Questions and Replies
08 August 2019 - NW284
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
What (a) total amount is budgeted for his private office for the 2019-20 financial year and (b) was the (i) total remuneration, (ii) salary level, (iii) job title, (iv) qualification and (v) job description of each employee appointed in his private office since 1 May 2019?
Reply:
a) R20, 558,000.
b) (i) Total remuneration
- R7,870,773.63
(ii) Salary levels
- L.14x1; L.13x4; L.11x1; L.9x1; L.7x1; L.5x1; and L.3x2.
(iii) Job Tittles
- Chief of Staff
- Private Secretary
- Media Liaison Officer
- Community Outreach Officer
- Assistant Appointment Secretary
- Domestic Worker (x2)
- Administrative Secretary
- Parliamentary and Cabinet Support
- Registry Clerk
- Driver/Messenger
(iv) Qualifications
- Matric/NQF 4 - x1
- National Diploma/NQF 6 - x2
- Degree/B Tech/NQF 7 - x4
- Honours/NQF 8 - x2
- Masters/NQF 9 - x1
(v) Job Descriptions attached
08 August 2019 - NW217
Whitfield, Mr AG to ask the Minister of Police
(1) (a) What is the current status of GAS 333/06/2012 opened at the Umbilo Police Station; (2) has any investigation into the case been conducted; if not, what are the reasons for the delay in concluding the investigation; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether (a) an inquest has been initiated into the case and (b) the family of the deceased has to be informed; (4) (a) what is the current status of the toxicology report for TX1407/12,TX 1408/12,TX1409/12, (b) what are the reasons for the delay and (c) by what date will the report be available?
Reply:
(1)(a)(2)(3)(a)(b) and (4)(a)(b)(c)
The requested information is not readily available. It needs to be obtained from the province and verified. A request is made for an extension of two weeks, in order to provide a verified and accurate response.
Reply to question 217 recommended/not recommended
GENERAL
NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2019-07-26
Reply to question 217 approved
GENERAL BH CELE (MP)
MINISTER OF POLICE
Date: 2019-08-06
08 August 2019 - NW102
Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of Police
(1) Whether, with reference to his reply to question 1408 on 18 June 2018 wherein he requested three weeks' extension to ensure that the information that is provided is factually correct, he is now in a position to indicate what (a) number of firearms and (b) amount of state-owned ammunition in each province and office of the SA Police Service (SAPS) were respectively reported as stolen or as missing in each specified year (details furnished);(2) what number of such (a) stolen and missing firearms are linked to crimes, (b) firearms and what amount of ammunition has been recovered and (c) persons were successfully prosecuted regarding the theft of state-owned firearms and ammunition;(3) whether any SAPS officials were prosecuted for negligence or theft; if not, why not; if so, what number has been prosecuted for negligence and for theft;(4) what measures has his department put in place to combat theft and loss of state-owned firearms and ammunition;(5) whether he will make a statement on the matter? (2) what number of such (a) stolen and missing firearms are linked to crimes, (b) firearms and what amount of ammunition has been recovered and (c) persons were successfully prosecuted regarding the theft of state-owned firearms and ammunition; (3) whether any SAPS officials were prosecuted for negligence or theft; if not, why not; if so, what number has been prosecuted for negligence and for theft; (4) what measures has his department put in place to combat theft and loss of state-owned firearms and ammunition; (5) whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
(1 )(a) The information, regarding the number of firearms, which have been reported as losses from the South African Police Service (SAPS), is reflected in the table below:
Province |
2013/2014 |
2014/2015 |
2015/2016 |
2016/2017 |
2017/2018 |
2018/2019 |
Head Office |
87 |
86 |
94 |
138 |
95 |
65 |
Eastern Cape |
134 |
150 |
134 |
148 |
112 |
49 |
Free State |
38 |
22 |
38 |
36 |
32 |
19 |
Gauteng |
165 |
140 |
185 |
123 |
145 |
101 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
167 |
165 |
180 |
164 |
193 |
142 |
Limpopo |
45 |
49 |
37 |
36 |
54 |
28 |
Mpumalanga |
40 |
45 |
36 |
33 |
46 |
38 |
08 August 2019 - NW264
van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Police
What is the status of the investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation into the increase in the number of cases of alleged fraud and corruption that were reported by pensioners and recipients of the SA Social Security Agency grants over the past 12 months?
Reply:
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is investigating a criminal case of fraud1 in the Free State and the case docket reference number is Heilbron, CAS 4/04/2019. On 1 April 2019, the complainant received a short message service (sms), indicating that money had been deducted from her South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) pension card. It is alleged that approximately 60 beneficiaries were defrauded through the same modus operandi. A total of 20 beneficiaries were traced and their statements have been obtained. Approximately 40 beneficiaries are still being traced. Criminal cases will be registered when the complainants have been identified. The investigation is continuing.
Reply to question 264 recommended/not recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2019-08-01
Reply to question 264 approved
GENERAL BH CELE (MP)
MINISTER OF POLICE
Date: 2019-08-06
08 August 2019 - NW181
Julius, Mr J to ask the Minister of Police
On what date will (a) additional vehicles be supplied to the Moffatview Police Station in Johannesburg, (b) the current vacancies be filled, (c) additional bullet-proof vests be provided and (d) additional buildings be provided for the proper functioning of the specified police station?
Reply:
(a) One vehicle will be supplied to the Moffatview Police Station, by 30 July 2019.
(b) The approved staff establishment for the Moffatview Police Station, is 160.The current personnel strength, is 154. There is currently a shortage of six personnel members. A total of 12 newly enlisted constables were allocated to the Moffatview Police Station, in 2018/2019 and no further vacant posts will be filled, in the 2019/2020 financial year.
(c) In 2018/2019 and the first quarter of 2019/2020, 1 April2018 to 30 June 2019, no application for additional bullet-proof vests was received from the Moffatview Police Station.
(d) In 2018/2019, a total of five park homes were delivered to the Moffatview Police Station. No further accommodation shortages were reported after the park homes were provided to the police station.
Reply to question 181 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2019-07-26
Reply to question 181 approved
GENERAL BH CELE (MP)
MINISTER OF POLICE
Date: 2019-08-06
08 August 2019 - NW218
Whitfield, Mr AG to ask the Minister of Police
(a) What is the total number of SA Police Service (SAPS) bullet-proof vests that are currently in circulation in (i) each province and (ii) each precinct and (b) on what date was each order procured; (2) whether all bullet-proof vests are recorded in the SAPS asset register; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) (a) what is the lifespan of each bullet-proof vest and (b) what number of bullet- proof vests have been disposed of since 2009; (4) whether his department has a procurement plan for the renewal of bullet-proof vests?
Reply:
(1)(a)(i) The total number of bullet resistant vests, in each province, is as follows:
Province |
Total |
Head Office |
34 916 |
Eastern Cape |
19 028 |
Free State |
13 304 |
Gauteng |
37 093 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
25 181 |
Limpopo |
11 616 |
Mpumalanga |
10 844 |
North West |
11 514 |
Northern Cape |
7 224 |
Western Cape |
26 707 |
Body Armour Store |
18 741 |
Total |
216 168 |
(1)(a)(ii) The total number of bullet resistant vests, in each cluster, is attached as per Annexure A.
(1)(b) The information, per police station, order form and the date on which each bullet resistant vest was procured, is attached as per Annexure B. (Annexure B is attached in the electronic format, due to the size of the document, which consists of more than 3 000 pages)
Bullet resistant vests were only captured as a serialised item, since 2010. Prior to 2010, bullet resistant vests were captured as non- serialised and placed on, either the room inventory or on a members personal equipment sheet (SAPS 108). The SAPS also procured parts for bullet resistant vests parts and assembled them, which were then accounted for, as complete bullet resistant vests. Therefore, the system will not indicate order numbers for the above exceptions.
(2) All bullet resistant vests are captured in the SAPS asset register and the information is reflected in Annexure B.
(3)(a) In accordance with the Supply Chain Management (SCM) guidelines, the life span or useful life of a bullet resistant vest, is determined by the type of operational functions that are performed by the user and not a time frame. Therefore, the lifespan may vary from one day to more than 10 years, depending on the utilisation and treatment, thereof. This is supported by annual physical inspections and conditional assessments.
(3)(b) Since 2009, the SAPS has disposed of the following quantities:
Disposals |
Pending Disposals |
|
57 212 |
36 624 |
(4) Yes, the SAPS is currently doing market research and undertaking a process of evaluation, research and development of new generation bullet resistant vests.
Response to question 218 recommended
NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2019-07-26
Response to question 218 approved
GENERAL BH CELE (MP)
MINISTER POLICE
Date: 2019-07-26
08 August 2019 - NW116
Whitfield, Mr AG to ask the Minister of Police
(1) What is the current status of case number CAS 1042/07 /16 opened in Sandton; (2) Have the relevant persons provided feedback to the complainant; if not why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) Whether the SA Police Service has made contact with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA); if not, why not; if so, what was the response of the HPCSA?
Reply:
(1) The original case docket was sent to the Inquest Court. The case docket was received back from the Inquest Court, with enquiries. As soon as the enquiries have been attended to, the case docket will be returned to the Inquest Court.
(2) Yes, feedback was provided to the complainant, on 5 July 2019.
(3) Yes, a copy of the report is attached.
Reply to question 116 recommended
GENERAL NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SREVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2019-07-26
Reply to question 116 approved
GENERAL BH CELE (MP)
MINISTER OF POLICE
Date: 2019-08-06
08 August 2019 - NW127
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
(1)Whether his department’s Public Administration Ethics, Integrity and Disciplinary Technical Assistance Unit has been established; if not, by what date is it envisioned to be established; if so, (2) whether he has found that the unit is (a) fully operational and (b) adequately staffed; if not, in each case, (i) why not and (ii) by what date will the specified unit be fully operational and adequately staffed; if so, (3) whether the unit has conducted successful disciplinary processes against any officials yet; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
1. The Public Administration Ethics, Integrity and Disciplinary Technical Assistance Unit was established as per Public Administration Management Act Proclamation, effective from 1 April 2019.
