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18 October 2023 - NW1223

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Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1)Whether any other federations were invited to the safeguarding conference held by the SA Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) on 17 and 18 February 2023; if not, why not; if so, what federations. (2) whether the sports federation representatives who were present at the conference were only those affiliated to the SA Gymnastics Federation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether the statement allegedly made by a certain person (name furnished) about putting names of people on the sexual offenders’ register represents SASCOC policy; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1364E

Reply:

  1. Yes, ALL members of SASCOC were invited to the Safeguarding Conference held 17 – 18 February 2023.
  2. ALL members of SASCOC were invited to the Safeguarding Conference held 17 – 18 February 2023.
  3. Yes, this statement is outlined in the SASCOC Safeguarding Policy

THANK YOU

18 October 2023 - NW1351

Profile picture: Van Dyk, Ms V

Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1). On what date will the safeguarding contract between the SA Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and The Guardian expire. (2). Whether the Safeguarding contract with SASCOC will go out on tender again; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. (3). Whether he will furnish Mrs. V van Dyk with a list of all the federations that comply with the safeguarding accreditation; if not, why not; if so, on what date? NW1553E

Reply:

(1). In the response by the SA Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) they indicated that the contract between themselves and The Guardian expired in July 2023.

(2). SASCOC indicates that they have never initiated a tender process for Safeguarding services and currently has no intention of doing so in the future. Safeguarding matters are managed collaboratively with key stakeholders and National Federations.

(3). The list of federations that comply with the safeguarding accreditation is attached.

THANK YOU

18 October 2023 - NW2883

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Alexander, Ms W to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1).Whether the Benoni Town Hall is a heritage site; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (2). whether his department is aware of the derelict state of the specified hall; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what total amount (a) will it cost to repair the hall and (b) has his department allocated to repair the hall? NW3308E

Reply:

(1). The Benoni Town Hall has not officially been declared as a Heritage Site. However, by virtue of the building being older than 60 years, in terms of section 34 (1) of the National Heritage Resources Act, “No person may alter or demolish any structure or part of a structure which is older than 60 years without a permit issued by the relevant provincial heritage resources authority”.

(2). No, my department is not aware of the derelict state of the building as the City of Ekurhuleni manage it. On enquiring from the City of Ekurhuleni through the Gauteng Provincial Heritage Resources Authority, the Department was informed that the Benoni Town Hall is one of the facilities listed on the Heritage assets of the City of Ekurhuleni as part of the GRAP 103 compliance. The hall was officially opened on 12 October 1938 and closed off in 2014 due to a maintenance backlog on the roof and walls.

(a). My department is not aware how much it would cost to repair the Hall as the City of Ekurhuleni manage it.

(b). My department has also not set aside funds for the maintenance of the hall as it is an asset of and managed by the City of Ekurhuleni.

THANK YOU

17 October 2023 - NW3110

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Mogale, Mr T to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(a) What is the (i) total number of uncollected ID documents and (ii) breakdown of the number of uncollected ID documents in each province, (b)(i) which Home Affairs offices have the highest number of uncollected IDs and (ii) what has he found to be the main reasons for non-collection and (c) what steps has his department taken to reduce the number of uncollected IDs and ensure that people collect their IDs?

Reply:

(a)(i) Total number of uncollected ID documents is 566 429 Out of 566 429 cases there are 63 452 deceased cases leaving a balance of 502 977 uncollected IDs.

(a)(ii) The breakdown per Province is depicted in the table below:

PROVINCES

ALIVE

DECEASED

TOTAL

EC

61839

11562

73401

FS

34986

5004

39990

GP

111841

13177

125018

KZN

68337

8492

76829

LP

42806

6078

48884

MP

30839

3403

34242

NW

33861

4396

38257

NC

15905

2822

18727

WC

63500

6225

69725

Mobile Unit

6596

1697

8293

E-Channel

32467

596

33063

G /TOTAL

502977

63452

566429

(b)(i) The table below depicts the offices per Province with 4000 and more IDs on hand pending collection.

 

NO

Province

Top Five (5) Offices Per Province

Volume on Alive Status

Volume on Deceased Status

1

Eastern Cape

Port Elizabeth

8350

2015

   

East London

3834

782

   

Mthatha

3408

645

   

Uitenhage

3274

646

   

Lusikisiki

2321

318

2

Gauteng

Akasia

8344

1031

   

Pretoria

7371

780

   

Johannesburg

7274

1597

   

Mamelodi

6516

459

   

Randburg

5996

687

3

Western Cape

Cape Town

7396

745

   

Wynberg

5726

699

   

Bellville

5528

506

   

Paarl

4437

470

   

Nyanga

4304

532

4

Kwa-Zulu Natal

Ethekwini

6813

639

   

Pinetown

4867

549

   

Pietermaritzburg

4496

643

   

Commercial Road

4212

683

   

Ugu

3343

512

5

Free State

Bloemfontein

6744

783

   

Sasolburg

3292

635

   

Welkom

3122

631

   

Koffiefontein

2519

727

   

Bultfontein

2402

173

6

North West

Rustenburg

4107

551

   

Klerksdorp

3018

776

   

Brits

2763

392

   

Mmabatho

2203

538

   

Mankwe

2035

274

7

Limpopo

Polokwane

3832

641

   

Lebowakgomo

2704

387

   

Tzaneen

2671

730

   

Groblersdal

2166

561

   

Thohoyandou

2146

332

8

Northern Cape

Upington

2613

749

   

Kimberley

2109

342

   

Kuruman

1798

371

   

De Aar

975

310

   

Jan Kempdorp

897

201

9

Mpumalanga

Nelspruit

2505

318

   

Witbank

2485

359

   

White River

2128

367

   

Piet Retief

1815

201

   

Lydenburg

1749

193

(b)(ii) The main reasons clients are not collecting their IDs are as follows:

  • Clients having valid Green ID Books resulting in applicants not returning to collect the new Smart ID Card.
  • Financial constraints (e.g. no money to travel to DHA offices).
  • Long queues at offices discourages clients.
  • Clients are unable to collect Smart ID Cards during system downtime.
  • No updated contact details provided by applicant.e.g. number on system no longer exists or contact number not belonging to applicant.
  • Time Constraints.
  • No money to travel to DHA Offices.
  • Travel distance to DHA Offices - office may be far from they stay/ work etc.
  • Applicant relocated to another town / city / country etc.
  • Applicant is deceased.

(c) The Department recently enhanced its Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) with a “collections” option in order for clients to schedule an appointment to collect their IDs in all live capture offices.

The Modernisation system was also enhanced with a new capability for front offices to “redirect” IDs and passports to alternative offices as required by the client.

The Department also communicates to the public when various offices will open on Saturdays. Clients are encouraged to take advantage of the extended hours on Saturdays to collect documents they have applied for and not wait for the last minute.

At local front office level, clients are also being called in to collect while mobile units are taking IDs to rural areas, Schools and high volume communities for distribution of IDs for collection.

There is reactivation of SMS to reminding clients for clients to collect the uncollected IDs at the offices.

There are also Community Outreach Programmes in partnerships with IEC, Department of Basic Education, Metros, Districts and Local Municipalities. Uncollected ID volumes are shared with stakeholders to market and encourage clients to collect their documents through the various platforms provided.

The Department is also in the process of preparing the necessary resources to have high volume offices open on Saturdays from 30 Sept to 11 Nov 2023 (5 Saturdays only) for collection purposes as a build-up to Voter Registration Weekend taking place on 18 and 19 November 2023.

END

17 October 2023 - NW2893

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Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

With regard to the project to employ 10 000 youth to digitise Home Affairs records, what (a) are the relevant details of the location of each office that implemented the project and (b) total number of (i) youth are working on the project and (ii) records have been digitised as at 31 August 2023?

Reply:

(a) The location of each office that has implemented the project is in the attached table marked Annexure A.

(b)(i) The first phase of the project recruited a total of 2000 youth. Of these, some have received other appointments and the number has reduced to 1146. The Department is filling the vacancies. The second phase is to recruit 4000 youth and this recruitment is underway.

(b)(ii) As explained in my previous reply to your question (question 220), the first phase of the digitisation process focused on preparation of records; that is, detailed indexing and condition assessment of records. The second phase which includes full scanning and indexing of records in the production environment started in June 2023 in Gauteng at our New Cooperation Building, Pretoria. As at 31 August 2023, the total number of records that had been digitised are 328 800, inclusive of 3 451 613 images. This performance is far above the target of 12 000 records set for the second quarter (July – September 2023) of the 2023/24 financial year.

END

17 October 2023 - NW3005

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Van Minnen, Ms BM to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(1)Whether, given that several questions have already been asked about the poor service offered at his department’s office located in Main Road, Somerset West, Western Cape, but there has been no change and problems are continuing, any progress has been made with regard to dealing with the very bad service offered by the specified office; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) what are the reasons that the queues continue to be so bad that people are queuing overnight to access the office, despite the office allegedly working on an appointment system; (3) whether any progress has been made regarding the issue of assisting the elderly and handicapped people to gain access into to the building; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

1. The following progress has been made:

      • A civic supervisor was appointed who monitors service delivery and the process to clear the long queues.
      • A staff member is designated to manage the queues daily.
      • The prioritised categories of clients for example, persons with disabilities, the aged (senior citizens) and mothers with babies are referred into the office.
      • The office utilizes all possible back office staff to assist at counters during the mornings in order to expedite quicker service to awaiting clients
      • The supervisor also assists the team dealing with client queries and complaints. Complaints received are escalated within the office management structure. If not resolved it is escalated to the district and provincial level where necessary.
      • Internal formal disciplinary processes are followed where there are complaints against staff not performing or assisting clients properly. There is 1 formal disciplinary matter currently at this office.
      • The Somerset-West office now also provides for late registrations of births for all categories. Immigration services are also now rendered at this office.

2. The office is not aware of clients queueing overnight. It must be noted that the building is shared with the Department of Employment and Labour and that 1 entrance is used for both. Often clients assume that all awaiting clients are there for the DHA services, which inflates the numbers. It has been stated that DHA queues are demarcated and separated according to services into separate queues in order to assist clients as speedily as possible. The office is obliged to assist clients who made bookings and still seeks to assist as many walk-in clients as possible. The Booking system is advertised with posters and during the mornings an official assist and advise client to use the booking system. Some clients opt however to wait to be served as a walk-in.

3. Senior citizens and persons with disabilities are under the categories of clients who are prioritised. These clients report at the entrance and are assisted by officials in a prioritised manner. The Office has a ramp used by clients who have mobility challenges and assistance is afforded by staff and security officials to enter the office.

END

17 October 2023 - NW2718

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King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation

(1)In light of the fact that the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) direct payment system was scheduled to be operational from July 2023, (a) on what date was each university and technical, vocational education and training (TVET) college informed to get onboard, (b) what total number of universities and TVET colleges were able to onboard and (c) what total number of students have been on board by 30 July 2023; (2) what challenges have been experienced by students after getting on boarding on the NSFAS direct payment system; (3) what total number of NSFAS beneficiaries at (a) universities and (b) TVET colleges (i) passed, (ii) failed and (iii) dropped out in 2022?

Reply:

UNIVERSITY

1)

a) Rule 7.3.2 of the 2023 NSFAS ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND CONDITIONS FOR FINANCIAL AID was shared with all the 26 Universities in December 2022, it stated that NSFAS will make allowance for a minimum of 3 months’ notice to institutions where it intends to take over full payment of allowances.

Subsequently, a Notice was issued by the NSFAS on 03 March 2023, informing universities that starting from 01 June 2023, NSFAS will assume responsibility for disbursing allowances to its beneficiaries.

An additional Notice was issued on 26 May 2023 clarifying that the first direct payment will take place on the last day of June 2023. It further clarified that institutions should continue to process June allowances to students.

(b) As of the end of June 2023, a total of 24 universities were successfully onboarded and their students received their July 2023 allowance payments through the direct payments. Two universities, Stellenbosch University and Northwest University, have yet to disburse the allowances for the month of July 2023. These two universities joined the direct payment program towards the end of July 2023, and released August 2023 allowances.

(c) As of 30 July 2023, the total number of KYC complete students is 316 741.

2)

Challenges

Definition

Action required

Cyber Attack

Instances of cyber-attacks threaten student accounts and system integrity.

Partners will implement robust cybersecurity measures, safeguarding against cyber threats and unauthorized access and ensuring student security.

Transition Resistance

Resistance from institutions, students and student leadership to adopt the new payment system.

Continue to engage stakeholders, address concerns, and highlight system benefits to foster smoother transitions and wider acceptance.

Inaccurate Claims/ Registration data

Incorrect allowances were paid due to inaccurate registration data received from the institutions.

NSFAS opened the adjustment window to allow institutions to correct their registration data.

Students say the direct payment charges are excessive.

Students are paid directly to their accounts and charged for withdrawals and services.

 NSFAS and students negotiated a reduction from R89 to R12. Further engagements will commence.

TVET COLLEGE

1)

a) The direct payment process was introduced at TVET colleges in the last quarter of 2022, with the first payment made in November 2022. The 2023 academic year saw a continuation and improvement in the process. Because students at the 44 colleges were already being paid their allowances directly by NSFAS through the NSFAS Wallet, transition to the direct payment process was gradual with the 6 remaining Western Cape colleges receiving money from NSFAS and paying it over themselves to students.

b) To date all 50 TVET Colleges are onboarded on the direct payment method of payment.

c) There are 187 180 students KYC complaint in the TVET sector, meaning are fully registered to access their allowances.

2)

Challenges

Description

Solutions

Bank Card Shortage / Slow Distribution

Direct payment project was initially implemented via virtual cards in the TVET sector. When distribution of handheld cards started around March 2023, reports of insufficient bank cards, related delays and queues arose.

Bank cards have been made available to students and distributions are ongoing at universities. However, the multiple registration cycles in TVET sector continue to complicate logistics.

Partner Dependency

NSFAS relies on manual partner reports, causing delays and inefficiencies. Colleges also rely on manual reports being given to them by partners

An integrated reporting module is being developed to allow for automated sharing of reports for smoother operations.

Cyber Attack

Instances of cyber-attacks threaten student accounts and system integrity and cases of alleged fraud.

Partners are continuously being engaged to implement robust cybersecurity measures, safeguarding against cyber threats and unauthorized access, and ensuring student security.

Non-responsiveness/ Delays in Query Handling

Both students and institutions complain about not getting through to the partner call centres.

Emailed queries not responded to.

Partners are given feedback directly through bi-weekly meetings held between NSFAS, the partners and the colleges, so that they look at improving their capacity.

Partner Capacity Limitations

Long queues at card distribution points because partners do not have adequate resources to service the points.

Partners are given feedback directly through bi-weekly meetings held between NSFAS, the partners and the colleges so that they improve their capacity.

Partner/College Relationship Issues

Some Partners commit to meetings but fail to attend, causing dissatisfaction and potential protests.

Ensure partners attend meetings, address concerns, and foster cooperation to prevent disruptions and maintain positive relationships.

NSFAS Data Remediation Impact

Defunding and funding status changes strained the relationship between NSFAS and the stakeholders and affects integrity of the direct payment method as students are not able to differentiate between NSFAS and partner glitches.

