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:

Reply:

(1) The South African Police Service (SAPS) does not have specialised units to specifically investigate crimes committed on farms and small holdings (farm attacks). Crime committed on farms and smallholdings has, however, been identified as a strategic priority and is being dealt with as such. The prevention and combatting of these crimes has been included in the Annual Operational Plan for the 2017/2018 financial year of the Division: Visible Policing and is also being addressed in the Rural Safety Strategy. The investigation of these crimes is also prioritised at provincial level and, depending on the complexity and nature of specific crimes, the investigations are conducted by Provincial Investigation Units, which resort under the direct command and control of the Deputy Provincial Commissioner: Crime Detection.

(2) A scientific study to determine the reasons behind the criminal behaviour during the commission of these crimes has not yet been conducted, but the modus operandi and the circumstances under which these crimes are committed, are constantly being analysed by Detective Service, Crime Intelligence, the Crime Registrar and Visible Policing, in order to implement specific operational and tactical plans for the prevention, combating and investigation of these crimes.

Reply:

(1) (a) & (b) No.

(2) (a) & (b) No.

Reply:

(a) No private security company is employed by the Department of Environmental Affairs for anti-poaching purposes.

(b) (i) and (ii) Within SANParks, no private company is employed for anti-poaching purposes. The internal capability that was established over the past few years, complemented by the support from the government security agencies, is sufficient to provide the specialist nature of operations in the mission area. It also ensures the command and control required to conduct such operations.

---ooOoo---

Reply:

(a) No.

(b) No.

(c) No.

(d) No.

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.

Reply:

1. (a), (b), (c) and (d)

High Cost Increase

		2016/17 R’000	2017/18 R’000	Reason for Increased allocation
A	Computer Services	29 447	67 010	The allocation for computer services were corrected over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework as the allocation for the 2016/17 financial year was too low (R29.447m). 2015/16 financial year audited figure was at R75.549m. Therefore the increased allocation is expected to cover the cost for data lines, servers for the main offices in Pretoria and Cape Town and Regional Offices for the Expanded Public Works Projects projects, as well as enforcement at the OR Thambo.
B	Consultants	215 311	207 521	The services under consultants include Communication, Research and Project Management consultants in the specialised fields of Oceans and Research, Biodiversity and Conservation, Climate Change and Air Quality, Strategic Infrastructure Projects, Internal Auditors. National Treasury implemented reduction in compensation of employee’s allocations, resulting in not filling posts that are becoming vacant. The additional allocation received with regards to the Waste Tyre projects was also allocated under this line.
C	Travel	155 145	154 700	The travel allocation were cut from 2016/17 due to the implementation of cost containment measures. Travel include domestic travel to cover inspections in compliance, enforcement, and 750 Expanded Public Works Projects. They also include foreign travel to attend environmental, heritage, climate change, biodiversity and protected areas forums and platforms.
D	Venue	33 575	44 965	Venues and facilities allocation was corrected to cover the cost for venues to host the World Oceans Day, World Wetlands Day, Environmental month, Waste Khoro, Waste Phakisa Labs, National Parks Congress, as well as Oceans Economy Labs.

2. (a) and (b)

Cost-effective options

Cost containment measures were considered in line with National Treasury cost containment instruction received.

3. Why rely on the services of Consultants

The expertise and capacity does not exist in-house to undertake some of the complex work done in the Department. The Department attempted to attract and retain these type of expertise in the past, but failed due to lower salaries paid to civil servants. Such services under consultants include Research and Project Management consultants in the specialised fields of Oceans and Research, Biodiversity and Conservation, Climate Change and Air Quality, Strategic Infrastructure Projects, as well as Internal Auditors. National Treasury implemented reduction in compensation of employee’s allocations, resulting in not filling posts becoming vacant. The additional allocation received with regards to the Waste Tyre projects were also allocated under this line.

---ooOoo---

Reply:

(a)-(d), (i)-(vi) The South African Police Service (SAPS) could not detect that any services were procured or payments made to the mentioned individual, Forum, Fund and / or Council.

Reply:

a) No procurement of services and/or payments were made to Mr. Mzwandile Manyi.

b) No procurement of services and/or payments were made to the Progressive Professionals Forum

c) No procurement of services and/or payments were made to the Decolonisation Fund

d) No procurement of services and/or payments were made to the Black Business Council

i) No services were procured

ii) R- Nil

iii) R- Nil or No detail cost breakdown

iv) R- Nil or No amount paid

v) Not applicable

vi) R-Nil or Not applicable, there is no detail breakdown of payment

Reply:

(a, b, c, d, and e)

No payments were made to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council due to no services being requested from, or rendered by them.

(i, ii, iii, iv and v)

Not applicable.

---ooOoo---

Reply:

(i) The Minister of Public Works

(a) and (b) Make & Model	(c) Price	(d) Date purchased
BMW X5 F15 XDrive 4.0D	R918 459.61	12 November 2015

(ii) The Deputy Minister of Public Works

(a) and (b) Make & Model	(c) Price	(d) Date purchased
Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 V6 TDI	R709 484.00	21 November 2014
BMW F10 535i	R681 432.34	01 January 2015

(bb) No motor vehicle has been purchased since 01 April 2016.

Reply:

a) No, Mr Mzwanele Manyi did not respond to any bids advertised by the department.

b) No, the Progressive professionals Forum did not respond to any bids advertised by the department

c) No, the Decolonisation Fund did not respond to any bids advertised by the department

d) No Black Business Council did not respond to any bids advertised by the department.

1. Not applicable
2. Not applicable
3. Not applicable
4. Not applicable
5. Not applicable
6. Not applicable

Reply:

1. The difference between a Honorary Colonel/Captain (SA Navy) and a Patron is:

a) a Honorary Colonel/Captain (SA Navy) is the conduit to foster, maintain or renew civilian local and regional connections of goodwill and support to Arms of Service/Formation/Base/Units of the SANDF.

b) Honorary Colonels/Captains (SA Navy) are draw cards to market the SANDF.

c) a Patron represents the Chief of the SA National Defence Force or Chiefs of Service, respectively.

d) a Patron is a delegated authority drawn from the General Staff ranks of the SANDF and Honorary Colonels/Captains (SA Navy) are identified from the Private or Public Sector.

e) a Patron provides organisational, co-ordination and implementation advice to Chief of the SA National Defence Force or Chiefs of Service whom they represent at a Board, Fund or Sporting Code.

2. The appointment of Honorary Colonels/Captains (SA Navy) in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is regulated by the Department of Defence Instruction: Pol and Plan No 49/2001. The appointment of Honorary Colonels is an established tradition in the SANDF and any person appointed in this capacity does not form part of the chain of command. Any prominent citizen of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) interested in the preparedness and well-being of the SANDF, and any unit in particular, may be considered for appointment. Such a person may not necessarily have any military experience. An appointment as an Honorary Colonel/Captain is purely a titular appointment and shall confer no military status or power of command.

