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21 April 2017 - NW929

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Macpherson, Mr DW to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Whether there is any position of (a) chief executive officer, (b) chief financial officer and/or (c) chief operating officer that is currently vacant in each entity reporting to him; if so, (i) how long has each specified position been vacant and (ii) what is the reason for each vacancy; (2) have the vacancies been advertised; if so, (a) were interviews done and (b) on what date will the vacancies be filled; (3) (a) what is the total number of persons who are currently employed in the specified positions in an acting capacity, (b) for what period has each person been acting in each position and (c) has any of the specified persons applied for the positions?

Reply:

There are no vacancies in regard to the mentioned positions.

Approved / Not Approved

Mr J T Radebe, MP

Minister in The Presidency

Date

21 April 2017 - NW799

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Cassim, Mr Y to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)What was the (a) budget and (b) total cost of hosting the National Youth Development Agency’s first SA Youth Awards ceremony on 28 July 2012 in terms of (i) venue hire, (ii) catering, (iii) awards and (iv) all other expenses;

21 April 2017 - NW796

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Chance, Mr R to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Who did the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) consult before drawing up the business model for BuddiBox; (2) did the NYDA executives meet representatives from (a) a certain company (name furnished) and (b) the Department of Small Business Development prior to the establishment of BuddiBox in January 2017; if so, (i) on what dates and (ii) what was discussed in each case; (3) (a) did the specified company present its business model to the NYDA executives and (b) was an agreement reached for a partnership between the NYDA and the company; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

Reply:

The National Youth Development Agency issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) that was advertised on 16 January 2015 and closed on the 06 February 2015 for organisations to partner with the NYDA on all of its programmes. The concept came as a response to that request for proposals.

On the 13 February 2014 Zeila from Costilogix which is a South African company that offers entrepreneurship to the unemployed requested for a meeting with the office of the CEO. In this meeting the Directors of Costilogix, Bobby Mosidi and Frans Venter were going to meet with the office of the CEO, to see if they could partner with NYDA to support the youth. The office of the CEO referred the request to Senior Manager Rural Development to handle the request.

Costilogix has never presented their business model to the NYDA executives, and there is no partnership agreement between NYDA and Costilogix.

Approved / Not Approved

Mr J T Radebe, MP

Minister in The Presidency

Date

10 April 2017 - NW712

Profile picture: Krumbock, Mr GR

Krumbock, Mr GR to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Did (a) her department or (b) any entity reporting to her participate in the Dialogue with the President: Unpacking of the SONA 2017 on Radical Economic Transformation Implementation event hosted at the Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga, Durban, on 25 February 2017; if so, what amount was spent in each case; (2) did (a) her department or (b) any entity reporting to her participate in the auction of the (i) souvenirs or (ii) personal belongings of the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma; if so, (aa) which items were purchased and (bb) at what cost, in each case? NW771E

Reply:

Not applicable.

________________________

Approved by the Minister on

Date………………………..

10 April 2017 - NW945

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Mbabama, Ms TM to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Whether there is any position of (a) chief executive officer, (b) chief financial officer and/or (c) chief operating officer that is currently vacant in each entity reporting to her; if so, (i) how long has each specified position been vacant and (ii) what is the reason for each vacancy; (2) have the vacancies been advertised; if so, (a) were interviews done and (b) on what date will the vacancies be filled; (3) (a) what is the total number of persons who are currently employed in the specified positions in an acting capacity, (b) for what period has each person been acting in each position and (c) has any of the specified persons applied for the positions?

Reply:

Not applicable.

________________________

Approved by the Minister on

Date………………………..

10 April 2017 - NW790

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Stander, Ms T to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Whether her office has engaged with the (a) Department of Basic Education, (b) Department of Health, (c) Department of Social Development, (d) Office of The Presidency and (e) National Treasury to roll out its Sanitary Dignity Campaign to provide sanitary towels to vulnerable and poor girls; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (2) (a) why has it taken so long to start engaging the specified departments and (b) what is the (i) envisaged timeline for and (ii) full relevant details of the specified campaign?

Reply:

1. The National Task Team led by the Department of Women which includes most of the departments mentioned in (1) above as well as other key departments has been established following the Presidency directive. Further to this a National Task Team chaired by the Director General of the Department of Women was also established.

2. The National Task Team is working on a Policy Framework with the intention of tabling a draft around June 2017.

________________________

Approved by the Minister on

Date………………………..

24 March 2017 - NW424

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Motau, Mr SC to ask the Minister in the Presidency

In light of the poor economic growth and the continual annual loss of jobs in various sectors, what interventions have been implemented by (a) his department and (b) the National Planning Commission to facilitate the reaching of the set target of creating 11 million jobs by 2030?

Reply:

In 2013 the Cabinet resolved that the 2014-2019 (Medium Term Strategic Framework) MTSF should form the first five-year implementation phase of the National Development Plan (NDP) and mandated different organs of the state to begin aligning their plans to the NDP vision - 2030. The aim of the MTSF is to ensure policy coherence across government as well as the alignment between planning and budgeting processes. The MTSF outlines programmes and key interventions to growth, employment and investment, particularly in core productive sectors. The interventions under the MTSF complement other policies such as the New Growth Path and the National Industrial Policy Framework that already exist.

The current global and domestic economy remains weak. Economic growth essentially stagnated in 2016 and there might be a modest recovery in growth towards 2.0% by 2020. Unemployment rates are likely to remain high with lower growth. As part of the global economy, South Africa is not immune to the challenges facing other countries. A number of sectors earmarked for growth and employment are affected by these external factors. These include lower commodity prices and global steel oversupply. These developments necessitated government to evaluate all policies, strategies and programmes interventions with a commitment to stabilise some of the affected sectors. Global economic challenges have had major impact on the implementation of key government programmes and commitments during the period under review. Despite the weak economic environment, the commitments made by government under Outcome Four: Decent Employment through Inclusive Growth are being implemented and progress is being recorded in key sectors of the economy.

The Department of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) provides quarterly updates to the Executive on the progress made by the government in realising the objectives set out in the 2014-2019 MTSF. In addition, DPME quarterly reports, identify challenges and determine how best to address them in the remaining years of the 2014-2019 MTSF. The department also provide guidance on the implementation of government’s programme of action and identify critical lessons for an effective implementation of the NDP, 2030. This includes the 9-point plan that was announced by the President during the 2015 State of the Nation Address to fast track the implementation of the MTSF.

24 March 2017 - NW512

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Kruger, Mr HC to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether any Red Tape was removed on regulatory measures that influence small businesses since the introduction of the Social Economical Impact Assessment Unit; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the details of the regulatory measures, (b) in which sector did the regulatory measures apply, (c) what burden was relieved and (d) what was the outcome of the intervention?

Reply:

SEIAS is focusing on ex ante analysis on impact of proposed policies, legislations and regulations before they are approved or passed as Acts of Parliament. Through SEIAS, departments are able to proactively address areas that can create regulatory burden, potential risks that can result in unintended consequences or even high costs for implementation or litigation costs.

SEIAS Unit is not responsible for the Red Tape Reduction which is being addressed by Department of Small Business Development.

Impact on legislation is monitored through different instruments such as performance monitoring of outcomes and Annual Performance Plans, Service Delivery Improvement Plans (SDIPs), Operation Phakisa, Front Line Service Delivery and etc.

24 March 2017 - NW460

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De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether his office procured any services from and/or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what (i) services were procured, (ii) was the total cost, (iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (iv) was the total amount paid, (v) was the purpose of the payments and (vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payments in each case?

