Questions and Replies
15 September 2017 - NW2440
Mulaudzi, Adv TE to ask the Minister of Transport
With reference to the annexure to his reply to question 1875 on 3 July 2017 regarding transaction advisers, what was the monetary value of the tenders (details furnished) for which transaction advisers were used by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa for the New Rolling Stock (details furnished)?
Reply:
With reference to reply on question 1875, please note table link below:
http://pmg-assets.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/RNW2440TABLE-170915.pdf
15 September 2017 - NW1825
Dlamini, Mr MM to ask the Minister of Energy
With reference to her reply to subdivision (c) of question 1084 on 2 June 2017, can the public access the latest submissions on the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) revised assumptions, which were submitted by the end of March 2017; if so, how?
Reply:
The revised IEP and IRP will be released to the public after Cabinet Process and Approval. Once Cabinet has approved the final IRP and IEP they will be gazetted for access to Public and also submitted to Parliament.
2295. Mr M M Dlamini (EFF) to ask the Minister of Energy:
1. (a) Why has her department not yet signed the power purchase agreements for renewable energy with independent power producers and (b) by what date is it envisaged that the power purchase agreements will be signed;
2. does she intend to oppose the application for an interdict preventing the power purchase agreements from being signed; if not, why not? NW2534E
Reply:
1. (a) The Minister has addressed the nation on the matter of outstanding Power Purchase agreements for bid window 3,5 and 4 on Friday 01 September 2017 during the media briefing.
(b) It was committed that the PPA for bid window 3,5 and 4 will be signed by the end of October 2017.
(2) Yes, as the interdict will prevent government from being able to implement a mix of energy generation options that is envisaged to support our mandate on reliable, affordable energy security for the Country.
2296. Mr M M Dlamini (EFF) to ask the Minister of Energy:
1. Whether the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) as contemplated in the Electricity Regulation Act, Act 4 of 2006, will be re-published for comment; if not, why not;
2. on what dates will the IRP and IEP be promulgated;
3. whether she intends to remove the restraints on renewable energy from the draft IRP and IEP before it is published; if not, why not;
4. why does the draft IRP and IEP make provision for new coal-fired and nuclear power when it has comprehensively been shown by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research that renewable energy with additional storage capacity and gas is the most cost-effective and feasible plan for South Africa’s energy future? NW2535E
Reply:
1. The process for consultation on IRP and IEP has been concluded with the public. The current process is to finalise the policy document and gazetting the final document for implementation. Consultation on the policy is concluded and final documents will be published.
2. Target for promulgation is end of February 2018.
3. Minister will not interfere with the policy development process outside the prescribed laws, as this will be illegal.
4. The final IRP and IEP will be communicated and promulgated once concluded, currently we don’t have a final position to communicate.
2344. Mr G Mackay (DA) to ask the Minister of Energy:
Whether, in relation to recent activities at the Central Energy Fund, she will furnish Mr G Mackay with copies of (a) a letter drafted by a certain person (name furnished) to her predecessor to obtain a ministerial directive on 6 October 2015, (b) her predecessor’s response dated 3 June 2016 and (c) the subsequent ministerial directive of her predecessor; if not, in each case, why not; if so, by what date in each case? NW2589E
Reply:
The investigation on the sale of strategic fuel fund is still not concluded and therefore all documents that relates to the matter will not be released until all process are concluded. Once all processes have been concluded all reports and all any other documents will be referred to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee for consideration. We are expecting that all the work will be concluded by latest November 2017.
15 September 2017 - NW2663
Bozzoli, Prof B to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training
(a) What was the total level of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) debt at the end of each of the past 10 financial years and (b) with reference to his reply to question 1624 on 27 June 2017, how was the writing off of the amount authorised?
Reply:
(a) 2007/08 – R 4 849 491 000.00 (CV)
2008/09 – R 5 673 565 000.00 (CV)
2009/10 – R 10 531 363 000.00 (NV)
2010/11 – R 12 300 874 000.00 (NV)
2011/12 – R 13 478 563 000.00 (NV)
2012/13 – R 15 800 011 000.00 (NV)
2013/14 – R 18 592 565 000.00 (NV)
2014/15 – R 21 255 073 000.00 (NV)
2015/16 – R 24 168 458 000.00 (NV)
2016/17 – R 29 810 775 000.00 (NV)
NV / Nominal Value: Total gross value of debtors before impairment
CV / Carrying Value: Net value of debtors after accounting adjustments for impairment
(b) The entity writes-off a student loan and any related allowances for impairment losses, when the entity determines that the loan is uncollectable. This determination is made after notification of the death or permanent disability of the borrower. A list of identity numbers is verified against the Department of Home Affairs database on an annual basis for verification of borrowers that are deceased. For disability, medical certification is required. The individual loans are then written off on approval by the Board.
COMPILER/CONTACT PERSONS:
EXT:
DIRECTOR – GENERAL
STATUS:
DATE:
QUESTION 2663 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED
Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP
MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING
STATUS:
DATE:
15 September 2017 - NW2441
Mulaudzi, Adv TE to ask the Minister of Transport
With reference to the annexure to his reply to question 1875 on 3 July 2017 regarding transaction advisers, what was the monetary value of the following tenders for which transaction advisers were used by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, (a) Smec/Vela VK for the Rolling Stock and Depot Upgrade 2013-2014 (HO/EPMO/023/08/2011), (b) Gibb for the Rolling Stock and Depot Upgrade 2013-2014 (HO/EPMO/023/08/2011), (c) KPMG for the Rolling Stock and Depot Upgrade 2013-2014 (HO/EPMO/023/08/2011), and (d) Ledwaba Mazwai Attorneys for the Rolling Stock and Depot Upgrade 2013-2014 (HO/EPMO/023/08/2011)?
Reply:
Monetary value paid for Rolling Stock and Depot Upgrade number HO/EPMO/023/08/2011:
Transaction Advisers |
Tender |
Monetary Value of Tender |
Amount paid to Transaction Advisor |
Transaction Advisory Cost as % of Tender |
a) SMEC/Vela VKE |
Modernisation of Braamfontein Depot |
2 300 000 000 |
4 363 783 |
|
b) GIBB |
4 363 783 |
|||
(c)KPMG |
3 888 574 |
|||
(d)Ledwaba Mazwai |
12 540 000 |
|||
2 300 000 000 |
25 156 141 |
1.09% |
15 September 2017 - NW2667
Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training
(a) How many (i) university and (ii) technical and vocational education and training college campuses are built on land owned or under the custody of traditional leaders and (b) what is the (i) name of each respective institution and (ii) location of each campus; (2) are there plans in place to transfer ownership of the land in the future; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; and (3) whether there have been any administrative problems that have resulted from the arrangement?
Reply:
Universities
(1) (a) Three university sites are built on Tribal Authority land.
(b) The names of these university sites are:
University of Venda in Thohoyandou;
University of Zululand in Kwa-Dlangezwa; and
Walter Sisulu University - Ibika, Butterworth Zazulwana location.
(2) The Departments of Higher Education and Training, and Public Works have established a joint task team on post-school education and training infrastructure with one of its mandates being to help facilitate the transfer of land/property, where possible and if required.
(3) The following administrative challenges are being experienced:
- The University of Venda is unable to complete the fencing of the whole campus due to a dispute with the Traditional Council on a portion of the land to be fenced.
- The University of Zululand has been struggling to get a confirmation letter from the local Tribal Authority for the land to be transferred as required by the Provincial Department of Rural Development and Land Reform.
- The Tribal Authority has agreed that the land be transferred to the Walter Sisulu University and the Minister of Land Affairs approved the agreement in 2010 but the actual transfer has not yet taken place.
Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges
(1) (a) Seven college sites have been reported to be built on Tribal Authority land.
(b) (i) The names of these colleges are:
Gert Sibande TVET College;
Elangeni TVET College;
Letaba TVET College;
Capricorn TVET College; and
Umgungundlovu TVET College.
(ii) The Department is in in the process of verifying the location and type of ownership of these sites.
(2) At present, the Department is assisting colleges to secure the relevant ownership documentation for each site, including land owned by Traditional Authorities.
(3) The Department is not aware of any administrative issues on any of these sites.
COMPILER/CONTACT PERSONS:
EXT:
DIRECTOR – GENERAL
STATUS:
DATE:
QUESTION 2667 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED
Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP
MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING
STATUS:
DATE:
14 September 2017 - NW537
Mileham, Mr K to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether, with reference to his reply to question 2150 on 9 November 2016 and noting the requirements of section 7(3) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, Act 56 of 2003, the VBS Mutual Bank is a registered bank according to the Banks Act, Act 94 of 1990; if not, why has no action been taken against any of the specified municipalities that deposit funds with the specified bank; if so, (a) on what date was the bank registered and (b) what are the further relevant details in this regard; (2) whether any action will be taken in future to prevent further deposits by municipalities with the bank; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. (a) VBS Mutual Bank was established in 1982 and initially operated as the Venda Building Society in the former Venda Homeland. VBS Mutual Bank (VBS) is registered with the South African Reserve Bank and operates under banking license No. 1051 in terms of the Mutual Banks Act of 1993. The bank was granted a permanent Mutual Bank license on 11 October 2000.
(b) VBS Mutual Bank is not registered under the Banks Act of 1990 and therefore does not have a commercial banking license. It is one of three banks currently registered as mutual banks in South Africa. However, as stated in the MFMA, municipalities are free to use the banking services of any of the 17 banks licensed in terms of the Banks Act of 1990, but not with a bank operating in terms of the Mutual Banks Act of 1993.
2. VBS is allowed to accept deposit in terms of section 54(1) (a) of the Mutual Banks Act, 1993 which reads as follows, “A mutual bank may, subject to the provision of this Act and such directives as may from time to time be issued by the Registrar- a) accept deposits and grant loans, advances or other credit in the Republic.”
The National Treasury will communicate with specific municipalities, in this regard.
14 September 2017 - NW2598
Paulsen, Mr N M to ask the Minister of Science and Technology
When are the application dates (a) opening and (b) closing for the board positions of all entities and councils reporting to her?