3. Seventy Two (72) civilians have been appointed since 10 May 1994.

4. Criteria for Appointment. The requirement/criteria for all the appointed civilians as Honorary Colonels/Captains is as follows:

a) Age. Preferably over 40 years and below 75 years.

b) Residence. RSA.

c) Profile. Candidates shall be worthy of the appointment as determined by the vetting process.

d) Security Clearance. An appropriate security clearance.

5. Functions. The main current functions of Honorary Colonels are:

a) to foster esprit-de-corps,

b) maintaining regimental and unit traditions,

c) to foster civilian local and regional connections, goodwill and support,

d) provide advice to the Chiefs of the Services on matters which the respective Chiefs may refer to them,

e) assistance in the control of, or advice on, regimental/unit organisations, charities, funds, properties, museums and memorials,

f) maintenance of goodwill and liaison between all parts of the Services whether Regular Force, Reserve Force or any other constituents that may be established in the SANDF and

g) assisting in the recruitment of officers, warrant officers, non-commissioned officers and other ranks into their particular regiments or unit and advice on the selection of unit commanders.

6. The appointment of Patrons in the South African National Defence Force is regulated by the Fundraising Act, 1978 (Act No 107 of 1978), SANDF Sports Policy HSP/D SPORT/103/13/B dated 13 June 1993 and Log 17 Pamphlet 2. Patrons are appointed by the Chief of the South African National Defence Force or Chiefs of Service, respectively to either a Board, Fund or Sporting Code.

7. Patrons are noteworthy members of the SANDF whom the Chief of the SANDF or Chiefs of Service deem it necessary to support the functions of a Board, Fund or Sporting Code. Patrons are mainly appointed from the General Staff or Senior Officers’ ranks of the SANDF to represent the Chief of the SA National Defence Force or Chiefs or Service, respectively.

8. Nineteen (19) General Staff and Senior Officers are delegated as either Board, Fund or Sporting Code Patron in the SANDF. 

9. Criteria of Appointment.

(a) Rank Level: General Staff or Senior Officer in the SANDF.

(b) Profile: Demonstrated ability to support the functions of a Board, Fund or Sporting Code.

(c) Mandating Authority: Delegated authority to represent the Chief of the SA National Defence or Chiefs of Service, respectively.

10. Functions. The main functions of Patrons are:

a) to foster esprit-de-corps,

b)act as ceremonial functionary at events or activities of the Board, Fund or Sporting Code.

c) promote the functions of the Board, Fund or Sporting Code.

d) act in an advisory capacity to Chief of the SA National Defence Force, Chiefs of Service, Chairperson of Board, Fund or Sporting Code.

e) kept abreast of development or requirements of the Board, Fund or Sporting Code iro its operations.

Reply:

The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.

Reply:

(a) Official International trips by the Minister of Tourism

(i)Destination & date	(ii)Purpose	(ii) Cost
Rio de Janeiro & Sao Paulo, Brazil (21 to 25 September 2014)	Opening of South African Tourism’s (SAT) office in Brazil. To preside over the Ubuntu Awards and the South African stand at the Associacao Basiliera de Agencias de Viagens (ABAV) Travel Tradeshow To interact with the Brazilian Outbound Tour Operators (Travel Trade) and visit WHS To sign a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Tourism.	R 111 957.74
Uzbekistan, Turkey & Samarkand (29 to 30 September 2014 Turkey) (01 to 03 October 2014 Samarkand )	To attend the 99th Session of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Executive Council (Exco) and 5th meeting of the Working Group on Official Development Assistance (ODA).	R 197 919.41
United Kingdom & Netherlands London & Amsterdam (03 to 06 November 2014)	To attend the World Travel Market (WTM) including meetings with key stakeholders (trade partners and industry associations) and media engagements. To deliver the Keynote address at the Ubuntu Awards. To participate as a Panel Member of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) & WTM Ministers’ Summit with the Theme: The legacy imperative of mega events. To attend the World Responsible Tourism Awards.	R 119 506.01
Namibia, Windhoek (23 to 24 February 2015)	The Minister met with his counterpart, Mr Herunga: Minister of Environment and Tourism during the 5th International Symposium and Annual Conference of the Partners of the Global Partnership for Sustainable Tourism.	R 7 489.39
Germany & Italy Berlin & Milan (02 to 05 March 2015 Berlin) (06 to 07 March 2015 Italy)	To attend the Internationale Tourismus-Börse (ITB) Berlin, Germany and to visit the South African Tourism (SA Tourism) office in Milan, Italy.	R 162 201.85
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (14 to 16 March 2015 UAE) (15 to 16 March 2015 Dubai)	To attend the Moscow International Tourism Trade Fair (MITT) and to participate in the South African Trade and Media engagement session in Moscow, Russia.	R 167 843.67
	To promote South Africa as a tourism destination in advance of the outgoing holiday season in the UAE. To establish contact between the governments of South Africa and the UAE to promote tourism cooperation between the two countries. To engage the main role players in the tourism industry in the UAE to promote South Africa as a suitable tourism destination.	R109,127.39
United States of America (USA) & Spain (13 to 14 April 2015 New York) (15 to 16 April 2015 Madrid)	To officiate at the 6th Ubuntu Awards which is an annual event that is hosted by South African Tourism.	R124,722.72
	To address the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) 15th Global Summit.	The cost is included in the USA trip (connection)
Seychelles, Victoria (24 to 26 April 2015)	To attend the International Carnival of Victoria.	R 54 173.04
United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai (04 to 05 May 2015)	To attend the 2015 World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Arabian Travel Market Ministerial Forum on Intra Arab Tourism establish contact between the governments of South Africa and the Middle East region. To engage the main role players in the tourism industry in the Middle East to promote South Africa as a suitable tourism destination. To attend the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (Memorandum of Agreement) between South African Tourism and Emirates airlines to promote South Africa as a tourist destination.	R 67 303.35
Croatia, Rovinj (27-29 May 2015)	To attend the 100th Session of the UNWTO Exco and 6th meeting of Working Group on ODA.	R 111 831.38 R 68,285.44
Zimbabwe, Harare (18 June 2015)	The Minister was invited by his Zimbabwean counterpart to be a panellist and guest speaker at the Ministerial Roundtable Discussions during the Sanganai World Tourism Expo organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality of the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe in collaboration with the University of Zimbabwe.	R 27 549.34
Medellin, Colombia, (12 to 16 September 2015)	To represent South Africa at the 21st session of the General Assembly; the 57th meeting of the UNWTO Commission for Africa (CAF) and the 101st session of the Executive Council (Exco) of the UNWTO. To chair the 7th meeting of the UNWTO Working Group on Official Development Assistance (ODA). To participate in a Ministerial lunch on “Tourism: A tool for peace and social inclusion” and a special event on “Financing of Tourism for Development”. To attend the UNWTO / International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) High Level Forum on “Tourism and Air transport for Development”. To meet with the Mexican Tourism Minister, Mr Enrique de la Madrid and the Mozambican Tourism Minister, Mr Silva Armando Dunduro.	R84,396.50
Antalya, Turkey (28 to 30 September 2015)	To attend the 6th Tourism (T20) Ministers meeting To Meet with the East Mediterranean International Tourism and Travel Exhibition (EMITT) to discuss South Africa’s participation in the 2016 exhibition	R 61,894.72
Milan, Italy (14 to 16 October 2015)	To participate at the South Africa week	R145,043.72
London, United Kingdom (02 to 05 November 2015)	To participate at the World Travel Market International Travel and Tourism Exhibition	R89,823.72
Saudi Arabia (13 to 15 December 2015)	Working visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia To build Bilateral Tourism relations between South Africa and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To develop and improve on the sustained relationship between the Department of Tourism and the Saudi Council for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH). To facilitate the implementation of the MOU on Tourism. To create awareness of SA as a tourism destination. To facilitate business contact between relevant tourism stakeholders.	R116,653.72
Cairo, Egypt to 03 March 2016)	Ministerial working visit to Egypt to Promote South Africa as Tourism Destination To build Bilateral Tourism relations between South Africa and the Arab Republic of Egypt. To develop and improve relations between the Department of Tourism and the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism. To facilitate the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Tourism To create awareness of SA as a tourism destination.	R28 985.72
Beijing and Shanghai, China (29 Mar18 May to 01 April 2016)	Working visit to China Minister’s visit to China to meet with his counterpart to discuss policy related matters on tourism and engage with the tourism trade.	R 65 568.46
Delhi and Mumbai, India (01 to 04 April 2016)	To engage with the travel and tourism business leaders and media in India. The visits were part of South African Tourism’s roadshow to boost tourism from these key source markets.	R59 568.46
Abidjan, Cote dÍvoire (19 to 21 April 2016)	To attend the 58th UNWTO-CAF meeting, the 10 Year Framework Programme on sustainable tourism Conference.	R89 161.23
Mahe, Seychelles (22 to 24 April 2016)	To attend the 6th Edition of the Seychelles International Carnival South Africa and Seychelles signed the Agreement on cooperation in the field of tourism in 2014. The two countries participate at each other’s tourism events exchangeable, i.e Tourism Indaba and the Seychelles Carnival.	R77 457.23
Malaga, Spain (09 to 11 May 2016)	To attend the 103rd Session of the Executive Council of the World Tourism Organisation.	R72 394.23
China, Beijing (19 to 21 May 2016)	To attend the UNWTO World Conference on Tourism for Development and the 7th T20 Ministers Meeting	R34 152.23 + R59,611.00
Khajuraho, India (01 to 02 September 2016)	To attend the Brazil-Russia-India-South Africa (Brics) Convention on Tourism	R58 560.23
Tehran, Iran (05 to 08 February 2017)	To conduct a working visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran to attend the 10th Tehran International Tourism Exhibition (TITE)	R74 586.23

