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03 April 2017 - NW88

Profile picture: Hunsinger, Dr CH

Hunsinger, Dr CH to ask the Minister of Finance

(1)What is the current status of the Municipal Financial Recovery Service; (2) (a) how many financial recovery plans were imposed on municipalities in terms of section 139(1) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, Act 56 of 2003, in the (i) 2013-14, (ii) 2014-15 and (iii) 2015-16 financial years and (b) what was the outcome of the imposed recovery plan in each case; (3) whether each municipality further defaulted on their obligations after the intervention of the Municipal Financial Recovery Service; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (4) whether any (a) disciplinary and/or (b) other action was instituted against each accounting officer in each defaulting municipality for their failure to comply with the terms of section 65(2)(e) of the specified Act; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

Reply:

1. The Municipal Finance Recovery Service (MFRS) was established in 2007 as a Directorate in the National Treasury within the Office of the Accountant-General in the Chief Directorate: Municipal Financial Management Act (MFMA) Implementation as required in terms of Chapter 13 of the MFMA. The MFRS has a staff complement of 2 officials which consist of a Director and Deputy-Director, whose functions are assisted by other officials and specialist’s experts, when required.

2. The responsibility to intervene in terms of section 139(1) of MFMA lies with the Provincial Executive. During the period 2013/14 to 2015/16 the provincial executive has not invoked section 139(1) of MFMA relating to mandatory intervention as regulated in the MFMA.

However, during ongoing engagements on the implementation of chapter 13, matters relating to the effectiveness of provincial intervention were raised with Provincial Treasuries (PTs), National and Provincial Departments of Cooperative Governance (DCoG), and South African Local Government Association (SALGA). The MFRS requested provinces to approach the MFRS unit for assistance, when required.

 

The following municipalities were assisted in the preparation of financial recovery plans:

  • 2013/14 - Mbombela local municipality and Bushbuckridge local municipality
  • 2014/15 - Makana local municipality and Baphalaborwa local municipality
  • 2015/16 - Tswaing local municipality, NgakaModiri Molema District municipality and Thabazimbi local municipality

The plans are holistic in nature covering, amongst others, institutional, organisational, human resources, service delivery, and financial management including restructuring of budgets, tariffs, administration, capacity and oversight by councils on its implementation. They highlight implementation aspects covering short, medium and long term challenges. Provinces are required to monitor progress and report accordingly to provincial legislatures.

3. The municipalities who were assisted with the preparation of financial recovery plans have with the assistance of the Provincial Treasuries commenced engagements with creditors to conclude realistic payment arrangements.

4. The MFMA provides the enabling legal framework for addressing financial misconduct within municipalities. The MFMA clearly defines when the accounting officer and other officials commit acts of financial misconduct. Therefore, the MFMA sets out the “triggers” for determining whether or not an accounting officer or any of the other municipal officials have committed financial misconduct.

It is important to note that the MFMA merely sets the basis for any action to be taken against municipal officials for acts of financial misconduct. The responsibility for acting against the officials, given the employer / employee relationship, vests with the respective municipal councils. The Minister of Finance has promulgated the Municipal Regulations on Financial Misconduct Procedures and Criminal Proceedings in May 2014 to assist municipal councils with executing the latter’s responsibilities. Information regarding whether or not the municipal councils of these defaulting municipalities have acted against their accounting officers or other officials is best obtained from the individual municipalities. The reforms also include disclosure in Annual Reports of actions taken. These reforms are been implemented by municipalities and are subject to the compliance audit undertaken by the Auditor-General.

03 April 2017 - NW509

Profile picture: Mackay, Mr G

Mackay, Mr G to ask the Minister of Energy

Whether any framework agreements were signed between Eskom and (a) her department, (b) the Department of Public Enterprises, (c) the independent power producer (IPP) office and (d) individual IPPs to procure independent power producer projects; if not, (i) why not and (ii) what are the relevant details; if so, will she provide Mr G Mackay with copies of each framework agreement?

Reply:

(a) ,(b), (c), (i)

Yes, during November 2012, the Ministers of Finance, Energy and Public Enterprises entered into a Government Support Framework Agreement (GSFA) with Eskom as the buyer of electricity produced by IPPs. The GSFA contains the framework within which the Government shall make support available to Eskom in an event it cannot meet its obligation under the Power Purchase Agreement with the IPP. The Independent Power Producers Office is represented by the Department of Energy in the agreement. Such financial assistance is regarded as financial guarantee to Eskom.

In addition, the Regulatory Framework under Nersa allows the IPP cost incurred by Eskom to be a pass through to the electricity end-user with Eskom as the conduit and with no financial implications on Eskom. Any IPP procurement is added to the list from time to time in accordance with the procurement framework outlined under Section 34 of the Electricity Regulation Act.

The following project agreements have been signed with IPPs to date as part of the IPP procurement process:

A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) that is signed between Eskom and the individual IPPs at the time of financial close. The PPA is a commercial that determines contractual obligations in terms of power delivery by the IPPs (as Seller) and payments by Eskom (as Buyer). To date, 64 IPP projects have signed Power Purchase Agreements, totaling a contractual obligation by IPPs to deliver 4 001 MW of electricity to the grid.

An Implementation Agreement (IA) is signed between the Department of Energy and the individual IPPs at financial close. The IA determines contractual obligations by the Seller in relation to socio-economic and enterprise development commitments over the life-time of the project as well as the Government support to Eskom in an event of default by Eskom.

(ii) The PPA and IA with each IPP are confidential as they contain pricing information that could be used by competitors in future IPP bidding rounds. Nonetheless, we have enclosed the GSF Agreement a prototype PPA/IA.

03 April 2017 - NW691

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Groenewald, Mr HB to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(1)Did (a) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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?

Reply:

The question was forwarded to the Department and the entities who responded as follows:

Department of Home Affairs

(1)(a) No.

(2)(a) No.

Government Printing works

(1)(b) No.

(1)(b) No.

Electoral Commission

(1)(b) No.

(1)(b) No.