Reply:
Entities reporting to the Minister of Science and Technology:
Entity |
Current Board/Council expiry date |
(a) Opening of applications |
(b) Closing of applications |
HSRC |
31/10/2017 |
31 March 2017 |
21 April 2017 |
NACI |
31/07/2018 |
Not later than December 2017 |
Within 30 days after publication of the advert |
SANSA |
31/08/2018 |
Not later than January 2018 |
|
NRF |
30/09/2018 |
Not later than February 2018 |
|
CSIR |
31/12/2018 |
Not later than April 2018 |
|
SACNASP |
30/04/2019 |
Not later than August 2018 |
|
ASSAF |
31/10/2020 |
Not later than February 2020 |
|
TIA |
30/04/2021 |
NOT later than August 2020 |
Comments:
There are no specific application dates of opening and closing for the board positions of entities and council reporting to the Minister. However, the reconstitution process to appoint the new Boards/Councils is initiated eight months prior to the expiry date of an individual Board/Council.
14 September 2017 - NW2397
Chance, Mr R to ask the Minister of Small Business Development
Whether her department has (a) conducted any investigations into the (i) business model of and (ii) impact of and/or (b) considered the extent to which the operations of the Small Enterprise Foundation based in Tzaneen provide a model for large-scale financial support for women-owned small-, medium- and micro-sized enterprises; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?”
Reply:
(a)(i) SEFA has been supporting SEF’s activities since the days of Khula Enterprise Finance. The basis of the support was a thoroughly conducted due diligence (investigation) to determine the appropriateness of their model to discharge the Government mandate to expand and strengthen microenterprises in South Africa. SEF has raised facilities with SEFA since 2005 when it borrowed R9,6 million until recently when it borrowed R30 million. Each time SEF has gone to SEFA for loans, a new due diligence that interrogates SEF’s business model has been conducted, with the findings contained in the submission to SEFA’s Executive Committee for consideration.
(ii) SEFA has a balanced scorecard that it strives to achieve through its activities and partnerships. The scorecard includes the following:
• Facilities disbursed in priority Provinces (Numbers and Rand Values)
• Facilities disbursed to Youth (18 – 35 years of age) (Numbers and Rand Values)
• Facilities disbursed to Women (Numbers and Rand Values)
• Facilities disbursed to Blacks (Numbers and Rand Values)
• Facilities disbursed to entrepreneurs with disability (Numbers and Rand Values)
• Number of jobs facilitated (created and maintained)
Whenever a funding proposal is submitted to SEFA, the subsequent due diligence interrogates the performance of the applicant against this scorecard. SEF has continually been assessed against these parameters and confirmed to have a huge impact on almost all of them except the facilities to people with disabilities. In addition, as part of the monthly reporting protocol for all approved funding applicants, monthly performance data is submitted to SEFA and is strictly monitored by SEFA’s Post Investment and Monitoring (PIM) Division.
SEF’s development statistics are also collected according to this process. Furthermore, SEFA conducts random monitoring visits that include interviewing SEF’s clients to determine the impact of the loans extended to them. The feedback obtained has further highlighted the impact of the government funding to women channelled through SEF. Currently, SEF operates in five (5) priority Provinces of Limpopo, North West, Northern Cape, Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape. Over 99% of their portfolio is to women. More than 60% of all development statistics reported by SEFA on an annual basis are achieved through partnership with SEF.
(b) The SEF business model derives from the iconic Grameen Bank lending model. It utilizes solidarity groups made of up to five (5) women each. Seven of these groups get together to form a “centre”. The “centre” becomes the administrative machinery for not only assessing and recommending loans to members, but also the authority to ensure that all loans are collected. Other benefits that come from the “centres” include peer support for both business and social purposes. In many countries, the “centres” become the mechanism to empower women on a number of other social matters including HIV/AIDS education, nutrition and sanitation. SEF interacts with its clients through the group and “centre” meetings and provides the essential business education for strengthening the microenterprises.
Given the success of SEF and similarly structured programmes here in South Africa and elsewhere, it has been established that SEF’s business model is absolutely appropriate for providing large scale financial support for women-owned small-medium- and micro-sized businesses.
14 September 2017 - NW2623
Maynier, Mr D to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)With reference to mandatory cost containment measures announced by the National Treasury, by what amount did expenditure on (a) consultants, (b) travel and subsistence, (c) catering and events, (d) entertainment, (e) advertising, (f) newspapers and advertising, (g) conference and (h) any other specified expenditure item(s) decrease in each department, constitutional institution and public entity listed in Schedules 2 and 3 of the Public Finance Management Act, Act 1 of 1999, as amended, in the 2016-17 financial year and since 1 April 2017; (2) What is the total amount of expenditure in each of the specified categories in each of the specified financial years?
Reply:
This reply provides additional information to supplement the information provided in the reply to the above question, dated 12 September 2017. The first reply focussed mainly on the preliminary outcome for 2016/17 and the first 5 months of the 2017/18 financial year. In the tables below data is provided from 2013/14, the base year for the introduction of the cost containment measures. Data for 2017/18 has been updated with the latest spending data as at 31 August 2017. Historical data has been extracted from the financial systems of government and might differ from the published financial statements of departments, as all data has been mapped to the 2017/18 version of the chart of accounts.
1. Total expenditure by national departments on items that relate to the mandatory cost containment measures decreased in nominal terms by R2.1 billion from 2013/14 to 2016/17, an average annual decrease of 5.4 per cent. This implies a real decline of R4.5 billion (in 2016 Rands) or a real average annual percentage decrease, after taking the effect of inflation into account, of 10.5 per cent. Table 1 below provides a consolidated summary of expenditure items related to the cost containment instruction note for national government. Details by national department is provided in the attached annexure A. The table provides actual expenditure for the 2013/14, 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years, (mapped to the 2017/18 version of the chart of accounts), as well as the preliminary outcome for 2016/17 and data for the first 5 months of 2017/18.
Table 1: Summary of expenditure on cost containment related items: National departments 1 see the link below:
http://pmg-assets.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/RNW2623Table1-170926.pdf
- Excludes Parliament
Total expenditure by provinces on items that relate to the mandatory cost containment measures increased in nominal terms by R182.2 million from 2013/14 to 2016/17, an average annual increase of 0.6 per cent. However, this implies a real decline of R1.7 billion (in 2016 Rands) or a real average annual percentage decrease, after taking the effect of inflation into account, of 4.8 per cent. Table 2 below provides a consolidated summary of expenditure items related to the cost containment instruction note for all provinces. Details by province is provided in the attached annexure B. The table below provides actual expenditure for the 2013/14, 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years, (mapped to the 2017/18 version of the chart of accounts), as well as the preliminary outcome for 2016/17 and data for the first 5 months of 2017/18.
As indicated in the previous response, expenditure information on these spending items is not available for constitutional institutions and public entities listed in Schedules 2 and 3 to the PFMA since these institutions utilise different entity controlled financial systems for their payments.
Table 2: Summary of expenditure on cost containment related items: All provinces see the link below:
http://pmg-assets.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/RNW2623Table2-170926.pdf
2. The total expenditure in relation to (a) consultants, (b) travel and subsistence (c) catering (d) entertainment (e) advertising (f) newspapers and publications (g) conferences and (h) other related expenditure for the 2016/2017 financial year amounts to R11.5 billion for national departments and R10.4 billion for provinces, as indicated in Tables 1 and 2 above. Corresponding expenditure from 1 April 2017 to 31 August 2017 amounts to R4.2 billion for national departments and R4.7 billion for provinces. Details of expenditure by national department is provided in annexure A and a summary of expenditure by province is provided in annexure B.
See the link for AnnexureA and B: http://pmg-assets.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/RNW2623Annexure_-170926.pdf
14 September 2017 - NW2624
Maynier, Mr D to ask the Minister of Finance
Whether there were any requests for deviations from the mandatory cost containment measures announced by the National Treasury (a) in the 2016-17 financial year and (b) since 1 April 2017; if not, what is the National Treasury’s policy position with regard to requests for deviations in the specified financial year and period; if so, (i) what is the name of the department, constitutional entity and/or public entity that made a request for a deviation, (ii) when was each deviation (aa) requested and (bb) approved and/or denied, (iii) what was the nature of each specified deviation requested, (iv) what was the motivation for requesting each deviation and (v) why was the specified deviation request approved and/or denied in each case?
Reply:
(a) Yes, the received deviations by the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer are indicated in the table below.
(b) Yes, the received deviations by the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer are indicated in the table below.
(i) Name of Department |
(ii) When was each deviation |
(iii)The nature of each specified deviation requested |
(iv) The motivation for requesting each deviation |
(v) Why was the specified deviation request approved and/or denied in each case |
|
(aa) Requested |
(bb) Approved and/or denied |
||||
Department of Military Veterans |
19 June 2017 |
Approved |
Business Class travel Require guidance on travel provisions for members of the DMV’s Appeals Board and Advisory Council that are appointed in terms of sections 9 and 19 of the Military Veterans Act 18 of 2011 and not in terms of Section 12A of the Public Service Act of 1994 as was previously indicated. |
|
|
The Presidency |
31 March 2017 |
Not approved |
Request to exceed the maximum allowance rate per star grading for domestic hotel accommodation |
|
National Treasury does not give blanket approvals to deviate from cost containment measures. |
The Presidency |
29 August 2017 |
Under review |
Request for deviation from Instruction Note No. 4 of 2017/18 for essential core staff to travel in the same class when accompanying the President and Deputy-President on commercial flights. |
Arrangement of commercial air travel on occasion, including accommodating of essential core staff travelling with principals. |
In efforts to minimise cost, the Presidency will on occasion arrange for commercial air travel for the President and Deputy President. On such occasions, it is critical that essential core staff traveling with the Principals be accommodated in the same class during the flights. The core staff comprises, but is not limited to, Private/Assistant Private Secretary, Presidential Aide, Medical Doctor and two Close Protectors. The National Treasury Instruction Note No. 4 of 2017/18 makes provision for business class travel for certain ranks. However, this excludes the core support staff of the Principals due to ranks not covered, irrespective of duration of travel. |
Department of Labour |
20 July 2017 |
Approved on condition that the newspapers are not procured for personal use of employees |
Procurement of newspapers and magazines |
The newspapers are for comprehensive monitoring of the mass media, the development of media analysis and research solutions and delivering of most appropriate interventions as a key element of the strategic management function. |
Newspapers are for comprehensive monitoring of the mass media, the development of media analysis and research solutions and delivering of most appropriate interventions as this is a key element of the strategic management function. |
14 September 2017 - NW2629
Figlan, Mr AM to ask the Minister of Finance
Whether any measures have been put in place in each municipality in Gauteng to ensure that they are equipped to implement the National Treasury’s new Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts (mSCOA); if not, why not in each case; if so, what (a) is the current status of implementation of the mSCOA in each case and (b) are the further relevant details?
