502 Youth: 453 |
34 and beyond 34 and beyond 15 - 34 |
Exported 26 039 tons |
11 January 2022 - NW2640
Montwedi, Mr Mk to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
In light of the fact that the communal property associations (CPAs) have been failing to comply with the Consumer Property Associations Act, Act 28 of 1996, and many farms have been run down as soon as they were handed to CPAs, (a) what lessons have been learned and (b) how will the lessons learnt assist in ensuring that CPAs are successful in the future?
Reply:
The nature of the question necessitates that we engage extensively with provinces. We will provide a detailed reply to Parliament as soon as possible.
11 January 2022 - NW2720
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1). What progress has been made with the transfer of the remaining extent of Portion 11 of the Farm De Rust 478 JQ in the North West, measuring 171.7214 ha to the Mobile Education and Training Trust as agreed to by the former Minister of Public Works, Mr T W Nxesi, in 2014 for the Village of Hope; (2). what (a) are the reasons for the delay in effecting the transfer and (b) is the anticipated date of transfer? NW3234E
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
- I was informed that the former Minister of Public Works granted the approval to let out a portion of the subject property. The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure had since drafted and submitted a lease contract to the Mobile Education and Training Trust during 2019 in line with the approved submission. The Department is still awaiting the signed contract from the prospective tenant.
- The approval granted by the former Minister is limited to letting out of the subject property to Mobile and Education and Training Trust rather than a permanent transfer. The delay in signing the lease agreement is caused by the applicant.
11 January 2022 - NW2619
Mokgotho, Ms SM to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
By what date is it anticipated that the bucket system will be totally eradicated and replaced by a proper sanitation system as communities in the Setsoto Local Municipality, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and the Kouga Local Municipality are still using the bucket system?
Reply:
The eradication of bucket system and replacement of sanitation does not fall within the mandate of the Department of Human Settlements. The question may be well answered by the Department of Water and Sanitation as it is within its mandate.
11 January 2022 - NW2801
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1). What is the (a) extent of the commonage land in Mpumalanga and (b) current usage of the commonage land; (2).whether the commonage land has water rights to allow farming to take place; if not, what steps will her department take to ensure that there are water rights; if so, what are the relevant details; (3). whether there are farming activities taking place on the commonage land; if not, why not; if so, what farming activities are taking place on the parcels of land; (4). whether she will provide Mr N P Masipa with the relevant information regarding (a) commonage land that has been invaded and (b) the action(s) that were taken regarding the situation; if not, why not; if so, by what date? NW3321E
Reply:
(1) (a) 5 371,7039 hectares.
(b) The current usage of the land is for crop and livestock production. (2),(3) Yes. Please refer to Annexure A.
(4) No. There are no reports of any invasion of commonage land that has been reported to the Department by the Municipalities.
(a),(b) Falls away.
11 January 2022 - NW2804
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1). What (a) is the total number of houses leased by her department for employees of the (i) Department of Defence and (ii) SA National Defence Force and (b) total amount was (i) paid directly to service providers and/or landlords for the leasing of houses for the rank group Brigadiers-General to Generals and (ii) transferred to her department for the leasing of houses for the specified rank group; (2). what is the (a) monthly rental amount, (b) lease period and (c) total cost for providing security and guards for each specified house? NW3324E
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1) (a) (i)I was informed that the Department of Public Works & Infrastructure leases six flats/units in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, on behalf of the Department of Defence and Military Veterans.
(ii) |
The Department of Public Works & Infrastructure provides accommodation to |
|
the National Department of Defence and Military Veterans. The discretion to allocate specific units lies with the User Department (the National Department |
||
of Defence and Military Veterans). |
||
(b) |
(i) |
The monthly rental paid to the landlord for the six flats is R35 791.22. |
The Department of Defence determines which of its members occupies the flats. |
||
(ii) |
The total approved budget transferred from the Department of Defence & Military Veterans to DPWI for leasing the six flats amounts to R 2,154,771.56 |
|
for five years. |
||
(2) (a) |
The monthly rental for the six flats is R35 791.22 with an annual escalation of 6%. |
|
(b) |
The lease contract is for five years which commenced on 1 May 2019 and |
|
expires on 30 April 2024. |
||
(c) |
DPWI is not providing security to the leased flats /units. |
11 January 2022 - NW2870
Ceza, Mr K to ask the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
Which forms of support has her department provided to rural municipalities towards resolving vacancies in key positions amidst the financial constraints which they are under?
Reply:
The local government equitable share formula requires every municipality to run a basic administration by funding the majority of its administration costs from own revenue to provide basic services to households. Due to inability by poor households to meet their obligations in full, the equitable share includes an institutional support component to help poor and rural based municipalities with limited resources to afford basic administrative and governance capacity to perform core functions and meet some of these costs. It provides a subsidy for basic municipal administrative costs to supplements the revenue that municipalities can raise themselves (including revenue raised through property rates and service charges). A revenue adjustment factor is applied in the equitable share to enable municipalities with less potential to raise their own revenue to receive a larger proportion of the allocation.
In addition, the Notice on upper limits for remuneration of municipal managers and managers directly accountable to municipal managers makes provision for remote allowance ranging between 4-10 percent of the applicable pay scales to support eligible municipalities to attract and retain critical skills in key positions.