03 April 2017 - NW508

Profile picture: Mackay, Mr G

Mackay, Mr G to ask the Minister of Energy

(1)Whether any plans are being considered for the upgrading of the Killarney Milnerton Storage Tank site; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) why was the construction of new private sector funded clean fuel storage tanks, which is currently being built by a certain company (details furnished), prioritised over the upgrade of the Killarney Milnerton Storage Tank site, that would have added a significant revenue stream to the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF); (3) has the SFF considered the privatisation and sale of the Killarney Milnerton Storage Tank site? NW565E

Reply:

1. As per 5-year SFF Corporate Plan developed for the period commencing 01 April 2017, SFF is planning to undertake technical feasibility work in the new financial year. The objective of this technical feasibility study is to ascertain the technical requirements for re-commissioning the terminal and also the operating philosophy that will ensure that the terminal operations are within safety limits in light of the recent property developments within the vicinity of the terminal.

(2) SFF The private sector Clean Fuel Storage Tanks Project was never prioritised over the upgrade of the Milnerton Storage Tank Site.

In the second half of calendar year 2014, the oil prices started to fall and only then could a business case of refurbishing the Milnerton Terminal be justifiable hence in compliance with procurement prescripts, SFF went out on a public tender for services of a company that can carry out Integrity Tank Testing (which was to inform a Refurbishment Plan for the Milnerton Terminal) on the 9th of November 2014. From this procurement process, a service provider was selected and they partly carried out the service till its contract ran out in May 2016.

The Milnerton terminal is currently certified to handle crude oil only and the Burgan Oil terminal is certified for Clean Petroleum Products, hence it was possible for NERSA to grant the construction license for such infrastructure to be developed. These two terminals are not competing and are therefore serving two different markets i.e. Clean Products and Crude Oil. Upon the completion of the refurbishment program, SFF will generate revenues from the crude oil customer base.

In recognition of the fact that SFF can fulfill its mandate of Security of Supply for the country quicker when it is holding Clean Fuels than Crude Oil, when an opportunity arose to participate in a Clean Fuels Project, SFF did put support for the project with an intention to further its Security of Supply Mandate and we must mention that SFF has never invested any cash in this venture.

(3) The privatisation or the sale of the Milnerton terminal is not in the 5-year SFF Corporate Plan. The Corporate Plan is a 5 year strategic road map for SFF. In this Corporate Plan SFF intends to continue with the Integrity Tank Testing and eventually refurbish and re-commission the Terminal and earn revenues from it.

03 April 2017 - NW652

Profile picture: Hunsinger, Dr CH

Hunsinger, Dr CH to ask the Minister of Transport

(1)With regard to the secondment of Mr Collins Letsoalo from her department to the Passenger Rail Agengy of South Africa as its acting Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) in 2016, (a) what were the conditions on perks, remuneration and benefits for the specified person, (b) what perks and/or remuneration by month were awarded to the specified person over and above the conditions of the secondment, (c) what were the reasons for the perks, (d) what is she and/or her department doing to recoup these perks, remuneration and benefits from the specified person; (2) (a) what plans are in place to charge any official(s) in this regard, (b) who will be charged and (c) for what reasons will the specified official(s) be charged in each instance? (3) (a) what plans are in place to replace Mr Collins Letsoalo and (b) what is the total amount budgeted for this purpose?

Reply:

1 (a) The Acting Chief Executive Officer (AGCEO), Mr Collins Letsoalo was appointed, by the Board, to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa following his secondment by the Minister of Transport.

The Board and Mr Letsoalo entered into an agreement dated the 07 July 2016 under the following conditions:

The effective date being 01 July 2017 until further notice or until a permanent GCEO is appointed.

PRASA would pay an annualized salary rate applicable to this position – the annualized salary rate applicable to this position is currently R5, 986,140.07 (498 845 p/m) which is a cost to company package.

The AGCEO is eligible to receive all the benefits applicable to this position – the current benefits applicable to this position include:

Medical Aid (compulsory, but can opt out if covered in spouse Medical Aid scheme). – Mr Letsoalo did not exercise this option at PRASA.

Provident Fund (to be structured from package) - Mr Letsoalo did not exercise this option at PRASA.

Funeral Cover (to be structured from package) - Mr Letsoalo did not exercise this option at PRASA.

13th cheque (optional and to be structured from package) - Mr Letsoalo did not exercise this option at PRASA.

Car and VIP protection (subject to fringe benefit tax).

Car allowance (to be structured from package) Mr Letsoalo did not exercise this option at PRASA.

Performance Bonus (if declared) - No bonuses have been declared at PRASA

A company cellular phone on an unlimited package (open line) - Mr Letsoalo did not exercise this option at PRASA.

Executive cover (for all executives) Mr Letsoalo did not exercise this option at PRASA.

(b) There were no perks that were awarded to the AGCEO that were above the conditions of secondment.

(c) There were no perks that were awarded to the AGCEO that were above the conditions of secondment.

(d) There is at present no need or reason to recoup any perks, remuneration and benefit from the specified person

(2) (a) The board upon the request from the minister has initiated an investigation and once this has been concluded the outcome will be addressed accordingly.

(b) This aspect will be known once the investigation has been concluded.

(c) This aspect will be known once the investigation has been concluded.

(3) (a) The board had already advertised the Group Chief Executive Officer position and the advert closed on the 15/03/2017. The next steps are the interview process (the approach and the appointment).

(b) R5, 986,140.07 (498 845 p/m) which is a cost to company package.

 

03 April 2017 - NW667

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Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

With reference to the Minister of Police’s replies to (a) question 3723 on 2 November 2015, (b) question 62 on 29 February 2016 and (c) oral question 98 on 25 May 2016, (i) what is the current status of the National Prosecuting Authority’s investigation into docket CAS 123/03/2014, opened at the Nkandla Police Station regarding eight charges of corruption against the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma, in terms of the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act, Act 12 of 2004, for his alleged complicity in the alleged misappropriation of public funds to upgrade his personal residence at Nkandla, (ii) which unit is the specified investigation currently with, (iii) what are the names of the persons that have been questioned to date and (iv) by what date is it to be expected that the specified investigation will be finalized?