Poor systems integration has meant that Students’ NSFAS portal reflect a positive (funded) status, while NSFAS internal system reflect a negative (unfunded) student, resulting in students being turned away by the partner.

NSFAS is working extensively at gaining student confidence through proper working and integrated systems and integration between student portal and internal system.

Registration Template Errors

Errors in registration templates lead to processing delays and blocking of allowances until correction requests from institutions are implemented.

 System enhancements are being developed to put in place technology-driven mechanisms to identify and rectify incorrect allowance claims.

Students say the direct payment charges are excessive.

Students find direct payment charges excessive and are lobbying for a fee structure review.

Fee structure review will start with further engagements.

Underage Students' Onboarding process

There has been a delay in the development of a FICA compliant process to KYC underage students.

Partners have introduced a solution for underage students.

(3) The total number NSFAS beneficiaries who passed at universities are 390 431. The total number of NSFAS beneficiaries who failed at universities are 102 252.

The total number of NSFAS beneficiaries who passed at TVET colleges are 108 161. The total number of NSFAS beneficiaries who failed at TVET colleges are 90 779.

On the question of number of students who dropped out, NSFAS will be working in conjunction with institutions to finalize this number.

17 October 2023 - NW3097

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Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(1) Whether the data contained in the biometric databases of the (a) Home Affairs National Identification System and (b) Automated Biometric Information System is end to end encrypted when accessed by banks and other clients; if not, why not; if so, what are the details of the security systems and standards that are implemented in this regard; (2) Whether it is possible for clients to receive any data such as (a) fingerprints, (b) photo, (c) identity number, (d) full name and/or (e) any other personal information in any format that can be stored in a data store of their own; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

1. Yes, the data contained in the biometric databases of the (a) Home Affairs National Identification System and (b) Automated Biometric Information System is encrypted. The security systems and standards that are implemented are HTTPS using TLSv1.2 and entrust digital certificates.

2. No, the client cannot store any data on their own. They can only do verification against DHA based on the request of the client.

END

17 October 2023 - NW3119

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Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

What total number of Home Affairs offices (a) have proper information technology support and backup for instances of load shedding and (b) are without support and backup?

Reply:

a) All DHA offices have information technology support even though it is not always on-site support because we have 48 resources in total providing IT support across all DHA offices. One IT support resource is assigned to each District within the Province, while specialists at head office provide assistance for all of them remotely when they log a call. The Department has installed generators in Live Capture offices to ensure backup power during load shedding.

b) As indicated earlier, all offices are given IT support physically and remotely and where no generators are installed like in non-modernised offices, officials collect manual applications for later capturing.

END

17 October 2023 - NW2894

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Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

During the first quarter of the 2023-24 financial year, what (a) were the total office hours lost due to (i) load shedding, (ii) office closures, (iii) water outages, (iv) system downtime at Home Affairs offices and (v) downtime of Home Affairs verification scanners at health facilities and (b) was the total percentage of uptime of the Home Affairs civic services system hosted by the State Information Technology Agency?

Reply:

(a) Front offices keep registers recording instances and time where offices were unable to operate. During Quarter 1, 2023/2024 FY the total number of office hours lost calculated to 15 289 hours.

(i) Load shedding contributed 6242 hours,

(ii) Office closures (protest action) 46 hours,

(iii) Water outages contributed 329 hours,

(iv) System downtimes contributed 8672 hours.

(v) Verification scanners will only be down as a result of connectivity and or load shedding.

(b) The current generic Service Level Agreement (SLA) status reflects as follows:

Month

Reachability (network)

Availability (power)

April 23

87.68%

85.34%

May 23

85.62%

82.95%

June 23

94.51%

91.89%

END

16 October 2023 - NW3024

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Bergman, Mr D to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition

(1)What total number of months did (a) an import duty investigation take pre-COVID19 from the day the investigation was published for public comment to when the SA Revenue Service either changed the duties or the application was rejected and (b) it take in the 2022-23 financial year; (2) (a) what total amount did the cost in delay cause in duties not collected and (b) how much duties were collected where there was no local production in a specified financial year? NW4091E

Reply:

During the course of the current Administration, two factors required a different approach to the administration of applications and recommendations relating to trade.

First, the new industrial strategy framework was based on a more careful coordination of trade policy measures with industrial policy. This required

1. the development of masterplans and sector growth strategies in particular sectors

2. consideration of the principles underpinning masterplans to other sectors, and

3. consideration of the impact of a trade measure on the growth of the industry and on downstream sectors.

Second, COVID-19 caused a slowdown in world trade, disruption in global supply chains and changing trade flows. Some of these had significant impacts on consumer prices. Following Covid-19, four other shocks affected the domestic market: the July 2021 unrest, the April 2022 floods and the war in Ukraine. The latter in particular saw a spike in food, fuel and fertiliser prices. A number of proposed trade measures were put on hold to enable the effects of extraordinary events to be considered and monitored, and for normal market conditions to return, except where circumstances required otherwise.

The timeframes therefore for introducing specific trade measures have changed, based on the above. Certain tariff recommendations were therefore only considered at a later stage than would have applied in the past. A supplementary reply will be compiled to the question, to provide specific examples of these.

In respect of the costs associated with timing of trade measures, there is no agreed methodology to calculate costs. While local industries may benefit from a tariff increase, importers may see it as a cost. Public policy carefully balances a number of policy goals in setting of trade policy.

More research will be conducted in the form of impact assessments trade measures, including tariff increases. This research may provide additional information that relate to the question above and the results will be made available publicly once these are available.

-END-

16 October 2023 - NW2910

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Buthelezi, Mr EM to ask the Minister of Finance

What mitigation strategies has the National Treasury put in place to ensure that fiscal consolidation efforts in 2024 do not further hamper the ability of government departments to deliver crucial services?

Reply:

Since the 2020 MTBPS fiscal consolidation measures have been driven by multiple goals: to eliminate the primary fiscal deficit and stabilize debt; support economic growth through fiscal stability and a composition of spending focused on investment rather than consumption; and to protect funding for the most vulnerable. Accordingly, the budget has retained the percentage spent on the social wage at around 60 per cent of the total budget. Government intends to broadly maintain this approach.

In the meantime, and to limit the negative effects of weaker-than-anticipated revenues and more difficult financial conditions, proposed savings and cost-cutting measures are meant to protect the ability of government to sustain the spending on its key service-delivery priorities.

16 October 2023 - NW3099

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Cuthbert, Mr MJ to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition

Whether he will furnish Mr M J Cuthbert with a (a) list of all (i) trade policies and (ii) industrial policies that have been tabled in the National Assembly and/or made public by the Government and (b) copy of each of the specified policies; if not, why not; if so, in each case, what (aa) is the title of the document, (bb) year was it drafted and (cc) year was it adopted for all the specified policies in the period 1 January 1995 to the latest specified date for which information is available?

Reply:

In May 2021, I set out in the Budget Vote speech details of key policies on trade and industrial development to be publicly released. These were subsequently done, and covered both trade and industrial policy matters, and can be obtained from the relevant government gazettes. A number of masterplans were developed and key trade measures were adopted.

In addition, I will provide the Honourable Member with a list of trade and industrial policies tabled or made public prior to 2021, and will make it available as soon as the process of compiling these are completed.

-END-

16 October 2023 - NW3098

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Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition

What (a) was the quantum of the budget allocated to the Ekandustria Revitalisation Programme in the (i) 2019-20, (ii) 2020-21, (iii) 2021-22 and (iv) 2022-23 financial years, (b) phases and deliverables were completed in each financial year and (c) further phases and deliverables are planned beyond the 2023-24 financial year?

Reply:

Industrial Parks fall within the responsibility of Provinces and in some instances, municipalities. The role of the dtic is to consider requests for funding for infrastructure improvements, typically on areas such as fencing and security. The dtic does not manage implementation of upgrading nor does it operate industrial parks. The Department has tabled reports on SEZs and Industrial Parks at the Portfolio Committee of Trade and Industry, addressing the challenges with the existing model and the need for reform.

The Department has provided the following details on developments relating to the Ekandustria Industrial Park, which I set out below.

a) Budget allocations for industrial parks, under the Industrial Parks Revitalisation Programme (IPRP) of the dtic, are approved on an application basis and there is therefore not a dedicated budget to a specific industrial park.

The Ekandustria Industrial Park received approval for R51,812,604 in the

2015–2016 financial year (FY), and construction was finished in the 2019–2020 financial year.

(i) FY 2019-2020 - R268,398 was spent as the last tranche of the allocation;

(ii) FY 2021-2022 – nil; and

(iii) FY 2022-2023 – nil.

b) (i) The activities listed below that began in FY 2015–2016 were finished in

FY 2019-2020:

  • 13 Factory spaces were revamped, amounting to 35 835 square metres of roofing with new ventilators, box gutters and insulation;
  • 2km Clear View fencing installed;
  • 3 Guard houses constructed;
  • 3 Swing gates and 6 boom gates with pedestrian walkways/gates; and
  • Refurbishment of Waste Water Treatment Plant;

(ii) 2021-22 – nil; and

(iii) 2022-23 – nil.

c) The original application submitted by MEGA has been reworked to include investors/tenants' priority critical infrastructure needs. A Project Steering Committee comprising of City of Tshwane, MEGA, and Gauteng Department of Economic Development, is finalising the application to be submitted to the dtic.

-END-

16 October 2023 - NW3064

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Gondwe, Dr M to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration

(1) (a) What total number of disciplinary cases within the Public Service are currently outstanding and (b) how long have the specified cases been outstanding? and (2) (a) what total number of public servants within the Public Service are currently on suspension with full pay, (b)(i) how long has each specified public servant been on suspension with full pay and (ii) at what total cost to the (aa) State and/or (bb) public purse and (c) what total number of such public servants occupy a senior position within the Public Service?

Reply:

The response is based on the FOSAD reports submitted by National and Provincial departments for quarter one of the 2023/2024 financial year.

1. (a) What total number of disciplinary cases within the Public Service are currently outstanding?

The total number of disciplinary cases outstanding are 3265 cases.

(and)

(b) How long have the specified cases been outstanding?

The oldest outstanding cases is from 2016 with the latest case being from June 2023.

2. (a) What total number of public servants within the Public Service are currently on suspension with full pay?

417

Questions (b) and (c) are responded to in the table below:

(b)(i) How long has each specified public servant been on suspension with full pay? See table below

(b)(ii)At what total cost to the (aa) State and/or (bb) public purse? See table below

(c) What total number of such public servants occupy a senior position within the Public Service?

A total number of 42 public service employees occupy a senior position within the Public Service. See areas highlighted in yellow.

PROVINCE

b(i) Duration

b(ii)Cost of suspension(ii)

(c) Levels

  1. Eastern Cape
     

Public Works

141 days

R391 980,00

12

DEDEAT

17/05/2023

R35 033,50

8

       
  1. Free State
     

Education

30 days

R83 053, 19

3

 

30 days

Not disclosed

9

 

30 days

Not disclosed

8

Provincial Treasury

8 days

R38 070, 07

13

       

Health

21 days

R 24 187,51

7

 

28 days

R26 348

7

 

21 days

R9 324,00

3

 

24 days

R19 309,81

7

 

53 days

R29 001,07

5

 

221 days

R106 301,00

5

       

Sport, Arts and Culture, and Recreation

46 days

R26 798,22

5

Public Works and Infrastructure

400 Days

R1 201 587,83

13

 

267

R89 311,50

3

       

DESTEA

29 Days

R28 735.58

8

 

29 Days

R21 498.03

7

       

Community Safety, Roads and Transport

79 days

R294 957,56

14

 

39 days

R146 549,91

14

Social Development

40 days.

R44, 308,28

5

 

13 days.

R48, 335,57

5

       

Human Settlement

1047 days

R3 586 959,10

13

 

385 days

R838 716,68

11

 

301 days

R1 217 194,50

14

 

243 days

R869 916,69

14

 

308 days

R1 157 369,40

14

 

347 days

R 805440.22

11

 

223 days

R687 832,79

12

 

131 days

R483 661,32

14

 

223 days

R230 609,33

9

 

54 days

R286 394,30

14

       

Office of the Premier

4 months

R 530 660,00

15

       

Agriculture & Rural Development

790 days

R2 333 620, 22

13

 

86 days

R119 586,96

6

  1. Gauteng
     

Social Development

8 months

R115 635,76

3

 

1846 days

R1 403 025,75

7

 

1144 days

R2 792 245,86

12

 

778 days

R890 859,02

9

 

11 days

R6 352,00

5

 

71 days

R23 719,87

6

 

30 days

R10 936,29

4

 

377 days

R1 371 630,32

14

Infrastructure Development

04/02/2022

R415 895,25

15

 

04/02/2022

R408 974,25

14

 

04/02/2022

R270 357,00

12

 

04/02/2022

R295 147,50

12

 

04/02/2022

R408 974,25

14

       
  1. Mpumalanga
     

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

26/05/2023

R73 554,37

13

Social Development

240 days

R32 858,00

7

Health

24 months

R4 294 695,89

12

 

18 months

 

6

 

16 months

 

7

 

5 months

 

13

 

11 months

 

11

 

4 months

 

5

 

3 months

 

7

 

8 months

 

7

 

7months

 

2

 

7 months

 

2

 

7 months

 

2

 

2 months

 

7

 

2 months

 

9

Office of the Premier

23 months

R278 341,39

14

Education

2 months

R76 836,00

7

 

20 days

R100 470,00

13

 

10 months

R221 441,07

PL1

 

6 months

R152 063,50

5

 

8 months

R321 566,04

PL3

 

4 months

R109 263,00

PL1

  1. Limpopo

13/02/2020

R381 537,00

2

COGTA

01/05/2023

Not disclosed

8

Health

970 days

R316 696,00

2

 

970 days

R321 423,00

2

 

970 days

R321 423,00

7

 

970 days

R783 585,00

2

 

240 days

R53 591,10

4

 

104 days

R37 957,50

9

 

90 days

R9 067,00

13

 

120 days

R27 388,80

2

 

120 days

R31 949,64

3

 

950 days

R3 217 486,00

12

 

150 days

R101 534,80

5

Transport and Community Safety

60 days

Not disclosed

5

       
  1. KwaZulu-Natal

COGTA

821 days

R1 240 091.68

8

 

821 days

R981 717,9

7

 

792 days

R2 803 223.35

13

       

EDTEA

14/02/2022

R482 027,47

15

       

Education

45 months

R826 188,75

6

 

44 months

R1 095 402,00

7

 

26 months

R653 724,50

7

 

21 months

R657 557,25

8

 

21 months

R1 048 995,78

11

 

40 months

R362 780,00

2

 

20 months

R702 455,00

9

 

15 Months

R373 432,50

7

 

17Months

R304 419,00

6

 

13 Months

R364 854,75

7

 

10 Months

R376 582,50

9

 

13 Month

R379 681,25

8

 

10 month

R477 653,80

11

 

12 month

R421 473,00

9

 

11 month

R124 723,50

3

 

8 month

R267 366,00

9

 

9 month

R389 571,75

7

 