(b) Official International trips by the Deputy-Minister of Tourism

(i)Destination & date	(ii)Purpose	(ii) Cost
China (16-22 September 2014)	To attend the China International Business Tourism Mart (CIBTM); one of the biggest business tourism events sin the Asia region.	R117 983.90
Dublin, Ireland (23-26 September 2014)	To attend the World Youth Student Travel Conference (WYSTC)	R105 000.00
Mahe, Seychelles (20-21 November 2014)	To attend the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Tourism Experts Meeting.	R61235.39
Frankfurt, Germany (18-22 May 2015)	To attend IMEX Frankfurt and to participate in the Politicians Forum.	R80,954.72
South East Asia (21-23 August 2015)	To participate at the SAT Roadshow to Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia	R120 896.23
Brazil (22-23 September 2015)	To attend ABAV travel show and Ubuntu Awards	R62 613.78
Malawi (21-25 November 2015)	To attend the 2nd Annual Southern Africa Women in Tourism Conference organized by the Regional Tourism Organisation of Southern Africa (Retosa).	R85 995.00
Iran, (07-09 November 2015)	To support the Deputy President, Mr CM Ramaphosa on an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran	R100 875.02
Angola (1-5 March 2016)	To strengthen the tourism bilateral relations between South Africa and Angola.	R92,728.09
Berlin, Germany (08-13 March 2016)	Internationale Tourismus-Borse Berlin (ITB) The ITB is an effective business platform, global market place, networking and meeting place, trend barometer, knowledge platform, think tank, career springboard-for trade visitors and exhibitors. The trip included: Meeting with the Embassy and South African Tourism Engaging with the Embassy, South African Tourism and Exhibitors Conducting Media Interviews Participating in the ITB Ministers Roundtable in cooperation with UNWTO To attend the Africa Forum – Community based Tourism: factors for success and best practice examples from Botswana	R109 585.45
Frankfurt, Germany (19-21 April 2016)	To attend IMEX and to participate in the Politicians Forum.	R251 851.66
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (14-18 June 2016)	Deputy Minister also honoured an invitation from the Zimbabwean Government Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry. The Government of Zimbabwe led by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality is regular exhibitor and participate at the Tourism Indaba held annually in Durban. South Africa and Zimbabwe signed an Agreement on cooperation in the field of tourism and committed to support each other at political level during the hosting of tourism fairs.	R14 024.44
East Asia (25 June – 09 July 2016)	SAT Road trip (China, Japan and Korea)	R120 896.23
Maputo, Mozambique (14 to 17 October 2016)	To participate at the 4th Edition of the Descubra Mozambique-International Tourism Fair. Descubra is a Tourism Fair that is held annually. The Deputy Minister honoured the invitation to attend as that will strengthen the political relationship between the two countries and enforce the implementation of the signed Agreement on Cooperation in the field of tourism. Mozambique participate at the Tourism Indaba held in Durban annually, and therefore South Africa has to also reciprocate when Mozambique is hosting its tourism fairs.	R 14 629.26
United States of America (15-22 October 2016)	IMEX and trade engagement SAT	R155 753.22
Caucun, Quintana, Mexico (30 November - 05 December 2016)	At the COP 13 biodiversity Deputy Minister participated at the Tourism Roundtable and it was a platform for countries to share with each other the work that they are doing in relation to their strategies.	R99 897.23

Reply:

(1) Yes, Mr Vusi Motha, the Executive Mayor of Mkhondo Municipality, was escorted by the security convoy detail from the RSS Security Company, of Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal.

