Questions and Replies

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26 October 2023 - NW2830

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Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1). On what date was the leaking roof at the SA National Library in Cape Town identified. (2). (a) on what date did the procurement process start, (b) what is the name of the company that was appointed to fix the roof, (c) what is the cost to fix the roof and (d) by what date will the project be completed? NW3245E

Reply:

(1). The leak at the National Library of South Africa, Cape Town Campus was identified or reported on Thursday, 11 May 2023.

(2).

  1. The procurement process started on Thursday, 11 May 2023.
  2. The contractor appointed to fix the roof was Mayepe Group.
  3. The value of the purchase order was R249 665,46.
  4. Date of completion was Monday, 26 June 2023.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2705

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Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1).(a).On what date did Ndingilizi finish with the Silapha Wellness Project and (b) what are the reasons for appointing a new company when the project was a pilot programme. (2). whether there were any gaps that Ndingilizi did not cover; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details. (3). whether Ndingilizi applied for a new tender; if not, why not, if so, what are the relevant details. (4). Whether he will furnish Mr T W Mhlongo with a detailed supply chain report that will give a true reflection of what processes were followed when Ndingilizi was appointed for the next three years; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. (5). what are the full names of directors of companies that got 18 million tender for wellness programme? NW3096E

Reply:

(1)

(a). The Silapha Wellness Project under Ndingilizi was completed at the end of the 2022/2023 financial year.

(b). The Department had a three-year Service Level Agreement with Indingliz Advertising & Marketing, which came to an end at the end of the financial year 2022/2023, upon completion of the pilot, the department through Supply Chain Management (SCM)

initiated the necessary process to advertise for a service provider to be appointed to administer the implementation of the Silapha Wellnes programme as the sector needs this intervention. The successful bidder (Workforce Healthcare) was appointed following the necessary Supply Chain Management processes.

(2). Indingliz implemented the programme as a pilot, which took the form of high-level awareness campaigns in various provinces and 24-hour call centre counselling services, and these were successfully implemented. The initial scope of the work agreed upon had to be expanded to cover athletes because of the merger of the two departments (DAC and Sport and Recreation).

(3). Indingliz responded to the tender bid which was open to the public but was unfortunately unsuccessful.

(4). The report detailing the process followed when Indingliz was appointed for a period of three years is attached as (Annexure A)

The report detailing the process followed when Workforce Healthcare was appointed for a period of three years is attached as (Annexure B)

(5). Names of the Directors (Workforce Healthcare)

  1. Dr Richard Brian Malkin (Managing Director)
  2. Mr Ronald Stanley Katz (Director)
  3. Mr Nevania Naidoo (Director),

Other Owners

  1. Global Health Resources

 

26 October 2023 - NW2829

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Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1). what (a) number of (i) unions are affiliated to the SA Rugby Union and (ii) rugby unions are under administration and (b) is the name of each union in each case. (2). whether the rugby unions that are placed under administration are updated with progress and financial statements; if not, why not; if so, (a) how regularly and (b) who are the specified persons responsible for the updates. (3). whether the financial status of the Western Province Rugby Football Union has improved since it was placed under administration; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. (4). what are the latest developments with regard to hosting a rugby world cup in future? NW3244E

Reply:

1(a). The SA Rugby Union (SARU) has confirmed that they have (i)15 Rugby Unions and (ii)1 of these is under administration.(b) In the Western Cape (Western Province Rugby Football Union, Boland Rugby Union, South Western Districts Rugby Football Union; In the Eastern Cape - Border Rugby Football Union and Eastern Province Rugby Union; in KZN - KwaZulu Natal Rugby Union; Free State- Griffons Rugby Union and Free State Rugby Union; in Gauteng - Golden Lions Rugby Union, Blue Bulls Rugby Union and Valke Rugby Union; In NC Griqualand West Rugby Union; in NW The Leopards Rugby Union; in MP Mpumalanga Rugby Union and in LP Limpopo Rugby Union.

(2). Western Province Rugby Football Union is under Administration. The appointment of an administrator, in terms of Clause 29.5 of the SARU Constitution, was to stabilise the Union’s governance and operational business and was not meant to have any

direct influence on the on-field rugby affairs. The appointed administrator, reporting to the CEO of SA Rugby Union, is responsible for regular updates into the governance structures within SA Rugby Unions as well as the representatives of the Western Province rugby clubs.

The tabling and approval of annual financial statements is the competency of the Western Province Rugby Union General Council. The annual financial statements backlog that existed prior to placing Western Province rugby under administration is being addressed by the administrator and the external auditors with the ability to operate as a going concern being a significant audit technical matter to resolve before such accounts are presented to the general council.         

(3). At the time that SA Rugby Union had taken over as administrator, Western Province Rugby Football Union could not fund their operations due to significant liquidity constraints. In addition to this the refinancing of existing borrowings, where fixed owned properties belonging to Western Province Rugby Football Union were provided as security, meant that any default to the bondholder would result in the available equity in such properties being at risk/lost.

Amongst the many challenges faced as administrator was renegotiating a new anchor tenant agreement for the use of the Cape Town (DHL) stadium which resulted in more favorable commercial terms being reached and contributing towards the overall goal of financial sustainability. The ability for Western Province Rugby to continue its operations and the Stormers winning the inaugural international United Rugby Championship and subsequent finalist the year thereafter, meant that whilst under administration the brand value of Western Province rugby was not only protected but also enhanced to exploit commercial opportunities into the future. The potential to realize equity from the encumbered immovable properties still exists due to ongoing negotiations with the property bondholder.  

(4). Unless the costs associated with bidding and hosting of a Rugby World Cup are guaranteed by the public and/or private sector, SA Rugby Union will not have the financial resources to bid for and host such an event into the future.  World Rugby has allocated the hosting of the next World Cup in 2027 to Australia and 2031 in America.  The next opportunity to Bid, subject to funding and support will be once World Rugby opens the Bidding process for subsequent World Cups post 2031.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2696

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Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1). With reference to his reply to question 2477 on 29 June 2023 (a) what the full details of the contracted event providers are, (b) on what date were they contracted and (c) how contractors were contracted. (2). whether his department will furnish Mr. TW Mhlongo with proof that the 48 event providers were contacted and that bids were submitted; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. (3). What (a) number of event contracts out of the 48 appointed companies have benefited and (b) the value of each contract since 1 January 2021 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?

Reply:

1. (a). See attached full list of contracted service providers (ANNEXURE A)

(b). Contract start date was18 September 2020 and end date 18 September 2023

(c). They were contracted through the tender process.

2. All forty-eight (48) bids were received by the Department on the closing and time. Appointment letters were sent out to all (48) contracted service providers. (see attached list of appointment letters). (ANNEXURE B

3. Thirty-three (33) service providers have benefited from the contract. The value of contract is as follows: see attached full list of contracted service providers and value of contracts (ANNEXURE C)

 

 

26 October 2023 - NW2768

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Hendricks, Mr MGE to ask the Minister of Sport Arts and Culture

(1).whether he will intervene to prevent any similar future incidents from happening, by issuing a directive with regard to the incident on 8 August 2023 in which a 16 year-old girl, Naqeebah Fredericks, who represented the Republic in the 2023 Commonwealth Judo Championships hosted by the International Judo Federation in Gqeberha, was not allowed to receive her bronze medal on the podium because she was wearing a hijab that she did not wear during fighting or competing; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; 2). whether he intends advising international sports associations hosting events in the republic that the specified act of denying any girl or woman athlete her right to wear her hijab at sports events, is against the constitution of the republic, 1996; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(1). Whilst many international events are hosted in our country, these are hosted in accordance with the International Federation Rules and Regulations. In this case, The Commonwealth Judo Association has the prerogative to ease certain rules, but this must be discussed, agreed upon before the event and communicated to all participating countries. The case in point is the judo suits - should only be IJF approved suits. This rule was eased, and it was communicated to all before time. At this point, all international events hosted in the country will be held in accordance with the International Federation Rules.

(2). As the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture I do not have the powers and authority to change the Rules of International Federations. However, Judo South Africa has indicated that there is a possibility to initiate discussions with the International Federation on the matter and other related matters. To this end the Federation indicates that post the event they discussed the issue, and they further intend making a submission at the Paris Congress in 2024 for possible review of the said rules.