11 January 2022 - NW2709
Powell, Ms EL to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1) What total number of illegal land invasions have been recorded by her department in municipalities across the Republic since 1 January 2016; (2) what total number of structures have been recorded by her department to have been illegally erected in municipalities across the Republic since 1 January 2016; (3) what total number of hectares of state-owned land have been recorded by her department to have been lost to illegal land invasions since 1 January 2016; (4) what steps have been taken by her department to assist municipalities to deal with the rising tide of illegal land invasions across the Republic in recent years? NW3222E
Reply:
- None. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has no records of illegal land invasions in municipalities [land under administration of municipalities];
- None, the records of structures illegally erected in municipalities shall be kept by municipalities and COGTA;
- To date 11 511 hectares have been recorded to have been affected by illegal land invasions acquired through Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy. Not all land has been lost on other state properties under the Minister, since the Department has taken steps as well as legal actions against land invasion and in some instances eviction court orders have been issued;
- Falls away.
11 January 2022 - NW2745
Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
In light of the reported growth by 15% in the agricultural sector during the hard lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19, what plans does her department have to mitigate the potential damage due to (a) logistics and (b) erratic weather to ensure that these factors do not interfere with the increased export opportunities?
Reply:
(a) The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) and PPECB have sufficient capacity to handle all anticipated volumes and will remain operational even during lockdown level 5. This available capacity has freed the citrus season that is winding down to allow focus on the apples and table grapes seasons that are picking up. DALRRD has overtime approvals in place to be tapped into should a need arise owing to unprecedented port congestions. – can we write this paragraph in a past tense
(b). (DALRRD) facilitates the implementation of disaster risk reduction measures in the sector including those caused by erratic weather. The National Agrometeorological Committee (NAC) chaired by DALRRD consists of DALRRD Technical Directorates, South African Weather Service (SAWS), Agricultural Research Council (ARC), provincial departments as well as research and academic institutions. NAC amongst other factors discusses projected rainfall and temperatures as well as their potential impacts for mitigation of extreme weather events and maximisation of production for both crops and livestock. The information discussed in the NAC meetings also includes best veld management practices to counter impacts of impending hazards for continuous production and best quality produce to satisfy various markets.
DALRRD monitors production in the sector as well as all important aspects such as weather and climate conditions to ensure preparedness and lead-time response towards impacts of extreme weather events. The advisories issued on monthly basis by DALRRD that are accessible to the stakeholders through Provincial Departments, Organised Agriculture and websites ensures effective planning and execution of farming activities. DALRRD further issues daily extreme weather warnings which also assist farmers in the short-term planning such as harvesting and transportation to intended markets for mitigation of erratic weather. The managed crops and livestock commodities in the sector are in line with their market demand, as well as seasonal climate watch issued by SAWS amongst other factors.
The DALRRD is implementing the sector initiatives of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP). Progress reports are submitted to the National Economic Recovery Council that is chaired by his Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa at intervals. Related to this the department visited the areas that were affected by the riots in Kwazulu-Natal and Gauteng to assess the damage, the impact on logistics, access to markets and food security. After that the two affected provinces developed and implemented the provincial sector recovery plans.
11 January 2022 - NW2790
Buthelezi, Ms SA to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
Whether his department has put any interventions in place to bring sustainable solutions to municipalities which are hit by water shortages in the 2021-22 financial year; if not, what are the reasons that his department has not taken any steps to solve the water crisis; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(a). The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has over the years developed interventions to address water shortages within the country. This intervention includes forms of grants(conditional) that are aimed at provision of sustainable water supply through the provinces.
The DWS is managing two infrastructure grant funding programs namely Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) and Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG). The two grants subsidise Water Services Authorities to implement bulk projects through RBIG and reticulation projects through WSIG. The two programs fund projects that reduce water services infrastructure backlogs and enhance access by ensuring sustainability of services. The projects include-:
-
- New infrastructure development
- Upgrade of existing infrastructure
- Refurbishment and or rehabilitation of existing infrastructure etc
(b). For the 2021/22 financial year, the department is implementing 126 projects in all the 9 provinces which are funded through RBIG and 230 through WSIG to address water shortages and provide sustainable and adequate water provision in different municipalities.
Part of the intervention will include the implementation of the District Development Model.
11 January 2022 - NW2775
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
Whether, with reference to Transnet, that has a lot of vacant buildings which have turned into hubs for criminal activities: (1) There are any plans in collaboration with the Department of Human Settlements to turn the buildings into low cost housing facilities for middle-class citizens who cannot afford to buy houses and/or who do not qualify for RDP houses, to occupy and provide a safe environment for their children. (2) If not, why not; (3) If so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
According to the information received from Transnet
(1). Transnet is engaging with the Department of Human Settlements and the Housing Development Agency with the aim of facilitating the disposal of its mass housing portfolio and some of the vacant pieces of land to municipalities, so that they can be used for human settlement purposes.
(2). N/A.
(3). A portion of Transnet’s property portfolio is reclassified as non-core as it is not required to support operations. Transnet entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Department of Human Settlements to create housing opportunities across the country and facilitate the release of vacant land, buildings and hostels to convert them into liveable residential accommodation.
To this end, Transnet has made available vast tracks of land across the country to various municipalities and other state organs for the development of human settlements.
Engagements between Transnet, the National Department of Human Settlements, Housing Development Agency and municipalities are ongoing to conclude the release of the hostels portfolio for human settlements.