24 March 2017 - NW364

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Stubbe, Mr DJ to ask the Minister in the Presidency

What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for use by (i) him and (ii) his deputy (aa) in the (aaa) 2014-15 and (bbb) 2015-16 financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016?

Reply:

An Audi Q7 was purchased for the Deputy Minister in the 2016/17 financial year at a cost of R971, 432.76.

Approved / Not Approved

Hon. Jeff Radebe, MP

Minister in The Presidency

Date:

01 March 2017 - NW317

Profile picture: Bucwa, Ms H

Bucwa, Ms H to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)(a) What is the name of the company and/or companies appointed to provide services as outlined in The Presidency’s Evaluation of the Integrated Strategy for the Promotion of Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprises (RFP-16/2392), (b) on what date was the specified appointment made, (c) what is the budget allocated to the contract and (d) on what date is each of the specified service providers expected to deliver its report; (2) will he make the specified report available to Ms H Bucwa; if not, why not; if so, by what date?

Reply:

The name of the company is DNA Economics. It was appointed in November 2016. The budget allocation is R2 298 240, and the report is expected in November 2017. Once the report is approved by cabinet it becomes a public document that is published on the DPME website.

01 March 2017 - NW318

Profile picture: Bucwa, Ms H

Bucwa, Ms H to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)(a) What is the name of the company and/or companies that was or were appointed to provide services outlined in the Presidency’s Evaluation of Government Business Incentives (DPME-05/2016-17), (b) on what date was the specified appointment made, (c) what is the budget allocated to the contract and (d) by what date is the specified service provider(s) expected to deliver its report; (2) will he make the specified report available to the public; if not, why not; if so, by what date?

Reply:

The name of the company is DNA Economics. It was appointed in December 2016. The budget allocation is R4 393 788, and the report is expected in February 2018. Once the report is approved by cabinet it becomes a public document that is published on the DPME website.

 

 

01 December 2016 - NW2596

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Lorimer, Mr JR to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)(a) What were the detailed outcomes of the discussions on Mining Operation Phakisa held in 2015, (b) how long did the specified discussions take, (c) where were the discussions held, (d) who attended the discussions and (e) what amount did the hosting of discussions cost; (2) whether the specified outcomes were published in a report; if not, why not; if so, on what date was the specified report published; (3) will he furnish Mr J R B Lorimer with a copy of the specified report?

Reply:

The intended outcomes of the initiatives include;

  • Promoting investment in the mining cluster in the newly established One-Stop-Shop facility that links to the Invest South Africa process, developing a common message across key stakeholders and unlocking impediments to the entry of independent black capital.
  • Increasing exploration through the provision of cutting edge geo-scientific information and special funding mechanisms.
  • Increasing participation of emerging miners in the mining value chain by creating alternative funding mechanism and creating mechanisms for collaboration with Majors.
  • The implementation of an industry wide decent work program with an initial focus on rights at work, the rejuvenation of Future Forums, policy alignment and social protection.
  • The implementation of a cluster reskilling and upskilling programme that is collaborative, transparent and enables mobility across the cluster.
  • The establishment of a multi-stakeholder crisis intervention task force (modelled on government intervention post the financial crisis) with the objective of saving marginal mines and jobs.

The Mining Phakisa Lab took five weeks, from 26 October 2015 to the 27 November 2015 in Limpopo (3 weeks at the Legends Resort) and at the Capital Hotel in Sandton (2 weeks).

Stakeholders from organised business, organised labour, civil society, some chapter 9 institutions, Congress of traditional Leaders and government departments attended the Mining Phakisa lab. The cost was R26 785 520.81 and the report will be made available after the Presidential Launch in December 2016.

15 November 2016 - NW2382

Profile picture: Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP

Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)With reference to the remuneration paid to the six senior managers of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) as listed in the specified entity’s 2015-16 annual report, (a) what position did each of the specified senior managers hold in the NYDA, (b) for how long did each of the senior managers receive remuneration and (c) what is the total amount that was paid out in remuneration for each of the senior managers in terms of (i) basic salaries and (ii) any benefits; (2) whether any retrenched senior managers of the NYDA received severance packages in the 2015-16 financial year; if so, what is the total amount that was paid out in severance packages for each of the retrenched senior managers?

Reply:

In total the NYDA annual report refers to 8 senior management posts that were filled at beginning of the 2015 / 2016 financial year and 5 that were filled at the end of the financial year. The reduction is due to the organizational restructuring programme which saw the overall number of posts reduced.

The tables below indicate the number of senior management posts held before and after the restructuring and the basic salaries and additional benefits including the salary benefits received by the respective senior managers:

Posts prior to restructuring (1 April 2015 – 31 August 2015)

Post

Number of months received rem 2015 / 2016 FY

Short term benefits

Bonus

Expense allowance

Defined contribution plan

Severance benefit

Total

Chief Financial Officer

5

431 000

95 000

21 000

28 000

-

575 000

Chief Information Officer

5

454 000

177 000

3000

25 000

1 061 000

1 720 000

Executive Manager: Service Delivery Channel

5

392 000

234 000

66 000

29 000

1 033 000

1 754 000

Executive Manager: National Youth Service and Skills Development

5

331 000

243 000

18 000

78 000

-

670 000

Executive Manager: Corporate Services

5

338 000

-

37 000

79 000

 

454 000

Executive Manager: Research and Policy

7

661 000

95 000

2 000

31 000

1 108 000

1 897 000

Executive Manager: Communications

5

477 000

200 000

14 000

29 000

823 000

1 543 000

Executive Manager: Corporate Partnerships and International Relations

5

427 000

187 000

21 000

26 000

1 071 000

1 732 000

Total

           

10 345 000

Posts after the restructuring (1 September 2015 – 31 March 2016)

 

Number of months received rem 2015 / 2016 FY

Short term benefits

Bonus

Expense allowance

Defined contribution plan

Severance benefit

Total

Chief Financial Officer

7

603 000

 

30 000

39 000

-

672 000

Executive Director: Operations

7

464 000

 

26 000

109 000

-

599 000

Executive Director: National Youth Service

7

607 000

 

2 000

4 000

-

649 000

Executive Director: Corporate Services

7

473 000

 

41 000

96 000

-

610 000

Executive Director: Corporate Strategy and Planning

7

483 000

 

3 000

91 000

-

577 000

Total

           

3 107 000

15 November 2016 - NW2423

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Bozzoli, Prof B to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(a) What is the detailed role of each Minister appointed to the Ministerial Task Team on Higher Education, that was established by the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma, on 11 October 2016 to address the fees must fall crisis in tertiary institutions and (b) why was the Minister of Finance, Mr P J Gordhan, excluded from the specified task team?

Reply:

All members of the Ministerial Task Team on Higher Education were appointed by the President of the Republic to support the Minister of Higher Education and Training to normalise the situation at Higher Education institutions across the country. The Minister of Finance is one of the Ministers serving on this task team.

07 November 2016 - NW2319

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Robinson, Ms D to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether any (a) internal and/or (b) external forensic reports pertaining to (i) her department and/or (ii) each entity reporting to her were completed from 1 January 2009 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what is the (aa) name, (bb) subject matter and (cc) date of conclusion of each of the specified forensic reports?

Reply:

(b) External forensic report.

(i) Department of Women.

(aa) Forensic investigation into various allegations of misconduct within the department.

(bb) Forensic investigation into various allegations of misconduct and irregularities relating to:

  • the TIRISANO contract;
  • performance contract of the Director-General; and
  • procurement of Women’s Day goods and services.