2.a) The Unit is not fully operational and b) it is not adequately staffed. (i) as the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has no funding to staff the unit or to allocate funds for its operations. (ii) The Unit is currently being incubated within the DPSA and is envaseged to be fully operational and adequately staffed by the next financial year, subject to the allocation of funds by the National Treasury.
3. The Unit has not yet conducted any disciplinary process against officials as the Unit is not yet fully operational.
08 August 2019 - NW356
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
What (a) number of official international trips is (i) she and (ii) her deputy planning to undertake in the 2019-22 medium term expenditure framework, (b) will the (i) destination, (ii) date, (iii) purpose and (iv) number of persons who will travel with the delegation be and (c) is the detailed breakdown of the expected cost of (i) flights, (ii) accommodation and (iii) any other expenses in each case
Reply:
We are not able to quantify information on the future related to official trips for both the Minister and the Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans. All the international trips are undertaken as per invitation from host countries and serve a specific purpose in relation to the responsibilities and/or tasks assigned to the Executive Authority by the President of the Republic of South Africa.
08 August 2019 - NW171
Lorimer, Mr JR to ask the Minister of Police
(1) What (a) total number of police officers does the Resources Allocation Guide (RAG) at the Parkview Police Station in Johannesburg provide for and (b) number of the specified positions are currently unfilled;” (2) what (a) total number of vehicles does the RAG at the specified police station provide for and (b) number of (i) operational and (ii) non-operational vehicles is at the police station; (3) what( a) total number of detectives does the RAG at the police station provide for and (b) number of the specified posts are vacant; (4) what are the relevant details of the (a) circumstances surrounding the crash of a vehicle assigned to the police station while on route to Durban and (b) official duties that took the vehicle on the road? NW1129E
Reply:
(1)(a) The staff establishment for the Parkview Police Station, is 114 and the actual personnel strength, is 117.
( 1 )(b) Not applicable.
(2)( a)(b )(i)(ii)
(a) |
(b)(I) |
(b)(ii) |
30 |
26 |
Three vehicles are in for repairs. |
(3)(a) The staff establishment for the Detective Service, at the Parkview Police Station, is 24 and the actual personnel strength, is 25.
(3)(b) Not applicable.
4)(a) Two state vehicles were following each other, descending a hill on a winding road. The driver of the vehicle in the rear, lost control of the vehicle and collided with the one in front. One South African Police Service (SAPS) member lost his life, as a result of the collision.
( 4 )(b) The vehicles were used to attend the official funeral of the late Constable Shange.
Reply to question 171 recommended
GENERAL
NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE
KJ SITOLE (SOEG)
Date: 2019/07/26
Reply to question 171 approved I not approved
GENERAL BH CELE (MP)
MINISTER OF POLICE
Date: 2019/08/06
08 August 2019 - NW79
Khawula, Ms MS to ask the Minister of Finance
Has the National Treasury investigated the impact of the manipulation of the Rand by various commercial banks, in particular ABSA, as found by the Competition Commission; if not, why not; if so, what were the findings? NW1036E
Reply:
No, the National Treasury has not investigated such impact, as neither the National Treasury nor the South African Reserve Bank have any evidence that any bank has taken part in currency manipulation, as indicated in our previous replies to oral question 57 and 245 submitted on 29 March 2019, and will repeat the essence of those replies below.
We are not aware that the Competition Commission has made any finding on the manipulation of the rand, but is investigating a case of price fixing and market allocation in the trading of foreign currency pairs involving the Rand, which it has referred to the Competition Tribunal for prosecution. The currency market is a deep and liquid market, and it is difficult to determine any material or long-lasting impact of any one transaction on the level or value of the currency.
It is important for members to differentiate between the impact of any transaction on consumers and the impact on the value of the rand – the investigation before the Competition Commission appears to be related more to the conduct of bank traders towards clients, rather than providing evidence of their affecting the actual value of the rand.
We should all await the outcome of the Competition Commission’s investigation before acting on them. I am also happy to invite the Honourable Member to provide any other evidence he may have on any currency manipulation to the Commission and/or National Treasury.
08 August 2019 - NW232
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
What (a) number of Public Service employees are currently on suspension in (i) the national and (ii) each provincial government, (b) is the average length of time that each employee has been on suspension and (c) is the breakdown of the total cost to the State for each (i) year and (ii) month that the employees have been on suspension?
Reply:
The data provided in response to the question is derived from the PERSAL system as at 30 June 2019 and is for National and Provincial Departments in terms of the Public Service Act,1994.
a) Number of employees currently on precautionary suspension in:
(i) National Departments is 29.
(ii) Each Province
Provincial Governments |
Total Number of Suspension |
Total |
16 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
2 |
North West |
2 |
Eastern Cape |
4 |
Gauteng |
1 |
Western Cape |
7 |
b) Average length of precautionary suspension for employees at:
- National Departments is 2 months,
- Provincial Departments is as follows:
Provincial Governments |
Average Length on Suspension months |
KwaZulu-Natal |
8 |
North West |
2 |
Eastern Cape |
2 |
Gauteng |
2 |
Western Cape |
2 |
(c) Total cost of precautionary suspension for each (i) year and (ii) month that the employees have been suspended is based on the average salary.
(i) 2017/2018 is R 73 976, 00
2018/2019 is R 1 319 887, 00
2019/2020 is R 26 183 216, 00
(ii) See attached
07 August 2019 - NW401
Abrahams, Ms ALA to ask the Minister of Basic Education
With regard to the implementation of the compulsory two-years of Early Childhood Development for all children before Grade 1, what (a) are the exact steps of implementation, (b) are the dates for finalisation of each step, (c) is the expected date of implementation and (d) is the estimated budget implication for this project?
Reply:
a) During the Basic Education Budget Vote 14 debate for the 2019/2020 financial year, it was indicated that the Department of Basic Education (DBE) has committed to developing a comprehensive plan to ensure a phased-in and systematic relocation of the responsibility and leadership for ECD. It was further indicated that this comprehensive plan will include the provision of two years of compulsory ECD prior to Grade 1; as well as the provision of Early Childhood Development (ECD) for 0-4-year-olds. Finally, the Department committed to the costed plan being finalised by March 2020.
The development of these plans is based on two principles:
- The plans should ensure that both the access and quality of ECD should improve significantly over the next 10 years; and
- The plans should be sensitive to the current model of ECD provision and not destabilise nor cause confusion in either the ECD or schooling sector.
b) The detailed plan for institutionalising the abovementioned high-level objectives is still being developed.
c) The DBE is working towards finalising a detailed, costed plan by March 2020, while at the same time beginning preparations for implementation.
d) The cost will be clarified through the detailed, costed plan.
07 August 2019 - NW427
Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What (a) number of educators have been absent from teaching for a prolonged period of time in each province since 1 January 2019, (b) number of days has each of the specified educators been absent from teaching, (c) are the reasons for the extended absence in each case and (d) contingency measures were put in place during the extended periods of absence in each case?
Reply:
(a), (b), (c) and (d).
As part of monitoring, the National Department only collects aggregated information on teacher attendance. The Honourable Member is kindly advised to request the detailed information as requested directly from the Provincial Education Departments.
07 August 2019 - NW82
Mente-Nkuna, Ms NV to ask the Minister of Finance
(a) What number of (i) buildings, (ii) properties and (iii) facilities does the National Treasury currently (aa) own and (bb) rent, (b) what is the value and purpose of each (i) owned and (ii) rented property and (c)(i) for how long has each property been rented, (ii) from whom is each property rented and (iii) what is the monthly rental fee for each property?
Reply:
(a) (i) (ii) (iii) (aa) Own |
Nil |
||
(a) (i) (bb) Rent |
Three (3) buildings: - 1108 John Vorster Drive (1 x floor only) - 240 Madiba Street; and - 40 Church Square. |
||
(a) (ii) (iii) (bb) |
Nil |
||
(b) (i) Value and purpose owned property |
Not applicable |
||
(b) (ii) Value and purpose of rented property |
1108 John Vorster Drive (1 x floor only) |
R65 033 050.00 |
Office accommodation and State Transversal Information and Communication Technology site |
240 Madiba Street |
R603 337 824.00 |
Office accommodation |
|
40 Church Square |
R19 030 631.00 |
Office accommodation |
|
(c) (i) Duration of rental: |
1108 John Vorster Drive (1 x floor only) |
20 years |
|
240 Madiba Street |
16 years |
||
40 Church Square |
16 years |
||
(c)(ii) From whom is each property rented: |
1108 John Vorster Drive (1 x floor only) |
Rented on behalf of National Treasury by the Department of Public Works, owned by SITA. |
|
240 Madiba Street |
Rented on behalf of National Treasury by the Department of Public Works, owned by Bothongo Group Management. |
||
40 Church Square |
State owned - Department of Public Works. |
||
(c)(iii) Monthly rental fee for each property: |
1108 John Vorster Drive (1 x floor only) |
R1 127 659.02 |
|
240 Madiba Street |
R4 221 538.45 |
||
40 Church Square |
R673 134.08 |
07 August 2019 - NW258
Mbabama, Ms TM to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Whether, taking into account the inherent risks to crops and the high costs of insuring such crops to farmers, her department is considering any government-subsidised crop insurance scheme to assist farmers; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the relevant details and (b) by what date will the specified scheme be implemented? NW1217E
Reply:
The Department has identified a need for agricultural insurance due to inherent risks and high costs incurred by smallholder and commercial producers in the sector. The department will engage both the National Treasury and the Land and Agricultural Bank on Agricultural Bank on how such an insurance can be developed as well as financed risks that may be associated with the system.”
07 August 2019 - NW165
Steyn, Ms A to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What mechanisms has her department put in place in order to transfer vacant land owned by the State to various Government departments; (2) what number of land parcels that are owned by the State have been identified as land that will be transferred?
Reply:
1. A number of organs of state in the three spheres of government (national, provincial and local) are constitutionally empowered to hold land for service delivery objectives. To the extent that the departments falling under the Ministry of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development hold vacant land, there’s no plan to transfer such vacant land to government departments. The plan is to transfer such land to prospective land reform beneficiaries. Our policy however provides for the donation of land falling under our custody to other government departments, in instances where such departments identify such land as suitable for their service delivery objectives.