Reply:
The National Treasury provided various types of support to municipalities for the implementation of mSCOA. The following initiatives were undertaken in preparation of the affected environment, with a specific focus on the Gauteng province:
1. After promulgation of the mSCOA Regulations, the mSCOA chart was rigorously tested and refined by piloting in selected municipalities. Gauteng pilot municipalities were Cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni.
2. A dedicated website was established to assist municipalities in understanding, educating and implementation of mSCOA, including information such as the project summary document, chart versions, Municipal SCOA circulars, presentations, etc:
3. The mSCOA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Portal was established, an internet based database tool for logging and responding to mSCOA related queries in March 2015 and is available to all municipalities.
4. Ongoing technical guidance and support to municipalities in the form of Circulars:
- mSCOA Circulars No. 1 to 6 provided guidance on mSCOA implementation; and
- MFMA Circular No. 80 and its addendum set out the proposed minimum ICT and business process functionality to enable transacting against mSCOA with effect 1 July 2017.
5. All the circulars were extensively consulted and also published on the National Treasury website.
6. The Transversal Tender: Local Government Financial Management and Internal Control Systems (RT25-2016 in the Government Tender Bulletin of 4 March 2016) was issued to support all municipalities that decided to make any system change(s) and / or upgrade(s).
7. Support provided through various mSCOA National and provincial forums, including mSCOA work groups, vendor forum(s) / platforms and a National Integrated Communication Forum involving the Gauteng Provincial Treasury and Gauteng pilot municipalities. These sessions were duplicated by the Gauteng Provincial Treasury in mSCOA, CFO and other relevant provincial forums.
8. Provided training across the affected environment, which included:
- A one-day training initiative: ‘Demystifying mSCOA’, which was attended by 118 Gauteng officials on 8 December 2014;
- 2-day non-accredited mSCOA training sessions was rolled-out for piloting municipalities, system vendors, and provincial treasuries. Gauteng delegates participated on 5 and 6 May 2015, with concurrent metro specific sessions facilitated with the Cities of Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg and Tshwane;
- 3-day non-accredited sessions for all non-pilot municipalities was rolled-out to ensure that all non-pilot municipalities have a clear understanding of mSCOA and impact this will have on their respective municipalities. The training was attended by 71 officials in Gauteng comprising of 39 and 29 from municipalities and provincial treasury respectively.
- Drawing closer to phase 4 project-end, a strategic partnership was concluded resulting in the future outsourcing of all project related training (accredited and- non-accredited) through a strategic partnership with the Certified Institute of Government Finance Audit and Risk Officers (CIGFARO (previously IMFO)) in cooperation with SALGA with effect 01 December 2016.
- Dedicated support through the placement of a mSCOA Advisor as part of mSCOA project phase 4 (01 February 2016 to 31 March 2017) for project phase 5 (01 June 2017 to 31 March 2020) to the Gauteng Provincial Treasury to support municipalities in the province.
(a) & (b) The current status of implementation in Gauteng can be summarised as follows:
(i) All Gauteng municipalities successfully submitted both their tabled and adopted budgets in the mSCOA data string to the Local Government Database hosted by the National Treasury;
(ii) 3 of the 11 Gauteng municipalities (City of Johanesburg, Ekurhuleni and Midvaal) successfully submitted MFMA section 71 reports in the mSCOA data strings;
(iii) 5 of the 11 Gauteng municipalities (City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane, Emfuleni, Rand West City and Sedibeng) successfully submitted their integrated development plans in the mSCOA data string format;
(iv) The recent mSCOA transaction verification assessments conducted by the National Treasury and Gauteng Provincial Treasury on whether municipalities are transacting across selected test areas refers. Verification was completed for 7 municipalities, none of the verified municipalities in Gauteng is transacting across all the 8 selected test areas. The verified municipalities are partially transacting across some test areas. Each municipality not fully transacting across the 8 areas assessed, National Treasury and Gauteng Treasury are engaging all affected municipalities individually on their project plan to reach full transacting together with concurrent hands-on-support.
14 September 2017 - NW2595
Shivambu, Mr F to ask the Minister of Finance
When are the application dates (a) opening and (b) closing for the board positions of all entities and councils reporting to the National Treasury?
Reply:
The opening and closing dates for the advertisement for vacancies for the Board positions for entities and councils reporting to the Minister of Finance was:
a) 11 June 2017
b) 23 June 2017
14 September 2017 - NW2571
Ketabahle, Ms V to ask the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services
When are the application dates (a) opening and (b) closing for the board positions of all entities and councils reporting to him?
Reply:
I have been informed by the Department as follows:
(a) With regard to all the entities reporting to me, no request was issued inviting applications for board positions.
Applications for appointment to the National Cybersecurity Advisory Council (NCAC) opened mid-April 2017.
(b) Applications for appointment to the National Cybersecurity Advisory Council (NCAC closed on the 30th April 2017 and the Department received 34 applications.
14 September 2017 - NW2316
Rabotapi, Mr MW to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)With reference to his reply to question 1755 on 20 July 2017 with regard to the protective service officers allotted to the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), what is the total expenditure for this service in (a) each of the past five financial years and (b) since 1 April 2017; (2) with regard to the protective service officers allotted to the (a) spouse of the Commissioner of SARS and (b) staff members of SARS, what is the total expenditure for each service in (i) each of the past five financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2017; (3) (a) on what date was the last threat and risk assessment done for (i) the Commissioner of SARS and (ii) the spouse of the Commissioner of SARS and (b) on what date is each case set to be reviewed again?
Reply:
1. (a) The number of Protective Service Officers (PSO) is determined by the Threat and Risk Assessment (TRA) which is compiled in advance by South African Police. By divulging the number protectors allotted to the Commissioner will bridge security measures currently in place.
Total expenditure is dependent on the employee grade see breakdown below:
Period: 2013/14 |
Minimum of grade 4B pa |
Midpoint of grade 4B pa |
Maximum of grade 4B pa |
01 April ‘13-31 March 2014 |
202 608 |
270 144 |
337 668 |
Cell Phone |
R650 |
||
Uniform Allowance |
R4,765 |
Period: 2014/15 |
Minimum of grade 4B pa |
Midpoint of grade 4B pa |
Maximum of grade 4B pa |
1 April 2014–31 March 2015 |
215 508 |
295 212 |
374 916 |
Cell phone |
R650 |
||
Uniform Allowance |
R5 060.43 |
Period: 2015/16 |
Minimum of grade 4B pa |
Midpoint of grade 4B pa |
Maximum of grade 4B pa |
1April 2015–31 March 2016 |
228 504 |
313 008 |
397 524 |
Cell Phone |
R500 |
||
Uniform Allowance |
R 5 313.58 |
Period: 2016/17 |
Minimum of grade 4B pa |
Midpoint of grade 4B pa |
Maximum of grade 4B pa |
1April 2016–31 March 2017 |
237 984 |
317 316 |
396 648 |
Cell Phone |
R400 |
||
Uniform Allowance |
R 7 226.47 |
b) The total expenditure for this service in (b) since 1 April 2017.
Period: 2017 |
Minimum of grade 4B pa |
Midpoint of grade 4B pa |
Maximum of grade 4B pa |
1April 2016–31 March 2017 |
R237 984 |
R336 024 |
R396 648 |
Cell phone |
R500 |
||
Uniform Allowance |
Not yet paid |
(2) With regard to protective service officers allotted to (a) the spouse of the Commissioner and (b) staff members of SARS, please refer to the response at 1(a) and (b) above.
(3) (a) The South African Revenue Service does not conduct Threat and Risk Assessments (TRA) either (i) for the Commissioner and (ii) the Commissioner’s spouse. (b) The TRA is compiled in advance by the South African Police Services; SARS is therefore unable to confirm when each case is set to be reviewed.
13 September 2017 - NW2360
van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)With reference to emergency food relief, (a) what is the total number of food parcels that have been provided to families by her department and/or any entity reporting to her over the past 12 months, (b) what is the total number of communities that were provided with food parcels and (c) what are the (i) name and (ii) number of each province in which food parcels were provided; (2) did the provision of the emergency food relief ever coincide with by-elections in any of the areas; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2508E
Reply:
1. The social relief of distress is an on-going, legislated programme which is implemented every year in every province in response to identified needs. This programme provides material assistance to citizens who experience a crisis, which is beyond their ability to deal with within their own resources. The assistance is provided for a temporary period only. This period may vary from one to three months, which may be extended to six months, under certain circumstances.
SASSA manages the social relief of distress programme in line with the provisions as legislated in the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (as amended). The legislation empowers SASSA to provide social relief of distress to South African citizens, permanent residents and refugees, where they meet certain criteria. One of the criteria is that social relief of distress may be provided where communities are affected by a disaster, even where that area is not declared a disaster area. This enables SASSA to respond to localized incidents such as floods, fire and other disasters.