11 January 2022 - NW2613
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
1. What number of illegal foreign nationals have been incarcerated in South African correctional facilities in the period (a) 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017, (b) 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2018, (c) 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019, (d) 1 January 2020 to 31 January 2020 and (e) 1 January 2021 to 15 November 2021; 2. in which (a) correctional facilities are and/or were the specified convicts incarcerated and (b) province is each specified facility; 3. what (a) number of the specified convicts are incarcerated at each facility and (b) is the maximum number of inmates that can be incarcerated at each specified correctional facility? NW3089E
Reply:
- The number of illegal foreign nationals incarcerated for the mentioned period are as follows:
Period |
Un-sentenced |
Sentenced |
01 January 2017 to 31 December 2017 |
1 325 |
1 670 |
01 January 2018 to 31 December 2018 |
1 609 |
2 137 |
01 January 2019 to 31 December 2019 |
2 254 |
2 219 |
01 January 2020 to 31 December 2020 |
1 707 |
1 550 |
01 January 2021 to 15 November 2021 |
1 780 |
1 743 |
2. See Annexure A for response.
3. See Annexure A for response.
END
11 January 2022 - NW2773
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
What is the state of readiness of her department with isolation facilities taking into consideration that a new variant of COVID-19 has hit the Republic?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is currently not running any quarantine sites. If the Department of Health requests to provide any facilities, it will assist.
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY QUESTION NO. 2773 (Written) Ms A M Siwisa (EFF) PAGE 1
11 January 2022 - NW2739
Majozi, Ms Z to ask the Minister of Police
(1) In view of the statement by the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) during the SA Human Commission hearings that the SA Police Service (SAPS) in KZN do not have adequate resources to deal with public disorder, following the accusations that SAPS in KZN failed to avert and manage the mass looting and riots that took place in the province in July 2021, what is his department’s plan to address the lack and shortage of resources within the SAPS; (2) whether he has found that other provinces in the Republic are in a similar situation with regard to a lack of resources and might find themselves incapable of averting and managing the same and/or similar incidents of unrest; if not, what is the position in this regard, if so, what are the relevant details? NW3254E
Reply:
(1). Between July 2021 and March 2022, the target is to train members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), at police stations, as first responders and equip them with pyrotechnics.
(2). The continual training of SAPS members at police stations, as first responders and equipping them with Crowd Management equipment, will reduce the risk of such incidents. It will enhance the response time as the police station members will be closer to the incidents, until such time that the Public Order Policing (POP) capacity is deployed. The target for training is 10 000 members, based on the proximity to hotspot areas. To date, 8 000 members have been trained and training is continuing.
11 January 2022 - NW2752
Chirwa-Mpungose, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
What (a) is the recourse for a parent who seeks legal intervention from maintenance courts and the respondent from whom they are seeking maintenance resources does not receive a court summons to appear in court, (b) steps is his department taking to mitigate this situation and (c) number of times has this situation occurred (i) in the 2020-21 financial year and (ii) since 1 April 2021?
Reply:
(a). The Department takes a holistic approach to the protection of the inalienable Constitutional provision in respect of the interests of the children. In order to alleviate the problem of prolonged frustration of the maintenance system by persons liable to maintain who can either not be served or are deliberately avoiding service of process, resource for the applicant can found in the provisions of section 6 and 7 of the Maintenance Act 99 of 1998. The said sections provides that whenever a Maintenance officer becomes seized with a complaint he/she should investigate such complaint and can obtain statements under oath or affirmation of persons who may provide relevant information of the person being sought, or gather information concerning the identification or whereabouts of such person as well as their financial position.
(b). The Department employs Maintenance Investigations who have the powers to take necessary steps to locate the person being sought. Furthermore, the department uses the Track and Trace system which has access to various online databases and/ or “ information hubs” that enables the Maintenance Investigator to find alternative addresses, details of properties such as businesses, motor vehicles, ect. Which have been registered in the name of the person being sought so that they can use the information to secure their attendance at court.
(c). The reporting system remains inaccessible since the September 2021 cyber- attack on the department, hence, no accurate information can be provided at this point in time and can be provided as soon as possible after the system is restored.
END
REPLY:
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is yet to finalise criminal prosecutions against government officials on charges of corruption regarding personal protective equipment. Therefore, no convictions in this regard have as yet been attained.
However, although no such criminal prosecutions have been finalised, the NPA has initiated criminal prosecutions in respect of the following number of government officials:
National Departments |
1 |
Provincial Departments |
9 |
Local Municipalities |
2 |
It is important to note that by 1 December 2021, the number of cases enrolled from the referrals by the Fusion Centre amount to forty-two (42) cases involving ninety (90) accused persons. Apart from the forty-two (42) enrolled, another sixteen (16) were finalised in court, fifteen (15) convictions and one (1) acquittal. These cases do not all relate to corruption charges in terms of the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act, Act 12 of 2004, but include charges of fraud, theft and contraventions of other legislation regarding maladministration related to COVID-19 funds, procurement and allocated funding.
11 January 2022 - NW2861
Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
What (a) total number of new cases of inmates who have been infected by the Omicron variant have been recorded across the Republic and (b) new and/or additional measures have been put in place to curb the spread of the new variant in our overcrowded cells?
Reply:
- During this period 03 – 09 December 2021, 125 inmates new confirmed COVID- 19 cases were reported across the regions, bringing the cumulative confirmed COVID-19 cases in inmates to 6 988.