8 months

R128 524,00

8

 

8 months

R386 504,00

11

 

6 Month

R148 578,00

7

 

6 Months

R162 498,00

7

 

6 months

R150 057,00

7

 

6 months

R147 840,00

7

 

4 Month

R108 332,00

7

 

4 month

R190 243,00

10

 

4 month

R100 547,00

7

 

2 Months

R63 542,00

8

 

2 Months

R51 536,00

7

 

1 Month

R65 708,50

12

 

5 Months

R169 731,85

8

 

5 months

R152 890,00

8

 

5 Months

R410 823,10

12

 

1 Month

R6 360,25

Intern

 

1 Month

R18 809,81

8

 

1 Month

R32 836,00

8

 

1 Month

R33 623,75

8

 

1 Month

R26 932,25

7

 

1 Month

R40 398,26

8

 

1Month

R56 778,75

11

 

16 Month

R154 836,00

10

       

Health

279 Days

R 108 910,70

3

 

70 Days

R 57 898,00

7

 

544 Days

R 142 620,00

2

 

150 Days

R 95 082,69

7

 

150 Days

R 97 398,40

7

 

122 Days

R 81 880,00

6

 

156 Days

R 166 063,00

9

 

149 Days

R 106 601,93

7

 

127 Days

R 552 676,25

12

 

127 Days

R 206 861,25

9

 

127 Days

R187 102,50

9

 

105 Days

R62 056,11

6

 

77 Days

R68 233,00

7

 

25 Days

R32 240,00

Not disclosed

 

96 Days

R78 730,50

8

 

133 Days

R 192 891,70

10

 

93 Days

R 34 847,25

2

 

564 days

R 412 364,22

5

 

564 days

R 412 364,00

5

 

251 days

R203 497.98

7

 

203 days

R171 619. 83

7

 

30 days

R24 517. 83

7

 

30 days

R16 582.75

5

 

30 days

R16 582.75

5

 

719 Days

R 3 419 697,50

15

 

278 Days

R1 025 983

14

       

Office of the Premier

20/01/2023

R3 510 519,00

15

 

20/01/2023

R3 025 003,00

13

 

13/06/2023

R35 000,00

9

 

13/06/2023

R28 000,00

8

 

29/12/2022

R384 132,00

11

Social Development

09 months

R 269 640.00

SW-7

       

Transport

2 months

R199 659,00

12

 

2 months

R199 659,00

9

  1. Northern Cape

Sports, Arts and Culture

29-Mar-23

R 12 915,12

3

Economic Development and Tourism

608 days

R2 855 247,04

15

 

295 days

R105 161, 60

3

 

175 days

R390 094,26

11

       

Education

742 days

R726 556, 25

PL

 

591 days

R471 972,00

PL2

 

494 days

R416 475,50

PL1

 

479 days

R425 678,50

PL2

 

228 days

R105 932,75

L5

 

228 days

R112 430, 05

L5

 

415 days

R673 175, 75

L10

 

57 days

R10 523

L4

 

43 days

R34 765,00

PL1

 

141 days

R152 199,50

L9

 

181 days

R207 603,00

PL1

 

70 days

R53 864,50

PL1

 

219 days

R165 084,50

PL1

Health

25months

R1 055 366,50

9

 

3months

R57 395,00

5

 

3months

R48 424,00

5

 

5 months

R78 495,60

3

 

2 months

R30 109, 19

4

 

2months

R408 030,42

OSD

 

157 days

R265 790,02

4

       

Roads and Public Works

4 months

R63 299, 00

5

 

4 months

R60 555,00

5

       

DAERDLR

36 months

R1 243 207, 52

8

       
  1. North-West
     

COGTA

79 days

R165 504,00

13

Community Safety

156

R115 764,35

6

Community Safety

71

R38 290 ,74

5

Economic Development

407 Days

R501 088,1

7

Education

161Days

R55 219, 50

2

 

212 days

R180 295, 50

PL 1

 

181 days

R234 628, 42

PL4

 

121Days

R35 977,50

6

 

121Days

R112 694,31

7

 

51 days

R29 548.62

PL1

 

12Days

R114 296.50

14

 

5Days

R96 850,00

13

       

Health

1148 Days

R4 742 038,59

12

 

1016 Days

R934 778,27

7

 

1016 Days

R1 207 441,13

9

 

1016 Days

R807 786,02

7

 

1016 Days

R1 198 167,36

8

 

885 Days

R656 293,87

12

 

430 Days

R1 019 954,29

12

 

252 Days

R625 308,17

12

 

484 Days

R339 262,96

13

 

58 Days

R50 083,24

6

       

Office of the Premier

234 Days

R62 602,58

13

       

Public Works and Roads

14 Months

R1171426,34

13

 

03 Month

R 241 298,40

13

 

03 Month

R 251 472,36

12

       
  1. Western Cape

159 days

R40 905,31

9

Cultural Affairs

61 days

R185 202,22

13

DSD

126 days

R60 688,11

4

 

123 days

R120 922,46

8

 

92 days

R91 759,43,

8

 

42 days

R20 102, 70

4

Health

34 days

R30 117,98

5

 

34 days

R37 815, 08

7

 

11 days

R17 428,95

9

       

Local Government

86 days

R297 890, 36

13

PO&CS

30days

R18 832,63

5

 

53 days

R30 190,40

5

       

Education

79 days

R94 996,95

8

 

376 days

R579 113,31

9

       

National Departments

  1. Duration

(ii)Cost of suspension(ii)

(c) SMS

Department of Sports, Arts and Culture

57 days

R63 757,00

12

Statistics South Africa

157 days

R104 626,22

6

Department of Water and Sanitation

72 days to date

R 65 193,52

9

South African Police Service

19/06/23 to date

R7 201,67

Band A

 

28/06/23 to date

R1 800,42

Band A

 

11/05/23 to date

R40 956,97

Band A

 

11/05/23 to date

R39 267,82

Band A

 

11/05/23 to date

R31 289,08

Band A

 

16/05/23 to date

R71 626,38

Band D

 

16/05/23 to date

R59 595,18

Band C

 

09/06/23 to date

R16 801,79

Band A

 

01/06/23 to date

R22 588,00

Band A

 

12/06/12 to date

R14 510,64

Band A

 

27/06/23 to date

R3 054,87

Band A

 

09/06/23 to date

R31 598, 08

Band D

 

27/06/23 to date

R2 476,24

5

 

21/06/23 to date

R7 637,18

Band A

 

15/05/23 to date

R35 709,04

Band A

 

23/05/23 to date

R31 398,13

Band A

 

08/06/23 to date

R26 715,85

Band C

Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

475 days

R1 808 694,58

14

Department of Correctional Services

06/03/23 to date

R16 224,26

5

 

01/10/21 to date

R318 368,41

15

 

01/10/21 to date

R198 286,86

13

 

01/10/21 to date

R202 323,61

13

 

28/03/23 to date

R11 211,14

5

 

21/12/23 to date

R30 332,84

5

 

13/01/23 to date

R64 218,58

5

 

20/02/23 to date

R41 812,38

5

 

09/01/23 to date

R45 021,07

5

 

13/01/23 to date

R83 013,09

5

 

12/04/23 to date

R61 503,12

5

 

11/05/23 to date

R25 737,53

5

 

19/05/23 to date

R21 619,53

5

 

11/05/23 to date

R25 737,53

5

 

29/05/23 to date

R34 168,90

7

 

25/05/23 to date

R18 531,02

5

 

11/04/23 to date

R104 305,24

7

 

31/03/23 to date

R66 884,65

5

 

31/03/23 to date

R66 884,65

5

 

31/03/23 to date

R47 951,78

5

 

03/03/23 to date

R43 066,54

5

 

26/04/23 to date

R33 458,79

5

 

23/03/23 to date

R10 389,48

6

 

12/01/23 to date

R23 278,29

5

 

12/01/23 to date

R23 278,29

9

 

04/04/23 to date

R15 442,52

5

 

14/06/23 to date

R8 580,82

5

 

05/06/23 to date

R19 219,73

6

 

19/05/23 to date

R12 062,58

7

 

13/04/23 to date

R55 012,41

5

 

18/04/23 to date

R42 309,60

5

 

26/05/23 to date

R34 538,10

6

 

27/03/23 to date

R51 439,54

5

 

10/05/23 to date

R27 351,37

8

 

10/05/23 to date

R59 860,31

7

 

15/03/23 to date

R89 799,05

5

 

06/02/23 to date

R69 959,80

5

 

09/12/22 to date

R46 842,31

5

 

23/12/22 to date

R102 820,03

8

 

03/11/22 to date

R79 405,60

7

 

14/10/22 to date

R159 059,07

12

 

04/11/22 to date

R41 812,38

5

 

31/03/23 to date

R35 577,62

7

 

18/01/23 to date

R29 659,32

7

 

12/02/23 to date

R13 402,65

5

 

20/06/23 to date

R6 919,10

5

 

13/03/23 to date

R36 509,56

5

 

04/04/22 to date

R61 370,04

7

 

06/06/23 to date

R19 219,73

5

 

28/06/23 to date

R1 609,15

7

 

23/06/23 to date

R4 532,19

5

 

03/04/23 to date

R69 763,86

7

 

11/04/23 to date

R64 994,59

7

 

06/06/23 to date

R23 317,40

9

 

19/05/23 to date

R22 134,28

5

 

20/05/23 to date

R22 542,66

5

 

26/04/23 to date

R50 740,08

5

 

26/04/23 to date

R50 740,08

5

 

26/04/23 to date

R77 466,28

8

 

26/04/23 to date

R35 395,89

5

 

15/05/23 to date

R62 700,96

CB4

 

08/02/23 to date

R64 191,65

7

 

07/03/23 to date

R86 431,41

6

 

20/03/23 to date

R106 809,57

9

 

09/11/22 to date

R61 400,32

5

 

28/11/22 to date

R63 243,25

5

 

28/10/22 to date

R71 800,29

5

 

15/09/22 to date

R45 687,48

5

 

15/08/23 to date

R43 063,69

5

 

08/08/22 to date

R57 8880,49

5

 

04/08/22 to date

R61 401,07

5

 

30/07/22 to date

R40 593,81

5

 

10/11/21 to date

R60 493,81

5

 

10/11/21 to date

R16 619,18

5

 

08/03/22 to date

R5 283,71

5

 

01/12/22 to date

R40 858,32

7

 

17/11/22 to date

R11 525,09

5

Department of Higher Education and Training

268 days

R669 775,10

13

 

268 days

R452 247,80

10

 

268 days

R386 108,91

10

 

268 days

R498 682,36

12

 

268 days

R342 747,83

3

 

219 days

R442 432,35

12

 

214 days

R528 714,22

12

 

212 days

R529 806,28

13

 

154 days

R181 011,85

9

 

126 days

R115 549,22

1

 

104 days

R42 345,90

3

 

107 days

R222 559,50

12

Government Printing Works

21/12/22 to date

R162 885,75

6

 

20/02/23 to date

R353 010,96

12

 

02/06/23 to date

R19 351,29

5

 

02/06/23 to date

R21 508,71

8

 

02/06/23 to date

R21 508,71

5

 

02/06/23 to date

R16 858,93

4

 

31/03/23 to date

R97 880,21

7

 

01/11/22 to date

R229 284,61

7

 

24/06/22 to date

R695 917,58

12

Independent Police Investigative Directorate

103 days

Not disclosed

9

 

103 days

Not disclosed

5

Department of Justice and Constitutional Development

825 days

R435 901,45

5

 

542 days

R2 125 501,17

SMS

 

548 days

R1 433 339,75

SMS

Department of Mineral Resources

305 days

R466 639,00

10

National Prosecuting Authority

456 days

R1 649 743,22

14

 

456 days

R557 892,50

9

 

348 days

R633 012,57

10

 

340 days

R456 438,05

9

 

248 days

R533 730,65

9

 

249 days

R297 745,23

9

 

220 days

R896 251,08

12

 

214 days

R264 509,32

7

 

218 days

R349 459,07

7

 

210 days

R261 794,20

9

 

200 days

R194 784,77

8

 

199 days

R421 653,71

11

 

192 days

R177 220,80

8

 

165 days

R208 316,06

9

 

127 days

R396 187,24

12

Department of Public Enterprise

342 days

R2 083 033

16

Department of Public Service and Administration

989 days

R4 374 399,82

15

 

211 days

Not disclosed

11

Department of Science and Innovation

983 days

R1 921 430.00

11

END

16 October 2023 - NW2954

Profile picture: Manyi, Mr M

Manyi, Mr M to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition

Given that the 6th Administration has been in the Executive since 2019, (a) on what dates were performance agreements for (i) him and (ii) his Deputy Ministers concluded and (b) what are the relevant details of how each specified performance agreement was performed?

Reply:

The 2019-2024 Executive Performance Agreement was entered into in November 2020 following an agreement on Ministerial priorities and activities with the President.

Key elements of the Performance Agreement are included in Annual Performance Plans by the department and entities. Detailed quarterly reports are provided to the portfolio committee setting out performance on key areas, as shaped by the performance agreements.

In addition, the annual reports of the Department and Entities for the following years provide further details:

  • 2020/21
  • 2021/22
  • 2022/23

In May 2023, a review of the department's priorities and the executive's performance occurred, resulting in a revised priorities agreement for the 2023/24 financial year. These have mainly been incorporated in or are reflected in the Annual Performance Plan of the dtic-group for 2023/24.

-END-

16 October 2023 - NW2920

Profile picture: Sarupen, Mr AN

Sarupen, Mr AN to ask the Minister of Finance

(a) What were the reasons that the National Treasury failed to anticipate and include the 7,5% public sector wage increase agreed to recently in the main 2023-24 Budget and (b) on what basis was the 0% increase modelled?

Reply:

The mis-alignment between the budget process and the finalisation of wage agreements has been a feature of South Africa’s public sector remuneration system for many years.

The budget included a 1.5 per cent pay progression increase for civil servants in 2023, which was the baseline that existed at the time, taking into account the projected change in staffing numbers. The National Treasury excluded any further adjustments to compensation of employees to steer clear of pre-empting the outcome of the wage settlement in 2023/24. This was in line with the discussions at the Public Service Labour Summit on collective bargaining, that was convened and attended by both Government and Labour Unions, from 28 to 31 March 2022. It was also agreed in the Summit that parties will work towards the alignment and the timing of the annual budget process, with the PSCBC wage negotiations process for public service employees.

An ideal situation moving forward, as agreed with labour unions, would be to conclude the wage negotiations processes before the finalisation of the budget for the subsequent financial year to ensure the credibility of the fiscal framework.

16 October 2023 - NW2877

Profile picture: Groenewald, Dr PJ

Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

(1) What total number of (a) magistrates and (b) prosecutors (i) in each of the past five financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2023 have been (aa) criminally charged and (bb) convicted in each specified financial year; (2) what (a) were the criminal charges in each case and (b) number of each specified charge was raised?

Reply:

(1)(2). The breakdown detail for Magistrates is as follows:

1(A) MAGISTRATES-

(i)Year.

(aa) charged.

(bb) convicted.

(2) (a) what charges.