(cc) 01 April 2016.

________________________

Approved by the Minister on

Date………………………..

02 November 2016 - NW2304

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Mr TW

Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether any (a) internal and/or (b) external forensic reports pertaining to (i) his department and/or (ii) each entity reporting to him were completed from 1 January 2009 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what is the (aa) name, (bb) subject matter and (cc) date of conclusion of each of the specified forensic reports?

Reply:

The Department of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation did not have (a) internal or (b) external forensic investigations from the period 1 January 2009 to date. There were no cases that required forensic investigations and therefore there is no (aa) name (bb) subject matter and (cc) date of conclusion of forensic reports.

SekelaXabiso Consulting (Pty) Ltd was appointed by National Treasury on 12 September 2013 to do Forensic Investigation into the tender process and subsequent appointment of the successful bidder pertaining to tender number 12/09 for Statistics South Africa (Stats SA). The response in regard to NYDA is as follows:

Forensic Report - Nature

Internal / External

(aa) Name of the Investigation

(bb) Subject Matter

(cc) Date of Conclusion of the Forensic Report

During the 2011 financial year, an investigation was initiated by the Public Protector to probe whether the hosting of the

World Festival of Youth and Students held in December 2010 had been within the NYDA’s mandate, whether the allocated funds had not been misappropriated and whether the relevant supply chain management prescripts had been followed.

External

World Festival of Youth and Students

Hosting of the

World Festival of Youth and Students event had been within the NYDA’s mandate, whether the allocated funds had not been misappropriated and whether the relevant supply chain management prescripts had been followed.

To date, a final report had not been released by the Public Protector.

Account Payable Manager Fraud

Internal

Account Payable Fraud

Diverting funds to her accounts – fraud detection and funds recovery done.

30 September 2016

Case closed

Economic Development DJ project

Internal

DJ project

Supply of young DJ’s with DJ equipment, working capital and related branding

31 December 2013

Case closed

Qualification review

Internal

Qualification Audit

Review of qualification listed on employees CVs

31 December 2015

Case closed

Fraudulent activity in the Group Lending Programme at the East London Branch Office. The report named two specific group loans (Masiqandane and Khanya Group Loans).

Internal

Group Loan

Fraudulent loan

05 November 2013

Case closed

 

 

02 November 2016 - NW2172

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Maimane, Mr MA to ask the Minister in the Presidency

What was the total financial cost to the State for all litigation involving the non-security upgrades at the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma’s, private homestead in Nkandla in KwaZulu-Natal?

Reply:

The total financial cost to the State for all litigation involving the non-security upgrades at the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma’s, private homestead in Nkandla in KwaZulu-Natal is R3 915 625.03

26 October 2016 - NW2181

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Motau, Mr SC to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(a) What is the (i) annual retainer and (ii) daily meeting fee paid to each National Planning Commission (NPC) commissioner, (b) how many times a year does the NPC meet and (c) what are the conditions of service of the specified commissioners?

Reply:

The Annual Retainer (AR) for the Deputy Chair of the National Planning Commission is R 96 900 and for other Commissioners R86 700. Daily Meeting Fee for the performance of work related to the National Planning Commission by Commissioners is broken down into four categories as follows:

Rates

Description

Purpose

Amount

R

Category A

Deputy Chair – for time taken to prepare for, and attend full plenary meetings

9 500

Category B

Commissioners - for time taken to prepare for, and attend full plenary meetings

8 500

Category C

Deputy Chair - for time taken to prepare for, and attend half-day meetings (Working Group/Task Team meetings)

4 750

Category D

Commissioners - for time taken to prepare for, and attend half-day meetings (Working Group/Task Team meetings)

4 250

The National Planning Commission usually meets once a month, however, additional meetings may be held depending on need. Commissioners also attend Task Team meetings whose output is refined in the Work Streams in preparation for discussion in the NPC Plenary. These are held depending on need as per each’s work programme of action.

The Conditions of Service of the Commissioners is primarily, to advise the President, Government and the rest of the country on all matters relating to the long-term development of the country.

26 October 2016 - NW2172

Profile picture: Maimane, Mr MA

Maimane, Mr MA to ask the Minister in the Presidency

What was the total financial cost to the State for all litigation involving the non-security upgrades at the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma’s, private homestead in Nkandla in KwaZulu-Natal?

Reply:

The Presidency Annual Report (2015-2016) with the Financial Statements, was tabled in Parliament on 29 September 2016. The financial statements that are prepared by the accounting officer, are prepared in accordance with Modified Cash Standards prescribed by National Treasury and the requirement of Public Finance Management Act (Act No. 1 of 1999). The financial statements allow the grouping of some transactions and therefore do not allow for identification of transactions that can be related to this question.

12 October 2016 - NW1972

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Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

What number of legal invoices did each (a) national and (b) provincial department not pay within the prescribed 30 days of receipt of the specified invoices as at (i) 30 June 2014, (ii) 30 June 2015 and (iii) 30 June 2016?

Reply:

The tables below show the number of valid invoices not paid within the prescribed 30 days by both the national and provincial departments. The information is presented in terms of (i) invoices paid after 30 days (i.e. although paid, it was not paid within the prescribed 30 days period) and (ii) invoices older than 30 days not yet paid as at the indicated dates.

Table 1: National Departments:

Invoices paid after 30 days

Invoices older than 30 days not paid

June 2014

116

June 2014

58

June 2015

13803

June 2015

4544

June 2016

17668

June 2016

12870

Table 2: Provincial Departments

Invoices paid after 30 days

Invoices older than 30 days not paid

June 2014

0

June 2014

0

June 2015

30466

June 2015

32339

June 2016

29306

June 2016

39833

12 October 2016 - NW1973

Profile picture: Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP

Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(a) What number of legal municipal invoices did each (i) national and (ii) provincial department not pay within the prescribed 30 days of receipt of the specified invoices as at (aa) 30 June 2014, (bb) 30 June 2015 and (cc) 30 June 2016 and (b) which municipalities were affected in each case?

Reply:

The DPME does not have data in relation to the number of legal invoices owed to municipalities by national and provincial departments. The Department of Public Works is currently undertaking a project on debt owed by national and provincial departments.

12 October 2016 - NW2045

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Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister in the Presidency

What formal qualifications does each of his department’s (a)(i) Chief Financial Officers and/or (ii) acting Chief Financial Officers and (b)(i) Directors-General and/or (ii) acting Directors-General possess?

Reply:

The CFO of the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation holds a BA (political Science) and BA Honours (International Relations) degrees from the University of Pretoria (UP); B. Com (Business Management and Economics) from University of South Africa (UNISA); Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE); Currently studying MPhil Development Policy and Practice at the University of Cape Town (UCT).

The Acting Director General holds: a Bachelor & Honours Degrees in Economics and Politics from the University of Cape Town (UCT); Masters in Development Economics from the University of East Anglia (UK); Various certificates, including an Executive Management certificate, as well as a certificate in Infrastructure Development from Harvard University’s J F Kennedy School of Government in the US.

The Statistician General holds: a Bachelor of Arts: Double Major in Statistics and Economics from the University of Lesotho; Post-graduate Diploma in Demography - United Nations Regional Institute for Population Studies (RIPS); University of Ghana. The University of Stellenbosch conferred on Pali Lehohla an Honorary Doctorate for his extensive contribution in global affairs. v

Chief Financial Officer holds a Baccalaureus Technologiae: Business Administration; Tshwane University of Technology; National Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting; Witwatersrand Technikon (University of Johannesburg).