- The results from National Health Laboratory Services and other laboratories would not indicate the type of variant, but will be recorded as:
“SARS-CoV-2 RT- PCR: Negative or Positive”
- There are no new and /or additional measures that have to be put in place as all the public health and social measures and vaccinations remain the same despite the type of variant of the COVID-19 as outlined below:
- There is continuous targeted awareness and sensitisation such as promotion of hand and respiratory hygiene for inmates with regard to COVID-19 through different media as well as implementation of infection prevention and control (IPC) measures.
- Newly admitted inmates are quarantined and monitored for a period of 10 days and if asymptomatic, they are then integrated in the communal cells and those symptomatic are tested and managed according to the prescribed protocol.
- Inmates are screened for COVID-19 on a continual basis in order to ensure prompt identification of infected ones who will then be isolated, being managed symptomatically, and relevant contacts traced and quarantined. Those with COVID-19 related symptoms are provided with surgical masks to prevent any possible further spread, quarantined and specimens collected for testing following the prescribed protocol. Those with positive results are kept in dedicated isolation sites and managed symptomatically in compliance with the Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines Lists (STGs and EML). Contacts of COVID-19 confirmed cases are traced in the facilities, quarantined and monitored in terms of the prescribed protocol.
- Implementation and compliance to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Preparedness, Detection and Response to COVID-19 (developed and approved) based on the National Department of Health (NDoH) Standard Operating Procedures for Preparedness, Detection and Response to COVID-19 and other relevant information from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) in order to contain and mitigate COVID-19 infections in the correctional facilities.
- COVID-19 vaccines are administered to the inmates who have agreed to be vaccinated in order to achieve herd immunity in the correctional facilities in mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
END
11 January 2022 - NW2741
Buthelezi, Mr EM to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1) Whether, in light of the R402 billion debt saddling Eskom, he will furnish Mr. E M Buthelezi with the reported new comprehensive and unified approach in turning around Eskom; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether he has been informed of a forensic report that was supposedly ignored by Eskom in January 2020, which shows how employees and contractors of the entity colluded to make more money by inflating their overtime bonuses and sabotaging the infrastructure in collaboration with crime syndicates; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
According to the information received from Eskom
(1) In the absence of the free cash flow or equity from the shareholder to execute the recent build program, Eskom has had to, in the main, fund the program using debt. Even though funding with debt was not ideal, the build program was needed and has been executed for the benefit of the country. The burden of debt now sits with Eskom.
If Eskom receives a cost reflective tariff, recovers arrear municipal debt, manages internal costs and deals with its current excessive leverage, Eskom’s reliance on future Government support will be minimised. Currently the debt service costs cannot be adequately covered by the amount left from operations. Eskom can afford to service a debt of approximately R200 billion. This means that the balance sheet needs to be deleveraged by R200 billion.
Eskom has communicated the need to reduce its debt by at least half its current level to its shareholder representative. Details on the unified approach toward a solution is in the ambit of Government and will in due course be communicated.
(2) Besides the aforementioned forensic report, there have been many other investigations that Eskom Management conducted at Tutuka Power station, leading to criminal charges and arrests of implicated employees and suppliers.
Some senior employees are still on suspension and are being subjected to internal disciplinary process, while some are referred to authorities to deal with the fraudulent and criminal activities committed during their tenure at Eskom.
11 January 2022 - NW2623
Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
What intervention is he planning to make to ease the pressure on motorists affected by the astronomical rise in fuel prices?
Reply:
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has noted the justified anxiety of fuel users and consumers in general, following the steep fuel increases effected in recent months. The recent fuel price increases that have been experienced in the country are not dissimilar to record breaking increases that have been experienced in such jurisdictions as New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the UK, Singapore and other non-oil producing countries. South Africa is a net importer of both crude oil and finished petroleum products. Crude oil which is the main feedstock for fuel used in vehicles is traded in US dollars and the higher price of oil is supported by oil producing countries. The exchange rate and the price of crude oil are the main cause of fuel price fluctuations.
The Department will amongst others intensify campaigns for efficient fuel usage in order to help motorists appreciate some of the driving habits that can help them save fuel.
11 January 2022 - NW2802
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1). What is the (a) extent of the commonage land in the Northern Cape and (b) current usage of the commonage land; (2). whether the commonage land has water rights to allow farming to take place; if not, what steps will her department take to ensure that there are water rights; if so, what are the relevant details; (3). whether there are farming activities taking place on the commonage land; if not, why not; if so, what farming activities are taking place on the parcels of land; (4). whether she will furnish Mr N P Masipa with the relevant information regarding (a) commonage land that has been invaded and (b) the action(s) that were taken regarding the situation; if not, why not; if so, by what date? NW3322E
Reply:
(1)(a) 734 583.8982 hectares.
(b) The current usage of the land is for livestock and crop farming.
(2). The commonage land belongs to different municipalities and they will assist the beneficiaries should the need for water rights arise.
(3). Yes. Please refer to Annexure A.
No. There are no reports of any invasion of commonage land that has been reported to the Department by the Municipalities
.
11 January 2022 - NW2767
Montwedi, Mr Mk to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
In light of the fact that the Land Bank is on record saying that it will now continue to only support existing clients, how has she found that this decision will affect smallholder farmers who also wanted to get the support from Land Bank?