2. Falls away.
07 August 2019 - NW310
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of the Basic Education
With reference to the state of the nation address on 7 February 2019, (a) which schools will be transformed into technical schools in each province in order to expand participation in the new technological specialisations, (b) what is the time frame in each case, (c) what are the details of how the transformation will take place and (d) what costs will be incurred in each case?
Reply:
a) The Plan is to have a Technical High School in each Circuit. Provinces have not yet identified the schools to be transformed into technical schools.
b) The time frame for the transformation and expansion of schools will be over a period of 5 years starting in 2020 – 2025.
c) Details of how the transformation will take place:
- Identification of schools by the 9 Provincial Education Departments;
- Mapping of schools in circuits to be undertaken;
- An onsite audit of schools will be conducted by the National and Provincial Departments;
- Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) Conditional Grant covers all schools offering Technical Occupational and Technical vocational subjects.
d) Costs that will be incurred in each case will include the following:
- Infrastructure renovation and construction (workshops).
- Provisioning of equipment tools and consumables for the Technical specialisation subjects.
- Human Resource recruitment.
07 August 2019 - NW118
Steyn, Ms A to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What number of land claims have been gazetted, but not yet processed by the Land Claims Commission; (2) whether she has found that the gazetting of land claims has a negative impact on the (a) value of the property and (b) owners’ ability to secure bank loans; if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (3) whether all land claims that have been found to be invalid have been degazetted; if not, (a) why not and (b) what number of invalid land claims still need to be degazetted; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) 3 358
(2)(a)(b) Section 11(1) of the Restitution of Land Rights Act requires the Commission to publish in the gazette all land claims that are deemed compliant with Section 2 of the Act. To not publish claims that are deemed compliant with the Act will constitute non-compliance with the Act. The Commission has not conducted any scientific studies to determine the impact of the gazetting of claims on affected properties. However, even if such studies were to confirm a negative impact of gazetting of land claims on property values, such impact would not be reason enough for the Commission not to execute the legislative imperative as imposed by Section 2 of the Restitution of Land Rights Act.
(3) (a) Section 11A of the Restitution of Land Rights Act provides for Withdrawal or Amendment of a gazette notice ONLY where either a party affected by the publication, typically a land owner, makes representations to the Commission with information conclusive to the Commission that the claim is non-compliant or the Commission, through detailed investigation, finds information that indicates that the claim is non-compliant.
Since the decision to withdraw a gazette notice is tantamount to the dismissal of the claim, the Commission follows a 2 stage process which is in line with the provisions of administrative justice towards claim dismissal.
In the first stage, the Commission provides the claimant with the notice or letter of an intention to dismiss the claim where after the claimant is provided with a minimum of 30 days to provide the Commission with conclusive reasons and or additional information that may convince the Commission not to dismiss the claim.
The 2nd stage consists of the issuing of the final dismissal letter where the notice period lapses without the claimant providing convincing additional information or where the information so provided is not convincing.
In all instances affected land owners are made aware when land claims are dismissed or when land claimants opt for other forms of settlement such as financial compensation.
(b) The Commission does not gazette invalid claims.
07 August 2019 - NW231
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
What is the total current vacancy rate across the Public Service (a) in the Republic and (b) what is the breakdown of the total for (i) each province and (ii) each national department?
Reply:
Based on the information available on PERSAL the vacancy rate in the Public Service for the quarter from April to June 2019 stands at 9.34%. This excludes the Defence Force and the State Security Agency that do not make use of the PERSAL system. The breakdown per department and province is provided in the table below:
National/ Provincial Departments and their Components |
Government Components |
Filled Posts June 2019 |
Vacant Posts June 2019 |
Quarterly Vacancy Rate (%) |
Total |
|
1,169,580 |
123,843 |
9.34 |
Eastern Cape |
||||
Total |
|
115,551 |
20,516 |
15.23 |
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs |
|
1,378 |
167 |
8.52 |
Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism |
|
508 |
245 |
30.48 |
Education |
|
60,891 |
12,316 |
17.21 |
Health |
|
40,254 |
6,653 |
13.93 |
Human Settlements |
|
530 |
35 |
6.61 |
Office of the Premier |
|
345 |
69 |
13.67 |
Provincial Treasury |
|
417 |
22 |
4.56 |
Roads and Public works |
|
1,639 |
161 |
7.33 |
Rural Development and Agrarian Reform |
|
2,662 |
241 |
11.09 |
Safety and Liaison |
|
131 |
20 |
14.44 |
Social Development |
|
3,638 |
386 |
9.22 |
Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture |
|
1,192 |
33 |
9.9 |
Transport |
|
1,966 |
168 |
6.97 |
Free State |
||||
Total |
|
56,301 |
3,830 |
5.72 |
Agriculture |
|
987 |
56 |
4.43 |
Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs |
|
348 |
53 |
13.13 |
Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs |
|
681 |
119 |
14.51 |
Education |
|
27,849 |
1,664 |
4.81 |
Health |
|
18,290 |
770 |
3.43 |
Human Settlements |
|
409 |
62 |
12.89 |
Office of the Premier |
|
493 |
56 |
9.81 |
Police, Roads and Transport |
|
2,562 |
291 |
10.46 |
Provincial Treasury |
|
380 |
48 |
11.21 |
Public Works |
|
1,366 |
131 |
11.19 |
Social Development |
|
1,913 |
464 |
16.99 |
Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation |
|
1,023 |
116 |
9.85 |
Gauteng |
||||
Total |
|
158,807 |
15,997 |
8.86 |
Agriculture and Rural Development |
|
947 |
68 |
6.63 |
Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs |
|
650 |
45 |
5.98 |
Community Safety |
|
1,154 |
105 |
8.29 |
E-Government |
|
773 |
76 |
9.23 |
Economic Development |
|
327 |
31 |
8.19 |
Education |
|
83,374 |
5,619 |
5.94 |
Health |
|
61,112 |
7,895 |
11.2 |
Human Settlements |
|
753 |
195 |
20.46 |
Infrastructure Development |
|
2,514 |
487 |
15.89 |
Office of the Premier |
|
463 |
86 |
14.14 |
Provincial Treasury |
|
779 |
110 |
12.93 |
Infrastructure Financing Agency |
32 |
0 |
0 |
|
Provincial Treasury |
747 |
110 |
13.41 |
|
Roads and Transport |
|
1,888 |
554 |
22.17 |
Social Development |
|
3,460 |
509 |
12.81 |
Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation |
|
613 |
217 |
27.47 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
||||
Total |
|
180,613 |
17,145 |
8.31 |
Agriculture and Rural Development |
|
2,449 |
264 |
8.98 |
Arts and Culture |
|
473 |
55 |
8.87 |
Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs |
|
1,233 |
102 |
7.09 |
Community Safety and Liaison |
|
162 |
18 |
8.99 |
Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs |
|
532 |
128 |
18.78 |
Education |
|
100,817 |
8,057 |
7.16 |
Finance |
|
378 |
44 |
10.93 |
Health |
|
64,395 |
7,554 |
9.83 |
Human Settlements |
|
579 |
55 |
7.5 |
Office of the Premier |
|
512 |
46 |
7.21 |
Public Works |
|
1,525 |
100 |
6.19 |
Social Development |
|
3,668 |
278 |
9.41 |
Sport and Recreation |
|
233 |
28 |
10.94 |
Transport |
|
3,657 |
416 |
9.72 |
Limpopo |
||||
Total |
|
100,509 |
17,386 |
14.58 |
Agriculture, and Rural Development |
|
2,496 |
507 |
16.31 |
Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs |
|
1,835 |
221 |
10.09 |
Community Safety |
|
127 |
8 |
6.17 |
Economic Development, Environment and Tourism |
|
1,231 |
69 |
5.99 |
Education |
|
52,788 |
9,336 |
15.22 |
Health |
|
32,549 |
3,738 |
9.85 |
Office of the Premier |
|
457 |
36 |
6.63 |
Provincial Treasury |
|
408 |
58 |
11.52 |
Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure |
|
2,784 |
516 |
14.32 |
Social Development |
|
3,103 |
2,590 |
44.66 |
Sports, Arts and Culture |
|
469 |
47 |
8.12 |
Transport |
|
2,262 |
260 |
9.76 |
Mpumalanga |
||||
Total |
|
70,066 |
5,742 |
7.59 |
Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs |
|
1,493 |
297 |
15.75 |
Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs |
|
754 |
25 |
2.58 |
Community Safety, Security and Liaison |
|
1,482 |
33 |
2.92 |
Culture, Sport and Recreation |
|
277 |
34 |
10.91 |
Economic Development and Tourism |
|
220 |
21 |
5.24 |
Education |
|
40,002 |
2,461 |
5.97 |
Health |
|
19,954 |
2,549 |
11.18 |
Human Settlements |
|
370 |
99 |
20.94 |
Office of the Premier |
|
228 |
38 |
15.22 |
Provincial Treasury |
|
279 |
71 |
20.19 |
Public Works, Roads and Transport |
|
3,120 |
51 |
1.45 |
Social Development |
|
1,887 |
63 |
3.08 |
National |
||||
Total |
|
332,677 |
17,803 |
4.92 |
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries |
|
4,850 |
1,269 |
20.35 |
Arts and Culture |
|
404 |
55 |
9.26 |
Basic Education |
|
733 |
48 |
5.22 |
Civilian Secretariat for the Police Service |
|
145 |
10 |
7.59 |
Communications |
|
62 |
8 |
14.48 |
Cooperative Governance |
|
585 |
75 |
10.52 |
Cooperative Governance |
421 |
47 |
9.33 |
|
Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent |
164 |
28 |
13.5 |
|
Correctional Services |
|
38,142 |
3,329 |
7.68 |
Economic Development |
|
95 |
19 |
12.87 |
Energy |
|
505 |
116 |
17.76 |
Environmental Affairs |
|
1,598 |
211 |
11.17 |
Government Communication and Information System |
|
415 |
52 |
10.56 |
Health |
|
1,592 |
