Questions and Replies
04 March 2021 - NW353
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Police
Whether the F'residential Protection Services (PPS) unit(s) assigned to the Former President, Mr J G Zuma, incurred any expenses on and/or around 5 February 2021 to accommodate the hosting by Mr J G Zuma at his Nkandla homestead of the leaders of the Economic Freedom Fighters and the African National Congress, Mr J S Malema, Mr N F Shivambu, Mr V Pambo, Mr D Mpofu, Mr M Masina and Mr T Yengeni; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the expenses incurred in terms of (a) transporting (i) Mr J G Zuma, (ii) his spouse(s) and (iii) guests,
Reply:
(a)(i)(ii)(iii) The South African Police Service (SAPS), Presidential Protection Services (PPS), did not incur any expenses for the transportation of the Former President, Mr JG Zuma, his spouses and his guests, on/or around 5 February 2021.
(b) The employment of additional members of the SAPS, PPS is related to the security of the Very Important Person (VIP), which cannot be disclosed, for security reasons.
© The PPS in KwaZulu-Natal is obliged to abide by the approved and sanctioned Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). There were no additional deployments nor expenditure incurred, by the SAPS PPS, on and/or around 5 February 2021.
Reply to question 353 recommended/
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 353 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW125
Cuthbert, Mr MJ to ask the Minister of Police
Whether he has found it to be acceptable for a senior member of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) to be in charge of a nonprofit organisation which solicits funding from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;
Reply:
- There is nothing prohibiting a senior member of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) to be in charge of a nonprofit organisation (NPO).
- It would not be acceptable for a senior member of the DPCI to (a) solicit and/or
(b) receive funding from the National Lotteries Commission (NCL) at the time when the DPCI are investigating alleged corruption involving lottery funding.
The funds were not received by the senior member of the DPCI, in his capacity as a member of the DPCI. The funds in question is a matter between the National Lotteries Commission (NCL) and the nonprofit organisation (NPO), which has nothing to do with the DPCI.
- The person, whose name is mentioned, did not need permission as a serving member of the DPCI, to set up a foundation. He, therefore, did not seek permission from the employer.
- No, the person, whose name is mentioned, was not obliged to declare the funding, which was received from the NLC, for the NPO.
- No, the person, whose name is mentioned, did not declare that the NPO had received funding from the NLC. If the member had received any other type of funding, which was not meant for the NPO, he would have had to declare it. He was not obliged to declare the funding received from the NLC, for the NPO.
Reply to question 125 recommended/
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-19
Reply to question 125 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
Find here: Internal ref number 1795 2020
Internal Ref Number: Subrrdssion Date: Question Asked By:
Question Asked To:
Question:
1795 - 2020
03.11.2020
Mr MJ Cuthbert Minister of Police
- Whether (a) he believes it is acceptable for a senior member of the Hawks to be in charge of an NPO which solicits funding;
-
- it is acceptable for a senior member of the Hawks to solicit and receive funding from the NLC at a time when the Hawks are investigating corruption involving Lottery funding;
-
- Brigadier Mulaudzi needed permission as a serving officer to set up a foundation in his name, if so, (i) was he granted permission;
-
- he was aware of him being considered for NLC funding prior to his acceptance of the funding itself and
-
- Brigadier Mulaudzi did declare that he had received Lottery funding to him?
Internal Ref Number: Submission Date: Question Asked By: Question Asked To:
Question:
0038 - 2021
08.02.2021
Mr MJ Cuthbert Minister of Police
1. Whether it is acceptable for a senior member of the Hawks to be in charge of a nonprofit organisation which solicits funding from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether it is acceptable for a senior member of the Hawks to (a) solicit and (b) receive funding from the NLC at a time when the Hawks are investigating corruption involving Lottery funding; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether a certain person (name furnished) needed permission as a serving officer to set up a foundation in the specified person’s name; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) was the person granted permission; (4)
whether he was aware of the person being considered for NLC funding prior to his acceptance of the funding itself; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (5) whether the person declared to him that he had received funding from the NLC; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
04 March 2021 - NW28
Chirwa-Mpungose, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Health
What (a) was the outcome of the investigation by his department with regard to the use of Ivermectin for COVID-19 patients in the Eastern Cape and (b) steps have been taken to hold accountable those who have been giving animal medication to human beings without approval from the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority?
Reply:
a) SAHPRA was informed of an alleged dispensing of Ivermectin tablets at Tayler Bequest Hospital. The Times newspaper issued an article dated 12 January 2021 that the Eastern Cape Department of Health will investigate a prescription for Ivermectin after it was allegedly signed at Tayler Bequest Hospital in Matatiele. It was also indicated that it carried the hospital stamp. SAHPRA was able to obtain information from the pharmacist at the Hospital on 03 March 2021. It was confirmed that one of the doctors had written a prescription for Ivermectin, however, it could not be dispensed by the hospital pharmacy as the pharmacy did not have stock. The patient left with the prescription. Management was not available to provide full information on what they were doing about this concerning matter, and it was requested to revert to SAHPRA with further action taken and progress. The response will inform the next step required.
b) There has been one case investigated where it was confirmed that Ivermectin was administered to humans for the purposes of prevention of COVID-19. SAHPRA inspectors conducted an inspection and halted further administration of the Ivermectin. The initial priority was the safety of the recipients, therefore SAHPRA requested the medical evaluation of the recipients. The medical reports received show no impact to the recipients. No case has been opened, however, SAHPRA will be making a follow-up visit to ensure that all commitments made have been met and will be requesting SAPS assistance in the follow up visit.
Cases involving illegal import of Ivermectin by persons into South Africa and illegal selling by South African persons or companies does involve SAPS and arrests were made. SAHPRA continues to investigate any tip-offs and information received.
END.
04 March 2021 - NW119
Terblanche, Mr OS to ask the Minister of Police
Whether the SA Police Service (SAPS) has put any plans in place to minimise the high numbers of its vehicles that are taken out of service at any given time due to maintenance and repairs, in order to ensure that the SAPS can continue to fulfil its mandate; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-19
Reply to question 119 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW118
Terblanche, Mr OS to ask the Minister of Police
Whether the SA Police Service’s forensic science laboratories are experiencing any shortages in the consumables needed to process DNA samples within 30 days; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The South African Police Service (SAPS), Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) experienced a shortage of consumables, in 2019/2020, due to financial constraints. However, in July 2020, an additional R250 million, was allocated to the Division Forensic Services. Funding certificates have since been signed and submitted to the Division: Supply Chain Management (SCM), to activate the procurement process for consumables, which are needed to process deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) samples.
The coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic and the subsequent lockdown Regulations, in terms of the Disaster Management Act, had a negative effect on the procuremant of consumables, due to the restrictions on economic activities. The FSL is serviced by suppliers, who acquire certain consumables from abroad. As a prerequisite, potential responsive bidders/suppliers are expected to do a site visit and consumables must be validated and tested by FSL technicians, to ascertain the compatibility and efficiency of proposed consumables. This process was prohibited during certain stages of the lockdown.
Find here: The following contracts were awarded, in 2020:
04 March 2021 - NW114
Whitfield, Mr AG to ask the Minister of Police
What is the total number of cases of(a) police brutality and (b) members of the public killed by members of the SA Police Service has been reported in each province during the national lockdown period during 27 March 2020 up to 30 April 2020 to prevent the spread of COVJO-16;
Reply:
Find here: REPLY:
04 March 2021 - NW329
Shelembe, Mr ML to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)Whether the Advisory Council on Military Veterans submitted its Annual Report to the National Assembly during their term of five years in office as required in terms of section 10 of the Military Veterans Act, Act 18 of 2011; if not, what are the reasons that she allowed the noncompliance to continue until the Council’s term of office came to an end on 1 October 2020; if so, (2) whether she will furnish Mr M L Shelembe with copies of the specified Annual Reports; if not, why not; if so, on what date?
Reply:
1. The Advisory Council did not submit its reports to me to enable tabling in the National Assembly. I did engage on the matter and even issued a Ministerial Directive in 2019 on the interpretation and application of the mandate of the Advisory Council with specific reference to, amongst others, this provision in the Act.
2. It cannot be furnished as same has not been submitted to my Office.
04 March 2021 - NW115
Whitfield, Mr AG to ask the Minister of Police
What extraordinary measures have been taken by the SA Police Service to withdraw police officials who are alleged to have abused their authority in enforcing the lockdown regulations with regard to the declaration of a national disaster?
Reply:
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 115 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW126
Cuthbert, Mr MJ to ask the Minister of Police
With reference his reply to question 2477 on 13 No\/ember 2020, what are the (a) reasons that the forensic investigator(s) assigned to the specified case failed to collect DNA evidence from the crime scene and (b) further relevant details?