(2) The investigation with regards to Piet Retief CAS 208/08/2016, has not yet been concluded. Medical reports of the persons who were injured in the collision and four witness statements must still be obtained.

(3) (a) Nobody was arrested in this matter.

(b) Nobody has been prosecuted in this matter.

(b)(i) The investigation must first be concluded, subsequent to which the case docket will be presented to the Senior Public Prosecutor at the Piet Retief Magistrate’s Court, for a decision on prosecution.

(b)(ii)(aa) Not applicable, as prosecution has not been initiated.

(bb) Not applicable, as prosecution has not been initiated.

Reply:

The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.

Reply:

The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.

Reply:

The response to be provided to this question currently forms the basis of a court case brought by the Democratic Alliance on 10 February 2017.  A response to this question will thus only be provided once the court case has been finalised.

Reply:

The Minister has not received the NEEDU 2014 National Report as it was finalised on 9 March 2017. Internal processes are being followed to ensure that the report reaches the Minister by the end of March 2017. Once the Minister has engaged with the report, it will be posted on the website of the Department of Basic Education.

 

Reply:

The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence

Reply:

1. Ms V Hofmeester has never received the amount of R120 000.

a) N/A

b) N/A

c) N/A

d) N/A

2. (i) Mr Rej Brijraj is not aware of such a transaction.

(ii) Mr Cliff Nndwambi is not aware of such a transaction.

Reply:

The responses below are provided as per:

The total number of learners in (i) primary and (ii) secondary schools who fell pregnant in each province during the (aa) 2014, (bb) 2015 and (cc) 2016 school years.

(a)(i)(ii)(aa)(bb)(cc)

Table 1: Number of learners who fell pregnant, by province, between 2014 and 2016

Year	Province	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5	Grade 6	Grade 7	Grade 8	Grade 9	Grade 10	Grade 11	Grade 12	Other	Total
2014	EC	0	0	0	5	16	42	67	99	164	134	0	527
	FS	0	1	0	12	7	27	95	182	167	262	12	765
	GT	0	0	4	16	71	201	639	1 541	1 486	1 204	55	5 217
	KZ	7	7	12	27	49	146	338	731	852	862	8	3 039
	LP	0	1		6	6	37	105	197	161	148	2	663
	MP	3	9	83	105	169	357	490	723	670	593	8	3 438
	NC	1	1	3	11	39	69	152	379	278	187	0	1 119
	NW	0	0	0	1	10	203	282	196	106	59	95	953
	WC	0	0	5	25	49	166	498	671	709	740	1	2 864
	National	11	19	107	208	416	1 248	2 666	4 719	4 593	4 189	181	18 357
2015	EC	0	0	2	2	6	19	26	49	82	57	0	243
	FS	1	1	4	6	19	29	56	178	179	221	0	694
	GT	0	1	4	13	56	239	610	1 410	1 689	1 219	5	5 246
	KZ	2	2	4	6	18	87	235	553	729	673	99	2 408
	LP	0	0	0	4	9	34	148	308	216	189	1	909
	MP	4	0	6	22	172	409	489	607	561	378	122	2 770
	NW	0	0	0	4	3	23	54	71	73	46	0	274
	NC	0	0	0	3	4	4	4	18	16	20	0	69
	WC	0	0	7	18	45	165	443	668	799	746	0	2 891
	National	7	4	27	78	332	1 009	2 065	3 862	4 344	3 549	227	15 504
2016	EC				1	1	5	10	20	32	37	0	106
	FS	1		1	3	21	30	50	123	120	138	0	487
	GT	1	2	6	28	83	280	615	1 069	1 118	1 164	0	4 366
	LP				9	5	35	103	241	223	212	0	828
	NW		1			5	17	56	109	91	80	0	359
	WC		1	5	15	48	187	369	526	612	666	0	2 429
	NC					3	6	27	50	40	31	0	157
	National	2	4	12	56	166	560	1 230	2 138	2 236	2 328	0	8 732

Source 1: 2014-16 Annual School Survey

Source 2: PEDs submissions

Note 1: 2016 data for KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga are still not available.

Note 2: The ASS question on learner pregnancy asks the school principal for: “the number of learners (That they are aware of) who got pregnant the previous academic year”.

Note 3: The data, as received from the provinces, are preliminary and must be treated with caution, since it has not been published in this format.

(b) The Department is in no position to report on learners who returned to school after pregnancy.

(c) The following cases were reported to South African Police Services (SAPS) for reasons related to sexual offences in each year:

2013 /14 = 56 680

2014 /15 = 53 617

2015 /16 = 51 895

The South African Police Services collects data on a yearly basis on sexual offences. However, they not only concentrate on reported schools cases but to the entire public services. The referred data is from ‘Crime situation in South Africa’.

Reply:

1. In terms of section 58B of the South African Schools Act (Act 84 of 1996), the Head of Department must, annually, identify any public school that is underperforming in relation to any matter referred to in subsection (2) (a), (b) or (c). Heads of Department have identified all underperforming schools, including the 38 schools. The list of the 38 schools that have performed below 40% is attached as Annexure A.

 

2. Heads of Department were provided with guidelines and a management plan for the management and support of all underperforming schools. Therefore, based on this, Heads of Department have taken the following steps to assist the identified schools to address their underperformance:

• Issuing of written notices to the principals of all underperforming schools (including independent schools as contemplated in paragraph 5.2 c), d) and g).
• As part of provincial consequence management strategies, issuing of written notices to all principals of the schools identified as serial underperforming schools requesting them to motivate and provide reasons as to why the Provincial Education Departments must not remove them from their positions as principals. For instance:
  • In Free State, in some areas principals of weak schools were removed to smaller schools and placed under strict supervision. The province has managed to eliminate most schools that performed below 50 per cent, and the number of these schools has been reduced to one school. The province is now working on reducing the number of schools that performed below 75% since 2014.
  • In KwaZulu-Natal, there are regular accountability sessions with teachers, heads of department, school principals, circuit managers and subject advisors on the performance of schools and subjects for which they are responsible.
• Requiring of District Directors to conduct a diagnostic analysis of the challenges that led to underperformance in the identified schools, for submission to HoDs.
• Requiring of school principals of the schools identified as underperforming to prepare and submit Academic Performance Improvement Plans to the Head of Department.
• Evaluating Academic Performance Improvement Plans from schools identified as underperforming and providing the necessary guidance and support.