26 October 2023 - NW2756

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Khakhau, Ms KL to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

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

Reply:

a) (i) Department of Sport, Arts and Culture

Year

Amount Paid (a)

Name of Supplier (b)

Number of copies printed (c)

2020-21 (aa)

R307 901,00

Digi-paper

200

2021-22 (bb)

R362 900,00

Shittim Trading CC.

200

2022-23 (cc)

R148 395,74 (quotation)

Gijina Trading

200

(ii) Public entities see attached.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2764

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Ngcobo, Mr S to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation

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

Reply:


(a) Total amount paid for printed copies of the integrated annual report

(i) DPME

(ii) Entities reporting to the Minister

(aa) 2020-21

(bb) 2021-

22

(cc) 2022-

23

(aa) 2021-

21

(bb) 2020-

21

(cc) 2022-

23

None

None

None

Not applicable

Not applicable

Not applicable

 

(b) Who were the suppliers

Reply: Not applicable

(c) Total Number of copies of report produced

Reply: (i) None

(ii) Not applicable

26 October 2023 - NW2671

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

(1). Whether the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra is occupying the second floor of The Playhouse Company; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so,(a) since what date and (b) what amount is paid in rental to The Playhouse Company. (2). whether the rental amounts have been reflected in the financial statements of both the entities in the relevant financial years; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

1(a). The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra is occupying the 3rd floor Since 1 April 1998.

(b). Towards the end of the 1990s The Playhouse Company reduced its operational size due to funding constrains it was going through. This was in line with what was contained in the Draft White Paper of the Department of Arts, Culture, Science & Technology.

The KZNPO was one of the five artistic companies of the Playhouse Company during that period. As part of the restructuring process the boards of the Playhouse Company and the KZNPO agreed to enter into a mutual benefit relationship (Public Private Partnership) where the orchestra would not take its retrenchment packages in return for a continued working relationship with the Playhouse.

Part of the agreement between the two organisations boards was that the orchestra would use office space on the third floor of The Playhouse’s administration building rent free. This mutually reciprocal working relationship would assist each arts organisation on sustaining itself in order to continue to create jobs for artists and offering artistic services to the community of KZN.

(2). No rental income is received from the KZNPO by The Playhouse Company. Therefore, no rental income is reflected in The Playhouse Company’s AFS.

It must further be noted that The Playhouse Company leases the premises from the Department of Public Works at no charge.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2636

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Mthethwa, Mr E to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1). What steps of intervention has he taken to assist the entertainment industry to recover socially and economically from the COVID-19 pandemic. (2). whether his department will furnish Mr E Mthethwa with its three-year proposed recovery plan; if not, will his department share its intended programme of action towards putting together such a plan and the proposed budget for parliamentary approval; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3020E

Reply:

(1). The Department through its various funding agencies has since COVID 19 disbursed funds to deserving arts projects and initiatives to soften the blow to the cultural and creative industry. In addition, the Department commissioned The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) to conduct research post-COVID-19 on the Precarity and Social Status of Arts Practitioners and the report has been completed and will be circulated widely to the sector. The Department of Sport Arts and Culture also received a budget allocation of R650 million for PESP 1, R15m for PESP2, R440 million for PESP 3 and R462m for PESP 4 to provide relief to the creative sector, over the last three financial years.

(2). Yes, the Economic Recovery and Reconstruction Plan is available, see attached.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2635

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Mthethwa, Mr E to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1).Whether the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) was entrusted to manage the Venture Capital Fund worth 175 million over a period of three years; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details. (2). Whether the NEF was granted the project management role; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) which processes were followed in awarding the tender, (b) on what date was the tender signed and (c) for what period?

Reply:

(1) In 2016, the Department entrusted National Empowerment Fund (NEF) through a tender process to manage Venture Capital Fund (VCF) for a period of 3 years (2016/17 -2018/19) to the amount of R100 000 000.00 (One Hundred Million Rand Only) therefore the amount allocated was not 175 million.

(2)

(a). Yes, NEF was granted the project management role through Supply-Chain Management (SCM) processes.

(b). The tender was signed for a period of three years as indicated above.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2573

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Malomane, Ms VP to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

What is the role of his department in promoting local artists internationally, in light of the fact that our local music artists have demonstrated their creativity through developing new music genres, such as amapiano, which have been embraced on the continent and world?

Reply:

My department recognises the importance of market access as an enabler for creatives to sell their products locally and globally. These could take various forms, and music is one of these art forms. To this end, my department has developed and implemented an array of initiatives to facilitate creatives’ access to markets; One significant initiative through which this is done is the Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE).

MGE is a comprehensive program aimed at stimulating economic growth within the arts, culture, and heritage sectors. Touring Ventures is one of the programmes of MGE, developed mainly to provide funding and support for the touring of local art products to be showcased on international platforms and markets.

This initiative serves multiple purposes including taking unique and culturally rich creations to international audiences. By exposing international audiences to South African creative products, the government helps expand the global reach and recognition of local artists.

Through this, eligible local creatives are provided with opportunities to perform at international exhibitions, book fairs, festivals, theatre plays, concerts, and events.

These performances not only allow creatives from different disciplines to showcase their talents but also connect them with international industry professionals, potential collaborators, and fans who are the buyers of the art products. This exposure can lead to international collaborations, increased fan bases, and enhanced market access.

Furthermore, the exposure gained from international tours can lead to increased demand for performances, both domestically and internationally. By presenting South African art products on global stages, the government enhances cultural diplomacy and fosters positive international relationships, and this includes performing at various cultural seasons organised by the Department.

Cultural seasons, also known as cultural festivals or arts seasons, are periods of time during which a specific theme, genre, or cultural aspect is highlighted and celebrated through a series of artistic and cultural events, performances, exhibitions, and activities.

South Africa has entered into bilateral agreements with other countries, which enable the participation of local creatives in various disciplines, music being one of them, in the respective countries.

There is a lot of work that the department does to create an enabling environment for creatives to participate on international platforms, exposing the different art products the country produces in the Music space, Book and Press, Design, Craft, etc.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2818

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

(1). For the 2023 Netball World Cup 2023, (a) what total number of tickets were allocated to each province and (b) how were the specified tickets distributed. (2). whether the persons who received tickets were flown into Cape Town; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what were the (a) accommodation and (b) transport costs per province for those persons who benefited from free tickets. (3). what was the total cost of the 2023 Netball World Cup tournament, including a full breakdown of such costs. (4). whether a deficit occurred; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3233E

Reply:

1)(a). There were no tickets allocated to the provinces for the 2023 Netball World Cup 2023.

b). not applicable.

2). The information is being sourced from the provinces and more time is required to respond to:

a). Their accommodation costs.

b). Their transport costs.

3). The total costs of the 2023 Netball World Cup would be determined and declared upon finalization of the financial audit and close out report.

4). Information on the final financial status (surplus or deficit) of the 2023 Netball World Cup would be determined and declared upon finalization of the financial audit and close out report.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2688

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Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1) What form of national or provincial government support was given to tennis players who participated in the 2023 Roland Garros in Paris France. (2) what support was given to wheelchair champions Kgothatso Montjane and Donald Ramphadi? NW3077E

Reply:

(1). The Department gives Tennis South Africa an annual grant to support their programs including wheelchair tennis programs and some of the programs are in preparation for the world events. In 2022/23 financial year the Department provided special financial support towards the ITF’s World Team Cup which Donald Ramphadi and Kgothatso Montjane were part of, together with ten other athletes with disabilities. The ITFs World Team Cup is crucial for Paralympic eligibility, as players are required to compete in a prescribed minimum number of events within of two (2) years in a four-year Paralympic cycle.

(2). Kgothatso Montjane and Donald Ramphadi are part of Tennis SA’s High Performance Programme who participate in international tournaments:

  • a)Each player receives annual financial support which covers coaching fees and international tour expenses.
  • b) Leading up to the Roland Garros, Tennis SA provided a total of R1,224,480.00 to high-performance players, excluding accommodation.
  • c) Tennis SA high performance athletes were housed at the University of Pretoria's High-Performance center with a monthly food allowance; however, housing support was discontinued due to the loss of title sponsor, Growthpoint.