262 |
13.88 |
Higher Education and Training |
|
21,215 |
1,995 |
7.97 |
Home Affairs |
|
9,584 |
190 |
1.9 |
Government Printing Works |
648 |
137 |
16.41 |
|
Home Affairs |
8,936 |
53 |
0.57 |
|
Human Settlements |
|
518 |
86 |
13.72 |
Independent Police Investigative Directorate |
|
355 |
36 |
9.14 |
International Relations and Cooperation |
|
2,198 |
400 |
14.01 |
Justice and Constitutional Development |
|
20,377 |
1,419 |
6.6 |
Justice and Constitutional Development |
16,017 |
1,413 |
8.21 |
|
National Prosecuting Authority |
4,360 |
6 |
0.16 |
|
Labour |
|
8,448 |
853 |
9.09 |
Military Veterans |
|
137 |
12 |
12.53 |
Mineral Resources |
|
1,012 |
89 |
7.93 |
National School of Government |
|
203 |
26 |
10.77 |
National Treasury |
|
1,972 |
316 |
13.84 |
Government Pensions Administration Agency |
911 |
179 |
16.36 |
|
Government Technical Advisory Centre |
140 |
13 |
9.09 |
|
National Treasury |
921 |
124 |
11.92 |
|
Office of the Chief Justice |
|
1,864 |
209 |
10.16 |
Office of the Public Service Commission |
|
254 |
26 |
7.96 |
Performance Monitoring and Evaluation |
|
418 |
52 |
11.29 |
Police |
|
191,211 |
2,368 |
1.19 |
Public Enterprises |
|
162 |
43 |
19.35 |
Public Service and Administration |
|
379 |
75 |
14.33 |
Centre of Public Service Innovation |
31 |
3 |
8.82 |
|
Public Service and Administration |
348 |
72 |
14.77 |
|
Public Works |
|
4,500 |
497 |
9.79 |
Rural Development and Land Reform |
|
5,155 |
741 |
12.91 |
Science and Technology |
|
386 |
104 |
20.5 |
Small Business Development |
|
188 |
19 |
8.21 |
Social Development |
|
690 |
245 |
25.29 |
Sport and Recreation South Africa |
|
147 |
111 |
41.03 |
Statistics South Africa |
|
3,323 |
865 |
20.19 |
Telecommunications and Postal Services |
|
247 |
17 |
5.41 |
The Presidency |
|
469 |
105 |
16.26 |
Tourism |
|
456 |
54 |
9.99 |
Trade and Industry |
|
1,174 |
39 |
2.67 |
Traditional Affairs |
|
88 |
7 |
9.9 |
Transport |
|
648 |
239 |
26.53 |
Water and Sanitation |
|
5,680 |
1,105 |
16.02 |
Women |
|
93 |
6 |
5.74 |
North West |
||||
Total |
|
59,738 |
10,943 |
15.22 |
Community Safety and Transport Management |
|
1,439 |
215 |
12.37 |
Culture, Arts and Traditional Affairs |
|
695 |
189 |
20.94 |
Economy and Enterprise Development |
|
221 |
21 |
6.92 |
Education and Sport Development |
|
30,612 |
4,542 |
12.73 |
Finance |
|
515 |
92 |
15.21 |
Health |
|
18,099 |
4,372 |
19.26 |
Local Government and Human Settlements |
|
525 |
192 |
27.14 |
Office of the Premier |
|
703 |
117 |
13.86 |
Public Works and Roads |
|
2,751 |
369 |
11 |
Rural, Environment and Agricultural Development |
|
1,494 |
600 |
28.41 |
Social Development |
|
2,540 |
182 |
6 |
Tourism |
|
144 |
52 |
25.34 |
Northern Cape |
||||
Total |
|
21,743 |
3,477 |
13.85 |
Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development |
|
521 |
40 |
5.44 |
Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs |
|
581 |
69 |
9.99 |
Economic Development and Tourism |
|
185 |
52 |
14.49 |
Education |
|
10,085 |
2,196 |
18.7 |
Environment and Nature Conservation |
|
236 |
12 |
3.39 |
Health |
|
6,748 |
785 |
10.07 |
Office of the Premier |
|
235 |
14 |
5.35 |
Provincial Treasury |
|
350 |
45 |
10 |
Roads and Public Works |
|
869 |
104 |
8.87 |
Social Development |
|
1,051 |
84 |
6.59 |
Sport, Arts and Culture |
|
522 |
48 |
8.08 |
Transport, Safety and Liaison |
|
360 |
28 |
7.57 |
Western Cape |
||||
Total |
|
73,575 |
11,004 |
12.18 |
Agriculture |
|
861 |
24 |
2.67 |
Community Safety |
|
286 |
10 |
2.94 |
Cultural Affairs and Sport |
|
534 |
15 |
1.82 |
Economic Development and Tourism |
|
187 |
13 |
4.6 |
Education |
|
33,654 |
8,093 |
17.69 |
Environmental Affairs and Development Planning |
|
350 |
4 |
1.6 |
Health |
|
31,377 |
2,669 |
7.87 |
Human Settlements |
|
400 |
19 |
3.83 |
Local Government |
|
354 |
4 |
1.58 |
Provincial Treasury |
|
249 |
27 |
6 |
Social Development |
|
2,049 |
46 |
2.67 |
The Premier |
|
950 |
21 |
2.37 |
Transport and Public Works |
|
2,324 |
59 |
3.26 |
07 August 2019 - NW252
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1) (a) Has a full report on all contracts undertaken by a certain company (name and details furnished) been compiled; if not, why not; if so, what was the total value of contracts undertaken by the specified company since it started work in the North West; (2) whether the (a) Bahwaduba and (b) Tlhabologang abattoir projects have been completed; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1211E
Reply:
(1) (a) The close out report on all contracts undertaken by Agridelight Training and Consulting has not yet been furnished by the company. This was despite several requests from the Department to the Implementing Agent. In a bid to resolve this matter, the Department is in a litigation process with the Agridelight to source this document. The matter is before the Court and in line with the directives on Section 100 Intervention.
The total amount of all transactions between the Department and Agridelight Training and Consulting contract from 01 November 2014 to 31 October 2017 is R604 048 828.18 as per the financial systems report. The figure includes 10% Management Fee for Agridelight.
(2) Bahwaduba and Tlhabologang Abattoir projects have not yet been completed. This is due to the fact that, upon expiry of the Agridelight Project, the Department attempted to appoint the service provider who was appointed by the Agridelight to complete the project. However, the service provider in question was not, and is still not compliant to the CIDB grading requirement (expired CIDB Grading Level to low) for the value of the project that he was being appointed for. Furthermore, the service provider’s tax compliance matters were not and are still not in order as prescribed by the Treasury Regulations.
07 August 2019 - NW403
George, Dr DT to ask the Minister of Finance
Does the SA Revenue Service (SARS) have the capacity to conduct investigations into activity in the illicit economy; if so, (a) what is SARS’ capacity in this regard and (b) how is this funded?
Reply:
In terms of its mandate and legal provision, SARS established an interim capability to conduct investigations into the illicit economy. The capability executes integrated enforcement investigations and comprises of data analysis, risk identification, criminal and compliance investigation and audits and debt recovery.
(a) Its current staff complement is 60.
(b) The capability is funded through SARS financial allocation.
The mandate and scope of this capability is currently under review in order to better define and sharpen its focus.
As part of the review by the new Commissioner the following is being assessed:
- SARS’ capability and capacity to monitor and assess the activities within the elicit economy as well as assess the true revenue impact/ risk that the illicit economy presents to the state.
- SARS’ capability and capacity to conduct the investigative and audit work
- The most effective organizational arrangement
- Collaboration with the agencies of State.
07 August 2019 - NW429
Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(a) In each of the past three years and (b) since 1 January 2019, what number of (i) educators received training in information and communications technology (ICT) and (ii) the specified educators completed the training, (iii) educators benefitted from ICT training and (iv) educators are currently using ICT in the classroom in each province?
Reply:
(a) Table 1, 2 and 3 below provides figures for the past three years and (b) since 1 January 2019, (i) 3 632 educators have been trained on various ICT programmes and (ii) all trained educators have completed the training, (iii) 3 632 educators benefitted from ICT training and (iv) the DBE can provide data on how many educators and/ or schools have received ICT devices. However, the data on the usage of these devices lies in Provinces.
The data as captured by the Curriculum Branch on the training provided to educators on how to operate ICT devices, sourced from NSLA reports and the Moodle Platform is as follows:
Province |
2016 |
2017 |
2018/19 |
||||||||||
BASIC |
INTERMEDIATE |
ADVANCE |
TOTAL |
BASIC |
INTERMEDIATE |
ADVANCE |
TOTAL |
BASIC |
INTERMEDIATE |
ADVANCE |
TOTAL |
GRAND TOTAL |
|
Eastern Cape |
2 999 |
782 |
632 |
4 413 |
8 826 |
14 653 |
2 852 |
26 331 |
4 056 |
2 667 |
291 |
7 014 |
37 758 |
Free State |
408 |
8 092 |
632 |
9 132 |
8 172 |
3 593 |
6 378 |
18 143 |
181 |
185 |
39 |
405 |
27 680 |
Gauteng |
1 171 |
502 |
632 |
2 305 |
4 028 |
6 885 |
1 326 |
12 239 |
1 987 |
1 700 |
600 |
4 287 |
18 831 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
57 |
1 555 |
632 |
2 244 |
4 186 |
8 315 |
1 507 |
14 008 |
4 470 |
351 |
295 |
5 116 |
21 368 |
Limpopo |
700 |
300 |
632 |
1 632 |
2 632 |
4 564 |
8 828 |
16 024 |
343 |
223 |
20 |
566 |
18 222 |
Mpumalanga |
3 416 |
12 914 |
632 |
16 962 |
5 599 |
6 778 |
1 226 |
13 603 |
1 236 |
592 |
321 |
913 |
31 478 |
North West |
2 638 |
1 307 |
632 |
4 577 |
8 615 |
14 592 |
2 787 |
25 994 |
296 |
4 675 |
266 |
5 237 |
35 808 |
Northern Cape |
374 |
1 187 |
632 |
2 193 |
4 131 |
7 888 |
1 458 |
13 477 |
301 |
121 |
266 |
688 |
16 358 |
Western Cape |
38 314 |
250 |
632 |
39 196 |
7 760 |
7 206 |
23 416 |
38 382 |
6 973 |
3 221 |
3 245 |
13 439 |
91 117 |
TOTAL |
50 077 |
26 889 |
632 |
77 598 |
53 949 |
74 474 |
49 778 |
178 201 |
19 843 |
13 735 |
5 323 |
37 665 |
298 620 |
Table 1
The data as captured by the Teacher Development Branch sourced from the NSLA on the ICT integration into teaching training programmes:
PROVINCE |
2017/18 |
2018/19 |
2019 (Quarter 1) |
Eastern Cape |
2 334 |
4 661 |
1 750 |
Free State |
995 |
1 205 |
43 |
Gauteng |
11 574 |
216 |
0 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
359 |
234 |
368 |
Limpopo |
950 |
1 480 |
200 |
Mpumalanga |
1 928 |
1 605 |
0 |
North West |
1 547 |
806 |
137 |
Northern Cape |
250 |
727 |
0 |
Western Cape |
3 832 |
1 879 |
634 |
Total |
23 769 |
12 813 |
3 132 |
Table 2
Training provided on the Professional Development Framework for Digital Learning since 2018.