To ensure that there is improvement in the performance of the schools identified as underperforming; Heads of Department must take all reasonable steps to assist schools identified in terms of subsection (1) of the South African Schools Act (Act 84 of 1996) in addressing the underperformance. For instance:

• In Gauteng, the Department is in the process of providing subject support packages which include the following: Curriculum policy; Lesson plans; Exam guidelines; SSIP material; SBA and PAT guidelines; Diagnostic Reports; analytical reports; weighted ATPs; and weighted weekly assessment items for each subject.
• In KwaZulu-Natal:
  • Circuit managers and subject advisors are monitoring curriculum coverage in all underperforming schools; ensuring that schools have curriculum delivery targets and that they receive well-prepared lesson plans, assessment exercises and memoranda.
  • The Just-In-Time (JIT) programme is being used to improve teachers’ knowledge of subject content and application of teaching methods. The focus of the programme is on Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Accounting, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Agricultural Sciences and Geography.
  • The province developed an ‘SMT Toolkit on Curriculum Management’, and has printed approximately 10 000 copies for heads of department, deputy principals, school principals and circuit managers as support material.

MECs for Education shall submit reports on the 31st March 2017 on the actions taken by their Heads of Department regarding support provided to underperforming schools, to assist the Minister in carrying out her duties referred to in section 8 of the National Education Policy Act.

3. The Department of Basic Education has provided guidance to this effect and provincial education departments are expected to submit comprehensive reports to the DBE.

Reply:

The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.

Reply:

(1) In 2012, the President of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) and Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), President J.G. Zuma, proclaimed that 21 February will be observed and commemorated as Armed Forces Day. It is to be a day on which the South African population honours men and women of the South African National Defence Force by affirming its support and gratitude to them for upholding the Constitution of the Republic and defending the territorial integrity of the Republic and protecting its people. It is fortunate the Armed Forces Day 2017 coincided with the centenary commemoration of the sinking of the SS Mendi on 21 February 1917. To reciprocate, the SANDF also uses this annual event to strengthen its relationship with the broader population and to reach out to local communities.

(2) The SANDF does not have an allocated budget for the Armed Forces Day and therefore the host Service (rotated amongst the Services on an annual basis) budgets for the corporate costs while all participating Services and Divisions budget for their participating members’ subsistence and travel costs.

     a) The guideline prescribes an estimated budget of RM25.

     b) The total actual cost of hosting is as follows:

     (i) For 2016 Armed Forces Day: R 20 845 897.00.

     (ii) For 2017 Armed Forces Day: R 24 777 028.00.

(3) Since its proclamation, the Armed Forces Day has been celebrated in five provinces, namely Gauteng, the Free State, the North West Province, Eastern Cape Province and KwaZulu Natal. It is the prerogative of the Chief of the South African Nation Defence Force to select the venue in which the Armed Forces Day is celebrated.

a) Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan in 2016 was part a provincial rotation; the venue was ideal for the host service, the SA Navy, to showcase its capabilities in a more tangible way than in the previous three years.

b) The eThekweni Metropolitan Municipality was recommended by the SA Army as the most suitable venue to celebrate the 2017 Armed Forces Day considering that it coincided with the centenary commemoration of the sinking of the SS Mendi.

Reply:

1(a) Currently the Department has recruited 74 interns. Placement of interns differs from one Directorate to the other. Some Directorates have one intern and some have more than one. The table below indicates the number of interns per Directorate:

Name of the Directorate	Number of Interns
ASIDI	2
Communication and Research	5
Curriculum Implementation and Monitoring	3
Curriculum Policy Support and Monitoring	1
Curriculum Policy, Development and Implementation	1
Curriculum Research	1
Curriculum, Implementation and Quality Improvement	1
District Co-Ordination Monitoring and Support	2
Donor Grant Management, Dinaledi/Technical Secondary Schools	1
Education HR Planning, Provisioning and Monitoring	1
Education Labour Relations and Conditions of Service	2
Educator Performance Management and Development and Whole School Evaluation	1
EMIS	4
Financial Planning, Economic Analysis and Provincial Budget Monitoring	5
Financial Services	8
Health Promotion	1
Initial Teacher Education	1
International Relations and Multilateral Affairs	1
Kha Ri Gude Literacy Project	1
LTSM Policy development and Innovation	2
Media Liaison &National & Provincial Communication	2
National Assessment and Public Examinations	1
NEEDU	1
Partnership	1
Physical Planning and Rural Schooling	3
Provincial Monitoring	1
Research Co-ordination, Monitoring and Evaluation	1
Safety in Education	3
School Nutrition	1
Social Cohesion and Equity in Education	3
Sport and Enrichment in Education	2
Strategic Planning, Research and Coordination	1
Teacher Development Implementation	2
Teacher Development Research	1
Training and Social Responsibility	3
UNESCO	4
Total	74

1(b)(i) Interns are paid in accordance with the Remuneration Schedule as outlined in the Determination of Interns in the Public Service issued by the DPSA. The Remuneration Schedule provides for the minimum stipend to be paid to interns in accordance with their qualification. As a result of that, a qualification that an intern has obtained determines the amount of stipend he or she should receive per month.

The Remuneration Schedule has three categories to be considered when determining the stipend for interns:

Category A1-3: consist of interns with NQF level 4 equivalent to Matric. Category B1-4: consist of interns with National Diploma, Degree, BTECH, Honours and Masters Certificate.

Category C1-C2: consist of interns with Masters and Doctoral Degrees.

The Qualifications of interns recruited in the Department in terms of the Determination have obtained NQF level 4 -10 qualifications.

Interns who have a National Diploma, BTECH or Degree are paid R4 035.06 per month. Interns who have Masters and Doctoral Degree are paid R4 981.63 per month.

1(b)(ii) Overtime calculations:

Normal hours

Notch X 7 X 1 X 1.5 X total hours

1 365 40

Sunday hours

Notch X 7 X 1 X 2 X total hours

1 365 40

1(c) Interns are appointed on contract for a duration of 24 months in terms of the DPSA revised Guidelines on Internship Programme. However, as part of the capacity building programme, the Department gives interns the opportunity to manage projects. Interns who are assigned projects have their Personal Development Plans (PDPs) aligned to the duration of the projects. As a result their internship contract may extend beyond 24 months until the end of the project. During that period the Department ensures that there is a skills transfer in order to address issues of scarce and critical skills. This process of engaging interns in projects assists the Department in building capacity and ensuring that interns acquire scarce and critical skills that are to the benefit of the public service as a whole. Furthermore interns are being assessed on a quarterly basis by their mentors or supervisors.