Reply:

  1. The matter which was investigated by SAPS is still under consideration by the National Prosecuting Authority.
  2. The matter is under consideration of the Priority Crimes Litigation Unit (PCLU) of the NPA.
  3. The names of potential witnesses and persons who have been questioned during the course and scope of this ongoing investigation cannot be disclosed.
  4. It is regrettably not possible to provide a definitive date on which this investigation is expected to be concluded.

 

03 April 2017 - NW507

Profile picture: Mackay, Mr G

Mackay, Mr G to ask the Minister of Energy

(1)Whether she will furnish Mr. G Mackay with the full unabridged contract of the Strategic Fuel Fund’s sale of crude oil in December 2015; if not, why not; if so, by what date; (2) What (a) (i) statutory grounds and (ii) procurement regulations were relied on for the specified sale and (b) were the (i) quantities and (ii) grades of the various fuel stocks that were sold? NW564E

Reply:

(1) The agreements for the sale of crude oil entered into by SFF with the buyers contain confidentiality provisions that prohibit SFF from disclosing the contents of these agreements to third parties. The consent to disclose to third parties must first be obtained from the buyers before such disclosure can happen. The buyers have a right, in contract, to decline SFF’s request unless SFF is compelled in law to make a disclosure.

(2) (a)(i) National Energy Act 2008, s17(1) states that ‘The Minister may, in a prescribed manner, for the purpose of ensuring security of supply, direct any state-owned entity to […] maintain and manage national energy feedstocks’ and through s17(2) ‘the nominated state-owned entity must perform the functions in subsection 17(1) in accordance with the relevant published security of supply strategies’ and read with s17(3)(b)(ii) which states that ‘the strategies or policies contemplated in subsection 17(2) may contain but not be limited to the conditions under which withdrawals may be made from such strategic energy feedstocks’.

2(a)(ii) Procurement regulations apply to procurement of goods and services, the sale was governed by subsection 54(2)(d) Public Finance Management Act 1 of 1999 which states that ‘Before a public entity concludes an [acquisition or disposal of a significant asset], the accounting authority of the public entity must promptly and in writing inform the relevant treasury of the transaction and submit relevant particulars of the transaction to its executive authority for approval of the transaction.’

2(b)(i) 10 million barrels;

2(b)(ii) Bonny Light and Basrah blend.

03 April 2017 - NW708

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Kopane, Ms SP to ask the Minister of Tourism

(1)Did (a) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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?

Reply:

1. (a) No, the Department did not participate.

2. (a) No, the Department did not participate.

Souvenirs

Personal belongings

(i) No

(i) No

(aa) Not applicable

(aa) Not applicable

(bb) Not applicable

(bb) Not applicable

1. (b) No, SA Tourism did not participate.

2. (a) No, SA Tourism did not participate.

Souvenirs

Personal belongings

(i) No

(i) No

(aa) Not applicable

(aa) Not applicable

(bb) Not applicable

(bb) Not applicable

31 March 2017 - NW490

Profile picture: Davis, Mr GR

Davis, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Basic Education

With regard to a presentation by her department to the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education on 28 February 2017, in which mention was made of progress towards the decolonisation of the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) curriculum, (a) what definition of decolonisation is being used by her department for this purpose, (b) why was the CAPS curriculum not decolonised when it was introduced in 2012 and (c) what will a fully decolonised curriculum look like?

Reply:

a) There is no specific definition of the “decolonisation” of the curriculum that the Department uses in its policy documents. Decolonisation of the curriculum has been defined by different scholars and different sources. For example, Justice Mavhundla, in his presentation to the Executive Dean of Law at UNISA, on the occasion of reflecting on the project of the decolonization of education in South Africa, reminded those present that “in the year 1994, we did not throw through the window the contaminated water in the form of apartheid with the bowl…. What this means is that as we progress further into the future, we need then to have a deliberate and progressive transformation infused in our jurisprudence to accord with the modern dictates of the epoch we leave in”.

South African society as a whole including the Education System has been subject to much influence by Colonial powers that ruled our country and this needs to be addressed in current and future curriculum revision processes.

(b) The decolonisation of curriculum is a process that started as early as 1999. When CAPS was developed in 2011, some elements again aimed at the decolonisation of the curriculum were introduced.

Principles that buttress Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) are benchmarked on South African and African contexts and they are benchmarked to match international standards. They include:

  • Social transformation: ensuring that the educational imbalances of the past are redressed, and that equal educational opportunities are provided for all sections of our population;
  • Active and critical learning: encouraging an active and critical approach to learning, rather than rote and uncritical learning of given truths;
  • High knowledge and high skills: the minimum standards of knowledge and skills to be achieved at each grade are specified and sets high, achievable standards in all subjects;
  • Progression: content and context of each grade shows progression from simple to complex;
  • Human rights, inclusivity, environmental and social justice: infusing the principles and practices of social and environmental justice and human rights as defined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. The National Curriculum Statement Grades 10 – 12 (General) is sensitive to issues of diversity such as poverty, inequality, race, gender, language, age, disability and other factors;
  • Valuing indigenous knowledge systems: acknowledging the rich history and heritage of this country as important contributors to nurturing the values contained in the Constitution; and
  • Credibility, quality and efficiency: providing an education that is comparable in quality, breadth and depth to those of other countries.

Therefore, tremendous progress has been made from 2000-2016 to decolonise the school curriculum, however there is still more that needs to be addressed.

Therefore, tremendous progress has been made from 2000-2016 to decolonise the school curriculum, however there still more that needs to be addressed.

(c) A fully decolonized curriculum will entail a fully transformed curriculum policy regime, content of subjects, one that produces learners that are fully immersed in the indigenous knowledge system, and that which imbues a sense of pride to be an African armed with knowledge, skills and values that are internationally intelligible, and therefore equally equipped to be a proud citizen of the world and meet the skills challenges of the 21st century.