PROVINCE |
Target Group |
Date |
KwaZulu-Natal |
405 (Provincial Core Training Team) |
July 2019 |
Gauteng |
200 subject advisors (3 hour workshops) |
August to September 2018 |
North West |
91 (Provincial Core Training Team) |
July 2018 |
Western Cape |
30 (30 e-learning specialists, Curriculum Support and Teacher Development) |
April 2018 |
Total |
371 provincial and district officials |
Table 3
07 August 2019 - NW108
Luthuli, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Whether, with reference to the issue of land settlement agreements, she has been informed that there are land claims where settlement agreements have been reached by all parties involved in the land claims and approved by either the former Minister or the Chief Land Claims Commissioner (CLCC) in terms of section 14(3) of the Restitution of Land Claims Act, Act 22 of 1994; if not, why not; if so, what is the status of these settlements; (2) whether she has been informed that the office of the CLCC in KwaZulu-Natal, through its officials, have been and currently are interfering by not implementing the agreed settlement and causing conflict within the communities who are of the view that those officials benefit in such settlement; if not, (a) whether she will investigate this matter and (b) what steps will she take in her investigation; if so, what steps does she intend taking against the specified officials; (3) whether she has any contingency plan in place should the steps she intends to take fail; if not, why not; if so, what indicators will she use to measure the success of the steps and the strategy?
Reply:
1. No. The Commission is still in the process of briefing the Minister on the work of the Commission
2. No.
(a) Yes.
(b) The Minister will firstly request details, from the Hon Inkosi Zulu, of those settlements where officials in the Office of the Regional Land Claims Commissioner: KwaZulu-Natal are allegedly not implementing the agreements and are causing conflict. Thereafter, she will investigate the veracity of the allegations and, where necessary, take appropriate action to ensure implementation of the agreed settlements and taking corrective measures against transgressing officials.
(3) No. A contingency plan will only be developed once the details of the allegations have been provided and the allegations investigated.
07 August 2019 - NW262
Ngcobo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether she will consider to establish a school violence task team to combat violence in the places of learning that will collaborate with the SA Police Service; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
All schools have established School Safety Committees in line with the National School Safety Framework. Each Committee is comprised of internal representatives from the School Governing Body (SGB) School Management Team (SMT), educators and learners. External role players are comprised of representatives from Government Department such as, South Africa Police Services (SAPS), Health, Social Development, Municipalities as well as Non-Governmental Organisations NGO) including Faith-based organisations.
The Department of Basic Education has also entered into partnership with the National Education Collaboration Trust (NECT) to coordinate a wide spectrum of stakeholders through the National School Safety Steering Committee (NSSSC).
07 August 2019 - NW164
Steyn, Ms A to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What number of (a) district land reform committees have been established in each province (i) in each of the past 10 years and (ii) since 1 January 2019 and (b) the specified committees are still functional; (2) what are the details of (a) the mandate of district land reform committees and (b) how the committees are constituted; (3) whether her department still recognises district land reform committees; if not, what is the current status of the committees; if so, what are the relevant details of the applicable legislation on which her department relies in its recognition of the committees; (4) whether private sector stakeholders are still involved in the district land reform committees; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. (a),(i) Please refer to the table below.
Province |
EC |
FS |
GP |
KZN |
LP |
MP |
NC |
NW |
WC |
Total |
Number of DLRCs |
6 |
5 |
3 |
10 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
46 |
(ii0 None
(b) No, they are suspended for review of their functions.
(2) (a) Mandate: To support Government to resolve the slow pace of land redistribution in South Africa, and the lack of successful implementation of policy at the local level.
(b) DLRCs consist of a multi sectoral group of key stakeholders: Private sector, Organized Agriculture, farmers associations, civil society with interest in Land issues and Government.
(3) Yes. In 2018, the Department undertook a decision to review the terms of reference of the committees. The DLRCs are established in terms of Chapter 6 of the National Development plan (NDP) as the guiding framework for the Department.
(4) Yes. The composition as articulated in the Terms of Reference includes private sector stakeholders.
06 August 2019 - NW394
Bergman, Mr D to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1) Whether the Government signed bilateral agreements with the (a) United Arab Emirates and/ or (b) Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; if not, by what date will each agreement be signed; if so, on what date was each agreement signed; (2) whether each agreement has been ratified yet; if not, in each case, why not; if so, on what date was each agreement ratified? NW 1366E
Reply:
1. South Africa has signed twelve (12) bilateral agreements with the United Arab Emirates and eight (8) with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The areas of cooperation include economic, justice, tourism, defence, agriculture and energy collaboration.
According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation’s records, the already signed agreements with the two countries and the dates of signature, is herewith detailed below:
a) United Arab Emirates
Date signed/ adopted |
Title of agreement |
Entry into Force |
17 May 1994 |
Entry into force: |
|
18 November 1999 |
Entry into force: |
|
3 February |
Agreement for Air Services between and beyond the Respective Territories |
Entry into force: |
24 September |
Bilateral Agreement on Economic, Trade and Technical Co-operation |
Entry into force: |
25 April |
Entry into force: |
|
14 November |
Entry into force: |
|
14 November 2011 |
Entry into force: |
|
14 November 2011 |
Entry into force: |
|
23 November |
Entry into force: |
|
25 September |
Entry into force: Ratification process underway. |
|
25 September |
Entry into force: Ratification process underway. |
|
25 September |
Entry into force: |
b) Saudi Arabia
29 October 1994 |
Entry into force: |
|
20 May 1999 |
Agreement on Economic, Trade, Investment and Technical Cooperation. Plus Protocol |
20020522 (r) |
28 May |
Entry into force: |
|
3 December |
Memorandum of Understanding on Co-operation in the Field of Higher Education |
Entry into force: |
13 March |
Entry into force: |
|
25 February 2009 |
Entry into force: |
|
16 February 2014 |
Entry into force: |
|
27 March 2016 |
Entry into force: |
2. The majority of the agreements are of a technical nature and as such, according to the Article 231 (3) of the Constitution, “binds the Republic without approval by the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), but must be tabled in the NA and NCOP within a reasonable time.” In this regard, agreements only enter into force following their tabling in the NA and NCOP.
The responsibility for ensuring the ratification (if required) and tabling of the agreement rests with the relevant line function department and its Minister. Therefore, it would be incumbent of the relevant Minister to answer the question as to the ratification or tabling of such agreement.
The third column of the table above shows when the agreements were ratified.
06 August 2019 - NW329
Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Transport
What total number of road deaths (a) took place per 100 000 persons in (i) 2016, (ii) 2017 and (iii) 2018 and (b) were pedestrians?
Reply:
a) Total number of road deaths that took place per 100 000 person in
Number of roads deaths |
25.2 |
(ii) 2017 24.9 |
(iii) 2018 22.4 |
b) Total number of fatalities for pedestrians per year
Road user group pedestrians |
5 410 |
5 337 |
4 970 |
06 August 2019 - NW174
Mileham, Mr K to ask the Minister of Finance
Whether the National Treasury approved and/or supported any investments made by the Government in energy resources such as coal, oil, gas or other mineral resources and/or beneficiation process for energy resources or the direct supply of energy outside the borders of the Republic (a) in the (i) 2017-18 and (ii) 2018-19 financial years and (b) since 1 April 2019; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
National Treasury did not support any investments in energy resources outside the borders of the Republic.
06 August 2019 - NW292
Mphithi, Mr L to ask the Minister of Transport
What (a) total amount is budgeted for his private office for the 2019-20 financial year and (b) was the (i) total remuneration, (ii) salary level, (iii) job title, (iv) qualification and (v) job description of each employee appointed in his private office since 1 May 2019?
Reply:
(a) The total amount budgeted for the Private Office of the Minister for the 2019-20 financial year is R22,748,000.00
(b)(i) The total amount in respect of remuneration is R9,355,000.00
(b) (ii)The salary level, (iii) job title, (iv) qualification and (v) job description of each employee appointed in his private office since 1 May 2019 are as indicted in the table below.