2

	2013/14	2014/15	2015/16
Number of Interns	14	5	22

Reply:

The response below was sourced from Gauteng Department of Education

SCHOOL NAME	(a) Total exemption granted *	(b) Amount actually paid	(ii) & (iii) Districts
DUNVEGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 1 425 000	R 59 882	EDENVALE
EASTLEIGH PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 3 564 204	R 84 457	EDENVALE
EDENGLEN HIGH SCHOOL	R 2 025 300	R 68 560	EDENVALE
EDENGLEN PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 1 488 553	R 40 951	EDENVALE
EDENVALE HIGH SCHOOL	R 1 134 600	R 10 348	EDENVALE
HOËRSKOOL EDENVALE	R 730 000	R 23 080	EDENVALE
HURLYVALE PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 1 335 840	R 33 209	EDENVALE
LAERSKOOL M W DE WET PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 1 839 200	R 53 495	EDENVALE
ARBOR PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 1 633 280	R 47 757	KEMPTON PARK
BIRCH ACRES PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 442 200	R 17 267	KEMPTON PARK
BONAERO PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 942 480	R 46 931	KEMPTON PARK
CRESSLAWN PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 819 000	R 47 771	KEMPTON PARK
EDLEEN PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 273 000	R 39 518	KEMPTON PARK
HOËRSKOOL BIRCHLEIGH	R 4 158 000	R 162 072	KEMPTON PARK

 

 

SCHOOL NAME	(a) Amount requested	(b) Amount actually paid	(ii) & (iii) Districts
HOËRSKOOL JEUGLAND	R 3 324 420	R 89 324	KEMPTON PARK
HOËRSKOOL KEMPTON PARK	R 1 822 800	R 46 258	KEMPTON PARK
KEMPTON PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 392 370	R 19 538	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL BIRCHLEIGH	R 1 377 000	R 52 681	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL BREDELL	R 989 175	R 35 896	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL EDLEEN	R 833 085	R 36 401	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL IMPALA	R 1 097 250	R 42 142	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL JEUGPARK PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 1 387 100	R 81 849	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL KEMPTON PARK	R 1 615 900	R 96 147	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL KREFT	R 1 062 600	R 68 840	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL KRUINSIG	R 772 200	R 31 139	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL MOOIFONTEIN PRIMARY SCHOOL	R 1 426 590	R 92 700	KEMPTON PARK
LAERSKOOL VAN RIEBEECKPARK	R 1 155 220	R 105 390	KEMPTON PARK
NORKEM PARK HIGH SCHOOL	R 3 108 400	R 190 533	KEMPTON PARK
RHODESFIELD TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL	R 1 203 300	R 50 963	KEMPTON PARK
SIR PIERRE VAN RYNEVELD HIGH SCHOOL	R 1 971 420	R 91 580	KEMPTON PARK
MASIQHAKAZE SECONDARY SCHOOL	R 61 000	R 169 885	TEMBISA
MASISEBENZE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL	R 347 500	R 77 423	TEMBISA

Source: Gauteng Provincial Education Department

* Assuming that all learners were granted 100% fee exemption

Reply:

The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.

Reply:

In response to issues raised by the committee on decolonisation, clarification was given of how the Curriculum review process since Curriculum 2005 has included the need for transformation. Examples were provided from the current CAPS, such as the change in the History curriculum.

Mention was also made of the fact that in future curriculum review processes, a focus on decolonisation will continue to feature. The example provided was English Literature used in the schooling system, e.g. the need to review the genre of novels and drama prescribed for teaching and learning, which includes a possible review of the continued emphasis on the works of Shakespeare.

There is a need to move towards the greater inclusion of African and South African writings for novels/drama and poetry and this will be part of the long-term curriculum review process. Therefore, the consideration of the works of Shakespeare is an aspect of the overall literature review process targeted for 2020 and thus concrete work on this shall only begin in 2018.

Reply:

The Department has no payment record of any payments to the suppliers a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council. No orders were also issued.

Reply:

(a) The utilisation of the Inkwazi is an internal operational issue.

Reply:

According to the records at Supply Chain Management, the Department has not procured any services or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professional Forum, (c) The Decolonisation Fund and/ or (d) the Black Business Council.

The Department has not procured any services from the service providers in question as there was no need for services from these service providers.

Reply:

Please refer to the answer in PQ 2745 submitted on 15 December 2016, herewith attached.

Reply:

Paragraph 15 of the admission policy states the following: “When a parent applies for admission of a learner to an ordinary public school, the parent must present an official birth certificate of the learner to the principal of the public school. If the parent is unable to submit the birth certificate, the learner may be admitted conditionally until a copy of the birth certificate is obtained from the regional office of the Department of Home Affairs. The principal must advise parents that it is an offense to make a false statement about the age of a child (see Births and Deaths Registration Act, 1992 No 51 of 1992) The parent must ensure that the admission of the learner is finalised within three months of conditional admission.”

Section 39, (1) of the Immigration Act provides as follows:

“(1) No learning institution shall knowingly provide training or instruction to-

(a) an illegal foreigner;

(b) a foreigner whose status does not authorise him or her to receive such training

(c) a foreigner on terms or conditions or in a capacity different from those contemplated in such foreigner’s status

(2) If an illegal foreigner is found on any premises where instruction or training is provided, it shall be presumed that such foreigner was receiving instruction or training from, or allowed to receive instruction or training by, the person who has control over such premises unless prima facie evidence to the contrary is adduced.”

Section 42(I) Subject to this Act, and save for necessary humanitarian assistance, no person, shall aid, abet, assist, enable or in any manner help - (a)  an illegal foreigner; or (b) a, foreigner in respect of any matter, conduct or transaction which violates such foreigner’s status, when applicable, including but not limited to - (i) providing instruction or training to him or her…

Section 49(6) provides as follows:

Anyone failing to comply with one of the duties or obligations set out under sections 42 to 46 of this Act shall be guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or to imprisonment not exceeding 18 months.

In terms of the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, 2005 (Act No. 13 of 2005) the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) signed an Intergovernmental Protocol Agreement, to establish a formal channel of information sharing and collaboration. Emanating from this formal agreement, the DBE is able to ensure the Learner Unit Record Information and Tracking System (LURITS) interfaces with data from the National Population Register (NPR) of DHA, and triangulates the data to verify learner ID numbers and learner living status. This enables the DBE to determine the true authenticity of learners in the system and therefore eliminate ghost learners. Work is underway to automate data transfer between LURITS and the NPR to streamline data verification. The DBE is also currently modernising the South African School Administration and Management System (SA-SAMS) to include integration of data/systems with DHA, to enable verification of learner ID numbers as soon as the school comes to point of contact to an online facility.

Reply:

The following information is submitted by the South African Revenue Service and cannot be verified by the National Treasury:

1. (a)(i) The total value of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was R6, 704, 966, 735 of which R806, 047, 046 were not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.

(ii) The total number of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was 50, 931 of which 7, 191 claims were not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that only the returns required during the period in question were included. The information therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.

(iii) Diesel audits are conducted manually and information is only available for ongoing or completed audits. Information for audit cases, ongoing at a specific historic point in time is not available.