26 October 2023 - NW2704

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Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1) With reference to the hosting of the 2023 Sports Award Winners event, (a) on what date did he and his department honor all 2023 Sports Award winners, (b) what total number of guests attended and (c) what is the name of the venue. (2) what total amount did it cost to host the event, including the breakdown of cost for the venue, sound, food, and music. (3) (a) what are the full details of the company that got the tender, including their names and contact information and (b) from which (i) line item of the budget was the money sourced and (ii) financial year budget?

Reply:

(1). The 2023 South African Sport Awards are yet to be hosted by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

(2) & (3) falls off as the event is still to be hosted.

26 October 2023 - NW2687

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Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

What total number of the first ten (a) males and (b) females who participated in the (i) Cape Town Marathon, (ii) Two Oceans Marathon and (iii) Comrades Marathon were tested for illegal substances prior to and after the races?

Reply:

MARATHON

a) MALES

b)FEMALES

(i) Cape Town Marathon

 Four (4) tests (no athlete tested positive)

 Four (4) tests (no athlete tested positive)

(ii) Two Oceans Marathon (ultra and half marathon)

 Ten (10) tests (no athlete tested positive)

 Nine (9) tests (no athlete tested positive)

(iii) Comrades Marathon

All top ten (10) athletes were tested. No athlete tested positive

All top ten (10) athletes were tested. No athlete tested positive

26 October 2023 - NW2819

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Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE

(1). Whether a full investigation will be done into the ticketing of the 2023 Netball World Cup; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. (2). what is the total monetary value of the contract for a certain company (name furnished). (3). how was the specified company selected against other more experienced vendors. (4). if the company was seen as an experienced company, what are the reasons that some tickets had numbers, others no seat numbers and some ticket seat numbers did not exist. (5). whether tickets were sold at the door; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what happened to the money of the ticket sales?

Reply:

(1). My department believes that the Netball World Cup 2023 was delivered satisfactorily and admits that the lessons learned regarding the areas that still need improvement will be recorded and shared for projects of similar nature in the future. The Ministry is not persuaded that there are any compelling reasons to launch a probe into how access to the games was handled and controlled.

(2). According to RWC2023 Board a commission will be paid based on the value of tickets sold

(3). The relevant procurement processes were followed, and the recommended bidder was approved by the NWC2023 Board.

(4). The ticketing challenges were as a result of the venue not having permanent seating. The temporary seating structure installed did not have seat numbers and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) then had to develop a seating plan. This delayed the issuing of tickets as we had to wait for seating plans to be finalised. This was resolved after the Opening Ceremony. The complicated competition format also contributed as people didn’t know which teams would be playing against each other from day 4, which was the second preliminary stage and was determined by round robin.

(5). After learning from the success of selling door tickets during the quad series in January. The LOC devised a plan to emulate the quad series, however permission was not granted by the VOC to sell tickets onsite.

THANK YOU

26 October 2023 - NW2805

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

What informed the decision and notice of the Registrar of the Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Seeds and Remedies Act, Act 36 of 1947, that 28 active ingredients and their formulations that meet the criteria of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity and reproductive (CMR) toxicity categories 1A and 1B for the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) of classification, will be banned in the Republic as from 1 June 2024; (2) what are the reasons that the Registrar's notice did not also extend to active ingredients in pesticides registered for use in the Republic, which are categorised as World Health Organisation Classification 1a and 1b; (3) whether the Registrar has commissioned any experts to advise him on which active ingredients registered for use in the Republic might meet the CMR categories 1A and 1B for the GHS of classification; if not, why not; if so, will she furnish Ms T Breedt with a (a) list of the specified experts and (b) copy of their terms of reference; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (4) (a) on which methodology did the Registrar rely to compile the list of 28 active ingredients earmarked for banning in the Republic, (b) who did the specified work and (c) what was the output of the process in terms of a report and/or findings; (5) (a) what else needs to occur before the list is finalised and (b) by what date does the Registrar envisage the publication of a finalised list?

Reply:

1. The decision by the Department is informed by the Pesticide Management Policy of South Africa, 2010. The Policy amongst others issues, requires measures to be taken to deal with pesticides that pose unmanageable risk, such as those with Endocrine Disrupting Properties, Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), carcinogenic and immunotoxic potential, formulations classified by World Health Organization as Extremely Hazardous (Class 1a) and Highly Hazardous (Class 1b), as well as pesticides associated with frequent and severe poisoning incidents. The measures outlined in the Policy include restrictions, phase-out, and ban.

Based on the definition of Highly Hazardous Pesticides as per the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO) published in 2016, it was decided that pesticides that meet the criteria of Carcinogenicity, Mutagenicity and Reproductive (CMR 1A or 1B) of Globally Harmonized System (GHS) should be banned as they cause disproportionate harm to human and animal health. CMR 1A or 1B are pesticides that are scientifically proven to induce or increase cancer, heritable genetic defects, and adverse effects in the progeny and/or an impairment of male or female reproductive functions or capacity.

2. Most of the pesticides that fall within the World Health Organization Classification 1a and 1b are fumigants. Although such pesticides are classified as extremely hazardous (1a) and highly hazardous (1b), the Department decided that rather than banning such pesticides, the appropriate measure would be to impose restrictions as currently, there are limited viable alternative pesticides. Restrictions as per the said Policy is one of the regulatory measures where sales and use of certain pesticides of concern are limited to trained professional applicators. Where pesticides are restricted, exposure to such products by the public and workers is limited.

3. The Fertilizer, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act, 1947 (Act No. 36 of 1947) provides for the Minister to appoint Technical Advisors to advise the Registrar on technical matters. The Registrar together with Technical Advisors also relies on advice from other relevant government departments, international bodies like the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), World Health Organisation (WHO), and regulatory bodies from other countries (e.g. European Union).

(a) Apart from reliance on Technical Advisors appointed in terms of the said Act, no outside experts were commissioned to advise the Registrar on the determination of the active ingredients that meet the CMR 1A or 1B categories.

(b) The Department relies on the classification of pesticides based on the Globally Harmonized System of classification and labelling of chemicals (GHS) to determine the list. Using the criteria of Highly Hazardous Pesticides as defined by the FAO and WHO 2016, together with the European database the list of pesticides with CMR 1A or 1B properties were identified. It should be noted most countries rely on the European Pesticide and European Chemical Agency (ECHA) databases, as such, the identified list of pesticides is harmonised with other countries. Furthermore, as review of pesticides with CMR 1A or 1B is continuing at an international level, the Department will update the list as the information becomes available. The Department does not see the need to repeat the work that is already being done by a world recognized regulatory authority.

4. (a) To identify CMR substances, pesticide active ingredients and their formulations that meet the criteria of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and reproductive toxicity categories 1A and 1B of the GHS was used as references. To assess whether a pesticide is category 1A or 1B for CMR, DALRRD does not do its own classification, but rather relies on data sources from the European Pesticide database and European Chemical Agency (ECHA).

(b) The classification was done by the European Union Authority. Based on the GHS criteria, individual companies did their own initial classifications. Using the GHS criteria together with the European Union databases, the Registrar after verifying the information approves the classification and label where such was done correctly.

(c) The outputs are the approved Safety Data sheets and labels. There are no reports compiled.

5.(a) The list has been finalised.

(b) The list will be published by 31 October 2023 on the Department’s website. Once the list is published the Department would welcome comments for further consideration.

26 October 2023 - NW2682

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Cuthbert, Mr MJ to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1) What development programmes does the Government have in place to encourage the sport of swimming in the Republic. (2) whether the Government is reliant on swimming clubs and schools with swimming pools to provide the swimming development programmes; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) programmes are in place and (b) financial assistance is given to (i) clubs and (ii) schools to run the programmes. (3) whether he has found that the funding provided is sufficient; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3071E

Reply:

(1). Where there are facilities, Club development, learn to swim in schools and communities, inter-school swimming leagues for primary and secondary schools, which is an extra-curricular activity are offered as development programs.

Schools participate in both recreational and competitive leagues; In-school swimming takes place in the first and fourth term, during life skills/life orientation/physical education lessons at schools that have access to facilities.

Swimming South Africa (SSA)’s qualified swimming teachers have been placed at community pools in townships where Foundation phase learners from adjacent schools attend lessons during physical education lessons. Water safety education takes place during the winter months at identified schools. Capacity building programs

are offered to educators for learn to swim, introductory coaching and coaching level one. These programs are funded by DSAC and NLC.