The social relief of distress may be issued in the form of food vouchers, food parcels, school uniforms or cash, depending on the reason for the issuing of the social relief of distress, as well as the specific arrangements made in the affected province. Where social relief of distress is provided as a response to disasters, the assistance may take the form of pre-cooked hot meals, meal packs, blankets, dignity packs and/or mattresses. The actual assistance provided will depend on the specific needs of the affected communities. In addition to the immediate humanitarian assistance provided, in instances where the affected community lost all their possessions, for example in the case of fire, the families may be provided with a once off cash amount when they are ready to return to their homes. This is to assist in buying some of the household items which were lost in the disaster. However, SASSA does not provide household items as part of the social relief of distress programme.
Within the social relief of distress programme, there are projects such as zero hunger which targets children with limited nutritional resources, seasonal farm workers to support seasonal farm workers during their lay- off period, school uniforms for children whose families cannot afford to buy the uniforms.
For every citizen assisted with social relief of distress, there is an application process followed, to ensure eligibility for the assistance. For humanitarian assistance provided in response to disasters, SASSA provides the relief off lists provided by the local disaster response team in the municipality.
The tables below reflect the amounts spent on social relief of distress for the financial year 2016/2017 and 2017(April to August)
Social relief of distress expenditure per region for the financial year 2016/17
Region |
Budget amount |
Amount spent |
Eastern Cape |
116 000 000 |
94 447 000 |
Free State |
35 000 000 |
33 401 000 |
Gauteng |
78 000 000 |
66 674 000 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
132 000 000 |
124 247 000 |
Limpopo |
82 000 000 |
81 213 000 |
Mpumalanga |
48 000 000 |
47 518 000 |
Northern Cape |
50 000 000 |
18 477 000 |
North West |
46 000 000 |
43 906 000 |
Western Cape |
93 000 000 |
76 309 000 |
|
680 000 000 |
587 192 000 |
Social relief of distress expenditure per region for the financial year 2017/18
(April to July 2017)
Region |
Budget amount |
Amount spent |
Eastern Cape |
96 000 000 |
9 187 743 |
Free State |
36 000 000 |
7 504 300 |
Gauteng |
80 000 000 |
13 321 756 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
100 000 000 |
14 709 053 |
Limpopo |
84 000 000 |
16 509 652 |
Mpumalanga |
50 000 000 |
8 074 750 |
Northern Cape |
25 000 000 |
6 663 536 |
North West |
45 000 000 |
2 087 575 |
Western Cape |
84 000 000 |
7 067 466 |
Total |
600 000 000 |
85 125 832 |
No of food parcels issued April 2016 to July 2017
Region |
No of food parcels issued 2016/03 to 2017/07 |
Eastern Cape |
103 801 |
Free State |
47,035 |
Gauteng |
51,548 |
KwaZulu Natal |
69,310 |
Limpopo |
74,263 |
Mpumalanga |
39,937 |
Northern Cape |
26,988 |
North West |
9,080 |
Western Cape |
22,246 |
Total |
444,208 |
2. SASSA manages the social relief of distress programme in line with the provisions as legislated in the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (as amended). The legislation empowers SASSA to provide social relief of distress to South African citizens, permanent residents and refugees, where they meet qualifying criteria.
13 September 2017 - NW2055
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Social Development
How are the beneficiaries of her department’s Food and Nutrition Programme identified?
Reply:
The beneficiaries of the Food and Nutrition Security Programme are identified through the profilling of househlods by Community Development Practitioners (CDPs). This is an exercise that is undertaken to identify needy households and programme beneficiaries for planning to devise strategies to alleviate poverty and improve service delivery. The most poor and vulnerable household with no source of income and food are identified and referred to relevant programme interventions including appropriate nutrition support.
13 September 2017 - NW2685
Moteka, Mr PG to ask the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform
(a) What role has a certain person (name furnished) played in the Ndabeni land claimants conflicts and (b) is the involvement of the specified person in the land claim sanctioned by his department?
Reply:
a) A complaint was lodged with the Office of the Deputy Minister Skwatsha by beneficiaries about the trust selling the land.
b) Mr Max Ozinsky was chief of staff in the office of Deputy Minister Skwatsha.
13 September 2017 - NW2274
van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Social Development
With regard to the contract signed by the SA Post Office (SAPO) and the SA Social Security Agency (SASSA), (a) what is the monetary value of the contract, (b) what is the period of the contract and (c) was it the assessment of her department that SASSA and SAPO will be able to comply with the Constitutional Court deadline with regard to the timeframes to be adhered to in order to pay the grants on behalf of the State?
Reply:
a) There is no contract between SAPO and SASSA.
b) Not applicable.
c) Not applicable.
13 September 2017 - NW2481
Steyn, Ms A to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesQUESTION
(1) Whether any funding has been set aside to deal with the recent outbreak of Avian Influenza in the country; if not, why not; if so, how much funding has been set aside; (2) whether his department has put any measures in place to protect the country’s (a) poultry and (b) ostrich industries from the effects of the Avian Influenza outbreak; if not, why not, in each case; if so, (i) what are the relevant details of the measures that have been put in place and (ii) will he furnish Ms A Steyn with a copy of his department’s strategy in this regard; (3) whether (a) poultry and (b) ostrich farmers will receive compensation when they are called upon to cull birds; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2738E
Reply:
1. The Department has not set aside any funds for the recent Avian Influenza outbreak. The Department has however requested Ministers Committee on the Budget (MINCOMBUD) for funds to be allocated for the control of the outbreak and for paying compensation.
2. (a) (b) The industries have been advised to improve their biosecurity measures to prevent introduction of avian influenza into their establishments through direct and indirect contact with wild birds.
The Department has a Contingency Plan (attachment A) for the control of Avian Influenza which was signed into effect in 2009; there has been slight modification in the implementation considering the evolution of science in the last 7 years.
As soon as Avian Influenza cases were reported in Zimbabwe, a meeting was held with the poultry vets and companies on 9 June 2017 to discuss the then situation in Zimbabwe and sharpen our preparedness; it was highlighted in this meeting that all facilities need to improve their biosecurity measures.
Another meeting was held with the Poultry vets on 29 June 2017 following the first two cases in South Africa where the contingency plan was discussed.
The Directorate continues to meet with the South African Poultry Association (SAPA), the Poultry Disease Management Agency of SAPA and the executive of the South African Veterinary Association’s poultry interest group on a weekly basis (unless members are not available). These meetings focus on pertinent issues with regards to the control measures, market access, etc.
At the beginning of the outbreak, the Department had suspended the sale and distribution of culls in an attempt to curb further spread of the disease since layer farms had been affected, and the extent of the outbreak was not yet known at that time. The necessary control measures have subsequently been put in place with the help of the South African Poultry Association.
Attached are letters (attachment B and C) which have been sent to the Provincial Directors outlining the control measures.
3. (a) (b)The Department will not compensate birds culled which are infected or have been in contact with poultry infected with HPAI. Chickens infected with HPAI show an extremely high mortality rate within a very short period and no part of the carcasses can be used for any purpose except for the production of compost on site. The value of infected poultry is zero. Eggs from infected sites must be destroyed as per the instruction on the quarantine notice and such eggs are also considered to have no value.
Detailed guidelines on how compensation will be applied for the culling of uninfected birds are currently being developed.
13 September 2017 - NW2054
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)(a) Out of the total population of children, what is the total number of children aged (i) 0-1, (ii) 1-2, (iii) 2-3 and (iv) 3-4 who attend early childhood development (ECD) centres funded by her department and (b)(i) what amount of funding does her department allocate for each child and (ii) what is the funding intended for; (2) whether all the ECD centres that are funded by her department provide food to the children who attend; if not, why not; if so, does her department prescribe a set menu? NW2275E
Reply:
(1) (a) At the time of responding to the questionnaire according to the set deadline, the national Department of Social Development had not yet received inputs from the provinces since the parliamentary question needs provincial inputs.
(1) (b) (i) The Department is funding R15 per child per day in 8 provinces and R17 per child in KwaZulu-Natal.
- (b) (ii) The funding is meant to provide for the following:
- Nutritional meals for children (50%)
- Educational material for the stimulation of children (30%)
- Subsidize salaries of ECD practitioners (20%).
(2) All centres that are receiving a subsidy for funding, provide meals for the children. The Department of Social Development works in collaboration with the Department of Health to assist in the provisioning of a set menu for the ECD centres.
13 September 2017 - NW2032
Jooste, Ms K to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)What will the proposed state-funded funeral benefits for elderly social grant beneficiaries entail; (2) will the 10% deduction for the state-funded funeral benefits be made only from the old age grant; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the further relevant details?
Reply:
1. The Department of Social Development has proposed an amendment to the Social Assistance Act to make provisions for funeral benefits. This amendment Bill has gone out for public comments, which have been considered. The department will approach Cabinet in the course of the next few months for approval to take the amendment to Parliament. If parliament approves the Social Assistance amendment Bill that makes provisions for the Funeral Benefit, the department will develop a set of regulations outlining the administration and other criteria of the benefit. The department is currently conducting consultations in preparation for the drafting of the regulations. The benefit levels will be determined at implementation and annually; and will be gazetted as with the other social grants.
2. Regulation 26A provides for a maximum of 10% to be deducted from an Older Persons’ grant, a Disability Grant or a War Veteran’s grant, for funeral insurance. This applies only to private insurance companies (not the state), to allow beneficiaries to access funeral insurance in the absence of the state providing such benefits.
13 September 2017 - NW1666
Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1)Whether the Motau task team which was established by her to investigate procurement transgressions has finalised its work; if not, by what date will the task team finalise its work; if so, what are the relevant details of the findings; (2) whether she will furnish Ms T E Baker with a copy of the specified task team’s report; if not, why not; if so, by what date?
Reply:
Yes, the Motau Task Team has finalised its work. I am still reviewing the findings of the report and will furnish Parliament with the report in due course.
---00O00---
13 September 2017 - NW1997
Khawula, Ms MS to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1)Does her department have documentation of all water infrastructures that existed before 1994; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) did her department conduct water infrastructure audits since 1994; if not why not; if so; (3) did the specified audit or survey include water infrastructure of the former Bantustans; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) Yes, the asset register of my Department contains that information of all infrastructures that existed before 1994.
(2) Yes, in 2007, my Department launched a project called “verification and valuation of all major water resource infrastructure” and produced an asset register. On an annual basis, verification is performed mainly to include assets that were not included in the 2007 verification exercise.