12 October 2016 - NW2080

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Kopane, Ms SP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Whether each Head of Department (HoD) of his department signed a performance agreement since their appointment; if not, (a) what is the total number of HoDs who have not signed performance agreements, (b) what is the reason in each case, (c) what action has he taken to rectify the situation and (d) what consequences will the specified HoD face for failing to sign the performance agreements; if so, (i) when was the last performance assessment of each HoD conducted and (ii) what were the results in each case; (2) whether any of the HoDs who failed to sign a performance agreement received a performance bonus since their appointment; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) at what rate and (b) what criteria were used to determine the specified rate; (3) Whether any of the HoDs who signed a performance agreement received a performance bonus since their appointment; if so, (a) at what rate and (b) what criteria were used to determine the rate?

Reply:

The Acting Head of Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation has signed a performance agreement the Acting DG has not received a performance bonus.

12 October 2016 - NW2115

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McLoughlin, Mr AR to ask the Minister in the Presidency

What amount did (a) his Office and (b) each entity reporting to him spend on advertising on the (i) Africa News Network 7 channel, (ii) SA Broadcasting Corporation (aa) television channels and (bb) radio stations, (iii) national commercial radio stations and (iv) community (aa) television and (bb) radio stations (aaa) in the 2015-16 financial year and (bbb) since 1 April 2016?

Reply:

The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation has not spent any money on advertising on any television or radio station in the financial year 2015-16, and in the current financial year from 1 April 2016 to date. Statistics South Africa spent R1 991 927. 60 on SA Broadcasting Corporation television and radio.

26 September 2016 - NW1666

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Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister in the Presidency

What was the (a) total amount spent and (b) breakdown of such expenditure by The Presidency on its participation in the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of Fraud, Corruption, Impropriety or Irregularity in the Strategic Defence Procurement Packages to date?

Reply:

The total amount spent by the Presidency on its participation in the Arms Procurement Commission in respect of the legal representation of the Presidency and former members executive is R1 364 328.00 

26 September 2016 - NW1686

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Selfe, Mr J to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether he requested any form of (a) legal advice and/or (b) advisory services from a certain firm of attorneys (name and details furnished) with regard to the Public Protector’s reports entitled (i) Secure in Comfort, report No 25 of 2013/14, (ii) Inappropriate Moves, report No 13 of 2013/14 and (iii) When Governance and Ethics Fail, report No 23 of 2013/14; if so, in each case, (aa) in which specific financial years were the services rendered and (bb) what was the cost of the services?

Reply:

No.

07 June 2016 - NW1553

Profile picture: Kopane, Ms SP

Kopane, Ms SP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(a) What amount did (i) the Office of The Presidency and (ii) each entity reporting to him spend on advertising in the 2015-16 financial year and (b) how much has (i) the Office of The Presidency and (ii) each entity reporting to him budgeted for advertising in the 2016-17 financial year? [

Reply:

The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) spent R1 598 million from a budget of R3 670 million. Statistics South Africa spent 6. 870 million from a budget of 5. 281 million.

07 June 2016 - NW1467

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Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

With reference to his reply to question 1161 on 9 May 2016, how many learners were registered as at 6 March 2016 to rewrite their National Senior Certificate examinations in October and November 2016 at each of the 31 sites where the National Youth Development Agency is offering the specified learners the opportunity to rewrite the specified exams?

Reply:

The closing date for learner registration was on 30 March 2016, all learners completed and signed the DOBE Examination Registration Form. The forms have been submitted to the relevant Department of Basic Education examinations offices based in provinces. The Department is working on ensuring that all learners are captured. It will issue the Preliminary Schedules in August/September 2016 to confirm that all learners are registered and their subjects are captured correctly.

07 June 2016 - NW1401

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Rabotapi, Mr MW to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether (a) his department and (b) all entities reporting to him are running development programmes for (i) small businesses and (ii) co-operatives; if not, why not; if so, in each case, (aa) what are the relevant details, (bb) what amount has been budgeted and (cc) how many jobs will be created through the specified development programmes in the 2016-17 financial year?

Reply:

The NYDA is running the following programs:

  • Business Support Services – Voucher Programme
  • Market Linkages
  • Mentorship
  • Grant Programme
  • Entrepreneurship Development Programme
  • Cooperative Governance Training
  • Business Registration Service

R50, 3m is allocated for all the Economic Development Programmes.

The Department of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) does not run dedicated development programmes but it does encourage SMMEs to register on its supplier database and endeavours to utilise these companies where possible when procuring goods and services.

Statistics South Africa does not run any development programme for small business.  However, it gathers data and collates such data into statistical information that would certainly be of use to small business.  A dedicated survey for the self-employed is periodically conducted to inform what takes place in the informal sector.

25 May 2016 - NW1474

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Maynier, Mr D to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether, in the light of his statement on 21 April 2016, (details furnished) any Ministers held talks with banks in order to find a lasting solution to the dispute with Oakbay Investments (Pty) Ltd; if not, why not; if so, in respect of each specified meeting with each specified bank, (a) what is the name of the bank, (b) on what date did the meeting take place, (c) what is the (i) name and (ii) designation of each Minister who was present, (d) what is the (i) name and (ii) designation of each bank employee who was present and (e) what was the outcome of each specified meeting?

Reply:

The Ministers who were mandated by the Cabinet as reflected on the Cabinet Statement have not yet reported back to the Cabinet.

25 May 2016 - NW1518

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Bergman, Mr D to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Whether his department was approached by any political party for any form of funding (a) in the (i) 2013-14, (ii) 2014-15 and (iii) 2015-16 financial years and (b) since 1 April 2016; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (2) whether his department provided any form of funding to any political party (a) in the (i) 2013-14, (ii) 2014-15 and (iii) 2015-16 financial years and (b) since 1 April 2016; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

Reply:

No.

18 May 2016 - NW1241

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Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)With reference to his reply to question 2381 on 24 July 2015, (a) how many of the eight indicated students of the first cohort of bursary holders supported by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) graduated or completed their studies at the end of 2015 as expected and (b) how many learners that enrolled for the first time in the 2013 academic year were supported with funding from the NYDA (2) Of the learners that enrolled in the second cohort of bursary holders supported by the NYDA, how many (a) graduated, (b) are still studying, (c) found other forms of financial support and/or (d) dropped out of their studies since enrolling in 2013 (3) Whether any plans have been put in place to ensure a higher success rate of learners benefitting from the specified funding; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details

Reply:

All eight students referred to graduated in 2015. The NYDA recruited 70 students in 2015 under the NYDA Bursary Scheme, and 10 more students under ‘Scholarship Funding’. Therefore, the combined number of students starting their studies in 2015 was 80.

Scholarship Funding was established in 2013 as a pilot study for the Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship Fund which started in 2014. The Scholarship Funding was therefore a precursor to the Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship Fund which currently covers for registration fees, tuition fees, accommodation, meals and books for 406 students.

Out of the 80 students recruited in 2013:

41 have graduated

25 are still in the programme (mainly in longer studies such as Medicine)

2 got other funding offers

12 dropped from the programme

Since the year 2013, NYDA’s Clinical Psychologist visited the universities at least twice a year to assist with mentoring, counselling and coaching of students to ensure a higher success rate. Since the NYDA restructuring process in 2015, the Clinical Psychologist position did no longer exist. In 2016, a Service Provider has been engaged who takes over the coaching and mentoring of the students with a focus on facilitating the transition from school to university.