(b) Numbers of each specific charge.

2018

1

1

Crimen injuria.

1 Charge.

 

1

Passed Away

Corruption.

1 Charge

 

1

Acquitted

Exceeding the Speed Limit.

1 Charge.

2019

1

Pending

Corruption.

1 Charge.

2020

1

Pending

Driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

1 Charge.

2021

1

Withdrawn.

Theft.

1 Charge.

 

1

Resigned.

Driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

1 Charge.

(ii) 01 April 2023

1

Withdrawn.

Assault.

1 Charge.

 

1

Pending.

Defeating the ends of justice.

1 Charge.

.

(1)(2) The total number of prosecutors criminally charged and convicted in the past five financial years and the current year, since 01 April 2023, is 41. The breakdown detail, which includes number of counts / charges where relevant, is as follows:

PROSECUTORS

Charges

2018/19

2019/20

2020/21

2021/22

2022/23

2023/24

Total

Defeating the ends of justice

   

1

1

1

 

3

Reckless and negligent driving

   

1

(Plus defeating ends of justice)

     

1

Driving under influence

2

(1:C & 1:A)

   

1

   

3

Fraud

1

1

(1: C)

 

1

2

(1 includes money laundering,S5 & S6 POCA)

 

5

Corruption

1

4

(1:C)

2

4

(2:C)

2

2

(1:A)

15

Rape / SO

     

1

1

2

1 (x2 counts)

4

Domestic Violence

       

1

1

2

Stock Theft

         

1

1

Unlawful possession of firearm and discharge

         

1

1

Theft

   

1

convicted

1

   

2

Assault

     

1 (GLD) - mediated

   

1

Malicious injury to property

     

1 (GLD)

Includes Assault - mediated

   

1

Bribery

1

1

       

2

Total

41

Legend: C = Convicted; A = Acquitted; M = Mediated

16 October 2023 - NW3096

Profile picture: Lees, Mr RA

Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Finance

(1)Whether the National Treasury has done a due diligence to determine the ability of the Takatso Consortium to make the R3,0 billion payment to SA Airways (SAA) as is required in the agreement pertaining to the transfer of 51% of the shares to the Takatso Consortium; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of the (a) process followed to conduct the due diligence and (b) outcome of the due diligence; (2) whether the due diligence process made a determination that the R3 billion will be made available to SAA by the consortium; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The process of selecting a Strategic Equity Partner for SAA and the subsequent negotiations and conclusion of the terms and conditions for the sale of 51% of SAA’s shareholding was performed by the Department of Public Enterprises.

The National Treasury did not perform any due diligence related to the transaction as it was not subject to section 54(2) of the PFMA. The Minister of Finance’s approval in terms of Section 54(2) of the PFMA was not required for this transaction. Section 54(2) of the PFMA does not find application in this instance as it is the government, as the shareholder selling its stake in SAA. Section 54(2) of the PFMA only finds application where a public entity concludes any of the transactions mentioned under Section 54(2) of the PFMA. In other words, Section 54(2)(c) would apply in an event whereby SAA was seeking to dispose a significant shareholding in any of its subsidiaries or was seeking to acquire significant shareholding in another company.

16 October 2023 - NW3130

Profile picture: Mafanya, Mr WTI

Mafanya, Mr WTI to ask the Minister of Finance

Given the numerous complaints by the State Owned Companies in terms of being hamstrung by provisions of the Public Finance Management Act, Act 1 of 1999 (PFMA) and the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act 5 of 2000 (PPPFA), including their inability to compete on equal footing with the private sector companies, what are the reasons that he does not proactively exercise the applicable provisions of both the PFMA and the PPPFA to exempt all the stateowned companies for complying with the PPPFA and the PFMA, just like Telkom was exempted?

Reply:

In terms of section 3 of the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act (Act No. 5 of 2000 – “the PPPFA”), the “Minister may, on request, exempt an organ of state from any or all the provisions of this Act if –(a) it is in the interest of national security; (b) the likely tenderers are international suppliers; or (c) it is in the public interest.

The Minister, before exempting any organ of state, including State-Owned companies, must receive a request from that organ of state, setting out the reasons for the exemption request, which reasons are limited to the three grounds provided for in the PPPFA, whereupon the Minister must then assess the reasons provided in the application for exemption.

The objects of the PPPFA are to give effect to section 217(3) of the Constitution by providing a framework for the implementation of the procurement policy contemplated in section 217(2) of the Constitution. If organs of state are exempted from the PPPFA, they will not have any basis on which to provide for empowerment objectives in their institutional policies.

With regard to Telkom, it should be noted that Telkom was exempted from the PFMA and PPPFA because the State is no longer the majority shareholder in Telkom.

13 October 2023 - NW3118

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Ceza, Mr K to ask the Minister of Human Settlements

What measures has she put in place to ensure that time frames set for clearing the housing backlog are met, particularly in the rural parts of the Republic?

Reply:

The following measures have been put in place to ensure that the time frames for clearing the housing backlog are met, particularly in the rural parts of the Republic:

  • The Department has a multi-year development plan that outlines projects that are going to be funded and implemented over a number of years. The multi-year development plan is a bottom-up plan, which is informed by the need for housing that is identified at the local municipality ward level, escalated to a consolidated local, district municipalities and finally provincial level. The plans cover projects that respond to the housing needs in both urban and rural areas. The multi-year development plan gets disaggregated into annual business plans with clear timelines to achieve the project deliverables and budgets to fund the projects.
  • The Department funds the Provincial annual business plans through the Human Settlements Development Grant (HSDG) and the Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership Grants (ISUPG) to fund the development of human settlements projects and upgrade informal settlements.

The Department also funds the Metropolitan Municipalities’ annual business plans through the Urban Settlements Development Grant (USDG) and the Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership Grants (ISUPG) to fund the development of human settlements projects and upgrade informal settlements.

  • To ensure that the plans are implemented within the set time frames and allocated budgets, the Department conducts ongoing monitoring and oversight in all projects under implementation.

13 October 2023 - NW2859

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Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

Whether, considering that rhino poaching has been declared a national priority crime, he shares a joint corresponding database with the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and the Minister of Police, of all rhino poachers (a) who have been arrested and (b) details regarding the (i) trial and custody status, (ii) convictions, (iii) prison status and (iv) the associates of each person in order to understand the linkages and/or networks; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(a) There is currently no database that is shared among the Ministers. The National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWT) recently adopted by Cabinet requires law enforcement agencies to nationally consolidate all forms of wildlife compliance and enforcement efforts, which would enhance the sharing of the information, cases enrolled and identification of linkages, networks, and associations.

Various stakeholder forums have been established between the NPA, DFFE, SAPS and DPCI inter alia, addressing the sharing of information and identification of linkages and association between persons and networks, to institute organised crime prosecutions and to centralise cases, where an association or linkages between the accused persons have been identified.

With respect to information about people who have been arrested, law enforcement agencies are unable to share information relating to cases under investigation that link perpetrators to other persons or networks. The identification of networks and persons involved in these offences are intelligence-based. This information can only be shared between the law enforcement agencies with an investigative mandate, viz. DFFE, SAPS and the DPCI.

Working together, law enforcement agencies managed to achieve a conviction rate of 99% in relation to the cases involving rhino poaching over the five (5) year period. This is significant considering the challenges associated with identifying and arresting perpetrators of these heinous crimes.

(b) With respect to (i) trial and custody status; (ii) convictions of rhino poachers, the NPA manually monitors the progress on rhino related cases. The table below represents rhino poaching cases that were manually collated for the past five years:

YEAR

NUMBER OF FINALISED CASES

NUMBER OF CONVICTIONS

NUMBER OF ACQUITTALS

NUMBER OF PERSONS CONVICTED

2019-20

41

41

0

59

2020-21

42

40

2

63

2021-22

46

46

0

72

2022-23

65

65

0

94

2023-24

21

21

0

28

TOTAL

215

213

2

316

With respect to (iii) prison status and (iv) associates of each person, the NPA can report that in the first six months of this financial year (2023-24), and through the efforts of the relevant law enforcement agencies and the NPA, 28 offenders were convicted. The majority of sentences were custodial.

END

13 October 2023 - NW2871

Profile picture: Arries, Ms LH

Arries, Ms LH to ask the Minister of Social Development

What number of children on substance abuse (a) in the Republic and (b) in each province have been assisted through the rehabilitation programmes of her department in the past three years?

Reply:

a) For the period under review, the Department provided treatment services to 5 966 children. This number only relates information on children who received treatment services through public treatment centres as guided by the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse.

The actual number is likely to be higher given the prevalence of illegal drugs in South Africa (Act No. 70 of 2008). The Department does not have information on children who receive treatment services from other treatment facilities, including privately-owned rehabilitation centres.

b) The following are the number of children who received treatment services in the past three years, per province:

Province

Financial Years

Children who Received Treatment Services

Eastern Cape

2020/2023

259

Free State Province

2020/2023

51

Gauteng

2020/2023

1889

Kwazulu-Natal

2020/2023

214

Limpopo

2020/2023

150

Mpumalanga

2020/2023

112

North West

2020/2023

156

Northern Cape

2020/2023

52

Western Cape

2020/2023

3 083

13 October 2023 - NW2874

Profile picture: Makesini, Ms M

Makesini, Ms M to ask the Minister of Human Settlements

What (a) progress has been made in the construction of Talana Hostel in Tzaneen, Limpopo Province and (b) are the main reasons for the delays in completing the Hostel?

Reply:

a) As advised by the Limpopo Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), the Talana Hostel has been identified as a priority for upgrading. The planning, design and packaging phase was recently concluded for the hostel.

It consists of fifty-five (55) residential block units with residents comprising of families and individuals- The hostel is highly overcrowded.

It is envisaged that the old/ existing hostel blocks as well as the informal houses erected on the site will be demolished and redeveloped into three-storey medium density walk-up buildings comprising of one and two-bedroomed units. The upgrades will be effected via the Community Residential Units programme.

b) There is no delay in the upgrading of the hostel. The planning phase has just been concluded and the province is in the process of procuring an implementation agent that will take the project further in preparation for the construction upgrade.

13 October 2023 - NW2972

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Mogale, Mr T to ask the MINISTER OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS

(1)(a) On what date will she pay an oversight visit to the Thembelihle housing project in Ward 58, Tshwane, which her department has erected without electrical services or any source of power provided for over a year, in order to get first-hand information on what is happening, (b) what are the reasons that the situation in Thembelihle has been allowed to reach the level in which it is and (c) what role has her department played in resolving the problems in Thembelihle; (2) whether she has found that the intervention measures that her department has put in place are appropriate and will resolve the challenges; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(1)(a) The Date for oversight visit for Thembelihle Housing project has not been determined. Information about the oversight visit will be made available once it has been determined.

Thembelihle Project is one of the completed and tenanted social housing projects and was completed with all services including electrical services. The services were only disconnected by the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality due to default in payments of services as a result of rental boycott by residents.

(b)The primary reason for the current situation at Thembelihle is a result of the rental boycott that has been ongoing for over 5 years. The consequences of rental boycotts are the suspension of municipal services, lack of maintenance and non payment and default by the delivery agents on their senior debt covenants. All these factors ultimately expose any project to illegal invasion and hijacking thus posing a real threat to the sector’s stability.

(c) It must be restated that rent payment is a non- negotiable for sustainable social rental programme. Until now the approach by the Department has been to avoid evictions but to engage the tenants to start paying for their stay at Thembelihle. The evictions are only considered as a measure of last resort.

(2). On the 19 September 2023 the board of Yeast City Housing, the Social Housing Institution responsible for the management of Thembelihle, convened an urgent board meeting to consider amongst other matters the low levels of rent collection, the financial stability of the project, the possibility for business rescue and finding ways of restoring municipality services.

It must be noted that recently there has been a change of management at Thembelihle to try and turn around the current situation. The new management must be supported and given space to attempt to rescue the situation. A comprehensive report will be made available by the SHRA and Yeast City Housing which will allow for a more focused intervention.

13 October 2023 - NW2955

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Manyi, Mr M to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

(a) By which date will the amended proclamation be signed as the Special Investigating Unit has since amended the Fort Hare proclamation, following the court challenge by a certain person (details furnished) regarding the scope of the probe and (b) what are the relevant details in this regard?

Reply:

a) The Special Investigating Unit submitted a motivation to amend the scope of Proclamation R.84 of 2022 to the Department of Justice and Correctional Services on 07 July 2023. The Department of Justice and Correctional Services is processing the motivation.

b) The motivation is in relation to allegations of maladministration in the affairs of Fort Hare University in the awarding of degrees.

END.

13 October 2023 - NW3106

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van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Social Development

Whether, with reference to the widespread reports that hundreds of thousands of grant recipients did not receive their payments for September 2023 due to technical glitches with the new payment system at the SA Postbank, all the monies have now been paid out; if not, why not; if so, what (a) measures have been put in place to prevent the nonpayment from happening in October 2023 and (b) are the full relevant details of how the new payment system at Postbank was tested before going live?

Reply:

All September 2023 payments to social grants recipients were made.

a) Postbank has assured the Department that they have implemented the following measures in relation to the October 2023 social grants payments preparations.

  • Enhanced monitoring mechanisms to track the payment process in real-time.
  • Strengthened their technical infrastructure to handle higher transaction volumes, ensuring swift and uninterrupted disbursements.
  • Engaged specialists for a comprehensive review of their system and to continuously rectify any vulnerabilities.

(b) The new payment system was tested in accordance with acceptable industry system testing protocols including Component Integration Testing (CIT), System Integration Testing (SIT) and Industry Testing prior to system go-live.

National Assembly written Reply: 3106 of 2023

________________________

Approved by the Minister of Social Development

Date……………………….

13 October 2023 - NW2927

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Mileham, Mr K to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether prior to appointing a certain person (name and details furnished) he was informed that the specified person (a) was allegedly earning a salary as the Chief Operating Officer of a state-owned entity while also serving as a member on the entity’s Board of Directors and/or (b) allegedly submitted a fraudulent court order clearing him of misconduct while serving in a certain position (details furnished); if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

Reply:

a) No, I was not informed.

b) No, I was not informed.

13 October 2023 - NW3093

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Essack, Mr F to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises

Whether, with reference to the reply to question 5 on 9 March 2023 by the President of the Republic, Mr M C Ramaphosa, that the Department of Public Enterprises will cease to exist after the 2024 national elections when the new administration is sworn into office (details furnished), his department has taken any steps to start the handover process of the entities that currently report to him; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The process to reconfigure Government is underway. DPE participates in this process which is coordinated by Presidency. The steps to start the handover / reconfiguring of Government will be informed by this process.