Reply:
I am aware of the decision the impact that it will have on the sector if it is not given prompt attention. The National Treasury and the Land Bank are assessing options towards finding a balanced solution to continue providing limited support to the sector while reducing the debt of the Bank. In that regard, priority has been given to existing clients due to the limited funds and also to avoid further deterioration of the existing loan book.
The Bank has made significant progress in negotiations with the lenders with the support of the shareholder, towards reaching an agreement on the Liability Solution so that it is able to restore its business processes back to normal. With the support and collaboration of the Shareholder (National Treasury) and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), development and transformation will be the new growth area with a renewed focus on providing support to new and existing smallholder farmers.
11 January 2022 - NW2743
Ngcobo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1) Whether a certain student (name and details furnished) is eligible for funding by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme for the current financial year, if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (2) has the specified person has received all funds due to him; if not, why not; if so, on what date? NW3258E
Reply:
1. Mr VB Ntuli is funding eligible for the 2021 academic year. Mr VB Ntuli was funded on 6 December 2021. The delay in funding for this student was as a result of the qualification that the student is registered for. The qualification had surpassed its last date of achievement on the National Qualifications Framework. Mangosuthu University of Technology requested an extension in this regard from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). The approved extension from SAQA was communicated to NSFAS on 23 November 2021. The affected qualification records were updated on the NSFAS system on 24 November 2021 and a listing of all affected students was submitted to the NSFAS ICT department for reprocessing by the system on 24 November 2021. Mr VB Ntuli registration record (and all other students affected) was reprocessed on 6 December 2021.
2. No disbursements have been made for Mr VB Ntuli as yet given the very recent acceptance of the registration record.
11 January 2022 - NW2702
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1) What is the (a) extent of the commonage land in Limpopo and (b) current usage of the commonage land; (2) whether the commonage land has water rights to allow farming to take place; if not, what steps will her department take to ensure that there are water rights; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether there are farming activities taking place on the commonage land; if not, why not; if so, what farming activities are taking place on the parcels of land; (4) whether she will furnish Mr N P Masipa with the relevant information regarding (a) commonage land that has been invaded and (b) the action(s) that were taken regarding the situation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3215E
Reply:
(1)(a),(b) None. There is no commonage land in Limpopo.
(2),(3),(4)(a),(b) Falls away.
11 January 2022 - NW2719
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1). With reference to the Al Falah Towers on the corner of Govan Mbeki Avenue and Crawford Street in North End, Gqeberha, which houses the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) on three floors, in what year (a) did the lease commence and (b) will it expire; (2). what (a) is the current rental amount payable on the lease and (b) are the terms of the lease pertaining to the role of the landlord; (3). whether the landlord has complied with the specified terms; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4). what progress has been made on finding alternative accommodation for the DCS officials currently housed in the building? NW3233E
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
- a) I am informed by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure that the Lease commenced on 01 May 2017.
b) The Lease expired on 30 April 2020 and is currently running on a month-to-month basis.
2. (a) The current rental amount payable is R65 138.27 (Vat incl) per month for 611.50m2 offices and R3 425.78 (Vat incl) per month for five parking bays. The total amount paid
per month is R68 564.05 (Vat incl).
- The roles and obligations of the Landlord as prescribed in the Lease Agreement includes the following:
- Maintaining the exterior in good order and condition shall make any structural defects other than damages caused by the lessee.
- Routine maintenance and repairs (including painting) of the premises' exterior and interior.
- Install and maintain mechanical and fire services equipment, including fire detection equipment; fire extinguishers.
- Providing, at the lessor's expense, all electric, fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs required in the premises.
- Replacement of floor covering (carpeting etc.) at the expiry of their lifetime, which in the case of carpeting is five years from the date of installation.
- Quarterly fumigation of the premises.
- Operation (including maintenance and repairs) of the air-conditioning system and the lifts during regular office hours or during such as may be agreed upon.
- Compliance with Occupational /Health and Safety Act and compliance with the Department of Labour's applicable standards annually.
- Submission of valid annual tax certificate/sustain CSD compliance throughout the lease.
3. The Landlord is attending to unscheduled maintenance on an ongoing basis. The overutilization of the building also contributes to the non-compliance to OHSA. Changes in the operational work environment of the user department resulted in a shortage of space and OHS non-compliance. Many engagements were undertaken with the Landlord and the User Department to address these challenges. There has been limited success in this regard hence the request for alternative accommodation.
4. DPWI received a request for alternative accommodation in 2019, and the market was tested, but the tender was cancelled due to the non-responsiveness of the bids. The Department is currently waiting for a revised Procurement Instruction from the Department of Correctional Services that is aligned to the revised operational needs of the User Department. Upon receipt of the funded revised accommodation needs, DPWI will be able to follow due supply chain management processes to procure alternative accommodation.
11 January 2022 - NW2622
Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
In light of the announcement by the Minister of Finance in his Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement that the State will no longer be bailing out state-owned enterprises (SOEs), (a) which SOEs has he found will be affected the most by this decision and (b) what are the relevant details of his plan for ensuring that the specified companies continue to function?
Reply:
- Denel will be most affected, if no further funding is made available for SOC.
- However, Denel is not looking for a bailout but to fund a new operating model to deal with high fixed costs and improvements of internal controls to respond better to the shrinking local defence budget and growing competition in its traditional markets. This funding will also come from disposing of non-core assets and entering into strategic partnerships.