Reply:
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 126 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
Find here: Question 2477
04 March 2021 - NW53
Tafeni, Ms N to ask the Minister of Police
What plans does his department have in place to deal decisively with the problem of livestock theft in the Eastern Cape, primarily in areas such as (a) Ngcobo, (b) Tsomo,
Reply:
- Engcobo:
- A Stock Theft Satellite Office has been identified in Dalasile, which is not far from Engcobo and will be established, in 2021/2022, to curb and investigate all stock theft and related matters.
- Tsomo:
- In Tsomo, all the stock theft cases and related matters are being dealt with by the Butterworth Stock Theft Unit and the theft of livestock has been decreased, by up to 5%, in this financial year.
- Stock Theft operations are conducted monthly.
- An education drive on how to look after and brand livestock, is being conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Agriculture.
- Matatiele:
- A contingency plan is being developed to deploy SAPS members along the border of South Africa and Lesotho, who will work closely with members of the South African Defence Force (SANDF) members to curb the theft of livestock, as well as address illegal border crossings. It is envisaged that this contingency plan will be implemented, in 2021/2022.
- Stock Theft operations are conducted monthly.
-
- An education drive, on how to look after and brand livestock, is being conducted by the SAPS and the Department of Agriculture.
- A fully-fledged Stock Theft Unit will be established, in Matatiele, in 2021/2022 and will be commanded by a Captain, with 12 members.
- Qumbu:
- A total of 16 SAPS members have been allocated to the Qumbu Stock Theft Unit, to beef up the investigations, perform waylay duties and conduct patrols to curb the theft of livestock in that area.
- A Stock Theft Satellite Office, with six SAPS members, has been established in Sulenkama, to investigate all stock theft and related matters, perform waylay duties and conduct patrols to curb the theft of livestock.
- Stock Theft operations are conducted monthly.
- An education drive on how to take care of and brand livestock, is being conducted by the SAPS and the Department of Agriculture.
Reply to question 53 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-25
Reply to question 53 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
(
04 March 2021 - NW116
Whitfield, Mr AG to ask the Minister of Police
What are the details of the steps that he is actively taking to address the alarmingly high number of complaints lodged by members of the public against the SA Police Service members for police brutality, assault and heavy-handedness during the national lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19?
Reply:
On 15 March 2020, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, designated under Section 3 of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002), declared a national state of disaster and promulga1ed Regulations, in terms of section 27(2) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) issued a circular, with reference 1/1/4/1 over 3/34/1, dated 19 May 2020, signed by the National Commissioner, to address the use of force and torture and provide guidelines on the implementation and enforcement of Regulations and directives issued, in terms of Section 27 of the Disaster Management Act, 2002, on the containment and management of COVID-19. This circular was issued in response to the court order issued in the Khoza judgment. A Code of Conduct for law enforcement officers during the State of Disaster was also issued jointly, by the SAPS and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), in response to the court order issued in the Khoza judgement. The Code of Conduct provides for complaint mechanisms to be used by persons, who are aggrieved by the conduct of SAPS or SANDF members.
Guidelines are issued, every time when there is an amendment to the Disaster Management Act Regulations, to ensure that members of the SAPS have a common understanding. These directives are updated, in accordance with the periodic amendments to the aforementioned legislation. The circulation of these directives is effected, via established internal communication platforms, to all levels in the SAPS.
The SAPS members are reminded of the SAPS Code of Conduct, during daily on and off duty parades. The SAPS deploys Senior Management Service (SMS) members at local level, to enhance the overall command and control and to guide and advise members on the application of lockdown directives.
The Minister and Deputy Minister of Police, in conjunction with the SAPS Top Management, have undertaken several visits to SAPS members who are deployed, to emphasise the correct and professional application of the lockdown directives.
The SAPS conducts thorough investigation of all complaints against its members, including those related to the implementation of the aforementioned Regulations.
Reply to question 116 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 116 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW69
Majozi, Ms Z to ask the Minister of Police
What (a) number of police stations were robbed in the Republic in 2020, (b) has the SA Police Service identified to be the root cause of the robberies and (c) steps does he intend to take to prevent the robberies in future?
Reply:
- A total of three police stations were robbed, in 2020. The Moyeni Police Station in the Eastern Cape was robbed, on 19 December 2020. The Badplaas and the Bushbuckridge police stations, in Mpumalanga were robbed, on 12 September 2020 and 22 June 2020, respectively.
- Based on the incident reports, the root cause of the robberies was to obtain firearms. This was tha motive in all the above mentioned robberies.
- Preventative measures, with regard to access control and safeguarding of
firearms, are in place. The South African Police Service (SAPS), Police Safety Strategy, Pillar 2, Proactive Interventions, deals with the development and implementation of identified safety measures at police stations. A National Directive, with reference 18/3/2, dated 22 August 2018, was issued regarding the safekeeping of state owned firearms in the Community Service Centres
(CSC) safes. It aims to mitigate the risk of attacks and robberies at police “ stations and requires the movable firearm safes to be removed from the CSC
to a safe room, in order to prevent the theft/loss of firearms. Pillar 3: Safety of Police Stations, Building and Infrastructure deals with the South African National Standards (SANS), which is prescribed for the storage of firearms, in terms of the Firearm Control Act, 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000).
Reply to question 69 recommended/
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 69 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 02/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW330
Shelembe, Mr ML to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
What are the reasons that she failed to have the new Advisory Council on Military Veterans appointed by 1 October 2020?
Reply:
The Minister is in the process of filling 10 vacancies on the Advisory Council as prescribed by the Act. There is currently no Association in place, those three vacancies will be filled as, and when an Association has been elected.
04 March 2021 - NW6
Van Staden, Mr PA to ask the Minister of Police
Whether any actions will be taken against the organisers and participants of the Economic Freedom Fighters’ recent mass gathering on 20 November 2020 at the Brackenfell High School, where the numbers, firstly, exceeded the number allowed by a court order that approved the march and secondly clearly far exceeded the limit of 500 persons allowed in terms of the Disaster Management Act, Act 57 of 2002, and Regulations relating to COVID-19 and, secondly, where the participants clearly also did not adhere to the minimum social distancing and wearing of masks as required; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
Reply:
Yes, a case docket was opened and is being investigated. The case relates to the various contraventions of the Regulations of Gathering Act, 1993 (Act No. 205 of 1993). These contraventions include the failure to comply with conditions imposed, in respect of the gathering, as well as failures to comply with instructions and orders of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
A total of eight persons were arrested for public violence, in respect of incidents of violence that occurred on that day.
With regard to the failure to comply with the Regulations, in terms of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002), it is important to note that at the time of the march the Regulations, applicable to Alert Level 1 had to be complied with, in terms of Regulation 69, read with Regulation 80. The failure to comply with the provisions relating to gatherings were not criminalised and the failure to comply with the provisions, relating to the wearing of masks and social distancing were not criminal offences for which police could have arrested the perpetrators. The only obligation on law enforcement officers that applied at the time, was to disperse gatherings that took place in contravention of the Regulations. The SAPS did disperse the gathering.
(2) A case docket, Brackenfell CAS 237/11/2020, was opened, in terms of Section 18(2)(b) of the Riotous Assemblies Act, 1956 (Act No. 17 of 1956). This case relates to one of the persons, who incited violence on the day of the march. No case docket, in terms of the latter Section was opened against the organisers of the gathering and the reason for this is the fact that the conduct of the conveners are already the subject of an investigation, in terms of Brackenfell CAS 236/11/2020. The incidents of violence is also the subject of the public violence case dockets, which are being investigated.
(3)The Minister will decide whether he will make a statement on the matter.
Reply to question 6 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-19
Reply to question 6 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW177
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Police
With reference to his reply to question 2335 on 9 November 2020 regarding farm attacks in Gauteng during the period 1 June to 31 September, in which certain farm murders were not listed (details furnished), for each of these cases, why was each of the specified murders not listed; whether an investigation into each of the murders is underway; if not, why not; if so, on what date is the investigation expected to be completed; whether any arrests have been made; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what is the status of criminal prosecution against the perpetrator(s)? NW180E
04 March 2021 - NW54
Ndlozi, Dr MQ to ask the Minister of Police
Whether there has been any progress in the case, reference number CAS 232/1/2021 , which was registered on 2021-01-11 at the Sunnyside Police Station; if not, why not; if so, what is the status of the specified investigation?
Reply:
The investigation of the case, with reference number CAS 232/01/2021 , which was registered, on 11 January 2021, at the Sunnyside Police Station, was referred to the Investigating Directorate, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), by the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS). A copy of the letter, with reference 26/3/8, dated 13 January 2021, is attached.