 

Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not approved

Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP

Acting Director-General Minister

Date: Date:

13 October 2023 - NW3059

Profile picture: Cachalia, Mr G K

Cachalia, Mr G K to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises

With major financial institutions, both local and international, intending to stop the financing of fossil fuel-powered energy projects with the next decade and Eskom projecting that it will only end its fossil fuel dependence by 2050, how does the Government intend to obtain low-cost concessionary funding for the green energy economy during a time when the Republic is still dependent on coal for the basic functioning of its electricity supply; (2) Whether the Government envisages to intervene directly in the financing of fossil fuel projects, when private finance institutions exit the sector; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

This question should be referred to the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

 

Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved

Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP

Acting Director-General Minister of Public Enterprises

Date: Date:

13 October 2023 - NW2814

Profile picture: Masipa, Mr NP

Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

(1) With reference to her reply to question 1509 on 11 May 2023, what (a) are the reasons for the inability of the surveillance measures in the livestock biosecurity to detect the outbreak of African horse sickness and report the carnage and (b) steps has she and/or her department taken to address the challenges of dying horses faced by horse farmers; (2) whether she intends to compensate those farmers who lost their horses; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3229E

Reply:

1.(a) Both passive and active surveillance for African Horse Sickness (AHS) are

implemented within the AHS controlled area. Our passive surveillance has been shown to be excellent for the rapid detection of AHS outbreaks within the AHS controlled area while our active surveillance provides assurance that no outbreaks circulate undetected in these areas. In the AHS infected zone, only passive surveillance is implemented as active serological surveillance using unvaccinated sentinel animals would be impractical and even detrimental to the welfare of such horses in this zone.

b) The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development periodically sends out media alerts which encourages all horse owners to protect their animals from AHS by shielding horses from midges by stabling them two hours before sunset to at least two hours after sunrise; using registered insecticides and repellents to repel and kill midges; keep horses away from areas where midges breed such as damp and wet areas as well as refrain from moving infected horses to other properties or uninfected horses to properties where there are cases of AHS.

Reporting challenges regarding AHS outbreak in the Eastern Cape Province earlier in 2023 have been addressed with the relevant officials. The officials have indicated education and awareness was to be undertaken with farmers and reporting would be improved.

The map below shows the AHS controlled area consisting of the free, surveillance and protection zones vs the AHS infected zone.

(2) No. Compensation in terms of section 19 of the Animal Diseases Act,1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984) is only applicable for animals which have been destroyed under supervision of Veterinary Services pursuant to a control measure. Table 2 of the Animal Diseases Regulations R2026 of 1986 states that AHS infected horses shall be isolated for a certain period and destruction of infected horses is not prescribed. The horses mentioned in the question died and were not destroyed pursuant to any control measure or order. Section 19 of the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 is therefore not applicable to these animals.

13 October 2023 - NW2545

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Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Social Development

(1)What has she found was the estimated turnaround time for which an applicant has to wait for an approval of his or her application for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant; (2) whether, since the pandemic has been overcome, the SRD grant will be changed into a Basic Income Grant; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(1). The COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (cSRD) operates differently to other grants in that applicants are assessed every month to determine if they meet the qualifying criteria. The estimated time a client has to wait each month for his grant to be assessed is 3 weeks or less (depending on the turnaround time for receipt of all databases).

The various databases from other organisations, which are used for the verification of clients are received from the 8th of each month. SASSA is only able to complete the verification process of all clients following receipt of all various databases which is usually by the 3rd week of the specific month. The approved clients are then paid in the following week.

(2). Given the ongoing vulnerability of the beneficiaries to hunger and poverty because of continuing high unemployment and the escalating food prices, the Department is proposing the extension of the cSRD until end of 2025/26 financial year, this will allow the Department to finalize the Basic Income Support (BIS) policy on a more permanent and sustainable intervention. DSD is intending to approach Cabinet to seek approval to publish the draft BIS policy for public comments in the current financial year.

 

13 October 2023 - NW2806

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Breedt, Ms T to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

Whether, with reference to her reply to question 2163 on 26 June 2023, she will indicate which specific (a) members of (i) her department, (ii) industry, (iii) research institutions and (iv) sector entities are involved in the Sector Energy Crisis Task Team and (b) criteria the farms and/or businesses in agriculture must meet to be taken into account for (i) reducing load shedding and/or load curtailment and (ii) grants from the Agro-Energy Fund for the construction of renewable energy infrastructure; (2) whether she will make a statement on the matter?

Reply:

THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, LAND REFORM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT:

(a)(i),(ii),(iii),(iv),(v) Yes. Please refer to table 1 below.

Table 1(METTA)

MEMBER

ORGANISATION

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, LAND REFORM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Mooketsa Ramasodi

Director-General, DALRRD (Chairperson)

[email protected]

Clinton Heimann

[email protected]

Nasele Mehlomakulu

[email protected]

INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVES

Theo Boshoff

[email protected]

Wandile Sihlobo

[email protected]

Annelize Crosby

[email protected]

Kulani Siweya

[email protected]

Christo Van der Rheede

[email protected]

M Matlou

[email protected]

Dr S. Ntombela

[email protected]

Ferdi Meyer

[email protected]

LAND BANK

Mr T. Rikhotso

Chief Executive Officer / Land Bank

(b) (i),(ii) The focus of the Agro-Energy Fund is on energy intensive agricultural activities. These include irrigation, intensive agricultural production systems, and on-farm cold chain related activities. Criteria for accessing the Agro-Energy Fund as part of the measures to reduce the impact of load shedding on farming enterprises is as follows:

QUALIFYING CRITERIA

  • To be eligible, a company must be applying to implement an energy efficiency project or to implement a project that offsets electricity from the grid, through self-use renewable energy;
  • Only one application per entity or applicant will be considered;
  • No debt takeovers; debt settlements or refinancing;
  • South African citizens with a valid ID and/or registered business entity;
  • Must be 18 years and above;
  • The Applicant must be operating an Agricultural Business at the Primary/ Secondary level;
  • Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to utilize the energy requirements applied for;
  • The grant will not be eligible to fund any alternative energy project/transaction on a stand-alone basis BUT will always be utilised to blend with a loan from the Land Bank. Furthermore, the grant cap per category may not be exceeded, however, depending on the business’s ability to afford a loan, the loan component may exceed the threshold stated;
  • Smallholder, medium-scale, large-scale and mega commercial producers as defined;
  • Producers involved in energy-intensive farming enterprises including on-farm cold chain related activities;
  • Proof of land ownership or proof of access to land (e.g. Leases or PTOs – must be aligned to the term of the loan at the minimum);
  • Allocation to prioritize Women, Youth, People with Disabilities and Military Veterans;
  • Co-funding by DFIs, equity participants, private sector grants, other debt/equity programmes for the same purpose and project (sharing risks) is allowed if it forms part of the total project proposed. The process will be handled in-line with Land Bank policies and procedures;
  • Producers meeting the Credit policy, procedures and processes of the Land Bank; and
  • Product offering and product terms for the Agro-Energy Fund to be guided by the Land Bank Product Manual.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Operating entities - Financial statements for the last three years as a minimum if operating for more than 3 years (if available);
  • New entrants – will be assessed in-line with the cash flow projections of the proposed business;
  • Business Plan demonstrating the impact of the grant on the business’s operations, to be supported by cash flow projections of at least 24 months;
  • All the normal Land Bank requirements for the blended Agro Energy facility will apply;
  • Feasibility/ energy expert report determining the energy requirement and significant energy uses of the farm. This must include the Infrastructure design;
  • For existing farmers proof of historical energy consumption (three months municipality bill or equivalent) and for new entrants as per the energy expert requirements report;
  • Environmental authorisations (EIA/EA) where applicable (an EIA is not required for ground mount systems below 10MW and with a physical footprint of less than 1 ha. Rooftop systems, floating PV on dams etc. do not require EIA as they are on existing infrastructure. However, if the installations require activity clearance of vegetation or working off a watercourse might trigger the need for an EIA);
  • A generation license from NERSA where applicable in terms of the regulations;
  • Health and Safety requirements to be complied with;
  • Quotations for Capex requirements: Specifying the aftercare service, warranties, lifespan;
  • Certification of the service provider of choice as a qualified entity/individual for installation registered with relevant competent authorities e.g. South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) https://www.sapvia.org.za/members-service-directory/ for the solar energy industry; as well as other similar bodies for the various other energy solutions that the fund will consider; and
  • Technical support pre and post installation: Possibly provided by DBSA (through DALRRD partnership with DBSA). The technical support will be used to obtain certification or confirmation that the installations meet the requisite standards and requirements.

(2) No, since the Ministerial launch of the fund was done on 29 August 2023.

13 October 2023 - NW3022

Profile picture: Breytenbach, Adv G

Breytenbach, Adv G to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

In light of the fact that the Potchefstroom Magistrates Court has been unusable for well over a year, after the roof collapsed and portions of the building were condemned and noting that the court is meant to serve not only Potchefstroom, but also all surrounding areas and the Circuit Court (details furnished), what has he precisely done to (a) ensure that the sorry state of affairs is attended to and (b) expedite the obviously essential repairs?

Reply:

a) Attached is the mitigating operational plan of the court see Annexure (A).

b) The roof members – trusses, rafters, brandering etc. had decayed and this led to the collapse of the roof. The roof was not part of the original contractor’s scope of work for the repairs onsite.

The collapsed roof specification is now part of the scope of work which will be executed through a variation order. The variation order has since been approved on the 08 September 2023 by the DPWI and the contractor is currently on site undertaking remedial repairs.

REPLY:

OBJECTIVE

ACTIVITIES

TARGET DATE

PROGRESS (Daily)

Interim Court sittings arrangements

Daily court sittings

ongoing

There are Daily Court sitting

Court clerks are preparing the court rolls daily, and supplied to the

  • Information desk,
  • And Prosecutors.

01. Town Hall (JB Marks) 2 halls converted to 2 court rooms

:District and Regional Court sitting no in-custody inmates )

02. Ikageng Court

: Criminal District and Family, Civil

03. Ventersdorp

: Proceeds with normal Periodical Court & Regional court 2 sitting @ Ventersdorp

04. Children’s Court and adjacent judicial boardroom

: Children’s Court Domestic Violence and harassment

: Maintenance (Family Court and Civil)

 

05. High Court (Potchefstroom)

: District Criminal Court (Prisoners awaiting trial/ custody inmates)

:Regional Criminal Court (Prisoners

awaiting trial Custody inmates)

: Bail applications(Formal and Informal)

: First appearances and new cases

: Prioritised cases in custody awaiting trials

JB Marks Traffic Court- Traffic cases held at the court on Tuesday and Friday

Virtual setup for postponements

   

On the 6th September 2023 Meeting was held with Correctional Services for the possibility to have virtual court sitting (MS Teams) for awaiting trial detainees. Office space has been provided; Matter tabled to the management meeting, support staff and DEEC meeting. All parties gave their blessings

Logistics needed identified;

Laptop- to Utilise current ACM laptop and data application made for a pool phone

Court Roll

Outstanding Criminal roll as at 31 August 2023

On going

District Court 21.15% backlog

Court

Current court roll

Backlog

A

155

29

B

183

40

E

168

39

Ikageng

14

2

Regional Court 46.8 backlog

Court

Current court roll

Backlog

RC1

57

22

RC2

68

23

RC3

43

6

RC Ventersdorp

52

35

OBJECTIVE

ACTIVITIES

TARGET DATE

PROGRESS (Daily)

Facilities management:

Movement of staff from the offices with mould

Occupation of the available space on the 2nd floor

Office space occupied by DOJ in the building

Increase scope of work within the existing project - variation order approval

Completed

Completed

On going

On going

7 Officials were moved from the ground floor to the 2nd floor.

3 Regional Magistrates,3 district court Magistrates, 7 prosecutors, intermediary and ACM including support staff moved to the 2nd floor( renovated area)

Part of ground floor(not yet renovated)

1st floor( not yet renovated)

2nd floor( renovated)2 court rooms created at the Town Hall

The variation order was approved by the DPWI variation order committee on 08 September 2023.

The construction of the roof commenced on the 11 September 2023.

The contractor is currently busy removing the damaged roof and has ordered the new roof trusses to re-roof the building as of 15 September 2023

13 October 2023 - NW3134

Profile picture: Siwisa, Ms AM

Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

Whether, in light of the allegations that prison officials in the Kutuma Sinthumule Correctional Centre are selling food to the inmates, any investigation had been initiated to determine the facts and veracity thereof; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

No, the officials in Kutuma- Sinthumule Correctional Centre are not selling food to inmates.

The allegations were found to be baseless as inmates received their daily ration as prescribed by the contract.

The kitchen in Kutuma-Sinthumule Correctional Centre (KSCC) provides daily rations to inmates as prescribed by the contract. Over and above what the kitchen provides on a daily basis, the kitchen also avails special meals on weekends and public holidays to inmates who can afford to buy meals. The proceeds of the sales thereof are channelled in sponsoring annual sports events for inmates.

END

REPLY:

(a) There is currently no database that is shared among the Ministers. The National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWT) recently adopted by Cabinet requires law enforcement agencies to nationally consolidate all forms of wildlife compliance and enforcement efforts, which would enhance the sharing of the information, cases enrolled and identification of linkages, networks, and associations.

Various stakeholder forums have been established between the NPA, DFFE, SAPS and DPCI inter alia, addressing the sharing of information and identification of linkages and association between persons and networks, to institute organised crime prosecutions and to centralise cases, where an association or linkages between the accused persons have been identified.

With respect to information about people who have been arrested, law enforcement agencies are unable to share information relating to cases under investigation that link perpetrators to other persons or networks. The identification of networks and persons involved in these offences are intelligence-based. This information can only be shared between the law enforcement agencies with an investigative mandate, viz. DFFE, SAPS and the DPCI.

Working together, law enforcement agencies managed to achieve a conviction rate of 99% in relation to the cases involving rhino poaching over the five (5) year period. This is significant considering the challenges associated with identifying and arresting perpetrators of these heinous crimes.

(b) With respect to (i) trial and custody status; (ii) convictions of rhino poachers, the NPA manually monitors the progress on rhino related cases. The table below represents rhino poaching cases that were manually collated for the past five years:

YEAR

NUMBER OF FINALISED CASES

NUMBER OF CONVICTIONS

NUMBER OF ACQUITTALS

NUMBER OF PERSONS CONVICTED

2019-20

41

41

0

59

2020-21

42

40

2

63

2021-22

46

46

0

72

2022-23

65

65

0

94

2023-24

21

21

0

28

TOTAL

215

213

2

316

With respect to (iii) prison status and (iv) associates of each person, the NPA can report that in the first six months of this financial year (2023-24), and through the efforts of the relevant law enforcement agencies and the NPA, 28 offenders were convicted. The majority of sentences were custodial.

END

13 October 2023 - NW2959

Profile picture: Siwisa, Ms AM

Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

With reference to the reply to question 1927 on 18 July 2023 by the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, what are the details of the time frames that have been put in place for initiating repairs to the Qalakabusha Correctional Services facility in the uMhlathuze Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal?

Reply:

Following the storm that affected the Qalakabusha Management Area on the
03 April 2023, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) visited the site on 04 April 2023, to prepare an assessment report on the damages that occurred. The DPWI inspection was limited to the crafting of a damage report and indicated that a follow-up inspection will be conducted to provide a detailed report and specification.

Qalakabusha and Empangeni Medium Correctional Centres were affected, with some parts of the property left torn down, including the security fence, office accommodation, in-mate housing units and staff accommodation.