11 January 2022 - NW2748
Madokwe, Ms P to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
(1). What process was followed before Shell was granted permission to conduct seismic surveys on the Wild Coast; (2). whether he has found that all applicable legislative requirements and processes were followed; if not, what steps did he take(a) before the blasting scheduled for 1 December 2021 and(b) after 1 December 2021? NW3263E
Reply:
(1). The permission to conduct the seismic survey is part of the exploration right that Shell and Impact Africa Oil hold for the Transkei Algoa in the Wild Coast. As part of the exploration right application an environment impact assessment was carried out in 2013 culminating in the approval of the Environmental Management Programme in 2014. An independent review of the Environmental Management Programme was carried out in 2020 with the audit report sent to the database of Interested and Affected (I&A) Parties in May 2020. No objections were received The Environment Management Programme permits the licensees to undertake exploration activities including the seismic survey.
(2). The 3D seismic survey is not blasting but rather it is compressed air that is released and generates sound output directed to the seabed. All applicable legislative requirements were followed in granting the Exploration Right including the Environmental Management Programme.
11 January 2022 - NW2866
Mokgotho, Ms SM to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
On what date is it envisaged that a technical and vocational education and training college will be built for the community of Moretele, who has to travel a long distance in order to reach the one in Hammanskraal?
Reply:
A report regarding the building of a Technical and Vocational Education and Training college for the community of Moretele will be submitted to Parliament when it resumes in 2022.
11 January 2022 - NW2863
Mohlala, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
Which interventions and/or measures have been put in place to systematically improve the monitoring of blocked water courses on a regular basis so that the illegal construction of dams that causes major challenges to water security in the Republic is mitigated?
Reply:
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has both proactive and reactive measures in place to monitor compliance to water legislation and to deal with transgressions where such might have occurred. The Compliance Monitoring Programme deals with authorised water users and “blocked water courses” does not necessarily translate to unlawfulness if done within the provisions of legislation.
In terms of the different aspects of the Compliance Programme the DWS implements the following:
- Monitors a certain number of water users, including dam owners for their compliance with legislation on an annual basis
- Proactively promotes compliance in various platforms such as the Catchment Management Forums in order to ensure that an understanding of the requirements of water legislation is achieved to secure compliance
- Conducts surveillance or spot check in the various catchments to detect any unlawful activities At provincial level.
- Monitors and reports non-compliance to the relevant competent authorities on an ongoing basis through the Environmental Management Inspectorate
The Department is also actively involved in the Environmental Impact Assessment processes for new developments such as the construction of dams. Through this process the Department is able to proactively deal with developments within water courses that may impact on water security.
In terms of reactive measures; the DWS has a toll free number: 0800 200 200 and an email [email protected], as channels through which complaints of suspected non-compliance to water related legislation may be lodged by members of the public or interested and affected parties. In addition, the DWS has a dedicated Enforcement Unit that deals with complaints and provides liaison with enforcement agencies.
Although there is currently is no obligation for dam owners of older dams classified as ‘dams with a safety risk’ to have outlets installed in their dams, this is a good dam engineering practice which the DWS will be promoting and enforcing on new applications for licences to construct dams. The Dam Safety Office of the department will also embark on a process to conduct an audit of in- stream dams to check whether outlet works for downstream releases and for emergency releases have been installed.
In terms of unlawfully constructed dams, the department has recently conducted an Enforcement blitz operation in the Western Cape. It is envisaged that other similar operations will be rolled out in other provinces. The department is also taking action against departmentally approved engineering professionals who have been involved in the construction of dams without following the prescripts of Chapter 4 of the National Water Act and Regulation 139 regarding the safety of dams. Offenders are referred to the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) for violation of the ECSA Code of Conduct for registered professionals.
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11 January 2022 - NW2760
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What was the status quo in each province for delivering infrastructure projects through the Accelerated Schools Infrastructure Delivery Initiative as at the latest date for which information is available?
11 January 2022 - NW2714
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
1. With reference to the various water cuts that took place in Johannesburg throughout 2021, what interventions has his department made in this regard, including (a) mechanisms, (b) processes and (c) procedures that have been implemented to avoid future water cuts? 2. what (a) investigations have been undertaken by his department or under the authority of his department into the issue of water cuts, (b) are the relevant details of the reports that were produced for each specified investigation, (c) are the names of the persons who undertook the investigations and (d) were the start dates and end dates of each investigation; 3. what (a) findings, outcomes and recommendations were made for each investigation, (b)mechanisms, processes and procedures are in place to ensure that the respective recommendations are planned, actioned and monitored and (c) are the timelines, time frames and deadlines for each recommendation in each investigation? NW3228E
Reply:
MINISTER OF WATER AND SANITATION
- Upon receipt of complaints from residents of the City of Johannesburg and media reports, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) referred water cuts complaints to the City of Johannesburg and Rand Water for corrective action. Rand Water made some changes to improve water supply into the Palmiet system from other pumping systems and we are currently monitoring the impact on their reservoirs due to the changes”
- Investigations were conducted by Rand Water and the and it was established that water purification plant was forced to shut down on 29 April 2021 due to fire under the ESKOM line. As a result, water levels in the Brixton, Hurst Hill and Crosby storage complex dropped to low levels, and the system took time to recover. Under normal circumstances, Rand Water supplies these reservoirs with a minimum flow of 2 500 kl/hour from their Commando Road meter, which is then supplemented from Stafford at a rate of just over 3 500 kl/hour. Johannesburg Water manages to maintain the three (3) reservoir complexes at a combined average capacity of 50%. However, since the incident of the 29 April 2021, a number of issues impacted on the flow specifically from Commando Road, as follows:
-
- Stage 2 load shedding schedule implemented by ESKOM/City Power from 16 May 2021 to 18 May 2021 had adverse effect on the system, the storage was compromised, and recovery was very slow.