Reply to question 54 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 54 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 02/03/2021
X 94 Pretoria, 0001
26/3/8
General KI Sitole 012 400 6934
A.THE HEAD: INVESTIGATING DIRECTORATE P/Bag X762
Pretoria
01
B.THE DEPUTY NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: CRIME DETECTION
C.THE ACTING DIVISIONAL COMMISSIONER: DETECTIVE SERVICE
TRANSFER OF INVESTIGATION FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE (SAPS) TO THG INVESTIOATING DIRECTORATE: SUNNYSIDE CAS 232/01/2021
Case number 232/01/2021 opened at Sunnyside Police Station on 11!^ January 2021 by the Economic Freedom Fighters political party, against the Minister of Police for which that SAPS Is functionally accountable to, has a bearing on this communication.
The South African Police Service National Commissioner General KJ Sitole therefore, In the promotion of ties, fair and objective administration of justice, hereby requests the Head: Investigating Directorate, Advocate H Cronja to investigate the above mentioned case against the Minister.
Enquiries regarding the docket or any cooperation needed from the SAPS, the Advocate is humbly requested to contact the Deputy National Commissioner: Crime Detection Lieutenant General SC Mfazi at [email protected]
B - C: Copy for information
04 March 2021 - NW100
Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Police
Whether, with reference to his reply to questions 1783 on 27 August 2020 and 2568 on 13 November 2020, he will now furnish Mr M Waters with a copy of the latest complete armoury report; if not, why not, if so, on what date?
Reply:
An extension of two weeks is requested, in order to facilitate the ratification and approval of the final armourty report, before submission.
Reply to question 100 recommended/
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 100 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW70
Majozi, Ms Z to ask the Minister of Police
What number of (a) rape kits have been procured and (b) police stations have been equipped with the necessary equipment to assist with cases of gender- based violence;
Reply:
Introduction
The term ”rape kits” is used in the public dOmafn, to refer ta the collection kits, which are used to collect evidence from victims of sexual assault and rape. However, the South African Police Service (SAPS), makes use of 1d different types of crime kits to collect various samples at crime scenes. These include the two types of evidence collection kits, namely; the Adult Sexual Assault Collection Kit (D1) and the Paediatric Sexual Assault Collection Kit (D7), which are used to collect evidence from victims of sexual assault and rape. The deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) Reference Buccal Sample Kits (DB), are used to take buccal samples from persons, who are arrested and charged, for schedule eight offences (this includes serial murderers and serial rapists), as required by the DNA Act.
(1)(a) The table below reflects the rape kits that have been procured for the 2020/2021 financial year, up to 12 February 2021.
Order date Item description |
Quantity ordered |
2020-05-13 D1: Kit, Collection, Adult, Sexual Assault 2020-05-13 D7: Kit, Collection, Paediatric, Sexual Assault |
39 829 |
17 323 |
(1)(b) A total number of 1 155 police stations have been provided with the necessary equipment to assist with cases of gender-based violence. The collection kits are distributed, from the Division: Supply Chain Management (SCM), to the Provincial SCM, who then distribute the collection kits to police stations, in accordance with their requirements, as informed by the prevailing crime statistics. All provinces are required to confirm the availability of collection kits to the Divisional Commissioner: SCM, on a weekly basis and replenishment is done, as requested.
(2) The contract number 19/1/9/1/140TD(18), is in place for a period of three years. There is currently a delay in the delivery of the D7 Kits, because the supplier is waiting for the laboratory test results, before the evidence kits can be provided to the SAPS.
Response to question 70 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-19
Reply to question 70 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
04 March 2021 - NW105
Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Police
Whether, with reference to the application of a certain political party (name furnished) for the right to march on the Brackenfell High School on Friday, 20 November 2020, there were any identified organisations and/or groups who did not apply to participate in the march; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, how did the SA Police Service manage to avoid potential conflict?
Reply:
Yes, the operational commander addressed the group and warned them to disperse. The group dispersed, without any incident.
Reply to question 105 recommended/
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 105 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
QUESTIONS FOR WRITTEN REPLY
Internal Ref Number: 0018 2021
Submission Date: Question Asked By: Question Asked To:
08.02.2021
Mr Denis Joseph Minister of Police
Question:
1.In relation to the application made by the Economic Freedom Fighters for Friday 20 November 2020 where they marched to Brackenfell High School, will he advise (a) whether there were any organizations or groups identified who did not apply to participate in the march, if so, (b) how did the police mange avoiding potential conflict?
Contact: Asanda Sotenjwa (2960 or [email protected])
04 March 2021 - NW263
Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
What are the reasons for her department’s continued harassment of the residents of the Marievale Military Base in Ekurhuleni in Gauteng, despite the court ruling that found that her department’s insistence at evicting
Reply:
I am advised that the SANDF is not harassing anyone resident at the said Military Base.
04 March 2021 - NW178
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Police
Whether, with reference to his reply to question 2336 on 9 November 2020, he will (a) provide Mr A C Roos with an updated list the number of vehicles (i) allocated to each station to (aa) support services, (bb) visible policing, (cc) rural safety and (dd) detectives and (ii) boarded in total for each police station in Gauteng as at 31 December 2020 and (b) for each of these categories indicate how many are (i) operational and (ii) out of service;
04 March 2021 - NW58
Mokgotho, Ms SM to ask the Minister of Police
What are the reasons that the Sun City Satellite Police Station in Moses Kotane Local Municipality is closed?
Reply:
The number of South African Police Service (SAPS) members at the Sun City Police Station, was reduced by seven members during the last year, influencing the availability of members to operate the Satellite Police Station, on a full-time basis.
The premises, which was used for the Sun City Police Station, was a small office, which was lent to the SAP6 by the tribal council of Mabeskraal. With the outbreak of COVID-19 the office did not meet the standards of the COVID-19 protocols, e.g. social distancing, etc. for the protection of the community and SAPS members.
As a result of the abovementioned situation, the Sun City Police Station now makes use of a mobile Community Service Centre that visits the affected community, two to three times a week, to ensure that the services rendered by the previous “Satellite Office" are maintained.
A new Police Station for Mabeskraal is currently in the final stages of completion, after which the community will be able to receive permanent police services.
Reply to question 58 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-19
Reply to question 58 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
2
04 March 2021 - NW4
Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of Police
What progress has been made with the charge of ordinary theft, CAS 18/07/2020, that a certain person (name furnished) laid against four members of the SA Police Service (SAPS) at the Khuma Police Station;whether, in light of the serious charge of theft, any steps have been taken against the four SAPS members (names and details furnished); if not, why not; if so, what steps;whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
Disciplinary steps have been instituted against the four SAPS members and the progress is as follows:
The Disciplinary Investigating Officer was appointed, on 6 August 2020.
The departmental investigation was completed, on 4 September 2020.
The departmental case was placed on the roll for the departmental hearing, on 8 October 2020.
The outcome of the departmental hearing was, on 15 October 2020 and the members were given written warnings.
The departmental file was placed on review by the Integrity Management Officer and was referred for a legal opinion.
The departmental file is currently with the Provincial Head: Legal Services for the finalisation of the review application process.
Reply to question 4 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 4 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 02/03/2021
NW4E
VFf°LUS
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
QUESTION FOR WRITTEN REPLY
Dr. P. Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Police:
What progress has been made with the charge of ordinary theft, CAS 18/07/2020, that Mr. M. Zuahar laid against four members of the SA Police Service (SAPS) at the Khuma Police Station;
whether, in light of the serious charge of theft, any steps have been taken against the four SAPS members (WO IT Msindo, Sgt TJ Njephe, Sgt TD Sebotso and Const SL Molete); if not, why not; if so, what steps;
whether he will make a statement on the matter; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Dr. P. Groenewald (MP) 7 February 2021
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Unrepresented Nations and
Pecples OrganlzaClon
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04 March 2021 - NW173
Faber, Mr WF to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) What total number of buildings and/or premises are currently utilised by the SA Post Office under lease agreements and (b) at what total cost?
Reply:
I have been advised by the SAPO as follows:
a) SAPO is currently renting 1 110 premises from landlords and is currently considering ownership option in some areas and releasing some where they are under-utilised.
b) Currently, the total rental bill is approximately R30 million per month.
MS. STELLA NDABENI-ABRAHAMS, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
04 March 2021 - NW306
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)What are the consequence management procedures that are put in place to deal with incidents of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) deployees abusing their authority in the implementation of the regulations of the lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19; (2) what measures are in place to ensure that the SANDF deployees are regularly updated with their COVID-19 health status given their mass deployment and the risks associated with their exposure to communities where civil interaction is inevitable; (3) what (a) number of SANDF deployees have been placed in self-quarantine following the announcement of the impending lockdown and (b) measures have been institutionalised to reintegrate the specified individuals back into the operations of the presidential assignment during the lockdown period; (4) what (a) number of recorded incidents are there of live ammunition being utilised by SANDF members during the lockdown period and (b) accountability mechanisms are in place to ensure that no unjustifiable incidents occurred during this period?