At the time of submission of this response the DPWI had not submitted the detailed specification and condition assessment for the required repair and renovation of the damaged Correctional Centres, which prompted the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) to implement urgent repair and renovations, considering that the roof structure suffered major damages and the perimeter fence was completely compromised, posing a security risk.

Following several inspections and evaluations by DCS in-house build environment professionals’ comprehensive specifications were compiled and subsequently prospective contractors were also briefed during the month of April 2023 for the repair and refurbishment of the perimeter fence, area lights and roof structures.

The following project activities have either been achieve or are on schedule for completion:

  • Replacement of the 1620-meter perimeter fence at Qalakabusha was completed;
  • Refurbishment of the damaged roof structure was partially completed, by prioritising the inmate housing units;
  • Replacement of damaged area lights (street lights) is in progress and under construction, which is scheduled for completion by 30 October 2023; and
  • Replacement of the 30-meter perimeter fence at Empangeni is in progress and under construction, which is scheduled for completion by 30 October 2023.

The DCS is currently compiling specifications for the refurbishment of the entire damaged roof structure, which is scheduled to be completed by 30 March 2024.

END.

13 October 2023 - NW2906

Profile picture: Wolmarans, Mr M

Wolmarans, Mr M to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) is the status of the projects that are yet to reach financial close and sign agreements under the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme aside from the three projects of Karpowership and (b) steps has his department taken to resolve some of the challenges faced by Karpowership’s three projects?

Reply:

With regard to 1 (a) the status is as follows:

• Two (02) projects reached Legal Close on 30 August 2023 and are working towards reaching financial close;

• Project Agreements for two (02) additional projects are being prepared for legal Close. One (01) of the 2 projects is experiencing port access issues which are currently being attended to in conjunction with the relevant authorities; and

• One (01) project is experiencing difficulties with its project economics and bankability.

With regard to 1 (b) in so far as the department’s role in assisting all the projects including Karpowership, we have engaged, to the extent permitted by law, the Ports Authority to facilitate logical resolution of the port access challenges. What remains is for the projects to engage the relevant authorities and finalise all the outstanding matters.

13 October 2023 - NW2579

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Stock, Mr D to ask the Minister of Social Development

How (a) will the DSDTV material be packaged to make it more appealing and accessible to the youth to address socioeconomic challenges affecting them, such as substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and gender-based violence and (b) interactive will the platform be for the users?

Reply:

(a) Like their global counterparts, South African young people are increasingly using download sites to access video entertainment and social media sites as tools for communication and a source of news and information. Mobile data continues to be the most used means through which South African young people access the internet. Social network platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp and twitter have become an integral part of everyday life with over 60% using social media as their primary source of information.

The current audio-visual platform caters to all South Africans, with specific focus on young people. Key features such as video-on-demand, live streaming, podcasts and children’s corner are all targeted at young people.

(b) Yes, the platform is interactive and participatory by enabling users to provide suggestions to ensure meaningful engagement and fresh content.

13 October 2023 - NW2755

Profile picture: Krumbock, Mr GR

Krumbock, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Social Development

(a) What total amount did (i) her department and (ii) each entity reporting to her pay for printed copies of the integrated annual reports in the (aa) 2020-21, (bb) 2021-22 and (cc) 2022-23 financial years, (b) who were the suppliers in each case and (c) what total number of copies of the report were printed (i) in each case and (ii) in each specified financial year?

Reply:

a) (i) In September 2020, the Department of Social Development engaged in a three-year (202-2023) contractual agreement with LSM Communications through a competitive bidding process. The service level agreement encompasses a range of crucial services, including editing, design, layout, printing, finishing, packaging, labelling, and the timely delivery of essential documents such as the DSD Strategic Plan, Annual Performance Plans, Operational Plans, Annual Reports, and CDA Annual reports and the quarterly Social Budget Bulletin.

The rationale behind opting for a multiyear printing contract was rooted in the Department's historical practice of separately commissioning these materials from different service providers. This approach presented several challenges, including difficulties in maintaining uniformity in the visual presentation of these documents, in line with the Department's branding guidelines and guidelines on compilation of strategic plans and APPs. Additionally, it often led to delays in the procurement process due to the Department's limited internal capacity.

By adopting a multiyear contract with LSM Communications, the Department has successfully mitigated the risk of potential delays and inconsistencies in meeting critical deadlines for tabling these strategic documents. The arrangement has not only streamlined the process but also ensured a consistent and timely production of these materials. Furthermore, it has saved the department from the year-in year out cost escalation that comes with inflation adjustment, hence the price is fixed for the duration of the contract.

(ii) (aa) (b) (bb) (c) (cc) (i) (ii) for DSD Refer to the table below:

Financial Year

Total Amount in Rands

Names of suppliers

Total number of copies

(aa) 2020-2021

R372 612,54

LSM COMMUNICATIONS

100 X printed copies

1 X electronic flip book,

3 X Large font,

20 X Braille

(bb) 2021-2022

R372 612,54

LSM COMMUNICATIONS

100 X printed copies

1 X electronic flip book,

3 X Large font,

20 X Braille

(cc) 2022-2023(Yet to be printed by the same Service Provider for the same amount

R372 612,54

LSM COMMUNICATIONS

100 X printed copies

1 X electronic flip book,

3 X Large font,

20 X Braille

(ii) (aa) (b) (bb) (c) (cc) (i) (ii) for the Central Drug Authority refer to the table below:

CDA

Financial Year

Total Amount in Rands

Names of suppliers

Total number of copies

(aa) 2020-2021

R372 612,54

LSM COMMUNICATIONS

100 X printed copies

1 X electronic flip book,

3 X Large font,

20 X Braille

(bb) 2021-2022

R372 612,54

LSM COMMUNICATIONS

100 X printed copies

1 X electronic flip book,

3 X Large font,

20 X Braille

(cc) 2022-2023 Not yet printed and will be printed separately by the CDA since it is not part of the existing contract

Not yet printed and will be printed separately by the CDA since it is not part of the existing contract

Not yet printed and will be printed separately by the CDA since it is not part of the existing contract

Not yet printed and will be printed separately by the CDA since it is not part of the existing contract

(ii) (aa) (b) (bb) (c) (cc) (i) (ii) for SASSA refer to the table below:

Financial year

Total Amount in Rands

Names of suppliers

Total number copies printed

2020-21

R296 457.11

45th Media

  • 1000 A4 copies.
  • 1 A3 (large font size).
  • Braille Copy
  • 5 CDs.

2021-22

R237 971.17

45th Media

  • 1000 A4 copies.
  • 1 A3 (large font size).
  • Braille Copy
  • 5 CDs.

2022-23

R203 821.40

Shereno Printers

  • 1000 A4 copies.
  • 1 A3 (large font size).
  • Braille Copy
  • 5 CDs.

(ii) (aa) (b) (bb) (c) (cc) (i) (ii) for NDA refer to the table below:

Financial year

Total Amount in Rands

Names of suppliers

Total number copies printed

2020-21

R147 501-00

Atlarela Consulting

300

2021-22

R78 699-00

Add Markable

300

2022-23

   

The plan is to print 250 copies

13 October 2023 - NW3036

Profile picture: Phillips, Ms C

Phillips, Ms C to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

Whether he will furnish Mrs C Phillips with the (a) prescribed monthly returns with accurate and correct information and data from 1 July 2020 to 31 July 2023 from a certain plant (details furnished) situated on Portion 71 of the Farm Groenkloof, in the Bojanala District, North West, (b) audited annual financial reports and/or financial statements for the specified period, reflecting the balance sheet and profit and loss account, (c) annual reports detailing the extent of the holder’s compliance with the provisions of section 2(d) and (f), the charter contemplated in section 100 and the prescribed social and labour plan, as required by section 28(2) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, Act 28 of 2002 (MRPD Act); if not, (i) why not, (ii) what steps will he take to ensure compliance by the specified company and (iii) what actions will be taken against Saferro Chrome and Resources Limited for non-compliance with the provisions of section 26(3) and 28(2) of the MPRD Act; if so, on what date?

Reply:

The Department does not have information on the owner of Portion 71 of the Farm Groenkloof in the Bojanala District, North West. Saferro Chrome and Resources Limited are not the holder of a mining right or mining permit. Section 28 (2) of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 applies to the rightful holders of a mining right or mining permit.

  1. Please refer to the above paragraph
  2. Please refer to the above paragraph
  3. Please refer to the above paragraph

The National Environmental Management Act, 107 of 1998 (NEMA) provides for regulation of activities which cannot be undertaken without an Environmental Authorisation, such listed activities includes mining and prospecting activities. If any person conducts a listed activity without an approved Environmental Authorisation they are committing an offense in terms of section 49A of NEMA and can be prosecuted following an investigation.

 

 

13 October 2023 - NW2995

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Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Social Development

Regarding the Enterprise Investment Programme bank account that the Republic has opened jointly with the United States African Development Foundation (USADF), (a) what total amount in funds have been deposited into the bank account by (i)(aa) the USADF and (bb) her department and/or acting Director-General Mchunu and (ii) were the date(s) of the specified deposit(s) and (b) from which budget did the money come?

Reply:

The Department of Social Development has not opened any bank account with the United States African Development Foundation (USADF).

In relation to (a) this question is not applicable as no bank account has been opened.

In relation to (i) (aa) this question is not applicable as no bank account has been opened.

In relation to (i) (bb), this question is not applicable as no bank account has been opened.

In relation to (b), this question is not applicable as no bank account has been opened.

13 October 2023 - NW3023

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Breytenbach, Adv G to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

In light of the fact that the Masters’ Offices around the country continue to be dysfunctional to a degree that is totally unacceptable, which all have ceased to function, with waiting time for essential documents now reaching months (details furnished), what are the (a) details of what he intends to do to turn the situation around and (b) timeframes thereof?

Reply:

The Master’s Offices deals with not only deceased estates, but also bankruptcy matters, registration of Tests, Curatorships as well as the Guardian’s Fund.

Performance on all of the above is measured against targets set in terms of the Masters’ Annual Performance Plan.

The statement that all the Master’s Offices are dysfunctional and have ceased to function is wide as there are no specifics provided in order for the Master to respond to same.

However, in a bid to improve service delivery, the Master’ Branch together with the ICT Branch, have been developing an Online Deceased Estates Solution to address challenges experienced by our clients when reporting an estate with the Master.

The Online Deceased Estate System seeks to enable South African citizens to submit their deceased estate applications online, giving the user the ability to register an estate from the comfort of their home or office without the need physically to visit any Master’s Office or Service Point of the Master. This system was already successfully piloted in 3 Master’s Offices (Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town) and it is envisaged that it will be launched into live production during October 2023 in five Master’s Offices (Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Pretoria and Thohoyandou).

Together with this Online System, a QR-coded appointment letter has been developed. This appointment letter is being sent electronically to the applicant instantly, upon approval of the appointment by the Assistant Master. The client then merely downloads the appointment letter, which can now be verified by scanning the QR-code, and then proceed with the administration of the estate. This alleviates the challenges experienced with collecting of original appointment letters at the Master’s Office, delays caused by postal services not being available, relevant institutions causing delays due to first awaiting verifications of appointments letters from the Master and the need for requesting copies from the Master in this regard. QR-coded appointment letters have already been implemented with great success in three Master’s Offices (Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town) and the rest of the country is to follow suit as soon as possible.

Though the Master’s Offices are hard hit by challenges such as loadshedding, struggling to obtain files from off-site facilities, understaffing, budget cuts and constant network challenges, we are forever striving to implement solutions to better service delivery and ease the frustrations of not only the citizens, but also the employees of the Branch, who are working in a challenging environment.

13 October 2023 - NW2780

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Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration

What is the current status of the implementation of the Framework for the Professionalisation of the Public Sector?

Reply:

Since the approval of the Framework for the Professionalisation of the Public Sector by Cabinet in October 2022 the following has happened:

1. A Directive on its implementation has been drafted to guide Departments on how to go about implementing it. The Directive will be issued before the end of the current calendar year and will cover areas related to revisions on recruitment and employment management, human resource development, and performance management;

2. A partnership approach has been adopted where the DPSA is coordinating the implementation of the Framework with the support of the Public Service Commission (PSC), and the National School of Government (NSG);

3. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has been engaged to provide technical support, as well as the development of an independent monitoring capacity for the implementation. To this end, a senior technical assistant resource has been appointed to specifically work on the Professionalisation Framework;

4. In August 2023, the Cabinet endorsed the guiding principles for revising the Performance Management and Development System (PMDS) specifically for Heads of Departments (HoDs). This revised PMDS will be implemented from the next cycle (1 April 2024) and will prioritise productivity, introduce objectivity, and provide a direct link between the performance of the institutions and that of the HODs and DDGs;

5. The revised set of Public Service Regulations has been consulted and a SEIAS assessment conducted. These will provide clarity on a number of definitions to improve interpretation and compliance.

From the above, it should be noted that the Framework comprises multiple pillars, with targeted interventions for phased implementation, which have commenced.

End

13 October 2023 - NW3006

Profile picture: Van Minnen, Ms BM

Van Minnen, Ms BM to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

(1)With reference to the old Somerset West Police Station located on Somerset West Main Road, which is currently used by the Department of Correctional Services, what (a) progress has been regarding filling and moving the files that are filling the ceiling space and (b) are the details of the relevant precautions that have been taken given that the building is a national monument;

Reply:

1. (a) The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is not able to dispose of any public records in its custody, be it records of deceased members or deceased offenders due to the moratorium on the destruction of records imposed by Cabinet as per Circular 02 of 1998 due to non-completion of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

As a result, files and records are inundating DCS offices.

On numerous occasions, DCS has written to the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) requesting them to approach Cabinet to consider partial upliftment of the moratorium on the destruction of records that are not related to the TRC and feedback is awaited in this regard.

As at, 18 September 2023, 50 boxes have been filled with inactive files and stored in one of the offices with the intention of moving them to the Regional Office.

As at, 19 September 2023, boxes of inactive files have been moved to appropriate archive facilities at the Regional Office, the active files will remain at the Community Corrections office in Stellenbosch.

The remainder of the inactive files will be packed in boxes and moved to the Regional office with the due date of 30 September 2023, for the project to be completed.

(b) The Minor renovations of the building listed below are underway using own resources. However, it must be indicated that major renovations must be done by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure:

  1. Cleaning all ceilings
  2. Prepare internal walls, doors and doorframes.
  3. Prepare wooden floors and tiled floors
  4. Prepare and varnish all wooden window frames
  5. Paint internal walls, doors and doorframes
  6. Repair Electrical and DB board
  7. Repair Plumbing
  8. Repair broken door handles and locks
  9. Replace broken window panes and restore old putty
  10. Prepare walls and external window frames
  11. Repair broken tar floors
  12. Clean court house wall
  13. Steel frames
  14. Kitchen cupboard
  15. Steel cabinet for gas
  16. Shift all IT cabling into trunking
  17. Replacement of Carport nets
  18. Removing of stored files

DPWI RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Replace gutters and facial boards
  2. Replace broken asbestos roof sheets
  3. Repair roof leaks

The target date for the completion of all minor renovations by DCS is
01 December 2023.