31 March 2017 - NW679

Profile picture: Dreyer, Ms AM

Dreyer, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesQUESTION

(1)  Did (a) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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? NW738E

Reply:

Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF)

  1. DAFF did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.
  2. DAFF did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

Agricultural Research Council (ARC)

  1. The ARC did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.
  2. The ARC did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC)

  1. The NAMC did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.
  2. The NAMC did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB)

  1. The PPECB did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.
  2. The PPECB did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP)

  1. The OBP did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.
  2. The OBP did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

Fisheries Management

  1. Fisheries did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.
  2. Fisheries did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

Ncera Farms

  1. The Ncera Farms did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.
  2. The Ncera Farms did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)

a. The SAVC Farms did not participate in the dialogue unpacking SONA 2017 with the President on the 25th of February 2017.

b. The SAVC Farms did not participate in the auction of souvenirs or personal belongings of the President.

31 March 2017 - NW636

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Breytenbach, Adv G to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for the use of the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Shaun Abrahams, since his appointment to the specified position on 18 June 2015?

Reply:

a) Make: Mercedes Benz GLE 350d SUV

b) Model: 2016

c) Price: R1 234 157.97

d) The vehicle was procured on 17 March 2016 via G Fleet as part of the RT57 Government Contract as approved by the Minister of Justice & Correctional Services on 27 January 2016.

31 March 2017 - NW566

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Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of Basic Education

Was a certain person (name and details furnished) appointed to the position by the outgoing CEO; if not, by whom was the person appointed; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The Acting CEO was not appointed by the outgoing CEO. The SACE Council appointed the acting CEO.

31 March 2017 - NW489

Profile picture: Davis, Mr GR

Davis, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(a) What progress has the Ministerial Task Team which was appointed to consider the introduction of History as a compulsory subject in Grades 10, 11 and 12 made to date and (b) when is the report of the task team due to be submitted to her for consideration?

Reply:

1.  The History Ministerial Task Team convened eight meetings between March and November 2016. The Task Team conducted international comparative research on India, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, China, Tanzania, Russia & Brazil to add to the international research that was presented at the History Round-Table of 4 December 2015. Furthermore, the team made proposals to strengthen the content of History in the General Education and Training (GET) and Further Education and Training (FET) bands. This work of strengthening the content is to be consolidated in April 2017. The MTT is also planning to conduct consultative meetings in various provinces to get inputs on the strengthened History curriculum to ensure that it is representative and inclusive.

2. The final report will be released to the Minister at the end November 2017.

31 March 2017 - NW639

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Horn, Mr W to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

Whether (a) (Furnished details) and (b) (furnished details) resumed their duties at the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA); if so, (i) on what date did the specified persons resume their duties at the NPA and (ii) what course of action has he advised the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, to take in each case?

Reply:

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) informed me that (the persons details furnished) are on special leave and they have not resumed their duties at the NPA. They were granted leave to appeal by the North Gauteng High Court and the President of the Republic communicated in public that he will await the conclusion of the court processes before considering whether any action is necessary. .

 

31 March 2017 - NW575

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Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications

(1)With reference to her reply to question 143 on 28 February 2017, (a) over how many days was each specified training session offered, (b) on which dates did the training sessions take place and (c) what is the curriculum breakdown of the content of each training session; (2) (a) what were the (i) rental costs for each venue hired for each training session and (ii) final costs of each training session and (c) for how many days was each venue hired in each case; (3) (a) what is the total number of persons who attended each training session offered from each of the three radio stations and (b) where did each training session take place? NW633E

Reply:

Training conducted

Training provider

1(a) No of days

1(b) Dates of training

1(c) Breakdown of schedule

2(a)(i) rental costs

2(a)(ii) total costs

2(c) training duration

3(a) people trained

3(b) venue training

Content Development

SASJA/SAASTA

2 days

19 - 20 February 2016

Science journalism training / reporting

Held as SAASTA training venue. No cost incurred

R184 000

2 days

N/A

N/A

Governance

 

WITS University

2015 academic year

2015 academic year – phased sessions

Advanced radio certificate and station advisory mentoring service

Held at the WITS University. No cost incurred

R674 300

2015 academic year

5 persons per station for the 3 stations

WITS Radio Academy and on site

Grantee Orientation

MDDA

3 days

30, 31 March and 1 April 2016

  1. MDDA Programs
  1. Accountability and reporting
  1. Stakeholder and support programs
  1. Capacity building and skills development
  1. Marketing and advertising

R471 345

R707 000

3 days

N/A

N/A

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

 

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

31 March 2017 - NW656

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Redelinghuys, Mr MH to ask the Minister of Police

With regard to sections (a) 20(1), (b) 20(1A)(a) and (c) 21(1A)(b) of the Sexual Offences Act, Act 23 of 1957, as amended, how many (i) arrests have been made, (ii) cases have been opened, (iii) dockets were referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision and (iv) dockets were finalised through an admission of guilt fine (aa) in each of the past five financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016?

Reply:

(a)(b)(c)(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(aa)(bb)

The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified

before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks is hereby requested in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

Note that the Section 21(1A)(b) as mentioned in section (c) of the question does not exist, it might be a typing error and maybe should read 20(1A)(b).

31 March 2017 - NW586

Profile picture: Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN

Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesQUESTION

In light of the application by Monsanto South Africa (Pty) Ltd to proceed with the general release of a genetically modified multi-event maize product, MON 87460 x MON 89034 x NK603 for the entire region of South Africa, can the Minister confirm or deny that the approval of the trials was based solely on safety and efficacy reports provided by the company? (1) Whether, in light of the application by a certain company (name furnished) to proceed with the general release of a genetically modified multi-event maize product for the entire region of South Africa (details furnished), the approval of the trials was based solely on safety and efficacy reports provided by the company; if not, can he provide the list of all the independent non-industry aligned studies taken into consideration in this process; if so, why were no independent studies conducted or reviewed in this regard; (2) if the trials of both the specified company and independent studies were considered, what differentiates the outcome in South Africa from the findings made in the 39 countries where the specified products and their related herbicides are currently banned entirely; (3) whether, in view of the fact that some of our agricultural produce is exported to various countries, including the countries where the specified products and related herbicides are currently banned, he has considered the ramifications if our agricultural produce for export to these countries is affected by cross-contamination? NW644E