Reply:
1. All SANDF members, even while deployed, fall under the Military Disciplinary Code (MDC) which is a regulatory framework that provides for the application of justice to all members that contravene DOD regulations, policies, orders and instructions as well as for misconduct and ill-discipline in the conduct of their duties.
2. SANDF deployed members, when on or off duty, follow and apply the same laid down COVID-19 health protocols applicable to everyone (public) in the RSA (scanning, screening, testing, sanitizing, hand washing, social distancing). They are regularly provided with the necessary PPE’s required, regular information and awareness is conducted.
3. (a) No members of the SANDF, deployed during the lockdown period, were placed under self-quarantine, however, members follow and apply the same COVID-19 health protocols applicable to everyone (public) in the RSA wrt self-quarantine/isolation measures applicable for contact, exposure to virus infection situations or infection; to wit; re-testing and declaration of status before reintegration.
(b) On completion of the required quarantine/self-quarantine or mandatory isolation period the members return to their work activities.
4. (a) Since the commencement of lockdown (March 2020 to date) there were 4 incidents recorded.
(b) Members received continuous in-post training on the correct handling and usage of weapons as well as the Code of Conduct and the Rules of Conduct and Engagement (ROCE). Operational Law Training, which also includes the rules guiding the opening of fire (shooting) is conducted regularly during operational deployments
04 March 2021 - NW2
Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of Police
What (a) total number of firearms were handed in at the SA Police Service during the amnesty period from 1 August 2020 until 31 January 2021 and (b) number, of the total number, are firearms (i) of which the licences have expired and (ii) which are still licenced and were handed in voluntarily;
Reply:
(1)(a)(b)(i)(ii), (2)(a)(b), (3) and (4)(a)(b)
An extension of two weeks is requested, because the information needs to be drawn from a live system, in order to provide the response to this question.
Reply to question 2 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 2 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE,MP
Date: 008/03/2021
2
04 March 2021 - NW239
Kohler-Barnard, Ms D to ask the Minister of Police
What (a) is the status of the investigation into criminal charges laid against certain persons (names and details furnished) on 9 April 2009 at the Durban Central Police Station and (b) are the details of the (i) investigation(s) and (ii) outcome(s) to date;
Reply:
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2021-02-26
Reply to question 239 approved
MINISTER OF POLICE
GENERAL BH CELE, MP
Date: 03/03/2021
Internal Ref Number: 0141 2021
Submission Date: 08.02.2021
Question Asked By: Ms D Kohler
Question Asked To: Minister of Police
Question:
1.What (a) is the status of the investigation into criminal charges laid against (i) Mr A J P Fraser, a former employee of the Department of State Security and (ii) Mr M Hulley, a former attorney of former President J G Zuma on 9 April 2009 at the Durban Central Police Station and (b) are the details of the (i) investigation(s) and (ii) outcome(s) to date;
Whether the SA Police Service transferred the investigation into the specified criminal charges of any of the specified persons to the State Security Agency; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) on what date was the investigation transferred to the State Security Agency, (d) why was the investigation transferred to the State Security Agency and (c) what are the further relevant details in this regard?
Contact: Asanda Sotenjwa (073 478 4738 or as and cla,org.za)
03 March 2021 - NW218
Gondwe, Dr M to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1)What total (a) number of qualifying government employees are currently benefitting from the Government Employees Housing Scheme (GEHS) in each (i) province, (ii) department and (iii) salary level and (b) amount is currently being saved in the Individual-Linked Savings Facility for qualifying government employees who do not currently own homes; (2) Whether the department attempted to establish why only a low number of qualifying government employees are benefiting from the GEHS; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1(a) As at 31 January 2021, the number of government employees receiving the housing allowance was 958 705. The breakdown is as follows: 710 173 employees are for home ownership, 240 194 employees are tenants and 8338 are employees still receiving the old housing allowance.
1(a)(i) The table hereunder provides aggregate information, as at 31st January 2021, on employees that are receiving the housing allowance per province and in national departments.
Province and National |
Number of employees |
Eastern Cape |
95 040 |
Free State |
41 006 |
Gauteng |
122 960 |
KwaZulu Natal |
145 358 |
Limpopo |
86 588 |
Mpumalanga |
59 428 |
North West |
45 060 |
Northern Cape |
16 250 |
Western Cape |
49 009 |
All Provinces (Sub Total) |
660 699 |
National |
298 006 |
Grand Total |
958705 |
1(a)(ii) Information on employees receiving the housing allowance per department (National and provincial departments) is reflected on Annexure A.
1(a)(iii) Information on employees, per salary level 1 to 10 including 11 to 12 for the Occupational Special Dispensation (OSD), is reflected on Annexure B. Employees who are not owning nor renting any accommodation do not receive the housing allowance. Employees who are on middle management (MMS) and senior management service (SMS) levels (11 – 16) respectively and are on Total Cost to Employer salary packages do not receive a separate housing allowance. However, they are able to access other services of the Scheme, such as education and counselling, housing loans and housing stock facilitation, and enrolment.
1(b) As at 31st December 2020, the amount currently saved in the Individual-Linked Savings Facility (ILSF) is R 9.6 billion.
2. The DPSA has established that eligible public service employees are accessing the housing allowance benefit and that this has improved since inception of the GEHS benefits. This is demonstrated by the fact that the qualifying number of employees has almost doubled from 352 103 in July 2015 when the GEHS benefits were implemented to 710 173 employees as at 31 January 2021., A further improvement is on the reduction of the number of employees who were eligible for the historical housing allowance from 44530 in July 2015, to 8 338 employees, as at 31 January 2021.
At an employee/individual level factors, ranging from poor financial health, decisions on appropriate home locations, respective housing stock supply and affordability price ranges affect the ability of employees to obtain finance for housing loans or where to purchase, within their affordability criteria.
The access to and provision of decent housing is a national imperative and the DPSA is acutely aware of its role in acting as a catalyst for disrupting the status quo.
End
03 March 2021 - NW217
Gondwe, Dr M to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1)(a) What total number of (i) employees applied for the Early Retirement Incentive of 2019 in each (aa) national and (bb) provincial government department, (ii) applications were approved and (iii) applications were not processed, (b) who took the decision to not process the applications and (c) was this decision taken in consultation with National Treasury; (2) Whether there are any plans to re-introduce the Early Retirement Incentive in the 2021-22 financial cycle; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether consideration has been given to simplify the process around the Early Retirement Incentive by removing the early retirement provisions for employees aged 55 to 60 across the board and simply incentivising the exit of older less productive employees; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Introduction:
The Centralised Early Retirement initiative in 2019 was considered in response to managing the wage bill as well as a need identified for employees wishing to exit the Public Service before the official retirement age. Eligible employees must have turned 55 but not yet 60 years of age, during the financial years 2019 to 2021. National Treasury was to be approached by departments for the provision of additional funding, in cases where departments could not pay the liability attached to early retirement, on behalf of eligible employees. This meant that an employee taking early retirement would be treated as if he/she would be retiring normally. As National Treasury was providing funding for this initiative, the response to the question is based on the information supplied by National Treasury.
(1)(a)(i) The number of applications, for early retirement, received by National Treasury for processing by December 2020 from both national and provincial departments was 5 289.
(1)(a)(i)(aa) The available information is not disaggregated by departments or specific provinces. From the total number of applications for early retirement, 3 332 applications were from National Departments, and
(1)(a)(i)(bb) 1957 applications were from the Provinces.
(1)(a)(ii) 2 964 applications were recommended for funding and communicated to the respective national departments. Approval for early retirement vests with the relevant Executive Authority. The Technical Committee on Finance (TCF) decided that all applications from provincial departments be referred to the provincial Treasuries to process. The Applications from Provincial Departments were therefore processed and financed through the relevant provincial treasury.
(1)(a)(iii) all eligible applications submitted for central funding were processed and feedback provided to the relevant national departments. Each Provincial Treasury processed applications for the respective province and has such information.
(1)(b) no decision was taken not to process any eligible application made at the national level.
(1)(c) refer to (1)(b) above.
(2) Various measures are considered to better manage personnel expenditure in the Public Service. At this point in time there are no plans to re-introduce a centrally funded Early Retirement Incentive, similar to the incentive that applied in 2019. Early Retirement is regulated and is vested with the relevant Executive Authority. Nothing prohibits departments from encouraging their employees to take early retirement in terms of the current provisions. In August 2020, National Treasury issued Guidelines for Costing and Budgeting for Compensation of Employees for the preparation of estimates of expenditure for the 2021 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The Guidelines encouraged departments to implement compensation containment measures, such as Early Retirement without penalisation, among others.
(3) There is no evidence that older employees are necessarily less productive than younger employees or vice versa. Experience, institutional memory and maturity are highly valued by employers. Incentivising exits, is therefore not a mutually exclusive process from considerations such as service delivery continuity, human resource planning, recruitment, utilization, development and retention.