(2). Yes, as government, we are mostly reliant on school and club facilities when offering swimming development programs. This is due to the lack of functional swimming pools in many municipalities in provinces, especially in townships.

(a) Programs that are offered include learn to swim in quintile 1 – 3 schools during physical education; learn to swim in communities; club development; splash polo and artistic fun.

(b)i. Development clubs receive funding for coaches & swimming teachers, as well as administration, and athletes that are selected for national teams are assisted financially.

b(ii). Schools administer their own inter-school programs during extra-curricular activities. However, the Provincial Departments of Sport, Arts & Culture support schools’ swimming championships or trials, water safety education in schools in some provinces and provincial teams that are selected for S.A. Schools Championships.

(3). It is well established fact that funding for sport and recreation in general is insufficient, this is equally true for programs aimed at promoting and facilitating access to swimming in communities. A collaborated and integrated approach to the development of swimming by Local, Provincial and National Government is required.

Furthermore, it is important that local Government ensure that existing facilities are maintained, and new swimming pools are built in township and communities where there are no facilities.

THANK YOU

24 October 2023 - NW3207

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Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

In light of the fact that a full e-Visa system is a prerequisite for the revival and growth of tourism in the Republic, what are the details of the (a) roadmap outlining the targeted milestones and (b) timelines for the comprehensive implementation of e-Visas in the Republic?

Reply:

a) The Department has implemented an e-Visa system for tourist purposes, attendance of meetings and conferences and short-term business visas for 35 countries that are not visa exempt.

b) This e-Visa system will be extended to Study, Business and Intra Company Visas categories by the end of this financial year.

 

END

24 October 2023 - NW3199

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

1. (a) On what grounds was a certain person (name furnished) suspended from her department on 13 October 2020, (b) who suspended the specified person and (c)(i) for what period has the person been on suspension and (ii) at what cost to her suspension. 2. (a) who was implicated in the whistleblower report that the specified person submitted, (b) to whom was the report submitted, (c) what information was contained in the report and (d) why did her department not act on the information contained in the report submitted by the person? NW4272E

Reply:

1. (a) The employee was suspended in terms of the Disciplinary Code applicable to members of the SMS (the Code) as it was alleged that the employee had committed serious acts of misconduct (29 charges) including several allegations of prejudicing the administration of the department, failing to carry out lawful instructions, abuse, insolence and gross insubordination. The employer believed that the employee’s presence in the workplace may jeopardise the investigation, endanger the well- being or safety of employees and/or witnesses and undermine the work of the employer.

(b) The employee was suspended in accordance with the Public Service Act and the Code by the Director-General, which was subsequently extended by the chairperson in terms of paragraph 2.7. 2(c) of the Code.

(c) (i) The employee was suspended from 13 October 2020 until 27 September 2023, when the matter was finalised.

(ii) The employee was suspended on full pay in terms of paragraph 2.7. 2(b) of the Code.

2. The DPSA is not aware of any whistleblowing report submitted by the employee and cannot therefore provide details thereof.

End

24 October 2023 - NW3171

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Buthelezi, Mr EM to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

What amount has been allocated to the newly launched Border Management Authority in the 2023-24 financial year?

Reply:

As part of its establishment, the BMA integrated a total of 2100 staff members from 4 different government departments. The departments include:

  • The Department of Home Affairs.
  • The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.
  • The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
  • The Department of Health.

As part of the transfer, the BMA received R1.3 billion (R1 341 224 000) for Compensation of Employees as well as Goods and Services from the four transferring departments, in line with the transfer of functions and resources. The transferred amount was not new money, but money that was already in the respective departmental baselines.

In addition, the BMA requested a budget of R2.6 billion as new money from the National Treasury in order to capacitate the Authority, but was only allocated less than 10% of the requested amount. The allocated new money by National Treasury was R250 million to the BMA for the 2023/24 Financial Year.

This led to the total budget of the Authority being R1.59 billion, which is a total of the R1.3 billion old money and R250 million new money allocated by the National Treasury.

END

23 October 2023 - NW2674

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Abrahams, Ms ALA to ask the Minister of Social Development

(1)Whether, with regard to whistle blowers who have been reporting corruption taking place at her department and the entities reporting to her, namely the SA Social Security Agency and the National Development Agency, since 2013 up to date, there is an operational anonymous corruption hotline available to the public; if not, why not; if so, what (a) are the toll free numbers of the hotlines, (b) number of reports of corruption relevant to the department and its entities have been reported via hotlines and other government anti-corruption hotlines and (c) number of the reports were confirmed to be true; (2) what (a) action has been taken regarding reported allegations of corruption, (b) number corruption reports has her department received via the whistleblowing function on the non-profit organisation (NPO) website and (c) action has been taken regarding the reports received via the NPO website?

Reply:

1. (a) As guided by national legislation on whistle blowing, the Protected Disclosures Act (Act No. 26 of 2000), the Department and its public entities encourage the public and employees to report all suspected cases of fraud and corruption on available platforms such as the SAPS Crime Stop and the Public Service Commission’s Whistle Blower and Corruption Hotline.

This is to avoid duplication and to ensure suspected cases are reported to relevant law enforcement agencies that have the necessary resources to investigate such cases.

(b) (c)

 

Number of reported cases since 2013

Nature of complaint(s)

Social Development

24

NPO corruption, poor governance, conflict in the organisation, fraud, and theft/hijacking of the organisation

National Development Agency

7

Civil society organisations not receiving their training certificates

SASSA

3 262

Fraud and corruption involving social grants

2. (a) reported cases are referred to law enforcement agencies for further investigation and prosecution, where there is enough evidence to do so.

(b) refer to 1 (b) (c)

(c) refer to 2 (a)

23 October 2023 - NW3094

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Van Zyl, Ms A M to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)       Whether, with reference to the horrific exposé on Carte Blanche on 3 September 2023 of the extremely bad conditions at both the school and hostel of Ikwezi Lokusa Special School for children with special needs in Mthatha (details furnished), she will furnish Ms A M van Zyl with a list of all special needs schools in the Republic, stating the (a) optimal number of (i) teachers, (ii) caregivers, (iii) professional nurses and (iv) medical needs of each specified school as compared to the actual number of such professionals and availability of medical resources; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether the condition of the infrastructure at each specified school is conducive to learning for such vulnerable children in our society; if not, what (a) steps will be taken to rectify the problem and (b) time frame is to be provided in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(1)(i)(ii)(iii) 

Response to (1)(i)(ii)(iii) on actual numbers is attached.

Question 2 can best be responded by respective provinces as they are the custodians of schools.

23 October 2023 - NW3067

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Abrahams, Ms ALA to ask the Minister of Social Development

(1)With reference to her reply to question 1231 on 20 April 2023, what (a) is the remuneration of each doctor contracted for each assessment for (i) temporary and (ii) permanent disability assessments and (b) number of clients is an assessment doctor contracted to assess in a (i) day, (ii) week and (iii) month; (2) whether all assessment doctors throughout the Republic are remunerated at the same Rand value; if not, what are the various categories of remuneration in each province; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) what are the qualifications, skills and years of experience required to be an assessment doctor?

Reply:

1. (a) (i)(ii) The current rate is R169,68 per each assessment, which is the same for disability-related grants.

It is important for the Honourable Member to note that the achievement of the targets is dependent on availability of the assessor and space at the health facility where assessments are to be conducted.

(b) The targeted number of assessments per day is 40

(ii) 200

(iii) 800

2. The assessment current rate of R169, 68 is uniform across the country.

3. MBCHB qualification from a recognised institution, registration with HPCSA plus 2 years post registration as a medical officer. Privately contracted doctors and doctors in the employ of the state are also allowed to undertake social assistance work in the internship programme.

23 October 2023 - NW2840

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Smalle, Mr JF to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation

(1)Whether all water service authorities (WSA) have submitted their audit reports in terms of section 18(1) of the Water Services Act, Act 108 of 1997; if not, why not; if so, (a) which authority has not submitted its audit, (b) for what period has it not submitted audit reports and (c) what remedial action has been taken regarding the failure to submit an audit report; (2) whether he will furnish Mr J F Smalle with an analysis of each WSA in the (a) 2021-22 and (b) 2022-23 financial years; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

Section 18 (1) of the Water Services Act, Act 108 of 1997 states that a Water Services Authority must report on the implementation of its development plan during each financial year. The reports must be made within four months after the end of each financial year and must be given to the Minister for Provincial Affairs and Constitutional Development, the relevant Province and every organisation representing municipalities having jurisdiction in the area of the water services authority.