(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:

AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 29 February 2016	Volume	Value (R)	% Volume	% Value
0 to 1 Month	2 546	-R 412 278 143.78	35%	51%
2 to 3 Months	1 631	-R 161 455 695.28	23%	20%
4 to 6 Months	1 478	-R 139 218 514.26	21%	17%
7 to 9 Months	1 347	-R 83 750 122.50	19%	10%
10 to 12 Months	189	-R 9 344 571.16	3%	1%
	7 191	-R 806 047 046.98	100%	100%

(b)(i) The total value of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was R2, 557, 865, 443 of which R657, 079, 282 were not refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.

(ii) The total number of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was 55, 547 of which 6, 064 claims were not

refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that only returns required during the period in question were included. The information therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.

(iii) The total value of Diesel refunds still being audited as at 28 February 2017 was R237, 115, 712.

(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:

 

AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 28 February2017	Volume	Value (R)	% Volume	% Value
0 to 1 Month	2 607	-R 313 996 337.02	43%	48%
2 to 3 Months	1 262	-R 122 845 855.28	21%	19%
4 to 6 Months	1 015	-R 133 252 934.28	17%	20%
7 to 9 Months	1 088	-R 79 436 521.18	18%	12%
10 to 12 Months	92	-R 7 547 635.00	2%	1%
	6 064	-R 657 079 282.76	100%	100%

2. While I am unable to verify the above data, I have, as you are aware, approved the request by the Tax Ombud, Judge Ngoepe, to undertake a systemic investigation into VAT refunds and related matters given the unusual number of complaints received by the Ombud’s office.

Reply:

The following information is submitted by the South African Revenue Service and cannot be verified by the National Treasury:

1. (a)(i) The total value of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was R128, 199, 029, 418 of which R18, 132, 500, 365 was not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.

(ii) The total number of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was 341, 167 of which 34, 132 claims were not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that only returns required during the period in question were included. The information

therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.

(iii) The total value of VAT refunds still being audited as at 29 February 2016 was R12, 211, 133, 733.

(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:

AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 29 February2016	Volume	Value (R)	% Num	%Value
0 to 1 Month	18 199	-R 13 246 824 575.38	53%	73%
2 to 3 Months	6 797	-R 3 049 763 560.52	20%	17%
4 to 6 Months	4 617	-R 1 234 288 282.26	14%	7%
7 to 9 Months	2 980	-R 387 210 521.74	9%	2%
10 to 12 Months	1 539	-R 214 413 425.68	5%	1%
	34 132	-R 18 132 500 365.58

 

(b)(i) The total value of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was R129, 276, 961, 011 of which R19, 614, 184, 427 was not refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.

(ii) The total number of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was 343, 674 of which 43, 650 claims were not refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that only returns required during the period in question were included. The information therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.

(iii) The total value of VAT refunds still being audited as at 28 February 2017 was R17, 345, 095, 383.

(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:

AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 28 February 2017	Volume	Value (R)	% Num	%Value
0 to 1 Month	25 484	-R 15 618 903 496.32	58%	80%
2 to 3 Months	8 159	-R 2 306 849 282.77	19%	12%
4 to 6 Months	5 407	-R 1 167 860 197.89	12%	6%
7 to 9 Months	3 113	-R 372 262 868.44	7%	2%
10 to 12 Months	1 487	-R 148 308 582.46	3%	1%
	43 650	-R 19 614 184 427.88

 

2. While I am unable to verify the above data, I have, as you are aware, approved the request by the Tax Ombud, Judge Ngoepe, to undertake a systemic investigation into VAT refunds and related matters given the unusual number of complaints received by the Ombud’s office.

Reply:

(1)

(a) The draft regulations propose that a person may export only two rhino horns for personal purposes. The intention was that two horns would be the total allowed as a once-off export provided an import permit is obtained and the importing country has legislation in place to ensure compliance with the Convention. This aspect will however be finalised after the closing date for the submission of comments, and will depend on the nature of comments received.

(b) The possession and trade in rhino horn requires that permits and various checks are build into the permit system to address concerns relating to fraud and forgery, including the DNA profiling and marking of each horn. To ensure uniformity and strict control the Minister of Environmental Affairs proposed to the Members of Executive Council (MECs) responsible for the environment that the issuance of these permits take place at a national level, with the Minister as the issuing authority. This option is possible in terms of section 87A(3) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA), 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004), and with the written agreement of the MECs responsible for the conservation of biodiversity in the respective provinces. This is proposed as a mechanism is intended to reduce a number of authorisation and therefore be able to curb any potential gap in the system.

(2)

(a) and (b)(i) No.

An application for a permit will not trigger a criminal investigation unless there is information linked to the application that raises the reasonable suspicion that an offence has been committed. A query, however, will be made in relation to such applications to determine whether the parties involved in the application fall foul of section 92A of the NEMBA which enables the issuing authority to refuse a permit in the following circumstances:

• If the carrying out of the restricted activity is likely to have a negative impact on the survival of the listed threatened or protected species;
• if the applicant has been convicted of an offence in terms of this Act; or
• in accordance with a ground for refusal contemplated in any regulation.

However, criminal investigations may be conducted by both the Environmental Management Inspectors and members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the event that there is a reasonable suspicion that a crime has been committed within South Africa related to failure to comply with biodiversity-related legislation which would include these regulations once they are finalised and promulgated.

In relation to international investigations, the South African authorities do not have mandate to conduct criminal investigations outside of South Africa; however, where a criminal investigation may have been initiated either in South Africa or in another country based on reasonable suspicion that an offence has been committed, the authorities have mechanisms to share information and co-operate, for example, through International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) or Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES).

(b)(ii)

Where necessary, the CITES Management Authorities of importing countries can be requested to verify whether rhino horns that have been exported for personal purposes, are still in the possession of the persons who have imported the horns. If it is found not to be the case, South Africa may consider refusing export permits for persons from those countries (as has previously been done in respect of the refusal of rhino hunting permits in similar circumstances). If a person is found guilty within the Republic of South Africa of an offence in terms of NEMBA, for instance in respect of the domestic trade in rhino horn, a permit in this regard may be refused in terms of section 92A.

(3)

(a) No. Section 98(2) of NEMBA makes provision for the maximum penalties that may be imposed in terms of regulations, which is:

• imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years;
• a fine not exceeding R5 million, and in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding R10 million or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 10 years or in both instances to both a fine and such imprisonment; or
• both a fine and such imprisonment.

However, a process involving the substantial amendment of NEMBA has been initiated which will include a proposed adjustment of the maximum penalties that may be imposed in terms of NEMBA for the carrying out of, among others, a restricted activity involving a specimen of a listed threatened or protected species without a permit.