The process of applying for early retirement is the same as applying for normal retirement with the additional consideration of penalties for early retirement. The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) applies the same formula to both normal and early retirement. Any changes to the process may affect the Government Employees Pension Law and Rules as there is an adjustment factor applicable to early retirement.
End
03 March 2021 - NW381
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the President of the Republic
With reference to the second South Africa Investment Conference, wherein companies made investment commitments of R364 billion in industries including tourism and hospitality, (a)(i) what is the total amount that has been invested to date, (ii) by what number of companies and (iii) on what dates were these investments made, (b) what is the nature of such investments in each case and (c) how has the investments contributed to the economy to date?
Reply:
a) (i) Of the R364.4 billion in investment commitments announced by 71 companies at the 2019 SA Investment Conference, R69 billion (18.9% of the total value of announcements) has flowed into the economy as per reports received from companies.
(ii) 60 of the 71 companies are responsible for the flows of R69 billion.
(iii) This figure is based on quarterly updates received directly from the companies and reflect the status quo as at 31 January 2021.
b)
Sector |
Number of Investments |
Nature of investments |
Advanced Manufacturing |
4 |
New manufacturing facilities |
Factory upgrades and expansions |
||
Agro-processing
|
7 |
Factory upgrades and expansions |
New manufacturing facilities |
||
Various new and expansion activities under poultry sector Master Plan |
||
Automotive
|
10 |
Factory upgrades and expansions |
New manufacturing facilities |
||
Infrastructure |
6 |
Investment in upgraded and new infrastructure |
Manufacturing
|
11 |
Factory upgrades and expansions |
New manufacturing facilities |
||
Expansion of productive capacity across different operations |
||
Various new and expansion activities under the Retail, Clothing, Textile, Leather and Footwear Master Plan |
||
Mineral Beneficiation
|
11 |
Expansion and upgrading of existing mining operations |
New mines |
||
Investment in new and expansion of mineral processing capacity |
||
Services
|
6 |
Investment in new datacentres |
Investment in new and upgrading of broadband infrastructure and services |
||
Investment in financial services |
||
Expansion and upgrading of existing facilities |
||
Oceans Economy |
1 |
New cruise terminal infrastructure |
Oil and Gas |
2 |
Investment in new and upgrading of oil & gas projects |
Renewable Energy
|
2 |
Investment in small scale renewable energy projects |
Tourism and Hospitality |
8 |
Property development |
New tourism and hospitality projects |
||
Funds |
2 |
Investment in project financing |
Collective Announcement |
1 |
Investment in various types of activities |
c) The 2019 investment announcements are at different stages of progress and implementation and include site clearances, installation of bulk infrastructure, commissioning of plant equipment, and factory launches. These activities are contributing to the creation of jobs and economic development across provinces.
03 March 2021 - NW48
Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(a) What role can reclamation, restoration and rehabilitation of degraded land play in increasing food production and (b) has her department identified degraded land for this purpose?
Reply:
a) Reclamation, restoration or rehabilitated land is key to increase the production of food in that it brings back land into production. Improving land quality by restoring same degraded lands have potential to increase yields as a results of increased ecosystem services i.e. food and water.
b) Yes.
02 March 2021 - NW287
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether his department exercises any oversight over municipal speed-calming policies to ensure that both the guidelines entailed in the specified policies as well as the actual implementation of the guidelines by municipalities conform to the national guidelines; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The department does not exercise any oversight over municipal speed calming policies that ensure that both the guidelines entailed in the specified policies, as well as the actual implementation of the guidelines by municipalities, conform to the national guidelines.
It is important to note that the local sphere of Government has by-laws that among other things guide the design and the implementation of the calming measures within the area of its jurisdiction.
Furthermore, The National Road Safety Steering Committee (NRSSC) technical committees have updated National Guideline for Traffic Calming measures, including clearer designs for speed humps, as a priority. This updated guideline will be incorporated to Road Safety Authorities guideline manuals for implementation.
We believe that Municipalities will benefit from these guidelines if they make use of them.
02 March 2021 - NW497
Chetty, Mr M to ask the Minister of Transport:
With reference to his reply to question 1030 on 14 November 2019, (a) what are the reasons that the City of Ekurhuleni failed to meet the deadline of October 2019 in order to have 40 buses operating, (b) what action has his department taken with city for missing the deadline and (c) amount does the city spend on leasing each bus in each month
Reply:
a) Challenges experienced with the operationalisation of additional buses and services.
The City of Ekurhuleni reported that there were unforeseen delays with the issuing of new operating licences for buses at the Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE). Without the operating licences the additional busses could not be introduced into the system.
This delay was further exacerbated by the closing of PRE offices during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Only applications for operating licence renewals were processed during the lockdown period. The City had to intervene and request for a special dispensation for the processing of the BRT operator’s application for operating licences.
It must also be noted that Ekurhuleni’s application for a rollover of over R100 million for the 2018/19 year was not approved by National Treasury even though the city appealed in January 2020. This led to a shortage of operational funding for the 19/20 financial year.
b) The Department of Transport supported the Ekurhuleni’s appeal regarding its 18/19 rollover. However, with this appeal being unsuccessful and with the challenge of COVID 19 from March 2020 and its impact on the Tembisa to OR Tambo International Airport route, the Department has accepted a delay and has instructed Ekurhuleni to fully ramp up the 40 bus service in the first half of 2021.
Failure to comply with this will see Ekurhuleni as a potential candidate for being suspended from the Public Transport Network Grant in the 2022 MTEF period.
Similar cautionary warnings have been given to several other cities as well.
c) The City of Ekurhuleni report that it is not spending any funds per month relating to the leasing of busses stated above. Initially some of the 40 buses were leased from early 2019 by Harambee operator KTVR Vehilce Operating Company (VOC) in order to augment the pilot service launch in late 2017.
By October 2019, the Harambee operator KTVR VOC had secured short term financing for the remainder of the 40 bus fleet that was not already procured
02 March 2021 - NW500
Lotriet, Prof A to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether, with reference to his replies to questions 547 on 11 November 2020 and 687 on 3 April 2019, his department has withheld transfers; if not, why not; if so, (a) what amount has been withheld, (b) from what date were transfers withheld and (c) what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Whether with reference to his replies to questions 547 on 11 November 2020 and 687 on 3 April 2019, his department has withheld transfers?
Yes, indeed the Department has withheld Ekurhuleni’s 2nd tranche transfer.
a) What amount has been withheld?
R200 million,
b) From what date were transfers withheld?
From 23 October 2020 to 25 November 2020.
c) What are the relevant details?
A tranche / quarterly transfer is conditional upon the progress or achievement of previously funded milestones. The Department as the Transferring Officer had to reschedule Ekurhuleni’s 2nd tranche transfer due to non-compliance with grant framework and allow enough time to the Ekurhuleni municipality to conduct applicable assessments in order to comply with the grant framework. The transfer deferred was rescheduled and paid on the 26th of November 2020, following the required compliance.
02 March 2021 - NW404
Boshoff, Dr WJ to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1)Whether the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research granted support to the company Additiv Solutions from the Photonics Prototyping Facility Programme (a) in the past three financial years and (b) since 1 April 2021; if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, Additiv Solutions qualified for such assistance at the time; (2) whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
1. The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) funds the Photonics Prototyping Facility (PPF) through its Industry Innovation Partnership Programme. The PPF was established in 2016 and is a national facility that supports the commercialisation of photonics prototypes and facilitates photonic product development that results in market-ready products. It is hosted by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s (CSIR) National Laser Centre. The facility supports small technology businesses in the main. The PPF publishes call for proposals, inviting technology business to submit proposals for technologies requiring prototyping support. The PPF established a PPF Investment Committee, which includes industry experts and the DSI, and which evaluates and recommends proposals to be supported to the CSIR. Proposals are evaluated against the following criteria:
a) Relevance and Impact (commercial relevance; feasibility; and significance of impact to the Photonics industry);
b) Technical merit (clarity of objectives/motivation to use the PPF; novelty of technology; maturity of technology);
c) Budget (alignment to tasks; and feasibility with existing infrastructure); and
d) Management Plan (feasibility and efficiency of plan; and track record and team)
PPF published an open call for participation inviting proposals from SMMEs, established companies and technology entrepreneurs requiring prototype product development support, using photonics as a core building block. Additiv Solutions (Pty) Ltd submitted a proposal for the “Development of a low-cost metal additive manufacturing machine to target the use of metal 3D printing in various industries” on 30 September 2019, in response to this call. The proposal was evaluated by the PPF Investment Committee, and approved for funding on 9 December 2019. A contract between the CSIR and Additiv Solutions was concluded on 12 June 2020, and the planned contract completion date is 31 March 2021. The value of the contract is R1 245 890, with no direct funding transfer to Additiv Solutions. The funding is utilized at the CSIR to support CSIR labour and equipment acquisition to support the project. No additional contracts or funding allocations are currently planned to Additiv Solutions.