Such reports are not submitted to the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), but rather to Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).

---00O00---

23 October 2023 - NW2548

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Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Social Development

With reference to her reply to question 1364 on 5 July 2023, (a) what are the details of the steps that she and her department have taken to ensure that the high numbers of social worker vacancies are filled and (b) by what date is it envisaged that the vacancies will be filled?

Reply:

a) As indicated in my reply, the Department is finalising the Sector Strategy for Employment of Social Service Professionals in collaboration with provincial departments of social development and other key departments in the social cluster such as Basic Education, Correctional Services and the private sector. The funding bid for the Strategy has been submitted to the National Treasury for consideration in the upcoming Mid-Term Budget Policy Statement.

b) To date, the Strategy has been widely consulted with key structures and will be tabled for Cabinet consideration in the current financial year.

23 October 2023 - NW3170

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Ngcobo, Ms BT to ask the Minister of Basic Education

Whether her department maintains records of school fees that are paid in (a) government and (b) private schools; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what total amount was paid in each category in the past five years?

Reply:

The Department does not keep records of school fees to either public or independent schools. The responsibility to charge schools fees is left with the School Governing Bodies in consultation with and with the approval of parents in an Annual General Meeting convened for that purpose. In terms of section 39 of the South African Schools Act, 84 of 1986: 

"(1) Subject to this Act, school fees may be determined and charged at a public school only if a resolution to do so has been adopted by a majority of parents attending the meeting referred to in section 38(2). 

(2) A resolution contemplated in subsection (1) must provide for-

(a) the amount of fees to be charged; and

(b) equitable criteria and procedures for the total, partial or conditionaln exemption of parents who are unable to pay school fees.

(3) The governing body must implement a resolution adopted at the meeting contemplated in subsection (1).

This therefore makes it a school governance matter outside the jurisdiction of the Department. The Department intervenes in appeal cases of application for school fees exemptions and where learners are refused education on the basis of the parents' inability to pay school fees.

20 October 2023 - NW2979

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Steenhuisen, Mr JH to ask the President of the Republic

With reference to the lifestyle audits on members of his executive, that he committed to in his 2018 State of the Nation Address, (a) what service provider(s) were appointed to conduct the audits, (b) on what date were they appointed, (c) what are the reasons that they were found to be deficient, (d) on what date were they relieved of their task, (e) what amount were they paid, (f) who is the new service provider, (g) on what date was the new service provider appointed and (h) by what date will the new service provider complete the task?

Reply:

Currently the process of conducting lifestyle audits on members of the executive is not legislated, therefore in order to legitimately obtain the information of individual members in order to conduct the lifestyle audits, members of the executive had to grant consent in writing.

The Office of the Director General considered two options for conducting lifestyle audits on members of the executives. The first option was to use the internal capacity within government with the support of external expertise on certain aspects such as data analysis.

Bodies such as the State Security Agency (SSA) or the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) could be considered to conduct the lifestyle audit. The second option was to fully outsource to an external audit firm or consortium of experts and closely project manage the rollout of the audit.

The Presidency is using both options, the pre-investigation phase which is the first phase of the lifestyle audit will be conducted by an external service provider.

As previously stated in the oral reply for PQ 2883, it is anticipated that this project will be concluded by the end of this financial year.

19 October 2023 - NW2693

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Mbabama, Ms TM to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What steps is her department taking (a) with regard to the vicious breeds of dogs that are kept by people to ensure that the animals are kept adequately and (b) to assure the public that no more people will be attacked and killed by the vicious breeds of dogs?

Reply:

a) The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) jointly with some Municipalities (e.g. City of Tshwane) and other relevant role players are organising dog safety and wellness campaigns to teach the public about safe dog keeping, management, controlled breeding, and wellness. This information will also be made available online and through publications (brochures) to empower members of the public.

b) Keeping of vicious dogs and related matters are governed by the Animal Matters Amendment Act, 1993 (Act No. 42 of 1993), which is administered by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.

DALRRD is working with the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development to amend the Animal Matters Amendment Act, 1993 (Act 42 of 1993), to strengthen the Act with respect to offences and penalties.

We are also looking into DNA investigation to confirm the exact breeds of these types of dogs.

19 October 2023 - NW2460

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Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What is the total Rand value of agricultural produce exported from the Republic to the (a) United States of America, (b) European Union, (c) Russian Federation, (d) People’s Republic of China and (e) African continent in the 2022-23 financial year?

Reply:

THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, LAND REFORM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT:

The rand value of South African Agricultural exports from April 2022 to March 2023 financial year (12 months):

 

Billion Rand

(a) United States of America

8.820

(b) European Union (27)

41.948

(c) Russian Federation

4.357

(d) People’s Republic of China

12.055

(e) African continent

80.286

Note:

  • Agricultural products - WTO definition;
  • Billion = R1 000 000 000; and
  • Source: SARS trade data obtained from the Easydata platform from Quantec. The Department subscribes to the data tool.

19 October 2023 - NW3057

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

(1). Whether he will furnish Mrs V van Dyk with a detailed report of how the SA Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA) had spent R50 million from their Development Fund in the 2022-23 financial year; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. (2). whether SAMPRA took a group of musicians to Portugal last year to perform at a festival; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (3). whether he will furnish Mrs V van Dyk with a detailed report on the (a)(i) date and (ii) venue of the festival in Portugal and (b) total expenses involved in the musicians’ trip to Portugal with regard to (i) flights, (ii) accommodation, (iii) meals, (iv) daily allowances and (v) any other expenses; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4). (a) what total amount in pre-2020 royalties have SAMPRA not distributed, (b) what are the reasons for this and (c) by what date will the specified money be distributed? NW4123E

Reply:

(1). My department does not possess any legal authority or mandate to access or review the financial records of SAMPRA. We therefore cannot confirm or assist on this matter.

Kindly be advised that the Performers Protection Act of 1967, as amended, delineates the specific responsibilities and requirements related to the management

and accounting practices of needle-time collective management organisations. In this needle-time, CMOs are required to provide financial accounting and reporting exclusively to the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) as mandated by the mentioned legislation.

(2). SAMPRA's decisions regarding which musicians or performers they engage or funding for specific events, fall within their operational discretion and are not typically subject to specific reporting requirements to DSAC. Their primary obligation in this context is to comply with relevant intellectual property laws and regulations, particularly those governing royalty collection and distribution, which are primarily overseen by the CIPC.

(3). We are unable to provide specific comments or information regarding SAMPRA's internal business affairs.

(4). In the context of the aforementioned, we recommend that you reach out directly to SAMPRA to source the information or you can refer all the matters to the relevant authority, thus the CIPC for further investigation.

THANK YOU

19 October 2023 - NW3049

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

What are the full, relevant details of (a) the handover of agricultural inputs that took place recently in KwaZulu-Natal, (b) the role being played by the SA Farmers Development Association in the programmes of her department’s, (c) the total cost of (i) agricultural inputs and/or farming equipment for items purchased for farmers and (ii) other expenses incurred and (d) how the selection criteria was applied to select the beneficiaries; (2) what are the reasons that she and/or her department used the office of a certain political organisation (name furnished) to advertise her visit for the handover ceremony; (3) what are the relevant details of the total expenses per item bought for farmers; (4) whether any political affiliations were considered of the farmers to whom the agricultural inputs and farming equipment were allocated; if not, what criteria were considered; if so, what (a) are the relevant details of the suppliers that her department procured the agricultural inputs from and (b) is the total cost thereof?

Reply:

(1)(a) The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) approved South African Farmers Development Association’s (SAFDA’s) ratoon management project for small-scale farmers in the sugar commodity to the value of R99 267 367.32. The project benefited over 10 679 farmers with a total of 116 415 bags of fertilizer across eleven mill areas in the six districts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province.

(b) SAFDA, through its Service Level Agreement with DALRRD, applied for ratoon management support/intervention to the Small-Scale Growers (SSGs) from the six KZN districts. As a commodity organisation, SAFDA uses Farmer Production Support Units (FPSUs) as instruments of delivery for all its farmer support services. This fertilizer project is accordingly delivered through FPSUs. FPSUs are geographically aligned and clustered according to industry mill areas and municipal districts. All 116 415 bags of fertilizer have been delivered. Verification of the portfolio of evidence was conducted by both SAFDA and provincial and district officials of DALRRD.