(3) Yes, the verification and valuation exercise of 2007 included all national water resource infrastructures including the former Bantustan water infrastructure.
---00O00---
13 September 2017 - NW2117
Mhlongo, Mr P to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(a) Whether she is aware that a certain person in her Ministry went to Dubai, UAE to meet with a member(s) of a certain family (name furnished) in December 2015 and (b) gave permission, an instruction or a task to the specified official when she went to meet with member(s) of the specified family?
Reply:
a) No, the Minister was not aware that a certain official went to Dubai, UAE and was only alerted to this allegation through the media.
b) No, the Minister did not give any permission, instruction or task to the official to meet with any members of such family.
13 September 2017 - NW2566
Paulsen, Mr N M to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesQUESTION
When are the application dates (a) opening and (b) closing for the board positions of all entities and councils reporting to him?
Reply:
(1)(a) The application dates (a) opening and (b) closing for the board positions of all the Entities/Councils reporting to him are as follows:
(A) Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
- 22 May 2016
- 10 June 2016
(B) National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC)
- 6 September 2015
- 25 September 2015
(C) Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB)
- 6 May 2016
- 24 October 2016
Second date
- 5 August 2016
- 19 August 2016
(D) Onderstepoort Biological Products (SOC) Limited (OBP)
- 16 October 2016
- 24 October 2016
Second date
- 19 February 2017
- 3 March 2017
Other Boards/Councils reporting to the Minister
(A) Wine and Spirit Board
- 19 April 2013
- 18 May 2013
-
(B) South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)
- 4 April 2016
- 22 April 2016
(C) Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC)
- 5 September 2016
- 30 September 2016
13 September 2017 - NW1653
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1) Whether there was an instruction by the Eskom Board to curtail the scope of the Dentons Report; if so, (a) why and (b) what are the further relevant details in this regard; (2) Whether any interim reports from Dentons were collected and destroyed by the Eskom Board; if so, (a) why they destroyed and (b) what are the further relevant details in this regard?
Reply:
No. The Board did not issue an instruction to Dentons to curtail the scope of the investigation. Upon receipt of the preliminary findings from Dentons, the Board found that the issues identified by Dentons were not unfamiliar to it. Given the time constraints and running costs, a decision was taken by the Eskom Board to rather curtail the duration of the investigation in order that the report presented so far may be used, to attend to areas of concern. The curtailment was by no means implying that any further investigations in areas of specificity will not in the future be carried out by the Board.
(1)(a)
Not applicable
(1)(b)
Not applicable
(2)
No
(2)(a)
Not applicable
(2)(b)
It is incorrect to state that a version(s) of the Dentons report was destroyed. Based on the need to protect the sanctity of the report during its draft phase against possible leaks (which would have had a devastating impact) copies, and not the actual draft report, were destroyed. While evidence had not been corroborated, people’s names had been mentioned and therefore Eskom provided copies to Board member only. These copies were recalled and destroyed as a form of control to ensure that the copies provided would not be leaked. There is distinct difference between a copy circulated to members to peruse and the actual report itself.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved
Mr. Mogokare Richard Seleke Ms. Lynne Brown, MP
Director-General Minister of Public Enterprises
Date: Date:
13 September 2017 - NW2052
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Social Development
Whether her department has determined the costs of the envisioned universalisation of the (a) old age and (b) child grants; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what will it cost in each case?
Reply:
Yes, the department has determined estimates for the universalisation of the old age and child support grants.
(a) Three universalisation options are being considered for the old age grant to align tax policy with social assistance policy
- Universalisation at the age of 60 years aligned to social assistance policy will cost an estimated R23 billion
- Universalisation at the age of 65 year aligned to tax policy will cost an estimated R13 billion
- Universalisation at the age of 75 (both tax and social assistance have over 75 benefits) will cost an estimated R6 billion.
(b) The estimated cost for universalisation of the Child Support Grant is R23 billion. This is the amount required additional to the expenditure of the grant in its current form.
The Comprehensive Social Security Paper, which is currently in discussion at NEDLAC, suggests that these proposals be done in fiscal neutral manner. In other words, currently poor people below the means test are supported by social grant and wealthier people, above the tax threshold are supported by Tax Expenditure Subsidies and Tax rebates, with a few people in between these thresholds getting neither a grant nor support through the tax system. The principle around universalisation is to unite these fragmented systems and utilise the available funding for the benefit of everyone.
13 September 2017 - NW2127
Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Social Development
(a) What amount has the SA Social Security Agency spent on blankets in the (i) 2014-15, (ii) 2015-16 and (iii) 2016-17 financial years respectively and (b) in each case, what is the detailed breakdown of the specified expenditure in each province?
Reply:
(a) The South African Social Security Agency issues blankets to deserving beneficiaries under the Social Relief of Distress programme, and as part of promotional items within communications and marketing. When blankets are issues as promotional items, they are targeted towards older persons, in recognition of the contribution they have made to building a democratic South Africa, and ensuring cohesion in local communities.
SASSA manages the social relief of distress programme in line with the provisions as legislated in the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (as amended). The legislation empowers SASSA to provide social relief of distress to South African citizens, permanent residents and refugees, where they meet certain criteria. One of the criteria is that social relief of distress may be provided where communities are affected by a disaster, even where that area is not declared a disaster area. This enables SASSA to respond to localized incidents such as floods, fire and other disasters.
The social relief of distress may be issued in the form of food vouchers, food parcels, school uniforms or cash, depending on the reason for the issuing of the social relief of distress, as well as the specific arrangements made in the affected province. Where social relief of distress is provided as a response to disasters, the assistance may take the form of pre-cooked hot meals, meal packs, blankets, dignity packs and/or mattresses. The actual assistance provided depends on the specific needs of the affected communities. In addition to the immediate humanitarian assistance provided, in instances where the affected community lost all their possessions, for instance in the case of fire, the families may be provided with a once off cash amount when they are ready to return to their homes. This is to assist in buying some of the household items which were lost in the disaster. However, SASSA does not provide household items as part of the social relief of distress programme.
(b) The table link below reflects the amount spent on blankets issued per province for the financial years: 2014/15, 2015/16 and 2016/17.
http://pmg-assets.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/RNW2127Table-170913.pdf
13 September 2017 - NW2053
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)What is the proposed timeframe for the establishment of the National Social Security Fund; (2) whether her department has determined the proposed mandatory social insurance contribution workers will have to make towards the National Social Security Fund; if not, (a) why not and (b) by what date will it be determined; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2274E
Reply:
1. Government has tabled the discussion paper on Comprehensive Social Security in the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) where it is currently engaging with social partners on the recommendations in the tabled discussion paper, one of which, is the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). The NEDLAC MANCO Task Team on Comprehensive Social Security requested 12 months (approximately until March 2018) to debate these complex issues, with a review after six months to decide on whether more time will be needed (amongst other things).
As part of their terms of references, social partners will agree on the implementation plan which will also inform the timelines for the establishment of the National Social Security Fund. On conclusion of these processes, Government will announce the proposed implementation plans.
2. It is proposed that all workers will need to make mandatory payroll contributions of at least 12% to the NSSF, which will be shared between the employer and employee, for incomes up to the income of ceiling of R178 464 per annum (which is aligned to the Unemployment Insurance Fund threshold). This includes unemployment insurance, which will continue to be paid at the rate of 2%, and the 10% is meant for retirement and risk benefits. Government proposes to subsidise the contributions of low-income workers. This is the initial proposal by government, and will form part of the negotiations of the NEDLAC Task Team (referred to above).
13 September 2017 - NW2362
van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)What progress has been made in the fight against gender based violence in the past 12 months; (2) is her department monitoring the number of cases reported to authorities in terms of data; if not, why not; if so, (a) is there any notable decrease in the number of people affected by the scourge and (b) what are the relevant details?NW2510E
Reply:
1. Progress Made:
Governments’ response to gender based violence:
An Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Violence against women and children (VAWC); which is led by the Department of Social Development, was established on the 3rd May in 2012. The IMC on VAWC comprised of seven (7) state departments, namely DSD, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development; Department of Women, Home Affairs; South African Police Services, Health and Basic Education.
A comprehensive strategy to address the scourge of violence against women and children which is the Integrated Programme of Action addressing violence against women and children (POA- VAWC; 2013-2018) was developed in 2013. The aim of the POA- VAWC is to eliminate of all forms of violence against women and children. The programme is an important foundation in a longer journey to realize the long term vision of all women and children living free from violence in South Africa. The framework for the realization of this vision is articulated in the three pillars namely (1) Prevention and Protection, (2) Response, as well as (3) Care and Support.
Progress since 1 August 2016- 31 August 2017:
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT:
Child Protection System Review, finalized in November 2016; this review strengthens the response to child protection.
Children’s dialogues are conducted with community based plans developed, seeking solutions on how to improve services to children.
National dialogues conducted by the department of social development and women on gender based violence.
Children’s Parliament, Child Protection Week, Human Trafficking week, 16 Days on no violence against women and children, National Children’s Day and Orange Day are observed on the 25th of each month.
Strengthening of family support through Parenting programmes as well as Fatherhood and Men’s Care programme
Gender Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) has established technical task team looking at integration of systems and capabilities of being connect.
The Minister of Social Development, Bathabile Dlamini and the Deputy Minister Hendrietta Bagopane-Zulu successfully launched the GBVCC enhancements to cater for People with Disabilities on the 2nd of December 2016:
- The Centre operates an Emergency Line number- 0800 428 428
- A Skype Line (Helpme GBV) for members of the deaf community.
- An SMS Based Line (31531) for persons with disability.
National Emergency Response Team (NERT) is established - 24 hour response on trauma- rendered to the victim/family, provide crisis intervention and refer to provinces for further interventions. The team is manned by highly skilled social workers and psychologist trained on management of trauma.
Advocacy and awareness campaign is undertaken through Government Communication Information Systems (GCIS); communication messages around reporting and available services for victims of gender based violence is shared with victims and the public e.g services rendered by the Gender Based Violence Command Centre.