2. This question relates to particular project at the CSIR. The Minister does not usually make statements on particular projects, and is not planning to do so in relation to the CSIR’s support to Additiv Solutions.
02 March 2021 - NW64
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)Whether he has been informed that the roads in the agricultural town of Standerton in Mpumalanga are full of potholes and that this has persisted for quite some time now; if not, why not; if so, (2) whether his department has plans in place to address the persisting problem; if not, why not; if so, by what date will the plans be implemented?
Reply:
1. The Minister of Transport has been informed about the bad condition of roads within the town of Standerton in Mpumalanga Province. The Minister has also discovered that the mentioned roads fall within the jurisdiction of the local sphere of Government and they needed to be rehabilitated through the MIG funding made available by COGTA.
2. The Department is constantly engaging with all 44 Municipalities on road data collection so that municipalities can be able to prioritise the maintenance and rehabilitation of their road network using their MIG allocations from COGTA. The Department is of the view that the Standerton local Municipality has made plans as per assessment data they have received thus far.
Municipalities are also encouraged to enter into MOA with SANRAL to augment their technical skills where that is a challenge for their execution of road maintenance activities.
Furthermore, SANRAL through its routine maintenance contracts do daily route patrols of all national roads under SANRAL’s jurisdiction and identify, for example potholes that must be repaired within 48 hours.
We are made to understand that, the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (PWRT) is aware of the poor condition of the Municipal roads in Standerton and was requested by the Local Municipality in question for certain municipal roads to be taken over by the Province. This transfer is encouraged.
02 March 2021 - NW17
Shaik Emam, Mr AM to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether he has found that minibus taxis and flights that are allowed to operate at full capacity and thereby exposing passengers and travellers in close proximity to many hours of coughing, sneezing, talking and eating, do not pose a serious risk to the transmission of COVID-19; if not, what evidence does he rely on to make such concessions; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Public Transport
In terms of the Public Transport Directions published on the 22 July 2020 (Gazette No: 43538) loading capacity for long distance public transport travel is restricted to 70% whereas for any trip regarded as short distance a 100% capacity is allowed. Medical experts and professionals advised that the longer you are exposed to an infectious person the more likely you are to be exposed to the virus. This implies that encounters with an infectious person for a short time have a lesser risk of spreading the virus. It is for this reason that allowing closer contact of passengers (100% capacity) on shorter trips/period, coupled with other mitigating measures such as wearing of masks and sufficient ventilation, would not necessarily pose a higher risk of infection to passengers. It should also be emphasised that the wearing of masks is currently compulsory.
South African Civil Aviation Authority
The Minister of Transport has permitted aircraft to be filled to capacity except the two rows in the front or back of the cabin which must be kept open in case a suspected case is identified during flight. This decision was taken following a risk assessment exercise and the implementation of a multi-layered approach to the prevention of the spread of the virus which includes amongst others:
- Mandatory wearing of masks throughout the flights by both crew and passengers except children under 5 years and those with documented medical exclusions.
- Screening at domestic & international airports upon entering the terminal building that include thermal scanners, questionnaires and visual inspections.
- Social Distancing throughout the journey.
- Contactless check-in and boarding procedures.
- Issuance of Directions and detailed guidelines on procedures to be followed by each operator customised to their individual operations.
- Disinfection of the aircraft before it enters service and in between trips.
- Training of Crew in the management of communicable diseases.
- Universal Precaution Kits on board.
- Mandatory PCR Testing & Antigen Testing of International Passengers.
- Management of medical waste in the cabin.
- Contact tracing mechanisms.
- Airlines/Charter Operators & Airports are required to submit procedures for approval by the SA Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) in compliance to the Minister’s Directions and guidelines. The SACAA is responsible to monitor compliance.
- Public Education through media campaigns.
- Embarkation & Disembarkation procedures are implemented at airports during boarding and upon arrival.
In terms of the Aircraft itself, the following is applicable to modern aircraft and this is based on IATA, Airbus, Boeing & Embraer research.
Cabin Air Quality: The research conducted indicated the following findings:
- The risk of transmission in the modern cabin environment is low for a number of reasons: passengers face the same direction, seatbacks act as barriers, air flow is from the top to bottom, and the air is also very clean.
- There is a higher rate of air renewal than in other indoor facilities.
- The air in the aircraft cabin comprises of around 50% fresh air from outside the aircraft and 50% of HEPA filtered air. The air in the cabin is renewed 20-30 times an hour, once every 2-3 minutes and about 10 times more than most office buildings. Research has shown that the airflow in an aircraft (from ceiling to floor) is effective to prevent the droplet spread in the cabin.
- Modern jet aircraft are equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. These filters have similar performance to those used in hospital operating theatres and industrial clean rooms and these HEPA filters are 99.9+% effective at removing viruses, bacteria and fungi.
- The bacteria/virus removal efficiency rate of the HEPA filters onboard includes viruses such as SARS, which is similar to COVID-19.
- The guidelines issued by the Minister requires that airlines maintain appropriate ventilation during all phases of travel, including while the plane is on the ground.
Aircraft by their nature are confined spaces and for decades operators have relied on sophisticated air conditioning systems to filter out viruses that could be carried by passengers and these systems have proven to be effective in filtering out viruses and bacteria that could be exchanged on board an aircraft. Studies conducted by aircraft manufacturers and operators prove the effectiveness of these systems. Same have been recognised by international bodies regulating civil aviation world-wide.
02 March 2021 - NW61
Langa, Mr TM to ask the Minister of Health
Whether the matter of long queues at the Mayville Clinic in Ward 101 in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality was brought to his attention; if not, will he take steps to resolve the situation; if so, what steps has he taken to resolve the situation?
Reply:
The matter of the long queues at the Mayville clinic in ward 101 are known. This clinic is jointly managed by the Provincial Department of Health and eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. This clinic operates for 5 days from 07h00 to 16h00. The clinic is managed in line with Ideal clinic programme, which has reduction of the long waiting times as one of its objectives. It is a known fact that long waiting times results in long queues in the clinics. Through the ideal clinic, Mayville clinic has been implementing the Integrated Clinic Services Management (ICSM), which directs that there be three streams. The streams are Acute Care; Mother child and Women’s health and the third stream is Chronic care. The implementation of the three streams has resulted in the reduction in the long queues because all users are seen at their own streams and thus avoid users waiting at wrong streams.
The clinic has indeed seen long queues in the past year due to the following problems:
a) All users that come to the clinic must undergo COVID-19 screening as part of the Covid-19 guidelines, and this leads to long queues as each user must be screened as part of the protocols.
b) The need for social distancing of 1,5 meters which adds to the long queues
c) Due to COVID-19 response, the clinic established CCMDD pick up points outside to avoid allowing many patients in the clinic. The outside pick point was closed when the country moved to lower lockdown levels. This led to the sudden increased number of patients who had been receiving their treatment remotely during the hard lockdowns.
The following steps have since been taken to address the situation:
a) The department has assigned 6 more COVID-19 screeners to improve efficiency and reduce the waiting times which lead to long queues
b) The department has implemented the fast queue for people with disabilities and the elderly so that they don’t wait longer hours.
c) There has an engagement with the local leadership to facilitate the reopening of the community halls as external pick up points for CCMDD. This will assist in that the patients do not have to queue at the clinic all at once for collection of chronic medication
The province has started to engage eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality regarding the provincialization of the Personal Primary Health Care Services. Once this clinic is provincialized, the province will be able to start with the extension of hours of services. These actions will address the long queues even after the COVID-19 pandemic.
END.
02 March 2021 - NW206
Lorimer, Mr JR to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)What (a) operations is the (i) SA National Roads Agency SOC Ltd (SANRAL) and/or (ii) entities reporting to him conducting and/or have they conducted from the property at 265 Pasteur Road, Blackheath, Johannesburg, (b) total number of employees of SANRAL and the specified entities reporting to him work at the property, (c) were the reasons to use the specified property and (d) process was followed to contract with the owners of the property; (2) whether SANRAL and/or entities reporting to him have been informed that (a) activities at the property are in violation of the property zoning and (b) the buildings on the property are without plans and therefore illegal; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the further relevant details?
Reply:
1 (a) (i) SANRAL is conducting no operations from the property at 265 Pasteur Road.
1 (a) (ii) A service provider VEA Roads appointed by SANRAL for the Routine Road Maintenance Contract (NRA X.002-128-2019/1) of National Route N1 Section 19, N1 Section 20, N1 Section 21, N3 Section 12, N12 Section 18 & N17 Section 1 (Johannesburg Freeway RRM) is conducting its operations from 265 Pasteur Road and using it as site office for the Routine Road Maintenance contract. According to SANRAL Service Provider this property is registered as a business, as confirmed with the owner.