(c)(i),(ii),(d) The total cost for agricultural inputs was R99 267 367.32, and the total farming equipment purchased for all six FPSUs was R66 070 762.16; this equipment was procured over two years based on the approved business plans. Other minor FPSU office equipment procured amounts to R1 917 201.47. SAFDA was responsible for further distribution to the farmers at their cost using their existing fleet of trucks and bakkies.

(2) It was not advertised through specific political organisations, but the handover ceremony was organised through DALRRD’s communications unit, SAFDA communication unit and district, and local municipalities; and the advert was through loud hailing by communications officials.

3. The table below illustrates a summary of production input deliveries and the expenditure incurred:

SSG FERTILIZER PROJECT: 2023 SUMMARY OF DELIVERABLES

Municipal District

BUSINESS PLAN

RAND VALUES

Bags @R856

 

Area

Growers

 

 

Umzimkulu

1 436.65

235

6 148 862

7 183

Sezela

3 166.59

1 661

13 553 005

15 833

UGU

4 603.24

1 896

19 701 867

23 016

Umfolozi

2 478.89

1 624

10 609 649

12 394

UMKHANYAKUDE

2 478.89

1 624

10 609 649

12 394

Gledhow

2 210.40

182

9 460 512

11 052

Darnall

1 948.55

160

8 339 794

9 742

Maidstone

1 476.30

343

6 318 564

7 382

ILEMBE

5 635.25

685

24 118 870

28 176

Noodsberg

849.60

714

3 636 288

4 248

Eston

737.45

487

3 156 286

3 687

UMGUNGUNDLOVU

1 587.05

1 201

6 792 574

7 935

Pongola RCL

136.60

16

584 648

683

ZULULAND

136.60

16

584 648

683

Amatikulu

4 040.22

2 661

17 292 142

20 201

Felixton/Makhatini/Jozini

4 801.75

2 596

20 551 490

24 009

KING CHETSHWAYO

8 841.97

5 257

37 843 632

44 210

     TOTALS

23 283

10 679

97 274 342.52

116 415

 

Note! The total of R97 274 342.52 excludes management fees of R1 993 024.80.

4. No. Political affiliations were not considered, and therefore, the public procurement process was followed by requests for more than three written quotations from various service providers in the sector and the responsive quotation in terms of price was approved by both SAFDA (implementing agent) with the oversight of the Department. Kynoch Fertilizer was the preferred supplier as they were also the lowest quote and even leading in this industry.

(a),(b) Fall away.

19 October 2023 - NW3050

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

With reference to her reply to question 2174 on 30 June 2023, what are the full, relevant details on all farmers, since the launch of blended finance, who received the grant funding that leveraged loan funding from the banks with regard to (a) farming type, (b) recent visitation reports by agricultural extension officers and (c)(i) successes and (ii) challenges to date?

Reply:

(a)(b),(c)(i),(ii) Please refer to Annexure A.

19 October 2023 - NW2875

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Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

Whether, with reference to the recent Manifesto review of a certain political party (details furnished) in which it is mentioned that the State has settled more than 83 000 land claims, she and/or her department provided the specified party with the figures; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) informed the figures, (b) number of land claims were lodged by the December 1998-deadline and (c) number of land claims have been settled to date?

Reply:

a) The figures were derived from the land claims database which records that a total of 83 067 claims have been settled in terms of approved Sections 42D, 42E and 35 submissions in terms of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994 (Act No. 22 of 1994).

b) About 80 000 claims lodged by 31 December 1998.

c) 83 067; the number of settled claims to date is higher than the number of claims lodged as a result of how claims were accounted for previously ie where rights in land per claim were counted as opposed to the individual claim form lodged per claim.

 

-----END----

19 October 2023 - NW2860

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Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Police

(1) What number of persons who are repeat offenders of rhino poaching have been convicted of further known rhino poaching and/or related charges as at the latest specified date for which information is available; (2) what (a) total number of the specified repeat offenders (i) are (aa) on bail awaiting trial and/or (bb) in custody awaiting trail, (ii) have absconded while on bail and (iii) were granted amnesty and released while in custody awaiting trial or released on parole or some other amnesty while serving prison sentences?

Reply:

Find here: Reply

19 October 2023 - NW3078

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Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1). Whether he has found that the 2023 annual general meeting (AGM) of Cricket South Africa (CSA) was legitimate despite the fact that five unions that failed to be compliant in terms of the CSA constitution were allowed to vote for council members; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details. (2). What (a) has he found are the main reasons for the noncompliance of the five unions with the voting rules of the CSA AGM and (b) steps will CSA take to address the noncompliance of unions? NW4144E

Reply:

(1). As the Minister I am not in a position to indicate whether the CSA elections were legitimate or not because as per the National Sport and Recreation Act (NRS) I do not get involved nor interfere in administrative matters of National Federations unless a dispute is tabled for my attention.

(2.) (a&b) I have also not been informed of any non-compliance and therefore cannot pronounce on this matter.

THANK YOU

19 October 2023 - NW3172

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Buthelezi, Mr EM to ask the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

(1)Whether she has issued any regulations and/or directives to municipalities with regard to end-of-year functions; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) (a) what resolutions have been passed by municipalities to give effect to her directives with regard to the specified functions, (b) which municipalities hosted end-of-year functions in 2022 and (c) what amount did each municipality spend on its end-of-year function; (3) whether the costs were included as part of the budget received by the municipalities from the Government; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs did not issued any regulations and/or directives to municipalities with regard to end-of-year functions. This specific matter is addressed in the Local Government: Municipal Cost Containment Regulations issued by the National Treasury as well as MFMA Circular 82.

It is recommended that honourable member redirect the question to Minister of Finance for the National Treasury to respond accordingly.

End.

19 October 2023 - NW3193

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

What is the current status of the land claim for (a) Hansmoeskraal 202, (b) Syferfontein 203 and (c) Buffelsdrift 204, which was approved on 8 May 1998 and subsequently confirmed under claim number A769?

Reply:

(a),(b),(c) The Commission on Restitution of Land Rights has no record of any claims submitted for Hansmoeskraal 202, Syferfontein 203 and Buffelsdrift 204 on or before 31 December 1998 in terms of the Restitution of Land Rights Act No. 22 of 1994.

The claim reference number A769 was lodged by the late Mr Abraham Arries for Pacaltsdorp which was dismissed as it was non-compliant with the provisions of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994. Attached as Annexure A is a copy of the non-compliance letter addressed to the claimant.

 

---END---

19 October 2023 - NW3077

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Joseph, Mr D to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture

On what date will Cricket South Africa release (a) the findings and recommendations of Judge Ngoepe’s report and (b) their implementation plan of the recommendations?

Reply:

(a). Cricket South Africa (CSA) has indicated that there were no findings or recommendations by Judge Ngoepe and

(b). There is nothing to implement.

THANK YOU

19 October 2023 - NW3048

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

What (a) are the full, relevant details of the title deed handover of Tubb’s Hill Farm in Letsitele, Tzaneen, to the Batlhabine ba Mogoboya community, (b) are the relevant details of the total cost of the farm, farm size, water, crops and infrastructure on the specified farm, (c)(i) farming activities are taking place and (ii) post settlement support is provided, (d) is the total number of beneficiaries and (e) are the relevant details of the (i) suppliers that her department procured the inputs from and (ii) total cost thereof?

Reply:

a) There are four (4) portions of the farm Tubbs Hill 650 LT which were handed over to Batlhabine ba Mogoboya Community also known as Batlhabine Communal Property Association namely; the Remaining Extent of Portion 1, the Remaining Extent of Portion 8 and Portion 11 of the farm Tubbs Hill 650 LT.

b) Please refer to the table below:

 

NAME OF THE FARM

EXTENT IN HECTARES/SIZE

LAND PURCHASE AMOUNT/COST

CROPS/

FARMING ACTIVITIES

Portion 11 of Tubbs Hill 650 LT

110.5866 ha

R5,375,888.00

Mango, Litchi, Banana orchards

R/E of Portion 8 of Tubbs Hill 650 LT

46.5116 ha

R5,650,000.00

Mango, Litchi, Banana orchards

Remaining Extent of Tubbs Hill 650 LT

108.0423 ha

   

Remaining Extent of Portion 1 of Tubbs Hill 650 LT

(Remaining Extent of Coombe Bank 649 LT included by virtue of being valued and acquired as an economic unit)

78.7672 ha

184.4299 ha

R10,274,431.00

Mango, Litchi, Banana orchards

Total

343.9077

R21 300 319.00

Water

Water is sourced from Letsitele river through canals and stored in different reservoirs including earth dams. The farms are affiliated on the Letsitele Water Board. Boreholes are also available for consumption. Micro irrigation has been installed.