(ii) Salary level |
(iii) Job title |
(iv) qualification |
(v) Job description |
14 |
Chief of Staff |
Gr 12 BA BA Honours: Industrial Phycology Master of Art |
Purpose: To provide a support service to the Minister, ensuring an efficient and dynamic interface between the Ministry, Department, National Parliament and Provincial Legislatures and promoting a sound understanding of the policies and performance of the Minister and the Department Functions: 1. Render support to the Minister in Cape Town and HQ, Pretoria 2. Manage external and internal liaisons 3. Manage the parliamentary process 4. Manage the Transport Ministry Budget 5. Manage the Transport Ministry Requirments: A recognised NQF level 7 qualification in Public Administration/Management / Transport Economics or Planning, or Law with at least 6-10 years relevant experience of which 5 years must be on SMS level Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
6 |
Receptionist/Secretary, Office of the Minister |
Gr 12 |
Purpose: To render a reception and general administrative support service to the Ministry in Pretoria Functions: 1. Render a reception and registry service 2. Render general administrative support 3. Act as relieve to Assistant Private Secretary 4. Act as Manager’s Secretary when s/he is in Cape Town Requirements: An appropriate recognized NQF level 5/6 qualification in Public Administration/Office Management Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
5 |
Registry Clerk |
Gr 12 |
Purpose: To render a registry service and general administrative support service to the Transport Ministry Functions: 1. Render a registry service 2. Administer Registers 3. Render general administrative support 4. Study the relevant Public Service and departmental prescripts/policies and other documents and ensure that the application thereof id understood properly Requirements: A minimum recognised NQF level 4 or Grade 12 certificate with at least one year relevant experience Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
3 |
Food Services Aid |
Gr 11 |
Purpose: To render an efficient, professional and friendly food service aid to the Ministry Functions: 1. Provide a food service aid to the staff in the Ministry 2. Prepare Board Room for meetings 3. Prepare refreshments on request for guests 4. Assist with Administrative duties Requirements: NQF level 4 qualification Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
8 |
Private Secretary to the Minister |
Gr 12 BA: Health Sciences an Social Studies- |
Purpose: To manage all matters pertaining to the Minister’s executive obligations Functions: 1. Manage the Ministers program 2. Provide support to the Minister with his executive obligations 3. Manage logistical matters for the Minister 3. Manage logistical matters for the Minister 4. Oversee the management of Correspondence with the approval of the Chief of Staff and the Minister. Requirements: A recognised NQF level 7 in Public Service Administration or Political Science/ Communication with 6-10 years’ experience of which 5 years must be on MMS level. Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
11 |
Assistant Private Secretary, Office of the Minister |
Gr 12 BA : Politics BA: Honours Politics Fundamental of Project Management |
Purpose: To manage all matters pertaining to the executive obligations in support of the Private Secretary Functions: 1. Manage the Ministers diary in support of the Private Secretary 2. Assist the Minister with his executive obligations 3. Manage logistical matters 4. Act as alternate in absence of the Administrative Secretary 5. Assist with the overall management of the Transport Ministry Requirements: A recognised NQF level 6/7 qualification in Public Administration/Management or Office Administration/ Management with 5 years relevant experience. Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
8 |
Assistant Admin Secretary, Office of the Minister (Driver/Messenger) |
Gr 12 |
Purpose: To assist with the administrative support to the Ministry of Transport with regard to managing external / internal correspondence To render a messenger and driver service to Transport Ministry Functions: 1. Assist with external / internal correspondence 2. Assist with managing the general administration of the Ministry of Transport 3. Manage and maintain the filing system 4. Manage incoming and outgoing mail and documents 5. Render assistance with the execution of functions attached to the registry 6. Render driver functions to Ministry as required 7. Assist the Ministry with the procurement of refreshments 8. Perform relief duties when required Requirements: An appropriate recognised NQF level 6 qualification in Public Administration with 2 years relevant experience. Valid Code 08 drivers licence and driving for at least three yearsContract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
13 |
Media Liaison Officer, Office of the Minister, |
Gr 12 BSc: Public Policy and Administration |
Purpose: To enhance the public image of the Minister and manage media liaisons Functions: 1. Manage the media 2. Produce speeches, publicity and editorial materials 3. Work in conjunction with Communication Unit Requirements: An appropriate recognised NQF level 7 qualification in Communication or Journalism with postgraduate studies in media relations with 5 years relevant experience on MMS level Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
13 |
Director: Cabinet Services (Spokesperson to the Minister) |
Gr 12 BA Communication Science BA Human and Social Studies |
Purpose: To provide an efficient and dynamic interface between the Ministry, Department, National Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Functions: 1. Manage the parliamentary process 2. Liaise with MPs, Councillors & Parliamentary Standing Committees. 3. Support Parliamentary Study Group(s) 4. Liaise with Stakeholders 5. Manage the Directorate Parliamentary and Stakeholder Management 6. overall Requirements: A Recognised NQF level 7 in Public Service Management/ Political Science with 5 years’ relevant experience on MMS level - Proven track record in strategic management - Knowledge and experience of Parliamentary & legislative processes - Political awareness and familiarity with broad lines of government policy - Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
11 |
Administrative Secretary to the Minister |
National Certificate N3: Business Studies |
Purpose: To promote and enhance communication between all structures in Parliament and the DoT Functions: 1. Coordinate inputs for Parliamentary Questions 2. Manage the Legislative Process in Parliament 3. Support Parliamentary Study Group(s) 4. Liaise with Stakeholders Requirements: An appropriate recognised NQF 6/7 in Public Administration / or equivalent with at least 5 years’ experience Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
12 |
Parliamentary Officer, Office of the Minister |
Gr 12 |
Purpose: To provide an efficient and dynamic interface between the Ministry, Department, National Parliament and Prdovincial Legislatures Functions: Manage the parliamentary process 1. Liaise with MPs, Councillors & Parliamentary Standing Committees 2. Support Parliamentary Study Group(s) 3. Liaise with Stakeholders 4. Manage the Directorate Parliamentary and Stakeholder Management overall Requirements: A Recognised NQF level 7 in Public Service Management with 5 years’ relevant experience on MMS level Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
9 |
Administrative Secretary (Speech Writing) |
Gr 12 |
Purpose: To research and compile speeches for the Minister Functions: 1. Research information on transport related issues 2. Prepare drafts of papers, speeches, or presentations for the Minister Requirements: An appropriate recognised NQF level 7 qualification as recognised by SAQA in Journalism, Social Science, Political studies, Communication or Languages/linguistics or Publishing. With at least 5 years relevant experience on MMS level Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
6 |
Receptionist/Secretary (Cape Town)
|
Gr 12 National Diploma: HRM National Certificate: Commerce Post Graduate Diploma: Labour Law
|
Purpose: To render a reception and general administrative support service to the Ministry in Pretoria Functions: 1. Render a reception and registry service 2. Render general administrative support 3. Act as relieve to Assistant Private Secretary 4. Act as Manager’s Secretary when s/he is in Cape Town Requirements: An appropriate recognized NQF level 5/6 qualification in Public Administration/Office Management Contract appointment linked to term of Office of the Minister |
06 August 2019 - NW307
Hunsinger, Dr CH to ask the Minister of Transport
(a) What are the reasons for the decrease in the budget of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project from R6,3 billion in 2018-19 to R550,5 million in 2019-20, (b) which loans have become due for repayment in the past three years, (c) which loans will be due for payment in the next three years and (d) what was the division between toll and non-toll budget allocations in the past three years in total for the (i) capital and (ii) maintenance expenditure?
Reply:
a) The decrease from R6.3billion to R550.5 million, represents the decrease in the allocation from the fiscus to the project. In 2018/19 a special allocation of R5.75 billion was made due to the funding shortfall created by the non-payment of etoll. This amount was originally earmarked for non-toll roads, but was later un-earmarked and allocated to toll, to prevent a default on SANRALs bonds. The R550.5m is a normal fiscal allocation to SANRAL since the new dispensation in 2015.
b) The bonds which matured in the last three financial years (2017, 2018 and 2019) are as follows:
BOND |
DATE MATURED |
NOMINAL VALUE |
NRA 018 |
30 Nov 2018 |
R2 386 500 309 |
PN001 |
6 February 2019 |
R510 000 000 |
PN002 |
21 February 2019 |
R550 000 000 |
PN003 |
28 March 2019 |
R164 000 000 |
c) the bonds which will be maturing in the next three financial years (2020, 2021 and 2022) are as follows:
BOND |
DATE MATURING |
NOMINAL VALUE |
HWF08 |
15 July 2019 |
R1 000 000 000 |
HWF09 |
19 September 2019 |
R700 000 000 |
HWF10U |
30 September 2019 |
R700 000 000 |
PN004 |
6 February 2020 |
R556 000 000 |
PN005 |
21 February 2020 |
R640 000 000 |
HWAY20 |
31 July 2020 |
R6 744 618 477 |
d) Toll and Non-toll budget for the past three years
See the link: http://pmg-assets.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/RNW307TollNonToll.pdf
06 August 2019 - NW327
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Transport
(1)(a) How long did the former Deputy Minister, Ms L S Chikinga take to return the ministerial vehicles used while employed at his department after accepting a position in a different Department of Public Service and Administration and (b) what costs did his department incur in this regard; (2) whether any disciplinary action was taken against the specified person for allegedly flouting the provisions of the Ministerial Handbook; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether an investigation was launched into the (a) person’s practice of allegedly hiring rental vehicles from Avis for a relative which was paid for by his department and/or (b) relative’s excessive use of petrol expenses; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of the (i) investigation and (ii) outcome of the investigation in each case? NW1294E
Reply:
(1) (a) The vehicle was returned on 29 May 2019.
(b) There were no additional costs incurred.
(2) (3) (a)(b)(i)(ii) Investigation was conducted in respect of the matter and disciplinary hearing is currently ongoing and in respect of employees.
05 August 2019 - NW259
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture
(a) What was the (i) total cost of the SA Football Association election? and (ii) breakdown of all relevant costs and (b) what (i) number of members of the electoral commission was paid each day? and (ii) amount was paid to each specified member?
Reply:
(i) The total cost for South African Football Association election amounted to R5,894,689.
(ii) Breakdown is provided below;
Flights Air Travel R448,672
Road Travel R137,500
Accommodation R393,904
Venue (Sandton Convention Centre) R196,869
Sound and lighting R310,224
Branding R22,620
Election stationery R9,900
Electoral Committee members fees R2,137,500
Other Costs R100,000
(Drivers' fees, fuel, security, NEC members, etc.)
TOTAL R3,757,189
(b)(i) and (ii) Below are the amounts paid per member of the Electoral Commission;
McCaps Motimele R855,000
Ntambi Ravele R360,000
Mthobi Tyamzashe R360,000
Abel Ramolotja R315,000
Bongani Zondi R247,500
TOTAL R2,137,500
The Honourable Member must note that this is the money in which SAFA fundraised privately from their sponsors.