A total number of 1371 people reached by NERT in provinces between April 2016 July 2017 for immediate trauma counselling, psychosocial support to both individuals and family members and dialogues with entire community when need arises.
NERT will continue with provision of emergency interventions in all GBV related incidences and provide immediate trauma counselling in institutions of higher learning.
Awareness campaign against Ukuthwala of girl child in the following provinces –Free State, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal and Limpopo.
Prevention of Violence at Institutions of Higher Learning
Ndabezitha Izimbizo against Domestic Violence in Rural Communities of Ga-Mphahlele- Limpopo, Peddie- Eastern Cape, eDumbe- KZN; Batlokoa Ba Mokgalong (Vrede) in Free State; Sokhulumi (Bronkhorstspruit) in Gauteng
Prevention of Violence at Institutions of Higher Learning
Establishment of Everyday Heroes Ambassadors in provinces as change agents for gender based violence.
Consultations in all provinces with Lesbians, Gays, Bisexual, Transsexual, Intersex community
Deputy Minister of Social Development launched GBV Enhancement.
Launch of POWA-APP linked to the Gender Based Violence Command Centre.
DSD developed a Policy of VEP Support Services. A draft Bill on Victim Support Services has been developed and is certified by State Law Advisor. Socio Economic Impact Assessment report certified by the DPME.
The table below indicates the number of GBV cases that have been referred with incidences, intervention, and referral and follow up.
The GBV Command Centre statistics for the period August 2016 to July 2017 are listed in the table below:
Incident Type |
Number of Calls Received |
||||||||||||
August |
September |
October |
November |
December |
January |
February |
March |
April |
May |
June |
July |
Total |
|
Abandoned Children |
1 |
2 |
7 |
1 |
13 |
3 |
2 |
3 |
2 |
3 |
12 |
3 |
52 |
Indecent Assault |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
9 |
Physical Violence |
67 |
52 |
92 |
58 |
103 |
58 |
19 |
79 |
37 |
46 |
98 |
83 |
792 |
Rape |
6 |
8 |
19 |
11 |
17 |
12 |
8 |
26 |
12 |
19 |
44 |
24 |
206 |
Verbal Abuse |
7 |
3 |
15 |
12 |
7 |
1 |
3 |
10 |
3 |
6 |
23 |
12 |
102 |
Other GBV Incident * |
109 |
27 |
135 |
58 |
144 |
72 |
50 |
124 |
49 |
79 |
147 |
109 |
1103 |
Other Type of Incident** |
526 |
445 |
1350 |
414 |
1000 |
1146 |
523 |
1416 |
312 |
410 |
932 |
535 |
9009 |
Total |
716 |
539 |
1618 |
554 |
1285 |
1292 |
605 |
1661 |
415 |
563 |
1258 |
767 |
11273 |
(Total figures represent tickets opened on the GBV CCIS)
- Includes other types of GBV, not specifically listed on the GBV Command Centre Information System ( CCIS): Stalking, economic abuse, emotional abuse, sexual harassment, forced marriages, forced prostitution, forced abortion, human trafficking, child marriage, exploitation of domestic workers, bride kidnapping, violence against foreign nationals, grade 12 related queries, intimidation and assault, substance abuse, child neglect, abuse of elderly citizens, family disputes, protection order enquiries, bullying, child custody incest etc.
2. (a) The department and the national cluster departments have made strides in terms of responding by providing trauma counselling, conducting awareness campaigns, information sessions and other emergency services
An integrated system that captures data for all people affected by violence has not yet been finalized hence it’s difficult to confirm whether the number is increasing or decreasing of people affected by the scourge of violence.
The monitoring electronic integrated system is envisaged to be operational in the new financial year.
At this stage it is not possible to tell if the number of people affected by the scourge decreases.
(b) South African society is perceived to be having one of the highest prevalence of violence and violence-related injury in the world. The high levels of violence against women and children are particularly alarming and continue to have devastating and lasting effects on survivors. Thus measuring the notable decrease in the number of people affected by this scourge needs to be on a National level rather than a departmental level. The aim of the department is to sensitize the community to speak up and not be silent about things that matter to them.
13 September 2017 - NW1608
Sonti, Ms NP to ask the Minister of Social Development
Does the early childhood development centre, Thembalihle Creche and Pre-school with Registration no. 051-912NPO, receive funding from any government department including the provincial Department of Social Development?
Reply:
No - The Early Childhood Development Centre, Thembalihle Creche and Pre-school with NPO registration Number 051-912does not receive funds from the Department of Social Development. No information is available on the funding by the government department.
13 September 2017 - NW2273
van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)With regard to the appointment of a certain official (name and details furnished) (a) what processes were followed in identifying the specified person as the most suitable candidate to be appointed to the position and (b) what is the extent of the business dealings between her family and the specified person; (2) has the process of finding a new and permanent Chief Executive Officer of SA Social Security Agency been embarked on; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2506E
Reply:
(1)(a) Ms Pearl Bengu was appointed on the basis of her qualifications and vast experience as the most suitable Executive to act in the vacant position of CEO and to SASSA in the interim while the process of filling the position is underway. The educational qualifications, experience and competency profile of all Regional Executive Managers were considered and Ms P Bengu has been identified as the most suitable candidate to be appointed to act in the post of Chief Executive Officer of the South African Social Security Agency.
(1)(b) There are no business dealings between the Acting CEO and family of the Executive Authority.
(2) The advertisement of the vacant post of the CEO of SASSA has been approved by the Executive Authority. Recruitment process has commenced.
13 September 2017 - NW2126
Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Social Development
Does a certain person (name and details furnished) have personal bodyguards or private security that was or is still paid for by her department or any agency within her department; if so, what amount has been spent on her bodyguards or private security as at the latest specified date for which information is available?
Reply:
Yes official do have close protection.
SASSA pays for close protection.
2016/17 : R1 922 460.16
2017/18 : April, May and June : R438 606.68
13 September 2017 - NW2496
Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Social Development
(a) How many learners aged between three and five years attend Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centres in each (i) town and (ii) district in the Free State and (b)(i) how many learners aged between 3 and 5 years do not attend ECD Centres in each case and (ii) what are the reasons for non-attendance?
Reply:
At the time of responding to the questionnaire according to the set deadline, no inputs had been received from the relevant provinces since this provinces do not report information in this disaggregated manner to the national office.
12 September 2017 - NW2561
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether any legal opinion was obtained before the application of the clean break principle was implemented, when a member of the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) gets divorced; if not, (a) why not and (b) how the validity of the principle was established; if so, (i) what are the relevant particulars and (ii) what did the legal opinion find regarding the (aa) constitutionality of the unilateral creation of a debt for a member and (bb) rationality of the principle; (2) how can access to a copy of the legal opinion be obtained?
Reply:
The GEPF is currently a respondent in a court application brought against it by a member on the application of the “clean break principle” where many of the issues canvassed in this question are involved. It is therefore not appropriate to answer these questions at this time.
12 September 2017 - NW2080
Dlamini, Mr MM to ask the Minister of Energy
Whether (a) her department and/or (b) any entities reporting to her are funding, including by way of discretionary funding, any institution of research and development (i) domestically and/or (ii) internationally; if so, (aa)(aaa) what are the names of the specified institutions and (bbb) what are their functions, (bb) from what date has her department or any entity reporting to her been funding them and (cc) what amount has her department contributed towards such funding?
Reply:
a) (i) The Department of Energy does not fund including by way of discretionary funding any institution of research and development, and/or (ii) Internationally, all entities reporting to the Department with exception of PetroSA a subsidiary of CEF and SANEDI does not fund institution of research and development, and does not have a discretionary funding.
(aa) Not applicable
(aaa) Not applicable
(bbb) Not applicable
(bb) Not applicable
(cc) Not applicable
(b) CEF SOC Ltd-PetroSA
(i) Domestically: Yes
(ii) Internationally: No
(i)(aa)(aaa) PetroSA Synthetic Fuels Innovation Centre (PSFIC) UWC.
(bbb) Development of Conversion of Olefins to Distillate (COD) Technology- Development of human capital for the South African Oil and Gas industry. (bb) Since 2011, contract extends to 2020
(cc) Currently R4.5m per annum
(b) SANEDI
(i) Domestically: Yes
(ii) Internationally: No
(i)(aa)(aaa) University of Venda- Centre for Renewable Studies, (bbb) Implementation of Sustainable Energy Greening Solutions in selected rural areas, (bb) period of funding was from 2017-2019 (cc) for the amount of R800,000.00.
(i)(aa)(aaa University of Fort Hare- Centre for Renewable Studies: (bbb)Implementation of Sustainable Energy Greening Solutions in selected rural areas, (bb) period from 2013-2015 and (cc) for R3,742,760.00.
(i)(aa)(aaa) University of Cape Town, (bbb) Transport energy modelling (bb) from 2015-2017 (cc) for R6, 000,000.00.
(i)(aa)(aaa) University of Pretoria, (bbb) Smart Grids, (bb) from 2016-2017 for (cc) R9, 000,000.00.
12 September 2017 - NW2568
Mulaudzi, Adv TE to ask the Minister of Transport
When are the application dates (a) opening and (b) closing for the board positions of all entities and councils reporting to him?
Reply:
The following boards were open on 11 June 2017 and closed 25 June 2017
South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA)
Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA)
Cross-Border Road Transport (C-BRTA)
Road Accident Fund (RAF)
South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACCA)
The following boards’ applications opened on 27 August 2017 and will close on the 11 September 2017
Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA)
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA)
12 September 2017 - NW2494
Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)Which infrastructure grant is used to fund the Accelerated Schools Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI); (2) whether her department is responsible for the implementation of ASIDI infrastructure projects; if not, why not; if so, what role does a provincial education department play in the implementation?