1 (b) No employees of SANRAL work at the property. For the SANRAL appointed service providers the following employees work at the property:
- 6 x representing the Consulting Engineers of Ndodana/Oarona JV;
- 3 x Employees from the Main Contractor (Vea Roads);
- Security on-site
1 (c) The SANRAL appointed service provider indicated that they selected the property because it is:
- Registered as a business.
- Fully furnished as an office with network points, fibre installation etc.
- Central locality of the property in relation to the project been administered from this property and easy access to the Gauteng Freeways.
1 (d) The SANRAL appointed service provider indicated that they contacted the property agent known as RAWSON, put down their requirements and this property was identified by RAWSON and a lease then entered into by service provider.
2 (a) SANRAL or any of its entities has not been informed that activities at the property are in violation of the property zoning.
2 (b) SANRAL or any of its entities has not been informed that buildings on the property are without plans and therefore illegal.
SANRAL has requested the service provider that is leasing the property to obtain written confirmation from the lessee with regard to relevant approvals regarding zoning and plans. Should there be any non-compliances, SANRAL will insist that the service provider ensures that they are rectified.
01 March 2021 - NW448
Madokwe, Ms P to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What are the reasons that the Xhariep region does not have its own District Office and what is the logic behind subjecting principals and educators to travel all the way to Bloemfontein to get services for their schools, sometimes losing up to six hours that could have been spent teaching and/or doing school-related administration?
Reply:
The information required to respond to the question is not available at the Department of Basic Education but rather the Free State Department of Education. According to the Public Service Act, 1994 (Proclamation 103 of 1994 (PSA) s, 1, 3, 7(a)), the power to demarcate, name and organise education districts in a province vests with the Member of Executive Council (MEC) for Education, who is the executive authority responsible for the organisation of the provincial education department (PED).
01 March 2021 - NW272
Mkhonto, Ms C N to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) In view of the severe damage to infrastructure (details furnished) caused by the tropical storm Eloise in some parts of the Republic over the past three weeks, what contingency plan does her department have in place to ensure that all schools have water available at all times; (2) whether her department has a database of schools where learners might not be able to get to schools on time due to the damaged infrastructure; if not, why not; if so, how will the learners be accommodated in order to ensure that they are not left behind with lessons?
Reply:
1. Provinces have provided schools with rainwater harvesting tanks and schools replenish the water in the tanks through their school allocations. In cases where schools are unable, agreements have been entered into with municipalities for the replenishment of water at affetcted schools.
2. The Department has received reports from provinces which indicate the number of schools affected by storm damages. Only in 6 schools, where learners are not able to utilize the classrooms, due to the extent of the damages. In four of the schools, learners and educators are accommodated in adjacent schools, while repairs are in progress; and in two of the schools, mobile classrooms have been provided.
01 March 2021 - NW269
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether she has been informed that many public schools are still excluding learners on the basis of non - payment of school fees; if not, why not; if so, what steps has she taken to stop the practice and allow learners to receive education without any hindrances?
Reply:
I have been informed about the illegal practices by schools to collect school fees, and charge registration fees as a condition for learners to return to school.
I have instructed the Department to work with Provincial Education Departments to ensure that school principals and School Governing Bodies stop the practice. Officials of the Department have been conducting interviews on various radio stations in the country, to inform parents about their rights on the demand by schools to charge registration fee. Media statements, including statements on social media, have been issued on the matter, advising all affected parents to report such cases to the nearest provincial or district office for intervention.
01 March 2021 - NW139
Cuthbert, Mr MJ to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition
With reference to a certain tender (details furnished) from the National Lotteries Commission, what (a) was the total amount the tender was worth, (b)(i) was the total number of persons who were bidders for this tender, (ii) are all their full names and (c) was the scope of the work pertaining to the tender, including the work done?
Reply:
I have been furnished with a reply to the question submitted, by Ms Thabang Mampane, Commissioner of the National Lotteries Commission.
Ms Mampane’s reply is as follows:
(a) “The total amount for the bid was R460 287.50 all inclusive.
(b) (i) There were a total of 19 bidders.
(ii) The full names of the bidders were as follows;
ITEMS |
NAME OF BIDDER |
1 |
Apros |
2 |
Digital Republic |
3 |
Insight2lead |
4 |
KTM Knowledge Solutions |
5 |
LM Training |
6 |
Majeke Macheke School of Business Leadership |
7 |
Mgiba |
8 |
Mngotha Project Management |
9 |
Mthente |
10 |
Ndziane Inc Attorneys |
11 |
Pan Africa TMT Group |
12 |
Quest Research |
13 |
Siloam People Development Agency |
14 |
SMEC |
15 |
Surveyfiesta |
16 |
Toma-Now |
17 |
Underhill Corporate Solutions |
18 |
Urban-Econ |
19 |
Wits |
(c) The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to appoint a suitably qualified service provider to conduct research on the social, economic and operational impact of the Corona virus pandemic and related emergency measures on funded organisations; and to make recommendations on an appropriate grantmaking strategy in the short, medium and longer term. The study would include an overview of how other international and national grant makers have responded to the pandemic (or to other historical emergencies or crisis) and lessons learned from these experiences.
The service provider was also required to report [sic] should inform discussion and planning about how the NLC should amend its grantmaking strategy in response to the identified trends and factors as well as include in the proposal a process to workshop the research findings with the Commission to facilitate adjustments to its grantmaking strategy, considering the legislative framework within which the Commission operates.
The following work was done by the service provider:
- Inception report.
- Literature review & stakeholder mapping.
- Data collection: Desktop research.
- Stakeholder engagement & interviews.
- Draft report”.
-END-
01 March 2021 - NW365
King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
What is the total amount of money that was received by the Government from the (a) World Health Organisation, (b) International Monetary Fund and (c) World Bank for research in the development of vaccines in the Republic?
Reply:
The Department of Science and Innovation has not received any funding from the (a) World Health Organization, (b) International Monetary Fund and (c) World Bank for research in the development of vaccines in the Republic.
01 March 2021 - NW361
Nodada, Mr BB to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether her department has commenced with the recruitment process to fill vacancies of the 1 600 educators who succumbed to COVID-19; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The filling of vacant posts is an ongoing process to ensure that there is a teacher in front of every class. Schools received their new post establishments for 2021 in September and October 2020. All vacant posts that occurred as a result of the declaration of the new post establishments, and/or natural attrition, are filled continuously. This would include all vacancies that resulted from the loss of 1600 educators, who succumbed to COVID-19. The posts are filled in the order of priority, which involves the placement of educators declared in addition; placement on provincial and national bursary recipients; placement of young graduates; and lastly other unemployed educators seeking employment in public schools.
26 February 2021 - NW291
Hill-Lewis, Mr GG to ask the President of the Republic
With reference to his categorical statement in April 2020 that he, the Deputy President, Mr D D Mabuza, Ministers and Deputy Ministers will each take a one-third cut in their salaries for three months and that this portion of their salaries will be donated to the solidarity fund, what (a) total number of Members of the Executive honoured the pledge and (b) is the name of each Member of the Executive who did not honour the pledge?
Reply:
As I said previously in response to a similar question (NW2111E) asked by the Leader of the Opposition on 24 July 2020, the donation to the Solidarity Fund is a voluntary contribution that each Member of Cabinet and Deputy Minister chose to make in support of the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each Minister and Deputy Minister was responsible for making the necessary arrangements to contribute to the Fund.
26 February 2021 - NW240
Hendricks, Mr MGE to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
(1) Whether her department has investigated recent reports of artificial breaching and/or the opening of the Lake St Lucia mouth to carve an artificial link to the beach, despite concerns by several ecologists against such moves and several estuarine experts having recommended that 50 years of artificial manipulation of the mouth should be halted; if not, why not, if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether she will investigate claims by the isimangaliso Wetland Park Authority that it was merely carting out work to restore functionality of the estuary and not to break open the mouth; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details
Reply:
(1)and (2)
The Minister has noted the widespread public interest in this matter as well as differing scientific views on the most ideal management strategy for the conservation and preservation of this significant World Heritage Site. The Minister has decided to appoint an independent scientifc panel to advise on among others:
To assess the significance/impacf of the artificial breach and how this impact to the implementation of the Global Environment Facility GEF 5 project interventions and the St Lucia estuary management plan;
- To determine the exceptional circumstances, as defined in the estuarine management plan, that lead to the decision to open the mouth, including those of an environmental, social and economic nature;
- To establish the impact of the artificial breach on 6 January 2021 on the functioning of the Estuarine Functional Zone(EFZ), as well as the associated environmental, social and economic implications; and
- To develop Guidelines for the immediate and ongoing management of the system.