Reply:

No decision has been made on the application by Monsanto for general release of Genetically Modified Maize, event MON87460 x MON89034 x NK603. The application was submitted to the Registrar of the GMO Act on 28 February 2017 and a notice of the application published in three national newspaper in line with the prescribed application process. What was approved under the GMO Act is field trial for Monsanto MON87460 x MON89034 x NK603 maize. Field trials are conducted prior to submission of a general release application and the purpose of field trials is to generate safety and efficacy data. The GMO Act allows for applicants to conduct field trials within the prescripts of the Act and Monsanto conducted the field trials in the 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 planting seasons to collect the safety and efficacy data. Combined data from the two seasons of field trials now forms the basis of the application for general release.

a) and (b) In the current general release application, the safety and efficacy data is contained in the reports from the mentioned field trials. We confirm these are provided by the company in question. This information will be reviewed independently by the Advisory Committee and Executive Council in a scientifically sound manner, taking into consideration recognised risk assessment methods that are currently applied at national, regional and international level; for example, Codex Alimentarius standards.

c) The assumption is that the 39 countries referred to are part of the European Union (EU). This application has not served at EU and therefore a comparison of the outcome of the South African risk assessment cannot be compared to that of the EU. However the EU Commission has approved the individual maize events: NK603 (approved in 2015), MON89034 (approved in 2009) and MON87460 (approved in 2015) maize events for placing on the market for feed or food or for any other uses than food and feed, with the exception of cultivation.

d) South Africa has only authorised the commercialization of genetically modified maize, soybean and cotton. South Africa is a net importer of soybean and cotton. When maize is exported from South Africa, processes are in place to certify the GM status of a consignment in the instance where a country requires non-GM consignment or do not allow the entry of GM maize at all. The 39 countries have not entirely banned GMOs; they still allow imports for food/feed but not for planting

31 March 2017 - NW565

Profile picture: Boshoff, Ms SH

Boshoff, Ms SH to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)Did a certain officer (details furnished) of the SA Council for Educators sign a performance agreement for the (a) 2015-16 and (b) 2016-17 financial years; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) did the specified person receive a performance bonus for the 2015-16 financial year; if not, why not; if so, what was the amount received in rand? NW623E

Reply:

a) (a) Yes. A Performance Agreement was signed for the year 2015-16; and

    (b) Yes. A Performance Agreement was signed for the year 2016-17.

b) His performance did not qualify him for a performance bonus.

31 March 2017 - NW627

Profile picture: Stubbe, Mr DJ

Stubbe, Mr DJ to ask the Minister of State Security

With reference to his statement made at the press briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster on 5 March 2017, (a) what are the reasons that his department is considering taking measures to regulate social media platforms, (b) when does his department plan on implementing such measures and (d) which avenues will be used to implement these measures?

Reply:

a) We’ve maintained that information-sharing via the electronic web or cyberspace has revolutionized our world and the way in which we interact with each other. It has brought exciting opportunities in developing our economies, improving our health care, education, agricultural production, the provision of services to name but a few. These opportunities are endless. However, on the same breath, there are real threats that have manifested themselves in the same space, which if left unchecked can destabilize our use of this space and result in untold harm to individuals, corporates and governments. These include amongst others, cybercrime activities, human trafficking, defamation, child pornography and the like. The concern is to isolate and deal with those individuals who have nefarious intentions and want to use cyberspace and its platforms to propagate such.

b) The intention of sharing such a view during that media briefing referred to in the Hon Members’ question was to allow South Africans to have an honest discussion and debate on this matter. On the occasion of the processing, by Parliament this year, of the Cyber Crime and Cyber Security Bill, the public will be able to make their input heard as we all have a responsibility to secure our cyberspace and all its related platforms.

(c) As indicated in (b) above, a process involving public participation will ensue as part of developing the appropriate regulatory framework.

31 March 2017 - NW478

Profile picture: Alberts, Mr ADW

Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources

Whether he, with reference to his reply to question 1155 on 5 May 2016, (a) previously or (b) since he intervened in the sale of the Glencore mine, took similar actions to rescue mining companies and to retain jobs; if not, why did he find it expedient to intervene in this instance by virtue of his position as Minister of Mineral Resources; if so, what are the relevant details, with specific reference to (a) the companies involved, (b) his actions and (c) the outcome of the actions?

Reply:

There are several interventions that can be taken to save jobs depending on the challenges faced by the company. These interventions may include but not limited to interventions as declaration signed by the stakeholders.

Sale of assets might be considered if jobs are to be saved and two parties agrees. This intervention will always be persued if there is high probability that jobs will be saved.

I revived the Mineral and Petroleum Board (MPB) with a mandate to focus on section 52 notices

Approved/Not Approved

Mr MJ Zwane, MP

Minister of Mineral Resources

Date Submitted:-……………/………………/2017

31 March 2017 - NW504

Profile picture: Macpherson, Mr DW

Macpherson, Mr DW to ask the Minister of Basic Education

Since her reply to oral question 117 on 24 August 2016, what progress has her department made in implementing each of the 16 recommendations made in the report of the Ministerial Task Team investigating allegations into the selling of posts of educators by members of teachers’ unions and departmental officials in provincial education departments?

Reply:

All the cases have been referred to the relevant Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) for the implementation of the recommendations of the Ministerial Task Team (MTT).

The Department has established a Special Task Team comprising of representatives from the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and the Northern Cape to ensure that the recommendations are implemented and that progress reports are provided to the Minister. This team is assisted by two (2) representatives from the Department of Justice.

The progress reports from the Special Task Team will be presented at a meeting scheduled to take place in the last week of April 2017.

 

31 March 2017 - NW563

Profile picture: Boshoff, Ms SH

Boshoff, Ms SH to ask the Minister of Basic Education

What are the details of the total remuneration package received by a certain officer (details furnished) of the SA Council for Educators for the 2015-16 financial year, including the (a) basic remuneration, (b) car allowance, (c) accommodation allowance, (d) credit card allowance and (e) cellphone allowance?