18 May 2016 - NW1240

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Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)With reference to his reply to question 2372 on 24 July 2015, (a) what are the names of the 18 learners from Stellenbosch who enrolled in the National Youth Development Agency’s (NYDA) Matric 2nd Chance Project and (b) how many of the specified learners (i) have since then qualified for a National Senior Certificate and (ii) are now able to access higher education opportunities; (2) Whether any of the specified learners are currently being assisted through the Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship Fund; if so, (a) who and (b) what are the further relevant details; (3) Whether the NYDA’s 2nd Chance Project will offer financial assistance to learners who have to travel long distances to attend the specified programme in the future; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

Names of Learners are available on request.

one of the above Learners from Stellenbosch were awarded the Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship. Only one Learner (Ms Sihle Mxosana) from NSC 2nd Chance in the Western Cape was awarded. She is currently studying ND: Sports Management at CPUT. Other 9 Learners who were awarded the Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship on the NSC 2nd Chance were from other Provinces.

The Matric Rewrite – NYDA NSC 2nd Chance model does not cover financial assistance given the limited financial resource of the organization. However, the programme offers young people the following at no cost:

  • Learners are registered with the Department of Basic Education to sit and rewrite their October/November examination;
  • Learners receive a minimum of 52 contact hours per subject registered;
  • Learners receive study guides per subject registered;
  • Learners receive examination preparation tool kits which includes past examination papers and memorandums; and
  • Learners receive career guidance and life skills training as NYDA value-add services.

 

Approved/Not approved

Mr J T Radebe, MP

Minister in The Presidency

Date:

09 May 2016 - NW1161

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Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)(a) How many learners are at each of the 31 sites where the National Youth Development Agency is offering the specified learners the opportnity to rewrite the National Senior Cetificate examinations registered by 6 March 2016 to rewrite the specified exams during October/November 2016; (b) Which subjects are offered at each of the scecified sites; and (c) How many subject registrations does this represent; (2) Why do some Provinces only have one site where the specified programme is offered, whilst others such as KwaZulu-Natal have seven sites?

Reply:

A total of 4780 learners were registered on the Programme. 30 sites offer all 5 subjects (Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Science, Accounting and English First Additional Language (FAL)). Only 1 site (Taung) does not offer Accounting and English. This is because none of the learners registered for Accounting or English (FAL). The total subject registration is 9700.

Sites and learners are allocated based on the Department of Basic Education previous year/2015 National Senior Certificate Examination Reports (School Performance, Subject and Technical Reports) which outlines Grade 12 Provincial, districts and Schools performances. Based on the report, the NYDA allocates more sites/learners to Provinces (KwaZulu Natal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga) that perform poorly on matric results. Whereas for the Provinces (Western Cape, Gauteng and Free State) that performed well, were allocated one or fewer sites. In short, the programme prioritises poor performing areas/districts/provinces on Grade 12 results.

09 May 2016 - NW1107

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Lovemore, Ms AT to ask the Minister in the Presidency

With reference to the reply to question 68 on 4 April 2016, (a) how does his department monitor the payment of suppliers by government departments to ensure that payments are made within 30 days of receipt of goods or services, (b) what are the relevant details of the findings of the monitoring for the (i) 2013-14, (ii) 2014-15 and the (iii) 2015-16 financial years for each national and provincial department, entity or unit, (c) to whom are the findings reported and (d) what accountability mechanism is in place to ensure that there are consequences for non-compliance with the 30-day payment requirement?

Reply:

The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) monitors payment of suppliers through (i) progress reports on the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) and reports to the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD) Plan of Action. The DPME’s Management Performance Assessment Tool (MPAT) is also used to assess payment of suppliers. In addition, the DPME has established a unit dealing with the 30 days payment of suppliers which receives and investigates complaints of non-payment from suppliers to facilitate payment. To date, a total of R61 million has been paid to various suppliers as a direct result of DPME’s interventions.

The findings of Monitoring for National and Provincial departments are as follows:

National Departments

Provincial Departments

January-December 2014

149 926 invoices to the value of R3,7 billion were paid after 30 days

 

62 382 invoices to the value of R2,3 billion older than 30 days and were not paid

January-December 2014

256 399 invoices to the value of R14 billion were paid after 30 days

 

374 564 invoices to the value of R22.9 billion, older than 30 days and were not paid

January-December 2015

163 056 invoices to the value of R3.7 billion were paid after 30 days

64 232 invoices to the value of R4,7 billion, older than 30 days and were not paid

January-December 2015

337 277 invoices to the value of R27 billion were paid after 30 days

454 903 invoices to the value of R36.8 billion, older than 30 days and were not paid

January-February 2016

32 694 invoices to the value of the value of R856 million were paid after 30 days

16 629 invoices to the value of R1 billion, older than 30 days and were not paid

January- February 2016

47 067 invoices to the value of the value of R3.7 billion were paid after 30 days

98 520 invoices to the value of R8.5 billion, older than 30 days and were not paid

The Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) provides for consequences in the case where Accounting Officers are found to have been guilty of financial misconduct. The misconduct as defined in the PFMA includes failure by the Accounting Officers to carry out their responsibilities in terms of the Act. It is the responsibility of relevant departments to implement consequences for erring officials as provided for in the PFMA and other relevant legislations.

05 May 2016 - NW1108

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Lovemore, Ms AT to ask the Minister in the Presidency

With reference to the reply to question 3977 on 3 December 2015, (a) when was the Anti-Corruption Inter-Ministerial Committee (ACIMC) formed, (b) on what dates has the specified committee met since its inception, (c) what interventions or programmes have been put in place as a result of the existence of the specified committee, (d) what measures does the specified committee utilise to determine the success of its functioning and (e) what are the details of the (i) incidences of public sector corruption and (ii) cost of public sector corruption in each financial year since the inception of the ACIMC?

Reply:

The Anti-Corruption Inter-Ministerial Committee (ACIMC) was established in June 2014. The Committee met in August and September 2014, September and November 2015, March 2016, and approved five programmes which are implemented as follows:

  • Communication and Awareness

The key focus of this programme is to communicate government’s efforts and successes in combatting corruption in a consistent manner and to educate South Africans about what constitute corruption and encourage citizens to contribute to a Societal Approach towards preventing and countering corruption.

  • Intelligence Coordination, Policy and Strategy Development

To give effect to the government anti-corruption agenda by focusing on intelligence coordination, policy and strategy development.

  • Public Sector Policy and Capacity Development

To develop policies and strategy in the public sector to support Government’s anti-corruption agenda and to manage and monitor domestic implementation of and reporting on identified international obligations on anti-corruption.

  • Vulnerable Sector Management

To enforce accountability by, inter alia, ensuring enforcement of statutory and regulatory in government business, systems improvements; litigation where appropriate in order recover government losses and also assist in preparation of criminal cases.

- Crime Operations and Resolutions.

To deal with Criminal Investigations and Resolutions (prosecutions) in terms of identified National Priorities and Criminal Asset Recoveries. To ensure coordination of activities of all law enforcement agencies involved in the process of Anti-Corruption Criminal Investigation.

A total of 203 corruption priority cases involving 1065 persons were investigated. The total number of persons convicted since 2009 to date is 116. Thus between 2009 and 2014, a total number of 63 persons were convicted. During the financial year 2014/2015; a total number of 23 persons were convicted. During the financial year 2015/2016; a total number of 30 persons were convicted. Investigations in 11 cases are currently underway in relation to possible contraventions of the OECD Foreign Bribery Convention.

Freezing orders to the value of R 601 million were obtained by the end of the 3rd Quarter of the 2015/16 financial year, which has contributed to a cumulative total of R4.21 Billion since 2009.