Reply:
1. The Schools Infrastructure Backlog Grant (SIBG) funds the ASIDI portfolio.
2. The DBE is responsible for the implementation of ASIDI projects. In the implementation of these projects, the DBE has commissioned Implementing Agents such as Development Bank of Southern Africa, Independent Development Trust, Coega Development Cooperation to implement the projects on behalf of the Department. Other Provincial Education Departments like the Free State and the Western Cape, also implement on behalf of the DBE. In the planning and implementation of the projects, provinces work with the DBE in identifying schools/ projects, monitoring the implementation, liasing with communities and schools and on completion of the projects, the completed schools are handed back to the respective provinces, who are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the completed assets.
12 September 2017 - NW2343
Steenkamp, Ms J to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
(1)(a) How many permits have been signed off for local rhino horn trading and (b) to whom have they been awarded; (2) is there a quota for the number of permits to be issued; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) do the permit holders have a limitation on how many tonnes of horn they can trade in a year; if not, why not; if so, what is the total amount?
Reply:
(1) (a) and ((b)
The Department has issued a permit for the selling of rhino horn, ordinary permit number: O28640 was issued for 264 horns. Seven (7) permits were issued authorising the buying of rhino horn (Ordinary permit numbers: O29851; O29852; O29854; O29855; O29856; O29859; O29860).
(2) No. This is due to the nature of any domestic trade where no limits have been placed. It should be remembered that rhino horn trade is governed by CITES which is only about international trade and not domestic.
Furthermore Section 57(1) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004)(NEMBA) provide that a person may not carry out a restricted activity involving a specimen of a listed threatened or protected species without a permit issued in terms of Chapter 7 of NEMBA. The NEMBA and the Threatened or Protected Species Regulations, 2007 does not provide a quota for the number of permit that could be issued. However, in terms of 92A (1)(b) of NEMBA an issuing authority may refuse a permit if the applicant has been convicted of an offence in terms of NEMBA. Furthermore, Section 88(2)(e) of NEMBA provide that the issuing authority may defer a decision to issue a permit if the applicant is under investigation for the contravention or failure to comply with any provision of NEMBA.
(3) No
Section 57(1) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004)(NEMBA) provide that a person may not carry out a restricted activity involving a specimen of a listed threatened or protected species without a permit issued in terms of Chapter 7 of NEMBA. NEMBA and the Threatened or Protected Species Regulations, 2007 does not provide a limitation on the number of horns to be traded with however, in terms of 92A (1)(b) of NEMBA an issuing authority may refuse a permit if the applicant has been convicted of an offence in terms of NEMBA. Section 88(2)(e) of NEMBA provides that the issuing authority may defer a decision to issue a permit if the applicant is under investigation for the contravention or failure to comply with any provision of NEMBA. In terms of Section 88(2)(b) of NEMBA, the Issuing Authority may require the applicant to comply with conditions as it may impose.
The permit authorising the sale of rhino horn was issued with conditions, including the following:
- The permit holder can only sell rhino horn to a person who has a permit issued in terms of NEMBA authorising such buying;
- The international trade remains banned;
- The permit holder must provide the Department of Environmental Affairs with a register of bidders prior to the auction;
- The permit holder (seller or buyer of possession) must inform the registered bidders that they must apply for a permit to buy in terms of NEMBA;
- If it is an ordinary auction and if it is online, DEA must have access to the process.
- After the auction, the permit holder must provide a list of successful bidders to the Department of Environmental Affairs;
- The permit holder, the permit seller and the possession holder must grant an official of the Department of Environmental Affairs access to the website for an online auction.
The permit authorising the domestic sale of rhino horn was issued with conditions, including the following:
- The buyer’s permit authorises the person to buy only the rhino horn authorised to be sold through ordinary permit number: O28640 through the auction taking place from 23 – 25 August 2017;
- The permit does not authorise the possession or transport of rhinoceros horn;
- The permit does not authorise the export or re-export of rhino horn;
- Until the actual transfer has happened legally after the sale, the seller will require another permit.
---ooOoo---
12 September 2017 - NW2387
Purdon, Mr RK to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
(1)With reference to recent media reports (details furnished) relating to the arrest and detention of a certain person at the Kruger National Park (KNP) (name and details furnished) who has been linked to a rhino poaching syndicate, (a) what is the current status of the specified person’s employment at the KNP, (b) what position(s) has the specified person held at the KNP and (c) which access gates was the specified person assigned to; (2) has the specified person been linked to any incidents or cases of rhino poaching or any other type of poaching; if so, what are the relevant details in this regard; (3) has the specified person been formally charged; if so, on what grounds; if not, why not; (4) is the specified person still living at the KNP; if so, why?
Reply:
1. (a) The employee is currently suspended from work pending an investigation related to the theft and unauthorised possession of the South African National Parks’ (SANParks) property;
(b) The employee held the position of Security Supervisor since 1999; and
(c) The employee was assigned to both Phabeni and Numbi Gates.
2. The investigation is still on-going but has not as yet established or confirmed whether the employee is linked to any involvement in rhino poaching or any other type of poaching activity.
3. The employee has been formally charged according to SANParks’ Disciplinary Code on matters related to theft of SANParks’ property. He has also been formally charged by the South African Police Service for being in possession of ammunition and suspected stolen property. He is currently out on bail pending his criminal case.
He was found in possession of the following items:
(a) SANPARKS property consisting of
- operational uniforms (greens) and accessories, shirts, trousers, bush jackets, boots, stable belts, caps, jerseys and socks.
- SA Police Services uniforms, trousers, shirts, caps, stable belt, boots along with a blue strobe light;
- 240 rolls of toilet paper, an aluminium ladder, a black dustbin and a 48kg gas bottle;
(b) Unlicensed ammunition belonging to an unknown owner consisting of
- fifteen x 9mm parabellum rounds, 2 x 9mm sort rounds, one 9.25 mm round, thirty four 5.56 mm rounds, a R5 magazine and a 9mm magazine.
(4) The employee is currently suspended from work and is residing outside the park until his internal disciplinary hearing is held
---ooOoo---
12 September 2017 - NW2438
Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
Whether, with reference to the oceanic tidal pools established along the country’s coastline, in particular those under the direct control and maintenance of SANPARKS, research studies have been conducted into alternative means to clean the tidal pools, other than draining, lime-washing and the addition of chemicals as this method is known to be highly destructive to the existing fragile marine eco-systems found in and around the tidal pools which are safe havens for many marine breeding species; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
No, the South African National Parks (SANParks) has not conducted any research into alternative means to clean tidal pools because no negative impacts have been observed yet in the way the two tidal pools are being cleaned. The City of Cape Town is responsible for cleaning most of the tidal pools on the False Bay coast line and it has its own cleaning and mitigation regime. There are only two tidal pools at the Cape Point that SANParks is responsible for.
---ooOoo---
12 September 2017 - NW1787
Mulaudzi, Adv TE to ask the Minister of Small Business Development
(1)Which entities reporting to her (a) have a board in place and (b) do not have a board in place, (i) of those that have a board, (aa) when was each individual board member appointed and (bb) when is the term for each board lapsing and (ii) how many (aa) board members are there in each board and (bb) of those board members of each entity are female; (2) with reference to entities that do not have boards in place, (a) who is responsible for appointing the board and (b) when will a board be appointed?
Reply:
1. All the entities under direct reporting of Minister of Small Business Development have boards in place and the Minister is responsible for appointment these boards.
SMALL ENTERPRISE FINANCE AGENCY (SEFA) |
||||
BOARD MEMBERS |
GENDER |
RACE |
APPOINTMENT DATE |
EXPIRY DATE |
Ms Hlonela Lupuwana-Pemba, (Chairperson) |
Female |
Black |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Ms Happy Ralinala |
Female |
Black |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Ms Kate Moloto |
Female |
Black |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Ms Charmaine Groves |
Female |
Coloured |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Ms Nomcebo Dlamini |
Female |
Black |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Mr Kholofelo Molewa |
Male |
Black |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Mr Phakamile Mark Mainganya |
Male |
Black |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Mr Nazir Ahmed Osman |
Male |
Indian |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
Mr Lawrence Mabundla |
Male |
Black |
01 October 2016 |
30 September 2019 |
SMALL ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (SEDA) |
||||
BOARD MEMBERS |
GENDER |
RACE |
APPOINTMENT DATE |
EXPIRY DATE |
Dr Ivor Zwane (Chairperson) |
Male |
Black |
01 September 2010 - 31 August 2013 01 November 2013 -31 October 2016 |
31 August 2017 (Extension) |
Dr Marius Venter |
Male |
White |
13 December 2010 -01 September 2013 01 September 2013 - 31 August 2016 |
31 August 2017 (Extension) |
Mr Mojalefa Mohoto |
Male |
Black |
01 September 2010 to 31 August 2016 01 September 2013- 31 August 2016 |
31 August 2017 (Extension) |
Mr Dennis Thabaneng |
Male |
Black |
01 September 2008- 31 September 2011 01 November 2011- 31 October 2014 |
31 August 2017 (Extension) |
Ms Precious Lugayeni |
Female |
Black |
01 September 2008- 31 September 2011 01 November 2011- 31 October 2014 |
31 August 2017 ( Extension) |
Ms Anjue Hirachund |
Female |
Indian |
01 September 2015 |
31 August 2018 |
Ms Zanele Monnakgotla |
Female |
Black |
01 September 2015 |
31 August 2018 |
Mr Thakhani Makhuvha |
Male |
Black |
01 November 2013 |
Linked to the term of Office as the CEO of sefa |
2. Not applicable.
12 September 2017 - NW2581
Xalisa, Mr Z R to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
When are the application dates (a) opening and (b) closing for the board positions of all entities and councils reporting to her?
Reply:
(a) Boards
South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI): 24 August 2017
South African National Parks (SANParks): 01 September 2017.
iSimangaliso Wetlands Park Authority (iSimangaliso): Not Applicable
South African Weather Service (SAWS): Not Applicable
Councils
Not Applicable
(b) Boards
SANBI: 26 September 2017
SANParks: 03 October 2017
iSimangaliso: Not Applicable.