Reply:

The total remuneration was structured as follows:

  1. Basic remuneration: R 997 331
  2. Car allowance: R 415 557
  3. Accommodation Allowance R 78 002
  4. Credit card allowance R NIL
  5. Cell phone Allowance R NIL

 

31 March 2017 - NW544

Profile picture: Waters, Mr M

Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)What are the reasons that (a) the part-time teachers teaching at the National School of the Arts have not had any salary increase since 2011 and (b) salaries of the specified teachers get paid late every month; (2) on what date of each month are the part-time teachers supposed to receive their salaries?

Reply:

1. (a) The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) is currently investigating the matter. The response will be forwarded as soon as the information is received from the GDE.

It must be noted that the payment of salaries of educators employed on a part-time basis are paid an hourly rate that is regulated in terms of the Personnel Administration Measures (GG No. 39684). The regulation determines the rate and the calculation of such rate which is adjusted annually in terms of the cost of living adjustment process.

(b) The teachers in question do not receive a regular monthly salary. They are paid on an hourly rate according to the hours they worked using the system of submitting claims. Claims are submitted at the end of the month and payment can only be made once claims have been submitted and processed. The date of payment may vary for individuals depending on the date on which they submitted their claims.

(2) The claims for salaries are processed and paid within 7(seven) days after they have been received from the claiming teacher. On average, the claims are paid within 10 working days after the end of the month.

31 March 2017 - NW770

Profile picture: Terblanche, Ms JF

Terblanche, Ms JF to ask the Minister of Police

With regard to sections (a) 4(a) and (b) 4(b) of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, Act 140 of 1992, as amended, how many (i) arrests have been made, (ii) cases have been opened, (iii) dockets were referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for prosecution, (iv) dockets were finalised through an admission of guilt fine and (v) dockets have been withdrawn in each of the past five financial years to date?

Reply:

(a)(b)(i), (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v). The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks, is hereby requested, in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

31 March 2017 - NW658

Profile picture: Mbhele, Mr ZN

Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the Minister of Police

With regard to sections (a) 2, (b) 10, (c) 12, (d) 12A and (e) 19 of the Sexual Offences Act, Act 23 of 1957, as amended, how many (i) arrests have been made, (ii) arrests for prostitution have been made, (iii) cases have been opened, (iv) dockets were referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision and (v) dockets were finalised through an admission of guilt fine for the Pretoria Central Police Station in each of the past five financial years?

Reply:

(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(v)

The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks, is hereby requested, in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

31 March 2017 - NW635

Profile picture: Breytenbach, Adv G

Breytenbach, Adv G to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

Whether a criminal charge of rape has been placed on the court roll against a certain person (name and details furnished); if so, how has he advised the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, to proceed in this instance?

Reply:

Neither the National Prosecuting Authority nor the South African Police Services are aware of such a complaint.

31 March 2017 - NW420

Profile picture: Waters, Mr M

Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Police

(1)Why are there only (a) seven and (b) six visible police officers on duty for each of the four shifts at the Sebenza Police Station in Gauteng; (2) what (a) are the minimum requirements with regard to the number of visible police officers at the various sizes of police stations and (b) steps will he take to address the situation at the specified station?

Reply:

(1)(a&b) According to actual deployment in terms of the Fixed Establishment, the total members deployed at Sebenza Police Station is 87, of which, 42 are Visible Policing members. A breakdown of these members is as follows:

  • 26 members conduct patrols in the sectors (two shifts with six members and two shifts with seven members);
  • Four Sector managers;
  • Eight members deployed in the Community Service Centre (CSC);
  • Two Firearm, Liquor and Second Hand Goods (FLASH) members;
  • One Fleet Manager; and
  • One Visible Policing support member.

(2)(a) The minimum requirements for the number of posts for visible policing at any police station is as follows:

Division Visible Policing has the following sub-sections and the minimum requirements will be discussed below:-

  • CSC: Shift A, Shift B; Shift C; Shift D; (Personnel at CSC)
  • Satellites & Contact Points;
  • Sector Policing (Shift A, B, C & D)
  • Custody Management; and
  • Operational Support

Eighty per cent of the calculated theoretical number of posts is allocated for Visible Policing. Visible Policing has:

  • Shift A, B, C and D:

A minimum of 17 posts will be allocated for CSC activities to ensure that a 24-hour service is rendered. This minimum requirement will be applicable to all stations.

  • At satellite police stations:

24 hours – fixed standard of 18 posts;

12/8 hours –fixed standard of 10 posts; and

Only weekdays/office hours – fixed standard of four posts.

  • Contact points:

24 hours – fixed standard of eight posts;

12/8 hours –fixed standard of four posts; and

Only weekdays/office hours – fixed standard of two posts.

  • Sector Policing (Shift A, B, C & D) & Crime Prevention

A minimum requirement of a sector commander and 16 posts (two vehicles per shift) was applied, although this will increase resource requirements significantly. The calculated theoretical number of posts required for sector policing is divided by 17 to determine the optimal number of sectors allocated per station. 80% of the theoretical posts will be allocated to sector teams and 20% to crime prevention.

  • Custody Management;

A minimum of 17 posts will be allocated for custody management activities to ensure that a 24-hour service is rendered only for stations with detention facilities.

  • Operational Support – The following sub-sections form part of this section:

*Court Services, Firearms, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods (FLASH), Exhibit Management, General Enquiries, and Sector Managers.

Court - The number of calculated theoretical posts for Court Services will only be applicable at stations with full-time courts. The minimum criteria is two posts per active court room and two posts per cell complex. However, an adequate allocation has already been made at the CSC to provide for the transporting of detainees and temporary court duties at stations without full-time courts.

FLASH - The number of calculated theoretical posts are associated with the specified functions and the workload. A fixed allocation per station is not done.

Exhibit Management - The number of calculated theoretical posts are associated with the specified functions and the workload. A fixed allocation per station is not done.

General Enquiries - The number of calculated theoretical posts are associated with the specified functions and the workload. A fixed allocation per station is not done.