Regards
MS B D CREECY, MP
MINISTER OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
DATE: 25/2/2021
26 February 2021 - NW389
Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1)In light of the fact that the Free State Agriculture, an organisation that represents the interests of commercial farmers in the province, recently accused the President of the Republic, Mr M C Ramaphosa, of failing to create a clear plan for the agricultural sector for the year 2021 and in the future, as well as the absence of a concise plan from the President’s State of the Nation Address which has caused a concern for farmers across the Republic, what are the Government’s plans to assist farmers in 2021 and beyond, seeing that the national state of disaster may not end in the near future; (2) Whether the Government has made provision for contingency plans regarding food security in this uncertain period; if not, what are the details of the Government’s position regarding the state of food security in the Republic in the near future and beyond; if so, what are the plans?
Reply:
The government’s plan to assist farmers in 2021 and beyond include the following:
- In 2021 and beyond the implementation of the eight (8) production schemes in the AAMP in partnership with the Provincial Departments of Agriculture and other sector partners will be rolled out. The eight production schemes are: grains, white meat, red meat, oilseeds, fibre, industrial crops, fruits and nuts and vegetables.
- DALRRD will continue to implement drought mitigation strategies inclusive of developing drought-resistant seeds by the ARC, planting and storing fodder, removal of invasive plants and management strategies to prevent soil degradation.
- The department will pursue the allocation of state land as part of transforming land ownership patterns and promoting access to land, especially for the previously disadvantaged, through allocating land to smallholder producers and enhanced comprehensive support to the smallholders.
- The DALRRD remains committed to supporting agricultural producers towards intensifying the domestic food production amidst the COVID 19 situation. To this effect, implementation of Programmes such as the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), Ilima Letsema and LandCare are continuing in all Provinces.
- In 2021/22 at least 9 500 vulnerable households will be supported to produce own food through household food gardens and a total of 65 314 hectares will be planted through the Ilima/Letsema conditional grant support of R597 million.
- Support will further be provided through CASP conditional grant amounting to R1.4 billion to 7 800 smallholder and subsistence producers with on-farm infrastructure.
- The Department provided a R1, 2 billion Covid-19 Disaster Relief Agricultural Intervention Fund to provide relief to struggling smallholder and communal farmers in 2020/21.
- The Department is implementing the R1 billion Presidential Employment Stimulus initiative for subsistence producers. This will enable producers to retain self-employment in the agricultural sector.
These interventions are aimed at ensuring increased household food production, whilst increasing food access and improved livelihoods of poor and marginalised households, thereby contributing to food security and economic growth.
2. Yes. Food security remains a fundamental strategic imperative of the South African government in this uncertain period of the COVID 19 situation. The Government, through a multi-sectoral approach, continues to implement the National Food and Nutrition Security Plan (2017 – 2022) which is coordinated from the Office of the Deputy President and Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME). The Plan embodies the government’s collective response to the challenge of food insecurity and malnutrition. A number of programmes under this plan are already being implemented using the existing resources in various government departments.
This plan is implemented through six strategic objectives which are as outlined below:
6 Strategic Objectives (SO) Anchoring the Plan |
Lead Department |
Other Key Departments and Social Partners |
|
1 |
Institutional Arrangements for food and nutrition security Establish multi-sectoral Food and Nutrition Security (FNS) Councils and supporting structures oversee alignment of policies, legislation and programmes; coordination and implementation of programmes and services which address FNS and; draft new policies and legislation where appropriate |
Office of the Deputy President DPME |
DALRRD; DSD; COGTA; DBE; DTI; DRDLR; Provinces; Local government; Civil Society; Organised Labour, Development Partners |
2 |
Establish inclusive local food value chains to support access to nutritious, affordable foods |
DALRRD |
Water & Sanitation; DTI; DSBD; DST, NT; Civil Society, Development Partners |
3 |
Expand targeted social protection measures and sustainable livelihood programmes |
DSD |
DOH; Home Affairs; DBE; Provinces and local government; Civil Society; Development Partners |
4 |
Scale up of high impact nutrition interventions targeting women, infants and children |
DOH |
DBE; DSD; Home Affairs; Civil Society; Development Partners |
5 |
Develop an integrated communication plan to influence people across the life cycle to make informed food and nutrition decisions |
DOH |
DBE; DSD; Home Affairs; Development Partners |
6 |
Develop a monitoring and evaluation system for FNS in South Africa and establish an integrated risk management system for monitoring FNS related risks. |
StatsSA DALRRD |
DPME; DALRRD; DOH; DBE; Statistics SA; COGTA |
In addition, government implemented a number of interventions in response to COVID 19. These include social protection initiatives and programmes that are aimed at strengthening resilience of livelihood systems in various communities. As part of the governments’ collective response, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) is implementing a number of initiatives. These include:
- Intensifying efforts to geographically locate food insecure, vulnerable and hungry population within the country in fulfilment of the Vulnerability Assessment and Analysis Programme spearheaded by SADC.
- DALRRD further conducted a rapid assessment in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. This was aimed at quantifying the impact of the COVID 19 on agriculture, trade as well as food and nutrition security.
- A total of R81.2 million has also been committed by the Department to conducting the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey for 2021/22 targeting over 84 000 households nationally. The results of this survey and the rapid assessment will inform the collective planning and proper targeting of food security interventions.
Although a few challenges were experienced by producers and suppliers associated with acquisition of agricultural production inputs in the country, overall no major disruptions were experienced during the 2020/21 planting season, which started in October 2020. Despite the challenges of uncertain weather patterns, such as floods and draught, experienced of in some parts of the country, the weather outlook for the 2020/21 planting season has been positive. According to the Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) the preliminary area estimate of maize as at February 2021 is 2,776 million ha, which is 6, 35% more than the 2,611 million ha planted for the previous season. This follows a bumper harvest of about 15.3 million tons of commercial maize that is estimated to be harvested for this season. The country has ample maize to meet the demand in the human and feed markets, and will be able to export into neighbouring countries.
The government of RSA is committed to ensuring food and nutrition security amid the COVID 19 pandemic.
26 February 2021 - NW410
Hlengwa, Mr M to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether there are any diplomatic discussions that South Africa has entered into with the Government of India as a result of the Oxford - AstraZeneca vaccine debacle; if not, why not; if so, what are the full, relevant details? MW 416 E
Reply:
Yes, The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation spoke to the Indian Minister of External Affairs on Monday, 1 February 2021, to convey the Government of South Africa’s profound appreciation to the Indian Authorities, after the arrival of the first vaccine shipment in the country from the Serum Institute of India.
Subsequent to the arrival of the AstraZeneca vaccine the South African Department of Health decided not to go ahead with the vaccination programme of the AstraZeneca vaccine due to clinical trial results showing that the vaccine 1s less effective In preventing mild and moderate symptoms associated with the 501Y.V2 variant of the virus that is more prevalent in South Africa. Instead the South African Department of Health decided to rather continue with the vaccination programme by using the Johnson & Johnson's vaccine that has shown better efficacy against the 501Y.V2 variant.
The South African High Commissioner to India, His Excellency, Mr J.S. Ndebsle spoka to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs regardlng the findings of the clinical trials and the resultant change in South Africa's vaccination programme. Tho High Commissioner is also scheduled to meet with the Ministry on Wednesday, 24 February 2021
26 February 2021 - NW160
Macpherson, Mr DW to ask the President of the Republic
With reference to his address to the nation on 14 December 2020, where he announced that beaches would be closed in the Eastern Cape, Sarah Baartman District Municipality and the Garden Route District Municipality, what (a) scientific data and modelling information did he rely on to make this decision, (b) is the source of the scientific data and modelling information and (c) total number of COVID-19 infections and deaths were prevented by the closure of the beaches vis-a-vis keeping them open?
Reply:
The National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) meets regularly to receive reports on the status of the pandemic at national, provincial and district levels. These reports are based on data compiled by the National Institute of Communicable Diseases and the national and provincial Departments of Health.
The NCCC also receives and considers recommendations based on an analysis of this data and consultation with experts in the Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19 and relevant stakeholders.
Based on the recommendations of the NCCC, at a special meeting on 13 December 2020, Cabinet decided on a number of measures to contain the spread of infections in the three areas identified as hotspots, namely the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Sarah Baartman District and the Garden Route District. These measures included the closure of beaches.
During the festive season in particular, beaches and other recreational areas are sites of informal gatherings, which in the midst of a surge of infections significantly increase the likelihood of transmission.
The decision was made to, along with other interventions, close beaches and remove this possible source of rapid cluster outbreaks. This was also done to protect the health care system which was already very strained and to prevent unnecessary excess deaths.
It should also be noted that hotspot declarations were made in consultation with the districts under consideration.
There was a significant drop in new infections, hospital admissions and deaths in all three hotspots between the middle of December 2020 and the end of January 2021.
This evidence supports the decision to take stringent measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus and prevent deaths due to COVID-19.
It is not possible to isolate the impact of one intervention. What is evident is the overall effect of several measures, including the change in human behaviour and enforcement of interventions.