Infrastructure

The farms have homesteads and sheds which are predominantly used for packing and storage. There are also staff quarters in these different farms.

(c)(i),(ii) Please refer to the table below:

NAME OF THE FARM

PORTION

FARMING ACTIVITIES

Tubbs Hill 650 LT

Portion 11

Mango, Litchi, Banana orchards

Tubbs Hill 650 LT

R/E of Portion 8

 

Tubbs Hill 650 LT

Remaining Extent

 

Coombe Bank 649 LT

Remaining Extent

 

Tubbs Hill 650 LT

Portion 1 (R/E)

 

Post Settlement support

An amount to the tune of R13 720 261 was since released for the Development Assistance of Batlhabine Communal Property Association. There are different lessees on the farms transferred to Batlhabine CPA.

d) The approved Phase 1 submission indicates that initially 213 households were verified and consequently the number has increased to 582 households upon approval of the Phase 6 submission.

(e)(i),(ii) Please refer to the table below:

SUPPLIER DETAILS

PURPOSE OF EXPENDITURE

TOTAL COST

Truck & Tractor Specialist

Purchase of Tractors

1,069,890.00

Levuboer BK

purchase of chemical spray

166,383.00

Greater Tzaneen Municipality

settlement of electricity and water bills

131,782.29

Batlhabine CPA

Transfer to CPA - Operational & capital expenses to crop farming

4,500,000.00

Petrow Agri (PTY) Ltd

Purchase of fertilizers

163,567.20

Batlhabine CPA

Transfer to CPA - Operational & capital expenses to crop farming

7,688,638.51

TOTAL

13,720,261.00

END

19 October 2023 - NW3168

Profile picture: Ngcobo, Mr SL

Ngcobo, Mr SL to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour

Whether his department has any new and/or functional strategies for curbing high unemployment and/or creating sustainable jobs; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The Department of Employment and labour does have new and existing strategies to curb unemployment in the country. These include:

1. The developed a National Employment Policy (NEP) in line with the ILO Employment Convention No C122 and Employment Policy guidelines with 09 intervention areas. The Draft policy is currently under consultations within government Departments and will be soon tabled to Cabinet before it is formally released for public comment.

2. The Draft National Labour Migration Policy and the Employment Services Amendment Bill to give effect to the policy have been finalised and are to be submitted to Cabinet once all the applicable certificates are obtained during November 2023

3. The mandate that we are executing on-behalf of the President to coordinate the National Pathway Management Network, that is bringing a range of actors in youth employment under a single roof. To give effect to this, we have contracted GTAC to assist us in managing this massive program that is working with the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative. This program has already delivered more than 800 000 employment opportunities for young people.

4. The Department also co-ordinates the Pathway Management Network, and contributes more than R 372 million annually to this process.   Through the Pathway Management Network more than 108 061 earning opportunities have been secured by youth, during the first quarter of 2023. Through the Youth Employment Service, which is a private sector initiative, more than 10 695 youth secured workplace experience opportunities, through the revitalised youth service, more than 47 000 youth gained insight into different fields of work. In collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training the Pathway Management Network has placed more than 1 6437 TVET graduates in opportunities.

5. The work we do on daily basis throughout our 126 offices, mobile units and online to assist work seekers to access work opportunities. For the period April 2023- August 2023, the Department registered more than 334, 088 new work seekers on its ESSA database. More than 77 357 work opportunities were registered by employers with the Department. And 32 444 work seekers were placed into employment opportunities. A further 142 648 work seekers were provided with life skills interventions and employment counselling interventions to help them transition to the labour market.

6. The Compensation fund has created 1,325 additional jobs. The Compensation Fund's provide bursaries that are intended to impact on the workforce by assisting those in need, creating job opportunities, and empowering marginalised youth.

7. The CCMA also assisted with the prevention of job losses. Between April 2023 and July 2023 more than 6000 jobs were saved.

8. Productivity SA’s: In Quarter 1 of 2023/24, supported 420 enterprises within 20 districts contributing to 3500 jobs. Trained a total of 667 Entrepreneurs, managers and workers, and capacitated 247 Productivity Champions. Demographics of Entrepreneurs, Workers and Managers trained indicates that of the 667 people trained, 201 are youth, 289 are women and 487 are Black Entrepreneurs as per information reported. The Business Turnaround and Recovery Programme has intervened in 30 new companies from April 2023 to date and saved 2076 jobs of which 1088 (52%) are youth.

9. The UIF through Labour Activation Employment Programmes has placed 8 523 beneficiaries into employment opportunities and over 5 723 are youth and people belonging to vulnerable groups.

10. The Department is an advocate of employment equity legislation and continues to do everything it can to change the employment demographics patterns in the broader economy. The amendments to existing legislation and the Regulations that have been published as part of our further consultations, are intended to accelerate the rate of transformation and employment of blacks in various positions.

11. The Department has 13 Factories across the country that provide employment to more than 1000 People with Disabilities. We also provide income subsidies to 9 Designated organisations on a rotational 3 years circle who employ people with disabilities within their ranks.

19 October 2023 - NW3124

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Ms N

Mhlongo, Ms N to ask the Minister of Police

With reference to the tavern shootings which have taken place in different parts of the Republic since 2022, what total number of the (a) case have been restored, (b) suspects have been apprehended as at the latest date for which information is available and (c) investigation led to successful prosecution?

Reply:

Find here: Reply

18 October 2023 - NW3074

Profile picture: Graham, Ms SJ

Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure

(1)(a) What number of applications have been received by Agrément South Africa for the approval of 3D printed housing technology, (b) is the progress of each application and (c) are the full details in terms of (i) applicant, (ii) timelines and (iii) any additional information; (2) whether any members of the specified entity are (a) employees, (b) members of the board and/or (c) part of any of the organisations that have applied; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW4140E

Reply:

The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:

1.

a) Number of Applications received

b) Progress of each application

C Full details in terms of

   

(i) Applicant

(ii) timelines

(iii) Additional Information

3

This application has progressed through the Agrément South Africa evaluation process.

Status: The application is at the final stages of evaluation, pending confirmation from the client for a site/factory visit in the USA.

Black Lion Capital

End of March 2024.

ASA will reach out to the client to finalise the anticipated site visit.

 

Progress: The application is stalled at the application review phase.

Reason: The client wants to further develop their system.

SMACT Building systems

The timeline is dependent on the client’s response.

After the peer review of the application by ASA assessment team, questions were sent SMACT, and we are still waiting for their response.

 

Progress: The application is at the assessment work offer phase; the contract of assessment is currently with the client according to Agrément South Africa records.

Status: The assessment work offer was sent to the client and has elapsed without the client’s approval; revision of the assessment work offer would be required to proceed with the project

RevCon Technologies

The timeline is dependent on the client’s response.

The initial offer was sent to RevCon on the 22/01/2020, which was not accepted by the client and it has lapsed.

2. Indicate if any ASA employee or board member is:

(a) An employee of the applicant/s

(b) members of the board of the applying organisation / company

(c) have any links with the companies that have applied

None

None

None

18 October 2023 - NW3133

Profile picture: Thembekwayo, Dr S

Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

what (a) measures have been taken by his department to repair the damages caused by bad weather at the Langa Indoor Sports Centre that was recently closed and (b) are the relevant details of the time frames that have been put in place for the reopening of the centre?

Reply:

Because the facility is owned and operated by the City of Cape Town, the Department relies on assistance through the Western Cape Provincial Cultural Affairs & Sport to request information from the City of Cape Town.

The reply as provided by the City of Cape Town has reference:-

(a). An engineering consultant was appointed to assess the extent of the damage to the roof and determine the repair methodology. This assessment was carried out using roofing tender 266 C for the repairs.