Sector Managers – one sector manager per sector.

(2)(b) Staffing requirements are managed on a continuous basis, through monthly Human Resource Committee meetings. Personnel shortages are identified in line with the approved Fixed Establishment and the actual staff establishment in a Province. All vacancies are identified and submitted for advertisement through various projects, which are facilitated by the Division: Personnel Management.

31 March 2017 - NW634

Profile picture: Breytenbach, Adv G

Breytenbach, Adv G to ask the Minister of Police

Whether the SA Police Service (SAPS) is investigating a case of rape lodged against a certain person (name and details furnished); if so, (2) did the SAPS approach the specified person to collect deoxyribonucleic acid samples at the specified person’s office (details furnished); if not why not; if so, what (a) are the relevant details, (b) is the case number and (c) is the current status of the specified investigation?

Reply:

  1. No, a case docket of rape, where the mentioned individual is allegedly implicated as a suspect, is not being investigated by any member of the South African Police Service.
  2. (a)(b)(c) Not applicable.

31 March 2017 - NW763

Profile picture: Redelinghuys, Mr MH

Redelinghuys, Mr MH to ask the Minister of Police

With regard to sections (a) 20(1), (b) 20(1A)(a) and (c) 21(1A)(b) of the Sexual Offences Act, Act 23 of 1957, as amended, how many (i) arrests have been made, (ii) arrests for prostitution have been made, (iii) cases have been opened, (iv) dockets were referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision and (v) dockets were finalised through an admission of guilt fine for the Pretoria West Police Station in each of the past five financial years?

Reply:

(a)(b)(c)(i), (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v). The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks, is hereby requested, in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

31 March 2017 - NW727

Profile picture: Vos, Mr J

Vos, Mr J to ask the Minister of Police

(1)Whether any research was conducted to compare the levels of brutality of murders on farms with those of murders in urban areas; if not, why not; if so, what was the outcome of this research; (2) (a) how many farm murders were reported since 1 January 2017, (b) in how many cases have weapons been stolen, (c) how many weapons have been retrieved and (d) in how many of the cases have the perpetrators been arrested?

Reply:

(1) and (2)(a)(b)(c) and (d). The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks is hereby requested, in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

31 March 2017 - NW659

Profile picture: Mbhele, Mr ZN

Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the Minister of Police

With regard to sections (a) 2, (b) 10, (c) 12, (d) 12A and (e) 19 of the Sexual Offences Act, Act 23 of 1957, as amended, how many (i) arrests have been made, (ii) arrests for prostitution have been made, (iii) cases have been opened, (iv) dockets were referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision and (v) dockets were finalised through an admission of guilt fine for the Pretoria West Police Station in each of the past five financial years?

Reply:

(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(v)

The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks, is hereby requested, in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

31 March 2017 - NW674

Profile picture: Bara, Mr M R

Bara, Mr M R to ask the Minister of Police

(1)(a)What is the current status of the investigation into CAS 503/6/2015 opened at the KwaMashu Police Station, (b) what are the offences contained in the specified docket and (c) what is the (i) rank and (ii) name of the investigating officer; (2) whether any suspects have been arrested to date; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (3) whether any (a) suspects or (b) witnesses have been interviewed; if not, why not, in each case; if so, (i) on what date and (ii) what are the further relevant details in each case; (4) when is the investigation anticipated to be finalised?

Reply:

(1)(a) The investigation into the case docket, KwaMashu CAS 503/06/2015, was concluded and a court date was set for 24 April 2017, at the Ntuzuma Regional Court.

(1)(b) The charge in the case docket is Rape, in terms of Section 3 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007 (Act No 32 of 2007).

(1)(c)(i)(ii) The details of the investigating officer cannot be disclosed, in order to allow the investigation to be conducted without fear or favour.

(2) Yes, one suspect was arrested.

(3)(a)(i)(ii) Yes, the suspect was interviewed on 19 November 2015 and appeared before court on 23 November 2015.

(3)(b)(i)(ii) Yes, the victim was interviewed on 29 June 2015 and 7 July 2015 and the witnesses were interviewed on 29 June 2015, 20 January 2016, 5 March 2016 and 1 April 2016.

(4) The SAPS’s investigation has been concluded and the matter is on the court roll for trial.

31 March 2017 - NW657

Profile picture: Mbhele, Mr ZN

Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the Minister of Police

With regard to section 11 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, Act 32 of 2007, as amended, how many (a) arrests have been made, (b) arrests for prostitution have been made, (c) cases have been opened, (d) dockets were referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision and (e) dockets were finalised through an admission of guilt fine for the (i) Pretoria Central and (ii) Pretoria West Police Stations in each of the past five financial years?

Reply:

(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(i)(ii) The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks, is hereby requested, in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

31 March 2017 - NW638

Profile picture: Horn, Mr W

Horn, Mr W to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

Whether a certain person (name and details furnished) serves on a select committee run under the auspices of the Minister of Police, Mr N P T Nhleko, and the State Security Agency; if so, (a) what amount has the specified person’s involvement in terms of (i) travel and (ii) accommodation expenses cost and (b) who bears these costs; 2) does the specified select committee meet with the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma; if so, on what basis; 3) (a) how many flights has the specified person undertaken since his appointment to the specified position, (b) how many of the flights were in business class, (c) who is responsible for the costs of these flights and (d) what amount did these flights cost; 4) (a) what amount was spent on hotel accommodation for the specified person since his appointment and (b) who is responsible for the costs of the accommodation?

Reply:

  1. The National Prosecuting Authority has informed me that the person was seconded to a Reference Group under the auspices of the Secretariat of the Minister of Police during the period 2014 to 2015, with the consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions for South Gauteng, Advocate Andrew Chauke and under former National Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Mxolisi Nxasana. All costs were covered by the Secretariat of the Police, details of which can be obtained from the aforementioned Secretariat.
  2. The Reference Group did not, at any, stage meet with the Honourable President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G. Zuma.
  3. & (4) The required information is in the possession of the Secretariat of Police from whom same should be requested.