05 August 2019 - NW312
Winkler-Lidgett, Ms HS to ask the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries
Whether her department has set a deadline to remove the gear used for octopus fishing after imposing a temporary ban in False Bay; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether all live fish and other animals caught in the gear will be released; (3) Whether her department has a map of where all the gear was placed in order to ensure that all traps are removed; if not, how will her department ensure that all the traps are removed in order to combat the illegal fishing of octopus in False Bay?
Reply:
(1) The Permit Holders were instructed on 28 June 2019 to remove all octopus fishing gear with immediate effect. The process of removal of the entire octopus fishing gear in the False Bay area was completed on 11 July 2019.
(2) Permit Holders were allowed to retain all their catch.
(3) The Department has all the GPS coordinates where all the octopus gear was deployed. The Department also works with the South African Navy Hydrographic Office (SANHO) to ensure that all the areas where their octopus gear is deployed, are recorded on the Navigational Chats in support of safe navigation. All the 46 lines and 987 pots that were deployed, have been removed and the removal was monitored by the Fisheries Compliance Officers at the Kalk Bay Fishing Harbour.
Regards
MS BARBARA CREECY, MP
MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES
DATE: 02/08/2019
05 August 2019 - NW189
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture
Whether, with reference to the reply of the former Minister of Sport and Recreation to question 3557 on 14 December 2018, his department has received the outstanding information from Athletics SA; if not, by what date can the information be expected; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The department has not received the outstanding information from Athletics SA; and we will follow up with Athletics SA.
05 August 2019 - NW288
Mpambo-Sibhukwana, Ms T to ask the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture
What (a) total amount is budgeted for his private office for the 2019-20 financial year and (b) was the (i) total remuneration, (ii) salary level, (iii) job title, (iv) qualification and (v) job description of each employee appointed in his private office since 1 May 2019?
Reply:
The current staff that I have in my office was employed from the 1st July 2019, and in employing the staff we were cognisant of the guidelines as provided in the book titled: Guide For the Members of the Executive.
05 August 2019 - NW177
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Basic Education
With reference to schools in Johannesburg Wards 23, 54, 55, 56, 57, 124 and 125, what (a) assessments have been done to ascertain the number of additional schools needed in each ward, (b) were the outcomes of the assessments, (c) plans are there to build additional schools in the specified area and (d) are the time frames and deadlines in each case?
Reply:
The response below is as received from the Gauteng Department of education.
a) The Gauteng Department of Education completed infrastructure assessments with regard to the number and type of facilities during the 2018/19 financial year. This data informs the number of additional facilities, including classrooms, required per school and by implication the number of new schools required in any given residential area.
b) There is a total of 38 public ordinary schools in the wards referred to above of which 28 are primary and 10 are secondary schools. There is a total shortage of 23 classrooms in 9 primary schools and 3 classrooms in 1 secondary school, whilst there is a surplus of 53 classrooms in 19 primary schools and 61 classrooms in 9 secondary schools, based on our learner: classroom ratio of 40:1.
c) There are no plans to build additional schools in the area as there isn’t a need for additional schools based on our learner: classroom ratio of 40:1. After the construction of Glenvista Primary School in 2015 the overcrowding in primary schools in these areas was significantly reduced.
d) See (c) above.
05 August 2019 - NW414
McGluwa, Mr JJ to ask the Minister of Home Affairs:
(1) What is the current outstanding number of identity documents (IDs) to be collected from his department by citizens; (2) Are any IDs being destroyed by his department; if not, why not; if so, what are the reasons; (3) What is the current quantity of documents earmarked for distribution by his department around the Republic in each of the nine provinces; (4) Whether he has found that the collection of IDs in each province is satisfactory; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (5) Whether there is any delay in the collection of IDs; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1386E
Reply:
1. Currently there are 389 574 uncollected ID documents.
2. Yes, the ID’s are being destroyed by the Department, if the client was issued with a new ID or the client is deceased.
3. Currently ± 15 000 ID documents are distributed per day.
4. Not Satisfactory. The Department has dedicated counters for collection however clients delay to collect their ID documents after receiving the SMS notification.
5. Yes, there are delays in the collections of ID documents. Clients are not collecting their ID documents immediately after they receive the SMS notification that the ID document is ready for collection.
END
05 August 2019 - NW433
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture
(1). On what date did his Department ask the President, Mr C. Ramaphosa, to institute a Commission of Inquiry regarding the deaths from the stampede at the FNB stadium on 29 July 2017; and (2). Whether there will be a Commission of Inquiry; if not, why not, if so, a) by what date will it be instituted, b) what are the relevant details and c) has any budget been allocated for such a Commission?
Reply:
The President has taken note of the request and taken the following view regarding the request:
(i) That there is an unprecedented proliferation which has resulted in too many Commissions of Inquiry been established. Besides, the Ngoepe Commission of Inquiry that investigated and reported on the Ellis Park soccer tragedy in 2001 has already constituted rules that relate to incidences in sport at stadiums and elsewhere which should rather be utilized and built on instead of opting to build afresh;
(ii) That we must reflect on all tools in available toolboxes and exhaust all remedies, actions, etc. that stem from the findings and recommendations of the Ngoepe Commission of Inquiry;
(iii) That Commissions of Inquiry have limitations and as such should not be regarded as the first or last resort as there are other avenues to pursue preferably; and
(iv) That even though one can pursue the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry, it would be far quicker and practical, amongst others, to execute applicable and available processes to ensure proper law enforcement and criminal investigations for effective outcomes in the above regard.
At the said meeting of the said former Ministers, the following resolutions were subsequently taken:
That a meeting of Ministers of Justice and Correctional Service, Sport and Recreation and the Police and the National Director of Public Prosecutions (Acting) be convened to discuss the following, amongst others:
(a) The state of and progress made in relation to both the FNB Stadium tragedy and the Moses Mabhida incident relating to failure to comply with the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act or any other law including common law by any law enforcement entity or functionary;
(b) The state of, progress and outcome of an Inquest relating to the death of two soccer fans during the FNB Stadium tragedy;
(c) All litigation finalized or pending initiated in any court by any of the functionary involved in the FNB Stadium tragedy and the outcome of the said litigation and its impact;
(d) Any intervention that is necessary and required to address:
(i) Failure or inability by any law enforcement entity or agent to comply with the SASREA or any other law, including common law;
(ii) Complicity or perception thereof in relation to the investigation by the SAPS; and
(iii) Possible and potential gaps in the SASREA and possible amendments to the Act to address same; and
(iv) Alternative means to addressing challenges and gaps in organizing and planning major soccer derbies and other major sporting events to avoid recurrence, including communication and awareness raising prior and before such major events.
It will hence not be necessary to –
- establish a Commission of Inquiry any more since we have, on the advice of the Department of Justice, decided to execute alternative applicable and available processes as motivated above so as to ensure proper law enforcement and criminal investigations for effective outcomes in the above regard; and
- cater for any budget for such a Commission of Inquiry any more.
We will liaise with the Department of Justice afresh since they have undertaken to lead the way by coordinating and chairing the meetings referred to above.
05 August 2019 - NW254
McGluwa, Mr JJ to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
Whether he has been informed of any serious delays in the application of SA passports and other documentation at the Office for the Department of Home Affairs at consulates abroad; if so, what measures (a) have been put in place to reduce the delays and (b) will be put in place to ensure that his department and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation work together effectively to resolve the issues?
Reply:
a) The turnaround time for applications abroad is up to six (6) months as the Department (DHA) has a co-dependency on involvement of third parties, i.e. Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) for receipt inland and dispatching abroad of government documents including passport applications, through diplomatic bags which in itself is a controlled procedure that DIRCO administrates for all Government Departments.
The application process is thereby manual and non-automated, and entails the verification of citizenship which is a separately managed process and over and above, the fingerprint verification process should also transpire which may result in further delays, should the application be rejected due to the poor quality of fingerprints taken abroad.
In order to address the situation, the responsible support and line function units of DHA and DIRCO: Consular Services have created a stakeholder forum to find efficient solutions and redress the situation. This entails specific officials being assigned to receive lists of outstanding applications and then to liaise with the line function officials for processing and feedback to the Diplomatic Missions abroad.
b) The Department is looking into a permanent solution through its Modernisation Programme to ensure that applications made abroad or domestically can be captured and transferred electronically. This would substantially reduce dependency on manual, time consuming processes presently being applied.
END
05 August 2019 - NW188
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation
(1)What was the total projected cost of the construction of the women’s hostel in Mzimhlope in Orlando in (a) 2006, (b) 2012, (c) 2014 and (d) 2016; (2) what (a) amount has actually been spent on the construction of the specified project to date and (b) portion of the specified actual costs were borne by the City of Johannesburg; (3) by what date will the finalised project be handed over to its beneficiaries?
Reply:
The Mzimhlope Women’s Hostel is located in Orlando and falls within the jurisdiction of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. The City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, through the Gauteng Province of human Settlements, indicated that:
(1) In 2006 the cost was R2 476 600
In 2012 the cost was R51 485 997
In 2014 the cost was R5 403 373
In 2016 the cost was R6 353 601
(2) The total amount that has been spent since the inception of the project is approximately R140 000 000, inclusive of the costs borne by the City of Johannesburg.
(3) The project had an original scope of 186 units which were planned to be constructed as double storey structures but to date only 34 units have been completed. Blockages that have contributed to the delays in the project have since been resolved. The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements has subsequently appointed a contractor and the process of appointing professionals and engineering services are currently being finalised. It is expected that the project will resume in August 2019 and is anticipated to be completed by the end of the 2020/21 financial year. Once this has been completed, the units will be allocated to qualifying beneficiaries for occupation.
05 August 2019 - NW261
Ngcobo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether she will consider introducing a component within her department to help develop and empower the principals of schools in management on an ongoing basis just like there are subject advisors who are employed to assist school teachers in specific subjects; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Department has a component that helps develop and empower the principals of schools in management on an ongoing basis in the same way as Subject Advisors assist schools teachers with subject related matters. These are Circuit Managers who are supervisors of school principals. Each Circuit Manager is responsible for between 25 and 30 school principals according to the Policy on the Roles and Responsibilities of Education Districts with consideration to provincial differences.