Proceeds of crime and government losses to the value of close to R 71 million were recovered by the end of the 3rd Quarter of the 2015/16 financial year, which contributed to a cumulative total of R1.96 billion since 2009.

Over and above the successes referred to in the preceding paragraphs, government has through the Specialised Commercial Crime Unit (SCCU), made significant advances in securing convictions in cases other than the priority cases stipulated in the MTSF. Since 2012 the SCCU has obtained the conviction of about three thousand, three hundred and forty individuals for serious corruption and or serious financial and economic crimes.

A total of 234 government officials were convicted for corruption related offences from 2014/15 financial year to date. However note should be taken that the monitoring of conviction was negatively affected by the disbandment of the JCPS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) and the under-reporting of disciplinary cases instituted by departments.

25 April 2016 - NW1022

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Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(A) Whether Denel Asia has applied for a Conventional Arms Permit as envisaged in the Act, before its incorporation as a Juristic Entity to the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (i) if Denel Asia has indeed applied for such a permit, why would such a permit be considered. This is because the processing of such application as it is deemed to be an irregularity, (a) what is the NCACC going to do about this matter, granted that if they had indeed applied that would be an irregularity (ii) (a) when did the NCACC know about this matter (b) when did the Chairperson of the NCACC inform the Joint Standing Committee on Defence about this matter

Reply:

According to the records of the NCACC, Denel Asia has not applied for a Permit to the NCACC.

20 April 2016 - NW913

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Mente, Ms NV to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Has he earned any additional income from businesses, in particular businesses doing work for the Government, since his appointment as Minister; if so, (a) when, (b) how much did he earn, (c) from which businesses and (d) for what work; (2) whether his (a) spouse, (b) children and (c) close family earned income from businesses, in particular businesses doing work for the Government, through his appointment as Minister; if so, in respect of each case, (i) when, (ii) how much did each earn, (iii) from which businesses and (iv) for what work?

Reply:

I wish to refer the Honourable Member to the Office of Registrar of Member’s Interest in Parliament where I have made submissions since becoming a Minister.

06 April 2016 - NW754

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Van der Westhuizen, Mr AP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)What are the full descriptions or definitions of the Strategic Objectives of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) used for measuring the performance of the NYDA against its set targets;

Reply:

  1. IMPROVED SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOOD OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN SOUTH AFRICA
    1. KEY PROGRAMME AREA 1: ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION

Strategic Objective 1.1.1

To enhance the participation of young people in the economy.

Objective statement

Assist and facilitate youth participation leading to improvement of livelihoods through NYDA grants as financial support and non-financial support interventions.

Justification

Youth Economic participation is a key challenge in the South African economy. The programme addresses this by enabling youth to acquire entrepreneurial skills, leading to sustainable self-employment, and creation of youth owned businesses.

   

 

    1. KEY PROGRAMME AREA 2: EDUCATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

Strategic Objective 1.2.1

To facilitate and implement education opportunities in order to improve the quality education attainment for the youth

Objective Statement

The NYDA will place approximately 18,517 learners in education opportunities, these will be young people who want to re-write their matric.

Justification

An estimated 70% of matriculants fail or pass with marks that exclude them from enrolling with higher education institutions in the country; these young people require a second chance to improve their subject grades NYDA offers that opportunity to these young people. Some young people require financial assistance to enroll in higher education institutions; NYDA is also contributing to these young people so that they can pursue their educational careers in higher education institutions locally and abroad.

Strategic Objective 1.2.2

To facilitate and implement skills programmes

Objective Statement

To mobilise young people to :

  • Participate in technical skills programmes
  • Provide job preparedness, life skills and job placement support.

Justification

Youth skills development programmes provide an opportunity for young people to learn skills at the same time provide them with practical experience of applying their acquired skills whilst they are still on training. The programmes focuses on lower end skills required by local development economies such as artisans, community workers and auxiliary workers in various fields. In addition young people will be provided with job preparedness and life skills training and job placement support with the aim of sourcing job opportunities for these young people.

2. ENHANCED PARTICIPATION OF YOUTH IN SOCIAL COHESION TOWARDS NATION BUILDING

This outcome area is implemented though the following programme area:

 a) Health and Wellbeing

    1. KEY PROGRAMME AREA 4: HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Strategic Objective 2.1.1

To provide health and well- being interventions to young people.

Objective Statement

To increase awareness on the healthy lifestyles that promote good health practices amongst the youth of South Africa, including dangers of substance abuse, unprotected sex, nutrition, sexual transmitted diseases and the impact of HIV Infection and Aids among young people in South Africa.

Justification

South Africa has a high substance (drugs, alcohol, smoking) abuse problem amongst the youth, have a very high HIV infection rate amongst the youth, have a high death rate due to injury and trauma amongst the youth, therefore the NYDA needs to contribute in national efforts to improve the health conditions of young people in the country.

3. ENHANCED ENABLING ENVIRONMENT THAT PROMOTES YOUTH DEVELOPMENT IN ALL SECTORS OF SOUTH AFRICAN SOCIETY

    1. KEY PROGRAMME AREA 5: KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT

Strategic Objective 3.1.1

To create and produce information and knowledge for better youth development planning and decision making

Objective statement

Generate information and knowledge that inform innovation of project and programme implementation to all stakeholders

Justification

This objective will contribute in generating new evidence and information on how to better plan, review programme models and set relevant and realistic indicators for youth development in South Africa.

Strategic Objective 3.1.2

To Lobby Key Stakeholders to support and implement youth development programmes

Objective Statement

To lobby External stakeholders to provide support to and collaborate with the NYDA in delivering Youth Development Work.

Justification

To mainstream and integrate youth development across all sectors of society.

Strategic Objective 3.1.3

To create a platform for youth to participate and benefit from democratic processes

Objective Statement

To create a platform for young people to promote social cohesion.

Justification

To mainstream and integrate youth development across all sectors of society. The National Youth Service Programme will play a coordination role into ensuring that stakeholders and government institutions implementation National Youth Service Programme (including the private sector and CSOs)

Strategic Objective 3.1.4

To mobilise and leverage financial resources from key stakeholders

Objective Statement

To mobilise and leverage financial contributions from key stakeholders to implement programmes outlined in the NYDA ACT so as to increase the numbers of young people benefiting from youth development programmes in the country

Justification

To mobilise and leverage financial contributions from key stakeholders to implement programmes outlined in the NYDA ACT so as to increase the numbers of young people benefiting from youth development programmes in the country

4. DEVELOP AND ENHANCE A CREDIBLE AND CAPABLE AGENCY FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

    1. KEY PROGRAMME AREA 6: GOVERNANCE

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 4.1.1

To establish a credible, efficient and effective organisation in terms of the identified NYDA Governance identified areas

Objective statement

To ensure that all NYDA systems and process support NYDA products and services for effective service delivery

Justification

To ensure that all NYDA systems and process support NYDA products and services for effective service delivery.

The following KPI’s will be not be measures after 2017/18 Financial

  • Efficient and effective IT systems to support youth development
  • Review of identified policies and processes for increased efficiency

Strategic Objective 4.1.2

To provide access to information and create awareness on youth development programmes.

Objective statement

Provide information and knowledge to all stakeholders and including the youth to inform youth development processes for policy, planning, implementation and review.

Justification

This objective will improve the access to critical up-to-date information and lessons that can be used in improving youth development programmes and interventions.