- On the 18th of May 2021, Rand Water undertook a pre-isolation shutdown at Eikenhof Pumping Station to prepare for the replacement of the G34/Q2 isolation valve. During this pre-isolation shutdown, a power failure was experienced at the Vereeniging Water Treatment Plant which affected supply to the Hurst Hill system.
- Power failure on 23 May 2021, further worsened the situation, especially for the Brixton Reservoir and Tower as both ran dry due to power failure and the inability of Johannesburg Water to pump water from Crosby Reservoir.
- This was further negatively affected by power failures from 29 May and 30 May 2021 at the Eikenhof Rand Water pumping station.
- Rand Water’s Eikenhof Pumping Station was shut down for two hours on 05 June 2021 to enable City Power to fix an electrical fault on the power line, a setback that negatively impacted recovery. The water supply system recovered slowly during the day due to high water demand.
The initial water outage was reported by residents of Linmeyer in 07 July 2021. The matter related to the Rand Water Palmiet Pump station failure. The failure of the pump station reduced pumping capacity to a number of reservoirs which form part of the Palmiet pumping system. One of these reservoirs was the Rand Water Meyershill Reservoir situated in South Hills Johannesburg. Johannesburg Water has a pump station which is pumping water from the Rand Water Meyershill reservoir into South Hills water tower and supplies the areas of South Hills, Risana, Linmeyer and Tulisa Park and surrounding areas with water.
Due to the Palmiet pump station failure the Meyers Hill reservoir levels dropped to a level of 6%. When the levels of the reservoir dropped below 25%, Johannesburg Water could no longer pump water into the tower without damaging the pumps thus resulting into water supply interruption.
The second water outage reported on 28 August 2021, related to the Rand Water Meyershill Reservoir being almost empty following a power failure at the Zuikerbosh purification works the previous week. This impacted the Palmiet pumping system and the majority of the reservoirs on that system were negatively affected. The system has since recovered.
3. It was established that water supply interruptions in the City of Johannesburg resulted from a power failure or load shedding. It was also established two of Rand Water purification plants namely, Zuikerbosh and Vereeniging; as well as two major pumps stations (Palmiet and Eikenhof) supplying large parts of the City had also been affected by power failure.
Following the investigations, Rand Water implemented a 54-hour shutdown to do maintenance on their raw water pipes at the Vereeniging purification works from the 15 to 17 November 2021. The line was commissioned fully on 17 November 2021, with the works back at full capacity on 18 November 2021. Once the works were in full production; Rand Water increased its pumping capacity at Eikenhof pump station on 19 November 2021.
During this period, Johannesburg Water only received 75% of water supply which resulted in some of the reservoirs running at low levels. The Brixton/Crosby reservoirs took a strain in the process, with Hurst Hill running dry. The City of Johannesburg did not provide interim measures to supply water to affected areas during the outages. However, both Crosby/Brixton and Hurst Hill reservoirs recovered, and normal supply was restored to affected areas by 19 November 2021.
11 January 2022 - NW2793
Majozi, Ms Z to ask the Minister of Police
Whether he was uninformed about the July unrest as emerged at the SA human Rights Commission National Investigative Hearing into the July 2021 Unrest: if not, why not; if so , what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The SA human Rights Commission National Investigative hearing is still underway and any reference made to the process will be attended to when the work of the Commission is finalised.
Reply to question 2793 approved / not approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 11/01/2022
11 January 2022 - NW2658
Tambo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
Whether his department was consulted when commitments in the COP26 global climate change summit were made to level down on the use of coal; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what impact will this agreement have on the South African workers?
Reply:
Cabinet considers and approves the Country Negotiating Position for the UNFCCC processes, with the DFFE mandated to lead negotiations on behalf of the Republic.
11 January 2022 - NW2822
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1). What are the reasons that he has ignored the requests for a meeting from the DAK Netwerk, an organisation dedicated to empowering previously disadvantaged Afrikaans-speakers, for over four months; (2). whether he will commit to hold an urgent meeting with the DAK Netwerk; if not, why not, if so, on what date; (3). what is his response to the arguments held by DAK Netwerk that Afrikaans should be recognised as an indigenous language in the Language Policy Framework for Higher Education? NW3342E
Reply:
(1). It is not correct that I have ignored a request for a meeting with the DAK Netwerk. I responded to the constructive submission made by DAK Netwerk and did not decline a meeting with them.
(2). My office is always open to engage on this and all other matters related to the betterment of our higher education system. So, certainly I am available to meet with the DAK Netwerk or any other group for a constructive discussion of these matters.
(3). I responded to the submission that was made by DAK Netwerk. I found it very constructive in its engagement on the issue of Afrikaans. I also instructed officials in my Department to obtain legal advice on the definition of indigenous languages in the Language Policy Framework for Higher Education.