05 August 2019 - NW242
Lotriet, Prof A to ask the Minister of Trade and Industry
(1)(a) Whether, with regard to the testing of electrical equipment by the SA Bureau of Standards (SABS), the high voltage laboratory is functional, (b) what number of tests on individual electoral equipment has SABS conducted over the past seven years, (c) what income has been generated from the tests, (d) what number of persons work on the electoral equipment testing facility and (e) what is the annual cost of running the unit; (2) whether any equipment in the unit needs to be (a) repaired and/or (b) replaced; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (i) which equipment in each case and (ii) what is the estimated cost in each case?
Reply:
I am advised by the SABS as follows:
The high voltage laboratory is currently functional, though with capabilities principally in alternating current testing.
The number of test reports conducted by the facility for the past seven years is provided in the following table:
Financial year |
Number of reports |
2012/13 |
149 |
2013/14 |
108 |
2014/15 |
110 |
2015/16 |
80 |
2016/17 |
76 |
2017/18 |
47 |
2018/19 |
50 |
The income generated from the tests is provided in the following table:
Financial Year |
Revenue |
2012/13 |
R8 893 421 |
2013/14 |
R9 467 604 |
2014/15 |
R13 070 036 |
2015/16 |
R10 456 255 |
2016/17 |
R10 023 898 |
2017/18 |
R6 739 603 |
2018/19 |
R6 433 130 |
Between 4 and 7 employees have worked at the facility at any time. The annual running cost of the laboratory is provided in the table below:
Financial Year |
Annual running costs (expenditure) |
2012/13 |
R7 019 826 |
2013/14 |
R7 650 153 |
2014/15 |
R9 776 543 |
2015/16 |
R7 730 499 |
2016/17 |
R6 244 888 |
2017/18 |
R4 369 121 |
2018/19 |
R5 352 030 |
A number of equipment items need to be repaired, at an estimated cost of R23 million, while equipment items that need to be replaced have an estimated cost of R32.2 million, both sums inclusive of equipment and the linked engineering, project management and operational alignment services.
-END-
05 August 2019 - NW149
Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
In light of the shooting incident that recently took place along the border in the area of Ndumo in KwaZulu-Natal between South African soldiers and Mozambican Border Police resulting in the death of two Mozambican border police officials, what does she intend to do (a) with the findings of the board of inquiry’s investigation, (b) with the South African soldiers who are found to be involved in something untoward in respect of the incident and (c) in order to ease tensions and resume good relations between the two countries?
Reply:
1. (a) A Joint Multinational Board of Inquiry (BOI) was convened where the representatives of the respective countries involved will investigate the shooting incident. The agreed upon target date for the completion of the BOI is 30 July 2019. The normal legal process will be followed thereafter to ensure that the findings will be implemented.
(a) As this matter is sub judice at this stage, till the completion of the BOI, this question cannot be answered, but it needs to be mentioned that all members will be dealt with in accordance with the findings and recommendations of the BOI.
(b) With the SANDF agreeing to convene a Multinational Board of Inquiry to investigate the incident, it demonstrates the intention to be completely transparent and not to cover up any wrongdoing on the side of the SANDF members that resulted in the sad incident. This approach is believed to contribute and to ensure continued good relations between the two countries.
05 August 2019 - NW309
Macpherson, Mr DW to ask the Minister of the Trade and Industry
On what date (a) will the investigation by his department into the National Lotteries Commission, as requested by the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry in December 2018, be finalised and (b) does he intend to present the outcome of the investigation to the specified committee?
Reply:
This matter arose during the 5th administration. I am informed by the Director General of the dti that the investigation was conducted by the forensic investigators appointed by the NLC Board. The former Minister of Trade and Industry received the report on 5 March 2019 and requested that additional matters be investigated. The NLC has since requested their investigators to conduct further work and a report was submitted on 9 May 2019. The dti is currently engaging with the Board regarding the implementation of the recommendations. The NLC will be in a position to provide a report to Parliament.
-END-
05 August 2019 - NW317
McGluwa, Mr JJ to ask the Mr J J Mcgluva (DA)) to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
What plans does he have in place to address the (a) insufficient capacity at the Department of Home Affairs Contact Centre, (b) continued inability of the State Information Technology Agency that has led to endless network and power down times including excessive long lines and (c) issuing of identity documents on weekends?
Reply:
(a) Due to budget cuts, the Department has not been in a position to fill vacant posts. The Department is, however, in the process of prioritising the filling of critical positions, which when filled, will aid in the reduction of interaction volumes in the Contact Centre.
The implementation of the modernisation strategies at both Front and Back Offices will further reduce Contact Centre volumes, thereby improving efficiency.
To ensure that the current resources are utilised efficiently, the Department reviewed the performance standards and introduced performance measures that will guarantee that production time is utilised optimally. Coupled with this, we enhanced the Contact Centre systems to allow visibility into staff daily activities. This assists management to better manage productivity.
To further increase accessibility to the public, the Contact Centre operates on a shift system, with the working hours being 07h30 to 17h30 on week days and 08h00 to 12h00 on Saturdays.
b) A comprehensive assessment was done by SITA in the last financial year and produced a new network architecture and implementation plan which will provide a fully redundant and high availability network throughout the DHA footprint. DHA has also rolled out power generators in modernised offices to provide alternative power supply during outages or load shedding.
c) The Department is addressing the issuing of identity documents on weekends through its various heads of offices that on voluntary basis, arrange with communities to open offices on weekends as well as during holidays. However, this is not sustainable and as it depends on the volunteerism.
The Department engaged organised labour on working hours at the Departmental Bargaining Chamber with a view to ensure service delivery is not affected and that our offices open on weekends. Work performance over weekends however requires payment of overtime as the staff is not prepared to work ‘voluntarily’ after completing their 40-hour work week, i.e. Mondays to Fridays.
In order to normalise the environment and to ensure our offices open on Saturdays or weekends, the Department is to re-open negotiations with organised labour as well as the Department of Public Service Administration (DPSA), to allow work on weekends through the introduction of a shift system or alternatively performance of remunerated overtime. This will assist clients who find themselves not able to visit DHA offices during the week, to access services on weekends. However due to the current financial constraints in the Department, it is currently not feasible to pay for the performance of remunerated overtime over weekends.
The Department will however explore possibilities of using alternative channels for collection of enabling documents over weekends.
END
05 August 2019 - NW381
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(a) What actions were taken by his department to provide services in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape since it stopped sending mobile units to those areas, (b) why do mobile units no longer operate in these areas and (c) what steps will his department take to address this issue as a matter of urgency?
Reply:
a) The Department adopted a multi-channel strategy in order to meet the service delivery needs of the citizens. This includes physical offices, mobile units and online services. The Department also has partnerships with the Department of Health for registration of birth in the hospitals. In the Eastern Cape rural areas, the Department has a total of 43 offices of which 15 are modernised to issue Smart ID cards and new passports. Over and above the 43 offices, the Department has service points in 37 health facilities for registration of birth and death located in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The mobile units serve as a complementary channel not as the main channel.
b) The mobile units are not operating nationwide, not just in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The reason for halting of the mobile units programmes is that, with the old mobile fleet being over seven (7) years on the roads, and about 54 of the units being economically irreparable, the Department is in the process of refurbishing the existing 61 trucks, and has procured additional 38 trucks to add to the total fleet. The Mobile solution was designed and tested during 2018/19 financial year and declared successful after testing and the units are used for outreach programmes while awaiting the contract for uninterruptable network solution to be finalised. The mobile units will be deployed in the hard to reach areas across the country; including the Eastern Cape once the modernisation process is concluded.
c) As indicated above, mobile units are in the process of being modernised and refurbished, and will be deployed once they are ready. However, the population of Eastern Cape has 59 physical offices located in various parts of the province to service the needs of population.
END
05 August 2019 - NW373
Gondwe, Dr M to ask the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture
What (a) number of official international trips is (i) he and (ii) his deputy planning to undertake in the 2019-22 medium term expenditure framework, (b) will the (i) destination, (ii) date, (iii) purpose and (iv) number of persons who will travel with the delegation be and (c) is the detailed breakdown of the expected cost of (i) flights, (ii) accommodation and (iii) any other expenses in each case?
Reply:
The International trips which the Minister and the Deputy Minister are planning to undertake in the 2019-2022 medium term expenditure framework are still being consolidated.
05 August 2019 - NW379
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
What (a) is the planned date for the reopening of the Cape Town Refugee Reception Office (CTRRO) and (b)(i) steps have been completed to date to reopen the CTRRO, (ii) delays have caused his department to miss the court deadline, (iii) remaining steps need to be taken to reopen the CTRRO and (iv) interim measures have been put in place to allow new asylum seekers arriving in Cape Town to apply for asylum?
Reply:
(a) The date for the re-opening of the CTRRO is dependent on the finalisation of the lease agreement with the prospective landlord and the related project plan for refurbishment.
(b)(i) Department of Public Works (DPW) and Department of Home Affairs (DHA) have signed the lease contract, awaiting same concurrence with the prospective landlord.
(b)(ii) DPW procurement requirements in acquiring office accommodation have caused DHA to miss the court deadline.
(b)(iii) The concurrence of the prospective landlord on the agreement and the development of the project plan for new office accommodation.
(b)(iv) Applicants who are dependants of existing clients are allowed to apply Cape Town, whilst rest of new applicants are encouraged to apply as they enter the Republic in Refugee Offices closer to northern ports of entries as majority of applicants enter through those ports.
END
02 August 2019 - NW314
Winkler-Lidgett, Ms HS to ask the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries
Whether she will consider introducing a ban, as she did in False Bay, on octopus fishing in Mossel Bay, in order to prevent any further deaths of whales; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
At this stage we are not considering a further ban. Our marine scientists are currently in discussion with licence holders on mitigation measures that can be introduced in all licensed areas. These options still require testing. If however entanglements are reported the situation will be re-evaluated. In line with the Permit conditions of Octopus Exploratory Fishing, if there are entanglements of cetaceans, operators are required to suspend their fishing operations.
Regards
MS BARBARA CREECY, MP
MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES
DATE: 02/08/2019