(2)

The jobs that are created through the grant programme fall under two categories, the first category is the beneficiary him/herself that is able to create self-employment through the receipt of the grant. The second category is where they create an additional job within the business. Verification of these jobs is through NYDA jobs verification template where the employee completes the template and signs it. Furthermore the NYDA performs aftercare visits to these business which enables the organisation to track performance of the business over time.

03 March 2016 - NW218

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Gardee, Mr GA to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Has The Presidency awarded any contracts to companies indirectly or directly owned by certain persons (names furnished) in the (a) 2012-13, (b) 2013-14 and (c) 2014-15 financial years; if so, in each specified financial year, (i) how many times were such contracts awarded and (ii) for what amount?

Reply:

I wish to inform the Honourable Member that The Presidency and the Department of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation did not award contracts to companies owned by the mentioned persons in the financial years in questions.

03 March 2016 - NW250

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Mente, Ms NV to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether he and/or the Office of The Presidency has bought advertising space in The New Age in the (a) 2012-13, (b) 2013-14 and (c) 2014-15 financial years; if so, (i) what number of times and (ii) for what amount in each specified financial year?

Reply:

The Presidency and the Department of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation did not buy advertising space in The New Age newspaper in the period in question.

03 March 2016 - NW375

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Groenewald, Mr HB to ask the Minister in the Presidency

With reference to President Jacob G Zuma’s undertaking in his State of the Nation Address delivered on 12 February 2015, that the Government will set aside 30% of appropriate categories of state procurement for purchasing from Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs), co-operatives, as well as township and rural enterprises, what percentage of the total procurement of (a) the Office of the Presidency and (b) every entity reporting to him went to (i) SMMEs and (ii) co-operatives from 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?

Reply:

The Presidency procured 44%, and the Department of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation procured 22.8% from SMMEs in the period in question.

24 February 2016 - NW155

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Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)When will the National Conventional Arms Control Committee publish its 2014-15 annual report listing all the arms exports; (2) when does he intend to brief the Joint Standing Committee on Defence on (a) the specified and (b) other related arms transactions

Reply:

The reporting cycle for the NCACC is on a calendar year basis (Jan-Dec) and not financial (April-Mar). Therefore, the annual report is due in the 1st Quarter of the subsequent year. It is also important to note that Reports on Transfer of controlled items are compiled quarterly and submitted to Parliament.

The appearance before the Joint Standing Committee on Defence is upon invitation by the Committee. Should this invitation be received the briefing will be done as prescribed by section 23 of the NCAC Act.

24 February 2016 - NW64

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Atkinson, Mr P to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1) Did (a) he and/or (b) the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma, hold any formal meetings outside of the plenaries with other delegates to the 2016 World Economic Forum conference in Davos, Switzerland; if not, why not; if so, (i) how many meetings did (aa) he and/or (bb) the President attend and (ii) with whom were the meetings; (2) in light of the President’s non-attendance at a meeting he was due to address as part of a panel of African leaders at the specified conference, what value has accrued to the South African economy and South Africa in general by his and the President’s attendance at the specified conference

Reply:

1. The President led a high-powered Team South Africa delegation to the 2016 World Economic Forum in Davos towards the end of January 2016. Team South Africa comprised of Cabinet Ministers, the Governor of the Reserve Bank, CEOs of major companies and other captains of industry. The key message that Team South Africa took to Davos was that South Africa is open to business. The message was positively received by global investors who were at Davos.

In pursuit of Team South Africa’s mission in Davos, the President held several meetings with investors, CEOs, and other participants. Together with a delegation of Cabinet Ministers they met the global investors in a session called the Business Interaction Group on South Africa. This is a forum in which global investors to the South African economy meet with the President and Ministers to discuss the economic and investment climate in South Africa. Progress we are making in implementing the National Development Plan as well as our commitment to sound economic and fiscal policies were welcomed by the investors. They also assured the delegation of thier continued confidence in South Africa and their belief that our country continues to be an attractive destination for investment.

The President also met with the delegation of South African business persons and captains of industry to discuss steps that we all need to take to ensure that our economy grows and creates jobs. This was in addition to meetings held with other important global business players such as the Group Chief Executive Officer of Siemens, which is a global company with huge investments in our country that create jobs for thousands of our citizens.

The President also met with the Prime Minister of Sweden, a country with which we enjoy strong bilateral relations. As it has become a tradition during our visits to Davos, the President met with the founder and chairman of the World Economic Forum, Professor Klaus Schwab, to discuss the state of the global economy and the steps South Africa is taking to respond to global economic headwinds.

2. The Presidency informed the organisers of the session in question a week before the departure to Davos that the President would not be able to attend the session and the advance team that arrived early in Davos also confirmed the message to organisers a few days before arrival. Our goal in Davos as Team South Africa was to communicate a message that South Africa is open to business, and that we are taking important steps to turn stimulate the growth of our economy and create jobs for the millions of citizens who seek employment. This message was positively received by many investors whom we met and interacted with. They expressed their confidence in the measures we are taking and assured us that that to them South Africa continues to be an attractive country to invest in.

Indeed the belief and confidence in our country is demonstrated by several global companies that have recently made signifcant investments to our economy. These companies include Mercedes, BMW, Nestle, Hisense, Beijing Automobile International Corporation, Marriot Hotels, and many others.

Although our economy faces major challenges, the steps we are taking today, including the efforts of Team South Africa in Davos, will ensure that we reap the benefits when the global economy recovers.

24 February 2016 - NW156

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Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Whether, in light of various reports in the media quoting Cameroonian military sources who say that the Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) stationed in Cameroon is now operating Ratel 20s to counter terrorism, he can confirm whether any Ratel 20s were delivered to Cameroon; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (2) whether the specified Ratel 20s were (a) sold to Cameroon or (b) transferred at no costs, in each case specifying (i) whether the prescribed procedures were followed and (ii) that no deviations were allowed?

Reply:

The quantity of Ratel Vehicles transferred to Cameroon in 2015, is 12. Past years for transaction in the Medium Term (up to 2013) were checked and it was found that no other transfers occurred in those years.

The Ratel Vehicles in question were sold to Cameroon and not transferred at a cost.

When these transactions are considered, they are evaluated in terms of Section 15 of the Act. The NCACC will authorize such transfers once satisfied that the transaction qualifies according to criteria as prescribed in the Act. The procedures were followed and there have been no deviations from the prescripts of the Act.

Furthermore, NCACC activities are subject to the Auditor-General (AG) of South Africa, who perform annual evaluations and assessments on qualitative aspects of the work undertaken, per given period. The past period performances of the NCACC by the AG in this regard, was found to be without qualification.

24 February 2016 - NW91

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Grootboom, Mr GA to ask the Minister in the Presidency

Whether he has entered into a performance agreement with the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma, with regard to the implementation of the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) 2014-2019; if not, why not; if so, (a) which key indicators and targets from the MTSF are reflected in the agreement, (b) how many performance assessments has he undertaken in consultation with the President since the agreement was signed, (c) what progress has been made in meeting the key indicators and targets from the MTSF, (d) what are the key obstacles to implementation and (e) what is the plan to address such obstacles?

Reply:

All Ministers are subject to Performance Agreements with the President.The Performance Management Framework for Ministers is the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) for 2014-2019, which is the first 5-year implementation plan of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030. The performance targets and indicators are derived from the 14 Outcomes which government seeks to achieve. These outcomes and targets constitute government’s Programme of Action (POA), against which performance is tracked and reported on at least on a quarterly basis. POA reports are publicly availble on the government’s website.