11 January 2022 - NW2680
Hendricks, Mr MGE to ask the Minister of Basic Education
1. Whether, noting that school learners should be taught about the importance of the sanctity and integrity of the human body (details furnished), her department’s Colloquium on Comprehensive Sexuality Education under the main theme the Key to Gender Responsive and Socially Inclusive Education with regard to the curriculum for 2022 will consider supporting views on fatherhood as expressed by leaders such as the late Chief Albert Luthuli; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; 2. whether her department has refrained from accepting Eurocentric ideas in the curriculum for 2022; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; 3. whether her department has ever considered that the school curriculum should rather be based on true African, Islamic, Christian, Jewish and Hindu values, instead of Eurocentric values; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
- The Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) content in Life Orientation (LO) covers fatherhood, responsibility and accountability when addressing issues of early and unintended pregnancies to indicate that pregnancy is not just a burden for girls, but a collective responsibility of both girls and boys when it occurs. The fatherhood work is extended outside the curriculum in the implementation plan of the prevention and management of learner pregnancy in schools.
- In South Africa, the curriculum is implemented on the basis of the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), which has been developed in the South African democratic and constitutional context. The CAPS has a very explicit Afrocentric focus.
- The curriculum content is designed in a South African context, which promotes constitutional values and principles, and embraces multiculturalism and diversity in terms of religious practices and other identities.
11 January 2022 - NW2857
Madokwe, Ms P to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
In light of the fact that at the beginning of this term, a discussion was held between his department, the Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources and Energy and various stakeholders on the failure of his department to issue mining licences, what are the (a) details of the progress made on the issuing of mining licences to date and (b) challenges that have been experienced that resulted in a backlog? NW3377E
Reply:
- Significant progress has been made in the adjudication of mining licence applications since the beginning of the last calendar year. A total of One Thousand and Eleven (1011) prospecting right applications were finalised and Two Hundred and Seven (207) mining right applications were finalised. In addition, 96 Social and Labour plans were finalised.
- The Challenges experienced included the inordinate number of appeals that accompany each application. In addition, the delays in filling of vacancies exacerbated the situation.
11 January 2022 - NW2862
Mohlala, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
With regard to the Giyani water project which is still experiencing numerous challenges with the Vaal Gamagara Regional Water Supply Scheme and the Integrated Vaal River System, what is his department doing to address the challenges?
Reply:
The Department of Water and sanitation has put in place measures to ensure that challenges hindering progress for projects such as the Vaal Gamagara, the Giyani Water Supply and the Vaal River System Intervention are resolved and the services are delivered as expected by affected communities. The table below indicates the project descriptions, challenges and how these are being resolved
PROJECT / CHALLENGES |
INTERVENTION/ PROGRESS |
The Vaal Gamagara BWS Project: Phase 1 entails the refurbishment and replacement of an 80-kilometre pipeline which |
To address challenges regarding the Vaal Gamagara Bulk Water Supply Scheme; the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has put in place an intervention as follows: |
PROJECT / CHALLENGES |
INTERVENTION/ PROGRESS |
become necessary due to the pipeline having reached the end of its functional lifespan. The revised cost of Phase 1 amounts to R1.4 billion. The implementing Agent for the project, the Sedibeng Water Board is currently facing financial and liquidity crisis due to non-payment for services by the municipalities. This has also negatively impacted on the entity’s ability to continue with the implementation of the project. |
|
Giyani Water Services Project; The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is currently implementing the bulk water services project to address water supply challenges in 55 villages in Giyani. The project includes the construction of 8 bulk pipelines with a total length of 325km in to 55 villages. The current overall progress of the project is at48%. It is envisaged that it will be completed and commissioned by end of March 2023. However, it should be noted that the impact of the project will be realised progressively during the implementation as the pipelines should practically be completed and delivering bulk water to the service reservoirs in the villages from October 2021. |
There are currently two pipelines that are are delivering bulk water to service reservoirs in the town of Giyani and the following four villages: Thomo, Mninginisi Block 2, Mhlava and Muyexe. An estimated 11081 households are benefiting from these pipelines. The Mopani District Municipality has a mandate to ensure availability of functional reticulation to all the villages for distribution of bulk water from the service reservoirs to the households once bulk distribution is completed. The DWS is supporting the Municipality through the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) to augment other funding that the municipality is allocated to address water services infrastructure needs, including the reticulation. For this purpose, the department has allocated R42 million for 2021/22 and a further R162 million will be allocated over the MTEF period. |
Vaal River System Intervention: Cabinet approved the Vaal River System Intervention in the Emfuleni Local Municipality through Section 63 (2) of the Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997) on the 26 May 2021. The intervention plan for the water and sanitation infrastructure in the Emfuleni LM. |
The DWS appointed Rand Water in terms of Section 63 of the Water Services Act to undertake management, operations and maintenance of the water and sanitation infrastructure in order to rehabilitate Vaal river integrated system and simultaneously capacitate the municipality to manage operations. |
PROJECT / CHALLENGES |
INTERVENTION/ PROGRESS |
The project is part of the immediate scope of works that will be undertaken by Rand Water. A panel of contractors for civil engineering services was appointed in June 2021. Mechanical and Electrical engineering services will be appointed early in 2022. The project includes the upgrade of Sebokeng, Rietspruit and Leeuwkuil WWTWs and completion of the Meyerton WWTW. |
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