2. (a) Somerset Community Corrections office serves 07 Areas.

Namely: Macassar, Somerset West, Lwandle / Nomzamo, Strand, Gordons Bay, Sir Lowry’s Pass and Faure Farms.

(b) The current caseload is 183 with 25 parolees reporting to the office on a weekly basis for consultations and interventions.

3. (a) There are no parolees registered in the system of Community Corrections without confirmed addresses. Confirmation of address is a pre-requisite for admission.

(b) Regular monitoring and Monthly Special Monitoring:

Special monitoring is to check on absconders and also to ensure that parolees comply with their conditions;

  • Involve relevant stakeholders such as South African Police Service (SAPS), Community Policing Forums (CPFs), Neighbourhood Watch members and Private Security with Special Monitoring as part of stakeholder’s engagement and visibility in the communities;
  • Arrange employment where possible;
  • Parolees in programmes by stakeholders (Badisa, Help Me Network and Helderberg Cares) e.g. Parenting, Drug Addiction Programmes etc;
  • Hope Prison Ministry (Restorative Justice Awareness Program);
  • Social work programmes presented are Life Skills, Anger Management, Sexual Offenders Treatment Program, Group work and Individual interviews; and

These activities are aimed at ensuring that reintegration into the communities becomes successful.

 

END.

13 October 2023 - NW2833

Profile picture: Kruger, Mr HC

Kruger, Mr HC to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What are the relevant details of the emergency response plans and contingency measures that her department has implemented to assist farmers to mitigate the impact of fires on farmlands; (2) (a) by what means have the specified plans been communicated to the farming community and (b) what is the budget allocation for the implementation of the plans?

Reply:

1) The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) implements the following mitigation measures to address the risk of veld fire:

  • DALRRD compiled contingency plans which were shared with provinces for their consideration and implementation during fire emergencies;
  • The South African Weather Services (SAWS) issues monthly seasonal weather forecasts and highlights the dry winter season with the possibilities of fires being experienced during the forecast period. SAWS also issue early warning information in case of high possibilities of fires and this information is shared with provinces to alert the farming communities of possible fires; and
  • DALRRD shares the advisories on the issued winter forecasts and early warnings, as well as strategies for farming communities to be able to respond once they experience such fires. These allow the provinces and farming communities to put measures in place to address the risks associated with the predicted weather forecast for the fire season such as creation of fire breaks and moving their livestock to barred lands during possible fires.

(2) (a) The contingency plans are discussed and shared with all provinces through emails, virtual and physical meetings. The plans are also discussed during farmers’ days outings.

(b) Both national and provincial departments of agriculture have operational funding to implement these plans. In cases where the hazard leads to a disastrous situation, DALRRD approaches the National Disaster Management Centre for financial assistance.

12 October 2023 - NW2911

Profile picture: Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN

Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

(a) How has the Government assisted black-owned farms to reach successful yields of crops and other farm produce and (b) what impact has COVID-19 had on the ability of the specified farm owners to produce a sufficient yield to mitigate food and/or produce scarcity within the Republic?

Reply:

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) is implementing various financial assistance programmes to enable farmers to improve production together with the provision of production inputs and access to the markets. These include the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) and the Ilima/Letsema programme. These conditional grants are aimed at promoting and facilitating agricultural development and increased production by beneficiaries of land reform or other black producers who have acquired land privately. The Ilima/Letsema in particular is aimed at supporting rural communities and vulnerable households to produce their own food. Since its inception in 2008, the Ilima/Letsema programme has supported 1,572,952 (one million five hundred and seventy-two thousand nine hundred and fifty-two) beneficiaries to produce their own food. The support includes starter packs for households, schools and community gardens, mechanization support as well as production inputs.

In 2020/21, the DALRRD started implementing the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES) initiative with the support from Presidency. Through PES, the DALRRD is supporting the Subsistence Producers with agricultural production inputs. This initiative is aimed at supporting the agricultural sector to retain self-employment and strengthening local food value chains. The agricultural production inputs support is through the e-voucher system for commodities such as fruit and vegetables, grains, poultry, and small and large stock. The support targets women, youth, child-headed households, people living with disabilities and Military Veterans.

Moreover, the Agricultural Research Council has assisted farmers with technological support, drought-resistant cultivars, and advice on cultivars and soils to support their decision-making on their farms. The Provincial Departments of Agriculture (PDAs) have provided support to farmers by providing services like Extension and Advisory Support, Agricultural Engineering, Veterinary, and Agricultural Economics such as business plans, market access, training and mentorship.

To mitigate the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on production, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development ensured that agricultural activities were designated as essential services so that farm operations and related backwards and forward linkages were not affected or restricted during the lockdown. The agricultural activities were gazetted as such in the Disaster Management Act Regulations.

In addition, the Department provided support measures for all main categories of farmers as follows:

  • Commercial farmers had an amount of R100 million available (though only about R10 million was accessed) at the Land Bank to support them to carry on with production during the COVID-19 pandemic; these measures were over and above the business support administered by banks.
  • Smallholder farmers: the department made available a grant of up to R50 000.00 [fifty thousand rands] and an amount of R1,1 billion was applied and approved for this category of farmers benefitting 15746 smallholder farmers.
  • Household and subsistence farmers: the department has allocated more than R991 million since the pandemic. To date, about 110 225 subsistence producers have been supported through PES.

FINANCIAL YEAR

EXPENDITURE

ON PES SUPPORT

 

NUMBER OF FARMERS SUPPORTED

 

 

2020/21

242 677 000

104 906

2021/22

518 680 600

 

2022/23

229 805 470,00

5 319

(a total of 36 895 is targeted for support in 2023/24

TOTAL

991 163 070

110 225

Table 1: PES support 2020/21 – 2022/23

12 October 2023 - NW2929

Profile picture: Masipa, Mr NP

Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

With reference to her reply to question 2451 on 30 August 2023, what are the relevant details of the economic returns and benefits the Republic has received from the Government’s substantial investment in agri-hubs to date?

Reply:

A total of 1 578 temporary jobs have been created to date.

  • In Zanyokwe Farmer Production Support Unit (FPSU), Eastern Cape: vegetable farmers have been assisted with market access to several Boxer Retailers to supply cabbage and spinach. Corporate Enterprise Development (CED) is also facilitating relations with other retailers such as Spar etc. where farmers can also supply.
  • Three (3) entities have benefited through leasing of the infrastructure at the Tarlton FPSU sites, Gauteng.
  • Farmers can easily access Government programmes.
  • FPSU Packhouses is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers and sorted, washed, and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hubs and Markets.
  • The packhouse facility will be used as a point of trade for the farmers for market access through the auction facility.
  • Farmers will benefit from the Market. (Agro-processing infrastructure).
  • Secondary Cooperatives have been registered to manage allocated resources.
  • Farmers are allocated mechanization and production inputs.
  • Training facilities are being utilised by the local farmers to conduct their meetings.
  • FPSUs act as a distributing centre for production inputs for farmers within 30km radius.
  • Agri-Hubs are meant to handle pre-handled fresh produce from the FPSU packhouses before sending them to the Market.
  • Farmers are continuously selling their livestock monthly through auctions.
  • The Bulk Irrigation System (revitalisation of the Ebenhaeser Irrigation System) completed in 2021 provides water to 153 emerging farmers. This includes a reservoir with capacity of 35 000 m3. A gravity pipeline system from the reservoir delivers water to each of the 153 plots through 53 water clusters (distribution points). To date the revitalisation of the Ebenhaeser Irrigation System has resulted in increased agricultural activity for 153 farmers. The famers supply their produce to well established market players like Tiger Brands and Up-To-Date fruit and vegetable store.

Please refer to the table below for details per province.

PROVINCE/ AGRIPARK

ECONOMIC RETURNS AND BENEFITS

EASTERN CAPE

Butterworth Agri-hub (Mnquma)

  • Mnquma Abattoir being implemented by Eastern Cape Development Corporation. Scheduled for completion by May 2025.
  • Livestock improvement in Amathole District.
  • Market access for their livestock.
  • Skills development.
  • Economic upliftment to the Amathole District.
  • Approximately 200 cooperatives will benefit and 15 permanent jobs will be created.

Zanyokwe FPSU

  • Zanyokwe FPSU has created 28 temporary jobs.
  • The repairs, refurbishments and additions to Zanyokwe FPSU reached practical completion on 29 August 2023.
  • Corporate Enterprise Development (CED): facilitated the appointment of 1 administrationistrative person, 3 tractor drivers for a period of 3 years.
  • Vegetable Farmers have been assisted with market access to several Boxer Retailers to supply cabbage and spinach, etc
  • CED is also facilitating relations with other retailers such as SPAR. where farmers can also supply.

FREE STATE

Thaba-Nchu Agri-Hub

  • Construction of abattoir project under implementation and the progress is sitting at 97% and the holding pens project completed.
  • 28 temporary job opportunities created.
  • The FPSU Abattoir is where livestock will be received directly from farmers within the Thaba-Nchu area and neighbouring towns. Slaughtering and processing of the meat will be done at this Abattoir and graded before sent to larger Market.
  • Market access will contribute to job creation.

Springfontein Agri Hub

  • Construction of mechanization centre and boundary fence completed.
  • 21 temporary job opportunities created.
  • The Agri-Hub is meant to handle pre-handled fresh produce from FPSU packhouses before sending them to the larger Market. That’s a value adding process to the Market.
  • Farmers and community will benefit from Market access and job creation.

Kroonstad FPSU

  • Secondary Cooperative is registered to manage allocated resources.
  • The farmers are allocated mechanization and production inputs.
  • The construction of mechanization centre, bulk services, boundary fence and guard house completed.
  • The FPSU has created 15 temporary jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers sorted, washed and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market.
  • Farmers will benefit from Market. (Agro-processing infrastructure).

Ondedaalsrus FPSU

  • Secondary Cooperative is registered to manage allocated resources.
  • The farmers are allocated mechanization and production inputs.
  • The construction of mechanization centre, bulk services, boundary fence and guard house completed.
  • The FPSU has created 15 jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers and sorted, washed and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market.

Ficksburg FPSU

  • Construction of mechanization centre, boundary fence and guard house completed.
  • The FPSU has created 21 temporary jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers sorted, washed, and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market.
  • Farmers will benefit from Market and create jobs for the community.

Makholokoeng FPSU

  • Construction of Pack house and mechanization centre, boundary fence, guard house, control room and weigh bridge completed.
  • Secondary cooperative registered.
  • The FPSU has created 10 jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers sorted, washed, and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market.
  • Opportunity for local job creation.

Zastron FPSU

  • Mechanization in place and business operating for farmers and affiliated cooperatives.
  • Secondary cooperative registered.
  • The FPSU has created 10 jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers sorted, washed, and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market.

GAUTENG

Tarlton FPSU

  • 150ha and 27 farmers supported.
  • The Secondary cooperative is in the process of being registered.
  • This FPSU has created 48 temporary jobs.
  • Mobile Offices, Boardroom, Cold Rooms, Packaging house and production tunnels have been constructed.
  • Farmers have access to cold rooms, packaging facilities and add value on their produce.
  • 3 entities benefited through leasing of the infrastructure at the FPSU sites. Their production is viable, and they are sustaining the project.
  • Government officials and farmers now meet at the FPSU as there is a venue and facilities for meetings. Farmers can easily access Government programmes. Also used as distribution centres for production inputs to other local farmers.

Carmel Estate FPSU

  • The Secondary cooperative is in the process of being registered.
  • This FPSU created 25 temporary jobs.
  • 20 Production Tunnels have been completed. Beneficiaries selection and recruitment is in the process and will be finalised in 30 September 2023.
  • Local farmers will have access to tunnels and primary production. Locals will have access to food as there will be production this summer.

Bekkersdal FPSU

  • Secondary Cooperative is registered to manage allocated resources.
  • The farmers are allocated mechanization, shade net, production tunnels and production inputs. The Farmers are producing on the shade nets, and production tunnels. There is an existing administrationistration office with offices and boardroom.
  • The farmers are taking ownership of daily operations within FPSU.
  • The farmers are allocated a truck, bakkie and crates to assist them with harvesting and transporting of produce to the market. Farmers access land for production. Training facilities: Local farmers conduct their meetings at the facilities. Access to research trial onsite.
  • The FPSU also acts as a distributing centre for production inputs for farmers with 30km radius.
  • This FPSU created 23 temporary jobs.
  • The Department is in the process of completing a warehouse that will assist the farmers with storage.

Eikenhof FPSU

  • This FPSU created 35 temporary jobs.
  • Production tunnels were completed whereby farmers are producing vegetables.
  • 30ha and 10 cooperatives supported.
  • The farm facilities also benefit 35 cooperatives residing within 30km radius. The Cooperatives benefit through access to mechanisation, access to training facilities, access to poultry abattoirs and access to government information as there is permanent officials onsite.

Sokhulumi FPSU

  • This FPSU created 6 temporary jobs.
  • NPC is registered to manage allocated resources.
  • The farmers are allocated mechanization, shade net, tunnels and production inputs.
  • The FPSU shed has been revamped, is used to store Mechanisation and Implements.
  • Currently 51 farmers affiliated to be members of the FPSU, planting on more than 7400 hectares of land.

KWAZULU-NATAL

Hlathikhulu FPSU

  • 15 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The project will allow for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administrationistration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

Makhathini FPSU (Oil Seed Storage)

  • 10 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • Storage facility allows for the seed to be stored under shelter before being sold, increasing the selling price.

Noordsbereg FPSU

  • 20 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Qwabe FPSU

  • 20 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Jozini FPSU

  • 20 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Felixton FPSU

  • 20 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Fezela FPSU

  • 20 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Matikulu FPSU

  • 20 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Bernsdorp FPSU

  • 7 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The feedlot facility, after construction, will act as a value adding facility and guaranteed market for livestock farmers to get higher process for their animals.

KwaShinga FPSU

  • Contractor not yet appointed.
  • The project allows for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administrationistration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

Mkhuze Rail Logistic Hub

  • 25 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Nsuze FPSU

  • 9 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The project will allow for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administrationistration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

Tugela Ferry FPSU

  • 50 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The project will allow for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

Jiki Jela FPSU

  • 25 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The project will allow for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

St Paul FPSU

  • 10 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Clanso FPSU

  • 12 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The project allows for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

Amanzabomvu FPSU

  • 39 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Hopewell FPSU

  • 05 temporary jobs were created during construction.

Hlabisa FPSU

  • 10 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The project allows for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

Pomeroy FPSU

  • 20 temporary jobs were created during construction.
  • The project allows for farmers to buy in bulk and store their inputs; do basic packing and sorting of their produce before it leaves for market; facility for training; use of offices for administration and ablutions and changerooms for labour.

Makhathini Cotton Ginnery

  • Currently Professional Service Provider is busy with the designs.
  • Once completed the Ginnery will be able to gin 15000 tons of cotton as compared to the current 6000 tons. This will allow for the expansion of the planting area from the current 2000 ha dry land to about 8000 ha, supporting an additional 800 beneficiaries.