Cabinet closely monitors the implementation of the NDP 2030/MTSF 2014-2019 through POA Reports. These reports are tabled before an Implementation Forum of a Cluster of Ministers collectively responsible for MTSF outcomes, and then submitted to Cabinet, where progress is noted, bottlenecks to implementation are dicussed, and recommendations to address bottlenecks are considered and approved.

08 December 2015 - NW4206

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Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)Whether the National Conventional Arms Control Committee approved any export of arms to foreign states under section 14 of the National Conventional Arms Control Act, Act 41 of 2002 (a) in the (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2014-15 financial years and (b) since 1 April 2015; if not, why not; if so, (aa) to which states, (bb) and what are the further relevant details;

Reply:

There have been exports in terms of Section 14 which were authorised by the NCACC to foreign countries in the years 2010; 2011; 2012; 2013; 2014.The reporting cycle is on a calendar year basis and not on financial year basis, in line with section 23 of the NCAC Act. Therefore the reports are from January to December of each year. This means that the 2015 export report will only be available in 2016.

The NCACC considers all applications against set criteria in terms of section 15 as provided for in the NCAC Act and this occurs after a deliberate process by various Government Departments.

The Reports on Transfers of controlled items are compiled quarterly (4 quarters), as well as annually and are tabled in Parliament through the office of the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces. These reports are subsequently referred to the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.

These exports are further reported on to the United Nations in line with International obligations of South Africa in terms of Treaties and Conventions, in accordance with International Law.

From the ensuing, it is the intention of South Africa to ensure that arms transferred do not end up with rogue elements elsewhere in the world. South Africa is committed to contributing to Peace and Security in the world.

Lastly, the NCACC activities are subject to the Auditor-General (AG) of South Africa, who perform annual evaluations and assessments on qualitative aspects of the work undertaken, per given period. The past period performance of the NCACC by the AG in this regard was found to be without qualification.

 

Approved / Not Approved

Mr J T Radebe, MP

Minister in The Presidency

Date:

08 October 2015 - NW3354

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Cardo, Dr MJ to ask the Minister in the Presidency

With regard to the call for nomination of individuals to serve on the National Planning Commission for a new five-year term which closed on 10 April 2015, (a) how many nominations were received, (b) why has no announcement been forthcoming about the appointment of Commissioners and (c) who has been advising the Government on how best to implement the National Development Plan in the absence of a constituted National Planning Commission?

Reply:

A total of 127 nominations were received. On 17 September 2015 President Jacob Zuma announced the appointment of 25 new members of the National Planning Commission in the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, for a period of five years.

In regard to the last part of the enquiry, the Honourable Member will recall that Government developed the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF 2014-15) which is the first five year building block to implement the NDP. Government has been implementing, monitoring and reporting on the progress being made on the implementation of the NDP imperative under the guidance of Cabinet and Minister in the Presidency. There was therefore no vacuum in the absence of the National Planning Commission.

08 October 2015 - NW3527

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Gcume, Ms NP to ask the Minister in the Presidency

(1)With reference to his reply to oral question 341 on 26 August 2015, (a) who are the members of the task team appointed by the Deputy Minister in The Presidency, (b) on what basis was the task team appointed and (c) what amount are the members of the specified task team remunerated; (2) will the Deputy Minister in The Presidency make the draft National Expansion and Co-ordination Framework on National Youth Service Programme available; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) will the final report of the specified task team be made public; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date will the specified report be made public and (b) what are the further relevant details?

Reply:

The members of the Task Team appointed by the Minister in The Presidency are:

1.  Dept of Arts and Culture

2.  Dept of Basic Education

3.  City Year South Africa

4.  Department of Communications (GCIS)

5.  COSATU

6.  Dept of Defence

7.  Dept of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

8.  Dept of Human Settlements

9.  Dept of Labour

10. Dept of Public Works

11.  Dept. of Rural Development and Land Reform 

12.  Dept of Social Development

13.  Dept of Higher Education and Training

14.  Lovelife

15.  National Youth Development Agency (NYDA)

16.  Banking Association of SA

17.  Communication Specialist - Ms Jabulile Buthelezi

18.  Construction SETA

19.  National Treasury

20.  Dept of Public Service and Administration

21.  South African Graduates Development Association (SAGDA)

22.  South African Local Government Association (SALGA)

23.  South African Youth Council (SAYC)

24.  Youth in Action

25.  Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation

The Task Team was appointed on the basis of including key government departments that have experience in implementing National Youth Service (NYS) programmes, including government departments that may have a strong role to play in the expansion of the NYS.  The Task Team also includes civil society organisations and the private sector so that the views and experiences of these sectors in relation to NYS are incorporated. The work of the Task Team is voluntary and no members are remunerated.

Once the Task Team has concluded on the draft NYS Expansion and Coordination Framework, the Deputy Minister in The Presidency will release the draft framework for public comment and will accordingly engage with relevant stakeholders.

The draft framework will be made public together with a planned stakeholder engagement process.  The inputs gathered will further strengthen the draft framework.   

The final NYS Expansion and Coordination Framework will be submitted to Cabinet for approval and will subsequently be made public.

 

 

 

MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY: REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

Private Bag X1000, Pretoria, 0001, Union Buildings, Government Avenue, PRETORIA

Tel: (012) 300 5200, Website: www.thepresidency.gov.za

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

QUESTION FOR WRITTEN REPLY

QUESTION NUMBER: 3527

3527. Ms P T van Damme (DA) to ask the Minister in The Presidency:

(1) With reference to his reply to oral question 341 on 26 August 2015, (a) who are the members of the task team appointed by the Deputy Minister in The Presidency, (b) on what basis was the task team appointed and (c) what amount are the members of the specified task team remunerated;

(2) will the Deputy Minister in The Presidency make the draft National Expansion and Co-ordination Framework on National Youth Service Programme available; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) will the final report of the specified task team be made public; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date will the specified report be made public and (b) what are the further relevant details? NW4192E

The members of the Task Team appointed by the Minister in The Presidency are:

1. Dept of Arts and Culture

2.  Dept of Basic Education

3.  City Year South Africa

4.  Department of Communications (GCIS)

5.  COSATU

6.  Dept of Defence

7.  Dept of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

8.  Dept of Human Settlements

9.  Dept of Labour

10. Dept of Public Works

11.  Dept. of Rural Development and Land Reform 

12.  Dept of Social Development

13.  Dept of Higher Education and Training

14.  Lovelife

15.  National Youth Development Agency (NYDA)

16.  Banking Association of SA

17.  Communication Specialist - Ms Jabulile Buthelezi

18.  Construction SETA

19.  National Treasury

20.  Dept of Public Service and Administration

21.  South African Graduates Development Association (SAGDA)

22.  South African Local Government Association (SALGA)

23.  South African Youth Council (SAYC)

24.  Youth in Action

25.  Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation

The Task Team was appointed on the basis of including key government departments that have experience in implementing National Youth Service (NYS) programmes, including government departments that may have a strong role to play in the expansion of the NYS. The Task Team also includes civil society organisations and the private sector so that the views and experiences of these sectors in relation to NYS are incorporated. The work of the Task Team is voluntary and no members are remunerated.

 

Once the Task Team has concluded on the draft NYS Expansion and Coordination Framework, the Deputy Minister in The Presidency will release the draft framework for public comment and will accordingly engage with relevant stakeholders.

The draft framework will be made public together with a planned stakeholder engagement process. The inputs gathered will further strengthen the draft framework.

The final NYS Expansion and Coordination Framework will be submitted to Cabinet for approval and will subsequently be made public.