SAWS: Not Applicable
Councils
Not Applicable
---ooOoo---
12 September 2017 - NW2622
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether any plans have been put in place to (a) maintain and/or (b) rebuild the R103 regional road between Ladysmith and the bottom of the Van Reenen’s Pass in KwaZulu-Natal; if not, why not; if so, (i) what are the relevant details and (ii) by what date is construction expected to be (aa) started and (bb) completed and (c) how much has been budgeted in this regard?
Reply:
a) R103 is Main Road P1-9 which is 34km long under Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal
(i) Departmental has been maintaining the road by means of the following activities:
- Verge Maintenance is being done on regular basis;
- Pothole Patching has been done by the Departmental internal team when it is required;
b) i) Main Road P1-9 from km 18 to km 34 is due for Heavy Rehabilitation and design for that section has been approved and project has been added to the KZN Departmental Rehabilitation Business Plan for 2018-19 financial year. The team has started with the compilation of the tender document for the rehabilitation of the section and anticipated to be advertise in November 2017.
(ii) The construction is anticipated to commence in April 2018 during the 2018-19 financial year and estimated contract duration is 15 months which will take contract to 2019/20 financial year.
c) The project cost estimate is R 120 million for the Rehabilitation of Main Road P1-9 from km 18 to km 34. Contract will be implemented in two financial year (2018-19 and 2019-20)
12 September 2017 - NW2291
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
What steps is her department taking towards the decommissioning of Eskom’s oldest plants which are due for decommissioning in the next three years?
Reply:
Eskom’s plans to decommission some of its power stations first came to the Department’s attention during its applications for postponement of compliance timeframes with minimum emission standards (MES). In its applications for postponement, Eskom indicated the life-span of each of the power stations, and this information was factored in the postponement decisions. Since the life-span of the power stations was factored in the postponement decisions, the Department expects Eskom to live up to these commitments. In the event that non-compliances take place, the Department will address them following the current procedures of compliance monitoring and enforcement.
Although the Minister responsible for Environmental Affairs and/or her Department may not take any particular steps towards the decommissioning of Eskom’s oldest plants which are due for decommissioning in the next three years; it should be noted that such decommissioning would have benefits for air quality management and climate change. This is in the sense that there would be reduction of Eskom’s contribution to air pollution upon decommissioning of some plants as it would be with any other source that is discontinued.
---ooOoo---
12 September 2017 - NW2470
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)With reference to the clean break principle when a member of the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) gets divorced, (a) how many members of the fund have been affected by this since the rule was instituted, (b)(i) what is the cumulative debt of all the members to the fund and (ii) what is the interest rate at which the debt is levied and (c) how many members have already expressed objections to the principle; (2) whether the principle will be retained and whether plans exist to abolish it; if not, (a) why not and (b) what are the full reasons and particulars in this regard; if so, (i) what are the concomitant particulars and time lines, (ii) with what will the principle be replaced and (iii) what happens to the members who have already incurred debt in terms of the clean break principle?
Reply:
1. (a) It is important to understand that there is no debt in the conventional sense of the word. The GEPF provides affected divorced members with a funding mechanism to replenish their benefit after paying out the non-member spouse without adversely affecting other members of the Fund.
(b) (i) as explained in (a) above, it is not correct to consider the so-called divorce debt in the GEPF context as conventional debt that accumulates. Divorced members choose to replenish their benefits or not.
(ii) The GEPF does not keep statistics of members who object as the use of this mechanism to replenish their benefit is a member’s choice. However, the GEPF is a respondent in a court application by a member on the application of the “clean break principle.”
2 Although there are no obvious negative effects of the current application of the clean break principle, it confuses members, and the Board has already decided to discard the current application of the clean break principle in its current form. After the GEPF consulted the employer and employee representative through the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC), the PSCBC has taken a resolution, Resolution 1 of 2017, to make the necessary changes to the GEP Law and rules. This is subject to the normal process of changing laws in the country
(i) The current mechanism for implementing the clean break principle will be replaced with a reduction of the member’s years of service commensurate with the amount paid to the non-member spouse in terms of the divorce decree.
(iii) Members who have already used the current the clean break principle mechanism to replenish their benefit will be given the option to have their years of service reduced commensurate with the amount paid to the non-member spouse in terms of the divorce decree.
2. Although there are no obvious negative effects of the current application of the clean break principle, it confuses members, and the Board has already decided to discard the current application of the clean break principle in its current form. After the GEPF consulted the employer and employee representative through the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC), the PSCBC has taken a resolution, Resolution 1 of 2017, to make the necessary changes to the GEP Law and rules. This is subject to the normal process of changing laws in the country.
12 September 2017 - NW2624
Maynier, Mr D to ask the Minister of Finance
Whether there were any requests for deviations from the mandatory cost containment measures announced by the National Treasury (a) in the 2016-17 financial year and (b) since 1 April 2017; if not, what is the National Treasury’s policy position with regard to requests for deviations in the specified financial year and period; if so, (i) what is the name of the department, constitutional entity and/or public entity that made a request for a deviation, (ii) when was each deviation (aa) requested and (bb) approved and/or denied, (iii) what was the nature of each specified deviation requested, (iv) what was the motivation for requesting each deviation and (v) why was the specified deviation request approved and/or denied in each case?
Reply:
a) Yes, the received deviations by the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer are indicated in the table below.
b) Yes, the received deviations by the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer are indicated in the table below.
(i) Name of Department |
(ii) When was each deviation |
(iii)The nature of each specified deviation requested |
(iv) The motivation for requesting each deviation |
(v) Why was the specified deviation request approved and/or denied in each case |
|
(aa) Requested |
(bb) Approved and/or denied |
||||
Department of Military Veterans |
19 June 2017 |
Approved |
Business Class travel Require guidance on travel provisions for members of the DMV’s Appeals Board and Advisory Council that are appointed in terms of sections 9 and 19 of the Military Veterans Act 18 of 2011 and not in terms of Section 12A of the Public Service Act of 1994 as was previously indicated. |
|
|
The Presidency |
31 March 2017 |
Not approved |
Request to exceed the maximum allowance rate per star grading for domestic hotel accommodation |
|
National Treasury does not give blanket approvals to deviate from cost containment measures. |
The Presidency |
29 August 2017 |
Under review |
Request for deviation from Instruction Note No. 4 of 2017/18 for essential core staff to travel in the same class when accompanying the President and Deputy-President on commercial flights. |
Arrangement of commercial air travel on occasion, including accommodating of essential core staff travelling with principals. |
In efforts to minimise cost, the Presidency will on occasion arrange for commercial air travel for the President and Deputy President. On such occasions, it is critical that essential core staff traveling with the Principals be accommodated in the same class during the flights. The core staff comprises, but is not limited to, Private/Assistant Private Secretary, Presidential Aide, Medical Doctor and two Close Protectors. The National Treasury Instruction Note No. 4 of 2017/18 makes provision for business class travel for certain ranks. However, this excludes the core support staff of the Principals due to ranks not covered, irrespective of duration of travel. |
Department of Labour |
20 July 2017 |
Approved on condition that the newspapers are not procured for personal use of employees |
Procurement of newspapers and magazines |
The newspapers are for comprehensive monitoring of the mass media, the development of media analysis and research solutions and delivering of most appropriate interventions as a key element of the strategic management function. |
Newspapers are for comprehensive monitoring of the mass media, the development of media analysis and research solutions and delivering of most appropriate interventions as this is a key element of the strategic management function. |
11 September 2017 - NW2646
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
(1)Whether the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) consulted her about its Board's (a) intention and (b) ultimate decision to suspend its official (name and details furnished); if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, what was the outcome of the consultation(s); (2) did she approve NHBRC board's decision to appoint a certain person (name furnished) in the position of the specified official; if not, why not; if so, what were her reasons?
Reply:
(1) (a) & (b) No. The Council of the NHBRC took a decision to place the official referred to in the question on precautionary suspension pending the outcome of an investigation.
(2) Honourable Member, the Council has advised me that it has never taken a decision to appoint the gentlemen referred to in the question in any position.
11 September 2017 - NW2558
Lekota, Mr M to ask the Minister of Economic Development
(1) What are the circumstances that resulted in the decision of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to lay criminal charges laid against a certain person (name furnished); (2) whether he has found that the manner in which the IDC monitored matters related to the loan, including conditions attached thereto, was according to applicable regulations; (3) whether he has found that the manner in which the loan application to the IDC by the said businessperson was processed and approved by the IDC was in accordance with applicable regulations; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I have been furnished with a reply by the CEO of the IDC, Mr Geoffrey Qhena, to the question, which follows below.
1. “The circumstances resulting in the IDC laying criminal charges against the client are as a result of an audit finding which found that there was a material misrepresentation made by the company in its request for funding to the IDC, which amounted to fraud. Details of the case cannot however be disclosed, as the matter is still under investigation by the South African Police Services.
2. According to our records, IDC monitored matters related to the loan, including conditions attached thereto, according to applicable internal processes.
3. The loan to the business/company of the said businessperson, was processed and approved by the IDC in accordance with applicable IDC internal processes.”
-END-
11 September 2017 - NW2378
Shinn, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services
(1)Whether, with reference to his reply to question 1987 on 17 October 2016, any steps have been taken to revive the National Broadband Advisory Council; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of all steps taken to date; (2) Whether any advertisements have been published to solicit nominations of members to serve on the council’s board; if not, by what date will advertisements be published; if so, (a) on what dates and (b) where were the advertisements published; (3) Whether his review of the council’s function has been completed; if not, by what date will it be completed; if so, what steps will be implemented to ensure that the council fulfils its mandate?
Reply:
I have been informed by the Department as follows:
(1) The Department is currently working on streamlining various institutions such as the National Cybersecurity Advisory Council (NACC), National Internet Governance Forum (NIGF), National ICT Forum and National Broadband Council in light of another process to establish the 4th Industrial Revolution Commission.
(2)(a)The Department has not published any advertisement to solicit nominations of members to serve on the council’s board. The recruitment of new council members will be conducted once the new approach and Terms of Reference have been approved.
(2)(b)Not applicable
(3) Yes, the review of the council’s functions and roles has been completed. The Department will provide the necessary support required by the National Broadband Advisory Council in fulfilling its mandate.