The Department of Environmental Affairs has held previous engagements with representatives from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the legislative development section of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) to discuss proposals for legislative amendments related to minimum sentences and bail proceedings for contraveners of biodiversity legislation. All of the role-players agreed that the current maximum penalty provided for in NEMBA of a fine not exceeding R10 million and/or imprisonment for a period exceeding 10 years is sufficiently high to obtain sentences that are in accordance with the gravity of these types of offences. In this respect, the NPA, SAPS, DOJ&CD and the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) agreed that the ongoing sensitising of magistrates and prosecutors to the nature, extent and impacts of environmental crimes should continue as a key awareness-raising mechanism in supporting the handing down of appropriate sentences.

A critical initiative that did emanate from the above-mentioned discussion, was the bringing into effect of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, 2015 (Act No. 18 of 2015) that included several new offences for which there is now a ‘reverse onus’ on the accused to show that they are entitled to bail. Of specific relevance for the illegal trade or export of rhino horn is the inclusion of specific offences in terms of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (Chapter 2, 3, 4) into schedule 5 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act No. 51 of 1977), as these crimes are executed by criminal syndicates for which charges such as racketeering and money laundering would be appropriate. Where these charges are being investigated, the onus will be on the accused to demonstrate why s/he is entitled to bail, rather than the onus being on the State to show why the accused should not be released on bail.

(b) During the course of 2009 and 2010, the Department of Environmental Affairs collaborated with the Department of Water Affairs (DWA), as it was then known, and the DOJ&CD to undertake a feasibility study into the establishment of dedicated environmental courts. While the results of the study highlighted the highly complex legal and scientific considerations required in the proper investigation, prosecution and adjudication of these types of offences, the statistics showed that the volume of cases being handed down to the NPA for prosecution, at that particular time, did not warrant the establishment of a dedicated environmental court. Subsequent to this and based on the number of rhino related cases linked to the Kruger National Park, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has recently decided to open the Skukuza Regional Court with effect from 7 March 2017. In addition to the ongoing awareness-raising initiatives of the department in relation to magistrates and prosecutors, it has also recently presented a round of advanced training for Environmental Management Inspectors focusing on criminal investigation techniques and procedures.

(c) The department already works with those authorities handling enforcement in relation to corruption, fraud and forgery. Once these aspects are identified to be present in a particular matter, the department engages with the relevant SAPS units and refers the matter for further investigation by these authorities. NW486E

---ooOoo---

Reply:

1. (a) There have been two burglary incidents at the Silvermine Military Complex.

(b) In the first incident copper cables and parts of antennas were stolen and the second incident cables were stolen.

(c) Cost of stolen equipment estimated at R50 000-00 in the first incident, whilst estimated value in the second incident, still being determined.

2. Security levels were escalated in the area by increasing security patrols by the Military Police and deploying additional SA Navy security personnel to the complex.

Reply:

(a) Officer Commanding SA Army Support Base Eastern Cape instructed the members to be armed as per Army Doctrine.

(b) No, there was no specific site targeted. More than one family who stayed illegally was evicted. The Officer Commanding reported that the choice of delivering near the municipality was as requested by the lady being removed out of the military house.

(c) When the SANDF trucks were leaving, someone tried to block their way by putting a vehicle in front of them. The vehicle was left unoccupied, trying to block the way.

Orders were given by the Officer Commanding SA Army Support Base Eastern Cape.

The Board of Enquiry is currently at LEGSATO for legal advice once returned actions will be taken as been advised by LEGSATO.

Reply:

1. The traffic lights at the weighbridge on N12:

 (A) Northern side traffic lights are performing satisfactory and improvements are underway to increase visibility and prevent possible fraudulent activity that might occur during weighing process.

(b) Southern side 2trafiic lights are operational and never had problems since they were installed.

2. The cameras were installed at each specified weighbridge station and are functioning well, and they are efficient especially in dealing with fraud and corruption in this environment.

 (a) And (b) fall away.

(b) (i) Cameras were installed about two years ago.

3. The minimum operational hours on average per day are 8 hours and 40 hours per week, for both North and South Bound stations.

Reply:

a) Mr Letsoalo was seconded to both PRASA and TMC to act as GCEO and CEO respectively to temporarily close the gaps, that we created by the departure of the incumbents.

b) The Department is not aware of Mr Letsoalo’s unacceptable conduct to PRASA

   ff: The honorable members are requested to supply the department with details to enable proper investigation and relevant action

Reply:

The Department of Transport did not procure any services from / 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.

The reason is because no bids or quotations were awarded to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/ or (d) the Black Business Council.

Reply:

a) Six of the nine C130s are operational with three of those six being serviceable.

b) None of the seven Dakotas are currently operational or serviceable due to the implementation of Air Worthiness Directive on the primary flight controls.

Reply:

1. No, it is not a national key point.

2. The security measures in place are considerable

Reply:

1. (a) It is in a serious state of disrepair.

(b) No.

(c) No.

(d) Yes.

(e) No.

2. N/A.

3. Yes.

Reply:

No new vehicles were purchased for the Minister or Deputy Minister in the period referred to in the question.

The vehicles currently used for official purposes were purchased as follows:

• Minister: Toyota Fortuner, bought in March 2010 at a price of R411 373.
  • Purpose: for use in Pretoria and in performance of duties in the central and northern parts of the country.

• Minister: Toyota Fortuner, bought in February 2011 at a price of R477 693.
  • Purpose: for use in Cape Town and surrounding areas.

• Deputy Minister: Mercedes Benz E-class, bought in February 2011 at a price of R647 865.
  • Purpose: for use in Pretoria and in performance of duties in the central and northern parts of the country

• Deputy Minister: Audi Q7, bought in April 2013 at a price of R684 988.
  • Purpose: for use in Cape Town and surrounding areas.

-END-

Reply:

The Board of Inquiry is not completed yet

Reply:

1. (a) The primary function of Navcomcen Cape (NCC) at Silvermine Complex is to support strategic and tactical radio communication for the SA Navy. In addition, NCC also provides strategic HF Communications to the SA Air Force (SAAF).

In order to provide these functions, NCC comprises of an Upper and Lower Antennae Farms. The lower antenna farm was destroyed by fire and the repair solution to get this antenna farm back to operational status is currently in process. The antenna cables from the upper antenna farm runs underground through this field and was not damaged in the fire. It is these cables that were cut and stolen leaving the communication centre with a limited reception capability.

(b) NCC had limited reception capability due to the antenna cable theft and Navcomcen Durban (NCD) (standby communications centre) provided support as a back-up for reception services. However, NCC is still able to maintain daily strategic communications with SAS AMATOLA currently on OP KETANE and NCD provided communications for the SAN.

(c) The antenna and the perimeter fencing that were damaged in the fires have not been repaired. After the recent theft in Jan 17, repairs have been effected on one antenna which was fully restored. After the theft in Feb 17, the restored antenna was damaged again and awaiting further repairs.

(d) Yes.