(b). The consultants have completed their inspection of the roof structure. However, the Department is currently awaiting the final report on how to repair and remedy the structure before proceeding with roof sheeting repairs.

Unfortunately, the replacement of the sheets cannot proceed until it is confirmed that the structure is sound and can support the new sheets. The goal is to prevent future damage to the roof, which means that it is essential for engineers to conduct a proper assessment and provide guidance on how to fix this issue.

It is anticipated that the Department will receive the final report by October 20th, at which point quotes can be obtained from contractors for the specified repair methodology. The reopening of the Langa Indoor Sports Centre will depend on the progress of these repairs following the consultant's recommendations.

THANK YOU

18 October 2023 - NW3079

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Mr TW

Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1). Who are the real beneficiaries of the monitoring of the airplay of South African music across radio stations; (2). Whether the collecting society and/or radio airplay is the competency of his department; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, since what date does his department give out money for establishing business concerns for persons and/or businesses. (3). whether his department has awarded a two-year tender to a certain company (name furnished); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what amount was the tender; whether the tender was advertised; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date was it advertised and (b) who are the directors of the company to whom the tender was awarded? NW4145E

Reply:

(1). The beneficiaries of airplay monitoring extend to various stakeholders within the music industry and the broader cultural landscape as well government, with each group using the data for different purposes to support the promotion and development of South African music.

(2). Section 2 of the Culture Promotion Act of 1998 grants the Department the mandate to establish, launch, or finance organisations or projects that have the potential to foster develop and promote arts and culture in the country. Therefore, monitoring airplay is about inculcating the developmental goals as provided in the said legislation. It allows, inter alia, for the Department to track the extent to which local music, representing the country's culture, is being broadcast and promoted on radio stations and other platforms, among others.

This information can help identify areas where support for local artists and music genres may be needed, aligning with the promotion of the country's cultural diversity. Airplay monitoring can also help identify emerging and talented artists who may benefit from financial support, mentorship, or other forms of assistance to further their careers. This aligns to foster and develop talent within the country's arts and culture sector.

3. Concerning the matter in this case, we do not have any records regarding the awarding of a two-year tender to a certain company.

THANK YOU

18 October 2023 - NW3081

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Mr TW

Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(a). What total amount in funding was given to the SA Arts and Culture Youth Forum (SAACYF) under the leadership of Mr Romeo Tshililo which has secured quite a number of funding for its projects from (i) his department and (ii) entities reporting to him in the past five years, (b) which projects were funded, (c) what criteria was used by his department in awarding the funds and (d) where can the reports thereof be accessed?

Reply:

(a)(i). The Department of Sport Arts and Culture provided financial support as follows during the past 5 years:

2017/18 financial year: R500 000 (Five Hundred Thousand Rand)

2018/19 financial year: R1 700 000 (One Million and Seven Hundred Thousand Rand.

(ii). The organisation was funded by the following public entities:

ENTITY

AMOUNT

FINANCIAL YEAR

PURPOSE

National Arts Council

R100 000

2020/21

Covid-19 Online Youth Arts, Culture & Heritage Programme

 

R100 000

2020/21

Strategic Initiative COVID19

 

R780 200

2020/21

Youth Arts & Culture Skills Development

 

R1 819 465

2020/21

Online & Physical Youth Arts, Culture & Heritage Programme

 

R800 000

2022/23

Young Artists Employment Project

National Heritage Council

R100 000

2018/19

Schools Advocacy programme

 

R1 000 000

2022/23

PESP 3 funding for job creation in the heritage sector

(b). 2017/18: The Project “Pad A Girl Festival”

2018/19: The project was “The Voice of the June 16”.

(c). The funding was provided through the Mzansi Golden Economy which has guidelines that articulate the criteria for funding.

(d). Upon awarding the financial support in the respective years, the Department assessed the reports and was satisfied that the entity met the criteria required for funding. The funds were accounted for by the entity.

THANK YOU

18 October 2023 - NW3080

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Mr TW

Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

(1).Whether he will furnish Mr T W Mhlongo with a copy of the report on the project submitted by a certain person (name furnished); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. 2). what steps has his department taken against the specified person and/or a certain company (name furnished) since allegations of fraud have been brought to the attention of his department in relation to the report submitted. (3). whether he has found that the person who bought the report that was submitted to him has no capacity for radio monitoring; if not, what is the position in this regard;if so, what are the relevant details. (4). whether he has found that the invoices that were submitted were fake like the one falsely claiming that Chicco has been paid for rendering services; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details. (5). whether his department will release the report submitted by the person and the company to the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture and make it public; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

This matter is currently under review by the Department. In light of this, we are not in a position to provide any further information.

THANK YOU

18 October 2023 - NW3008

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Mr TW

Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

Whether, in view of the fact that the SA Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) takes or taxes 28% of all revenue collected from all members annually, he has found that there is a need for SAMRO to charge the new, extra administration fees from independent artists and publishing companies; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

To my understanding, collecting management societies (CMOs) in the field of copyright and intellectual property, typically follow international standards and best practices when determining the management fees, they charge for their services. Many CMOs align their management fee structures with international standards and guidelines set forth by organisations like the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC). These standards provide a framework for how CMOs should operate, including their financial practices.

The important part is that CMOs often seek endorsement or approval from their members regarding the management fees. This democratic process ensures that members have a voice in fee-related matters. SAMRO, as a membership-based organisation, operates under the authority and governance of its members. In other words, the organisation's business and decision-making processes are primarily the responsibility of its members.

THANK YOU

18 October 2023 - NW3066

Profile picture: Abrahams, Ms ALA

Abrahams, Ms ALA to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure

(1)(a) What are the reasons that were given to her department by the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) as to why the five buildings that her department handed over to the GPG in December 2019 for the purpose of being used as shelters for victims of gender-based violence (GBV) are not operational, (b) by what date, has she been informed, will the buildings be operational and accessible to the victims of GBV, (c) what has been the total cost to her department since the handover in terms of (i) security, (ii) renovations and/or refurbishments and (iii) gardening and (d) what is the projected monthly cost to her department should the buildings remain closed; (2) whether there were any unforeseen costs related to the buildings; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:

(1)

(a)

- MOU was prepared in 2020, GPG referred it back stating that clauses need to be changed;

- Secondly in 2021 the department prepared lease agreement and they stated that they have don’t budget;

- The department in 2022 prepared a user agreement where it was going back and forth, until the parties (GPG, DSD and DPW&I) decided to sit together and draft in order to suit everyone;

(b)

- November 2023,

- All 5 houses are not occupied presently and they are renovated but 1 is occupied and it is used as offices.

(c)

(i) For security, from January 2019 to 31 September 2023 the amount will be R11’694’ 9927.60:

- 421 Ulundi Street in Mountain View = R58 250.14 per month

- 54 Kordaat Avenue in Die Wilgers = R60 000.00 per month

- 05 Adina Street in Waterkloof = R60 750.00 per month

- Salvakop = Not safe guarded by the department

(ii) Renovations and/or refurbishments were done through workshops (in house)

(iii) Gardening was done through workshops (in house)

(d) The projected monthly cost to the DPWI, should the buildings remain closed, is approximately R 259 887.25 for 5 to secure the buildings

(2) No. There were no unforeseen costs incurred.

18 October 2023 - NW3009

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Mr TW

Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

Whether there is a company that monitors airplay of the South African music across all radio stations; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what were the reasons that his department saw it fit to award a certain company (name and details furnished) money to establish a company that monitors airplay of the South African music in 2021?

Reply:

There are a number of private companies offering music monitoring services in the country. However, affordability can be a significant challenge for many artists, especially emerging and independent ones. While private music monitoring services offer valuable benefits, they may not be accessible to all due to associated costs. The department has in 2021 supported Away from Here Trading to run a pilot project to test and validate new technologies, methodologies, or processes for monitoring music airplay.

The pilot project collected data on the airplay of music across various platforms and locations. This data is invaluable for tracking how, when, and where music is played, which is essential for accurate royalty distribution.

Monitoring music airplay is essential for artists and copyright holders as it ensures fair compensation, transparency, and recognition in the music industry. It also provides government with data-driven insights that inform strategic decisions on matters pertaining to

protection of intellectual property rights, as we support the economic and cultural contributions of the music sector.

THANK YOU