LIMPOPO

Witpoort FPSU

  • The investment towards infrastructure development of this FPSU resulted in the creation of 61 temporary jobs.
  • The packhouse facility will be used as a point of trade for the farmers for market access through the auction facility, crop farmers will have access to mechanisation and it will also serve as a training centre.
  • The facility is complemented by the local extension services office which is within the same premises.

Vleeschboom FPSU

  • The FPSU has a registered Secondary Co-operative with 10 members of Board of Directors.
  • This FPSU employed 6 contract workers (security officials) and 90 temporary jobs were created during the construction of infrastructures.
  • The packhouse facility will be used as a point of trade for the farmers for market access through FPSU to various mills to be contracted with secondary cooperative.
  • Crop farmers will have access to mechanisation and it will also serve as a training centre.
  • The centre has a storage for both inputs and chemicals, this will assist the farmers to access their daily inputs as and when they need them.
  • The facility will also serve as a service point for the local extension services. Currently the facility is being used as a dispatching and receiving area for inputs and chemicals

Masalal FPSU

  • FPSU provided support to farmers with mechanisation services and production inputs.
  • This FPSU also employed 6 contract workers (security officials) and 45 temporary jobs were created.
  • The packhouse facility will be used as a point of trade for the farmers for market access through the FPSU to various fresh produce markets.
  • The FPSU will be capacitated with washing, sorting and packaging machinery to support farmers. Crop farmers will have access to mechanisation and it will also serve as a training centre.
  • The facility will also serve as a service point for the local extension services. The facility is currently being used as a receiving and dispatching area for inputs and chemicals.

Sekhukhune Agri-hub

  • Construction of this Agri-hub created 20 temporary jobs.
  • The facility will be used as a point of trade for the farmers for market access through the FPSU to various fresh produce markets.
  • The FPSU will be capacitated with washing, sorting and packaging machinery to support farmers. Crop farmers will have access to mechanisation and it will also serve as a training centre.
  • The facility will also serve as a service point for the local extension services.

MPUMALANGA

Mkhuhlu Agri-hub

  • A service provider is appointed by Provincial Agriculture to operate the Hub.
  • This FPSU has created 45 temporary jobs.
  • The Agri-Hub is meant to handle pre-handled fresh produce from FPSU packhouses before sending them to the Market. Farmers will benefit from Market access.

Thulamahashe FPSU

  • Primary co-operatives are producing on farms and selling directly to the market.
  • This FPSU created 40 temporary jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers sorted, washed and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market. Farmers will benefit from Market. (Agro-processing infrastructure)

Huntington FPSU

  • Secondary co-operative engaging Mathumi Fresh Produce Market for a potential strategic partnership.
  • There is currently a proposal of having strategic partners to provide mentorship and address the issue of markets, and to ensure the packhouse is utilised for the intended purpose of packaging.
  • Primary co-operatives are producing in their farms and selling directly to the market.
  • This FPSU has created 30 temporary jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers sorted, washed and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market. Farmers will benefit from Market. (Agro-processing infrastructure).

Mzinti FPSU

  • The packhouse is in the process of GAP certification.
  • This FPSU has created 10 temporary jobs.
  • The FPSU Packhouse is where fresh produce will be received directly from farmers sorted, washed and graded before sent to secondary Agri-Hub and Market. Farmers will benefit from Market. (Agro-processing infrastructure).

Dundonald FPSU

  • Secondary co-op has been established with 10 primary co-ops affiliated.
  • Farmers are active on the ground.
  • The grain mill is part of Agro-processing infrastructure which will provide storage and processing of grains of the farmers before the Market. It will enable farmers to access the market.

Sydbrandskraal FPSU

  • Iphakeme Secondary coop established.
  • Grain Production and Vegetables access mechanisation from FPSU.
  • This FPSU has created 20 temporary jobs.
  • The grain mill is part of Agro-processing infrastructure which will provide storage and processing of grains of the farmers before the Market. It will enable farmers to access the market.

Kameelrevier FPSU Hydroponics

  • There are about 10 young people producing vegetables in the tunnels under the support of provincial Agriculture.
  • This FPSU has created 19 temporary jobs.
  • The young farmers at this project produce vegetables in the tunnels built and primary handling in the mini packhouse with cold room before sending them to the Market.

Malelane-Nkomati FPSU

  • Farmers are producing sugarcane and SAFDA assist with markets.
  • This FPSU created 45 temporary jobs.
  • The small holder Sugar Cane farmers will improve their yield per hector and sucrose quality through improved drip irrigation infrastructure and FPSU centre where irrigation maintenance team comprised of young people from NARYSEC will be housed, farmers training and mechanisation centre and fuel depo meant for supporting the farmers production. The farmers goal is to have their sugar mill which will produce renewable energy to lower their production cost.

 NORTH WEST

 

Makweleng FPSU

  • The Makweleng FPSU has created 32 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: Farmers are continuously selling their livestock monthly through Auctions.
  • Value adding to farmers: Emerging small-scale farmers can easily buy and sell at a market related price and improve profit margins.

Jericho FPSU

  • The Jericho FPSU has created 23 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: Boost the input and production aspects of the commodity value chain (red meat).
  • Value adding to farmers: The feedlot will improve the intensive production system of growing and or fattening cattle until they reach required slaughter weight and thus improve profit margins.

Bedwang FPSU

  • The Bedwang FPSU has created 19 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: The auction facility will ensure that farmers are continuously selling their livestock monthly through Auctions.
  • Value adding to farmers: Emerging small-scale farmers can easily buy and sell at a market related price and improve profit margins.

Taung FPSU

  • The Taung FPSU has created 20 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: Boost the input and production aspects of the commodity value chain (red meat and crop) and ensure that farmers are continuously planting and selling their produce and livestock monthly through auctions.
  • Value adding to farmers: Emerging small-scale farmers will easily buy and sell at a market related price and improve profit margins. It will also bring under-utilized land (especially in Communal Areas and land reform farms) into full production and expand irrigated agriculture.

Springbokpan Agri-hubs

  • The FPSU created 79 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: The project will support small- holder farmers through the provision of infrastructure, extension services, production inputs and mechanization input to improve grain production.
  • Value adding to farmers: Processing for local markets and providing market information while paving the way to complete the value chain.

Makapanstad Agri-hub

  • The FPSU created 16 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: The project will support small- holder farmers through the provision of infrastructure, extension services, production inputs and mechanization input to improve production.
  • Value adding to farmers: Processing for local markets and providing market information while paving the way to complete the value chain in mixed farming.

Vryburg Agri-hub

  • The FPSU has created 14 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: The project will support small- holder farmers through the provision of infrastructure, extension services, production inputs and mechanization input to improve production and access to market.
  • Value adding to farmers: Processing for local markets and providing market information while paving the way to complete the value chain in red meat production.

Matlosana Agri-hub

  • The FPSU has created 13 temporary jobs.
  • Benefit to farmers: Sustainable livelihoods.
  • Value adding to farmers: Increased commercial output of livestock production, processing for local markets and providing market information in the project area while paving the way to complete the value chain.

NORTHERN CAPE

Heuningvlei FPSU

  • 600 farmers organised into 57 Primary Cooperatives with a Secondary Cooperative as a governing structure.
  • Cooperatives supported with logistics, equipment, mobile and permanent infrastructure and production inputs.
    The Heuningvlei FPSU consists of security fencing, borehole, auction facilities, staff housing, administration block, boardroom facility and storage shed.
  • The new boardroom was constructed for meetings and training of farmers. The farmers will also have access to ICT facilities which will be installed soon.
    The storage shed will be used to store implements, equipment, and inputs for the farmers in the area.
  • The auction facility has been renovated for the farmers to sell their cattle at competitive prices.
  • The staff houses and administration block were renovated for use by technical staff who will provide extension and technical support to farmers.
  • 6 temporary jobs have been created.

Eksteenskuil FPSU

  • 8 temporary jobs have been created.
  • The administration portion of the FPSU which is situated at the Eiland Research station has been renovated.
  • The staff houses and administration block were renovated for use by technical staff who will provide extension and technical support to farmers.

WESTERN CAPE

Haarlem FPSU

  • 71 small scale farmers supported including women and youth. Anhalt farm currently employs 25 permanent workers and up to 149 seasonal workers.
  • 10 Primary Cooperatives registered under the Haarlem FPSU. There are nine (9) vegetable primary cooperatives and one for youth who are former NARYSEC participants.
  • Currently, the department is facilitating the process of registering the 10 primary cooperatives into a secondary cooperative that will manage the Haarlem FPSU.
  • 13 temporary job opportunities were created during the construction of the mechanization centre.
  • With the investment (construction of a mechanization centre, production inputs and machinery) from government these farmers can access services such as storage and primary processing and packaging of their produce which would have been otherwise costly. Having a mechanization centre close to where they harvest from enables the farmers to save on transport cost. Machinery and equipment that were traditionally leased from the commercial market is accessible and available at a cost-effective lease rate (amount).
  • The farmers can take their own produce to the mechanisation centre without the involvement of a middle-man.
  • Feeder projects such as Anhalt Farming are able to increase their capacity to export their produce because they make use of the services at the Haarlem FPSU and can get materials such as the crates used for fruit export from the Haarlem Youth project operating from the Haarlem FPSU.
  • Farmers have access to and are given training on how to run the FPSU (e.g. governance training, financial and business management training). Ability to have a greater market access.

Benefits and Future Plans:

  • The Haarlem FPSU plans to employ support staff such an administration, security, tractor drivers, truck drivers as well as mechanics for service and repairs.
  • The Haarlem FPSU plans to have temporary job opportunities to support the vegetable farmers during planting and harvesting seasons.
  • The Haarlem NARYSEC youth plans to employ additional youth as temporary workers during the harvesting season and in assisting them to increase production.

 

Ebenhaeser FPSU

  • The management of the assets of the FPSU is the responsibility of the Eben-Agric (PTY) LTD which was registered with CIPC during 2021 and consists of Ebenhaeser beneficiaries. Also providing input to the management of the FPSU are 5 Primary Co-operatives and 1 secondary Co-operative, which includes:
  • FPSU Ebenhaeser Secondary Cooperative
  • Ebenhaeser Lucerne Farmers Primary Cooperative
  • Grapes of Ebenhaeser Primary Cooperative
  • Eben Fruit and Vegetables Primary Cooperative
  • Ebenhaeser Livestock Primary Cooperative
  • The farmers received their production inputs support from the Land Claims Commission.
  • The Bulk Irrigation System (revitalisation of the Ebenhaeser irrigation system) completed in 2021 provides water to 153 emerging farmers. This includes a reservoir (with capacity of 35 000 m3). A gravity pipe line system from the reservoir delivers water to each of the 153 plots through 53 water clusters (distribution points).
  • The construction of the reservoir and bulk irrigation system created 29 temporary jobs in the local community.
  • To date the revitalisation of the Ebenhaeser irrigation system has resulted in increased agricultural activity for 153 farmers. In addition to the 76 lucerne farmers, the following results have already been realised:
    * 12 wine grape farmers (13 ha);

* 1 raisin grape farmer (1 ha);

* 4 hybrid seed farmers (1 ha);

* 4 processing tomato farmers (4 ha); and

* 62 permanent jobs and 200 seasonal jobs have been created during harvesting periods.

  • The famers supply their produce to well established market players like Tiger Brands and Up-To-Date fruit and vegetable store.

Saron FPSU

  • The Department registered 10 primary cooperatives and formulated the Saron secondary cooperative.
  • Saron has been identified as one of the FPSUs in the Cape Winelands for the following reasons:
    • It is close in proximity to emerging farmers and the Agri-hub in Ceres; and

• The proximity to production of main and support commodities.

  • The FPSU site is on municipal land and will be re-developed and used as a mechanisation centre, packing facility and storage.
  • The FPSU has a catchment area of Saron, Tulbagh (37km), Gouda (18km), Porterville (19km) and Riebeek west (87km) to support stock farmers (cattle, sheep and goats) vegetable and grain farmers. The Agri-hub in Ceres will support the feeder FPSUs from Saron.
  • The project will improve farming operations in this catchment area by the provision of much needed infrastructure to boost production and feed the Agri-hub in Ceres. The Agri-hub in Ceres will support the feeder FPSUs from Saron.
  • During construction phase of the mechanization centre (Saron FPSU), training in labour-based construction will assist local and emerging contractors and it is estimated that 10-15 local residents will benefit from job creation.

Suurbraak FPSU

  • 20 small scale farmers have been supported.
  • The Department registered 5 primary cooperatives in the Suurbraak FPSU.
  • The identified Agri-hub is in Bredasdorp about 110km from the FPSU. The development of the infrastructure is to boost the production of emerging farmers.
  • The Agri-hub will receive Lucerne, vegetables and livestock from the FPSU.
  • The planned mechanization centre (Suurbraak FPSU) will include a small produce handling facility; a packing and cooling facility; storage facility; local market and administration facility.
  • The site is in close proximity to small scale and emerging farmers and to the production of main and support commodities.
  • During construction phase of the mechanisation, training in labour- based construction will assist local and emerging contractors and it is estimated that 10-15 local residents will benefit from job creation.

11 October 2023 - NW3115

Profile picture: Chirwa, Ms NN

Chirwa, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Health

Whether provinces report matters related to fraud and corruption of provincial staff to him and/or his department; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what has been the progress on the matter at the Limpopo Department of Health concerning a certain person (name furnished)?

Reply:

There is no obligation on the Provincial Departments of Health to report to the National Department of Health matters that relate to discipline, fraud and/or corruption committed by the provincial staff members. The National Department of Health is not privy to any matter that relates to Mr Ntshane Lephoto as that matter has not been reported to the National Department of Health.

END.

11 October 2023 - NW3138

Profile picture: Tetyana, Mr Y

Tetyana, Mr Y to ask the Minister of Transport

Whether, in light of the allegations that Intercape buses are sharing permits, she will furnish Mr Y Tetyana with proof of operating permits issued for the entire fleet of Intercape buses, including all routes that each bus is permitted to use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The National Public Transport Regulator issued to Intercape Ferreira Mainliner PTY (LTD) 74 operating licences comprising of 40 operating licences authorising the conveyance of tourist, charter and bus services; 16 operating licences which authorises tourist and bus services, 05 operating licences authorising tourist and charter services and 13 operating licences authorising tourist services only.

Over and above 74 licences, there are 17 applications for renewal of licences comprising of 2 operating licences authorising tourist and charter services and 15 operating licences authorising tourist, charter and bus services applications that were approved by the National Public Transport Regulator but were not uplifted.

Detailed routes are attached

11 October 2023 - NW3132

Profile picture: Thembekwayo, Dr S

Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health

What are the relevant details of the steps that he has taken to deal with the challenge of cats roaming inside the wards of patients in the Siloam District Hospital, in Vhembe, Limpopo?

Reply:

According to Limpopo Department of Health;

Cats in Siloam District Hospital, in Vhembe, Limpopo come from nearby households for the purpose of food. The cats increase in numbers due to reproduction. The hospital has an informal agreement with farmers from the area to periodically collect cats to assist them with rodents on their farms. The first collection already happened in September 2023. The NDoH is advising the Limpopo Department of Health to consult the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to arrive at a good solution to this problem.

END.