 

31 March 2017 - NW706

Profile picture: Kalyan, Ms SV

Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of State Security

Did (a) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him participate in the auction of the (i) souvenirs or (ii) personal belonging 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?

Reply:

1. (a) No

(b) No

2. (a) No

(b) No

(i) No

(ii) No

(aa) No

(bb) No

31 March 2017 - NW569

Profile picture: Marais, Mr EJ

Marais, Mr EJ to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)(a) How many independent schools have been identified as operating illegally in each province, (b) how many of the specified schools have been closed down since 1 January 2014, (c) what are the names of the schools and (d) how many of the schools cater for learners with disabilities; (2) (a) how many independent schools received assistance from the relevant education department in each province to get legal registration since 1 January 2014, (b) what are the names of the specified schools and (c) how many of the schools cater for learners with disabilities; (3) what is the turnaround time to register an independent school in each province; (4) which provincial education departments have (a) posted the list of names of all registered independent schools together with their registration numbers on the website of her department and (b) placed policy documents on the website that regulate the registration of independent schools?

Reply:

(1)       

 

(1)(a) How many independent schools have been identified as operating illegally in each province

(1)(b) how many of the specified schools have been closed down since 1 January 2014,

(1)(c) what are the names of the schools

(1)(d) how many of the schools cater for learners with disabilities

EC

66

4

See Annexure A

0

FS

1

0

See Annexure A

The school indicated that it was assisting learners with disabilities but the owner did not want to follow the correct procedures for school registration.

GP

23

The 23 schools were served to cease operation

See Annexure A

5

KZN

The province has no such schools, they are not known

1

See Annexure A

0

LP

9

0; The nine have submitted applications for registration. Site visits have been conducted for all to verify compliance to the registration requirements. The schools will soon be informed of their registration status.

See Annexure A

1

MP

As soon as it is established that a school is operating without registration, the necessary action is taken to correct the situation.  In cases where the non-compliance areas are too many, the owner/applicant is requested to seize the operation with immediate effect.  Most of the time ‘illegally operating’ schools are guided and supported to become compliant.

0

See Annexure A

N/A

NC

4

0; These are all newly established. Necessary legal procedures will be followed before they are closed down. Where guidance and support is necessary, it will be rendered so that they comply with the policy prescripts

See Annexure A

0

NW

11

All 11 schools mentioned in (a) were served with letters to cease operation

See Annexure A

0

WC

31

11 schools were closed; 5 were registered, and some became tutor centres that tutored learners who were Home Schooled, others just disappeared

See Annexure A

1; Although the school has subsequently been registered

 

(2)

 

2(a) how many independent schools received assistance from the relevant education department in each province to get legal registration since 1 January 2014

2(b) what are the names of the specified schools

2(c) how many of the schools cater for learners with disabilities

EC

1

See Annexure B

0

FS

5

See Annexure B

5;  They do not have special classes for learners with disabilities however; learners experiencing learning barriers are provided with remedial lessons.

GP

23

See Annexure B

5

KZN

0

See Annexure B

N/A

LP

21

See Annexure B

2

MP

10

See Annexure B

Provision for disability is a requirement for registration.  Sufficient proof must be given that learners with especially physical disabilities will be catered for.

NC

5

See Annexure B

All the schools cater for learners with disabilities in an integrated manner. They are not specializing nor discriminating.

NW

11

See Annexure B

0

WC

45

See Annexure B

1

(3)

What is the turnaround time to register an independent school in each province

EC

90 days, if all requirements for registration are met

FS

90 days, if all requirements for registration are met

GP

90 days, if all requirements for registration are met

KZN

90 days, if all requirements for registration are met

LP

9 Months

MP

90 days, if all requirements for registration are met

NC

30 days, if all requirements for registration are met

NW

90 days, if all requirements for registration are met

WC

90 days, if all requirements for registration are met

(4)

 

(a) which provincial education departments have posted the list of names of all registered independent schools together with their registration numbers on the website of her department

(b) which provincial education departments have placed policy documents on the website that regulate the registration of independent schools

EC

Yes

Yes

FS

Yes

No. The documents were available on the website but they were not uploaded when the system was updated. Follow-ups with EMIS and IT to have the addressed.

GP

Yes

Yes

KZN

No

Yes

LP

Yes

Yes

MP

No

Yes

NC

No

No

NW

Yes

Yes

WC

No. The names of all registered independent schools were published in a Provincial Extraordinary Gazette

No. The matter will be addressed

31 March 2017 - NW655

Profile picture: Redelinghuys, Mr MH

Redelinghuys, Mr MH to ask the Minister of Police

With regard to sections of the Sexual Offences Act, Act 23 of 1957, as amended, (details furnished), how many (a) arrests have been made, (b) cases have been opened, (c) dockets were referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision and (d) dockets were finalised through an admission of guilt fine (i) in each of the past five financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2016?

Reply:

(a)(b)(c)(d)(i)(ii) The information that is required is not readily available. Each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. An extension of three weeks is hereby requested, in order for us to provide quality and correct information.

31 March 2017 - NW666

Profile picture: Baker, Ms TE

Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Police

With reference to his replies to (a) question 3723 on 2 November 2015, (b) question 62 on 29 February 2016 and (c) oral question 98 on 25 May 2016, what (i) is the current status of docket CAS 123/03/2014, opened at the Nkandla Police Station regarding eight charges of corruption against the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma, in terms of the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act, Act 12 of 2004, for his alleged complicity in the alleged misappropriation of public funds to upgrade his personal residence at Nkandla and (ii) are the names of the persons that have been questioned to date?

Reply:

(a)(b)(c)(i)(ii) The investigation in the case docket, Nkandla CAS 123/03/2014, has been concluded. The case docket was handed into the office of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) on 21 August 2015, for a decision on prosecution. The decision by the NDPP is still being awaited.

31 March 2017 - NW374

Profile picture: Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI

Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI to ask the Minister of State Security

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) 2014-2015 and (bbb) 2015-2016 financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016.

Reply:

Minister of State Security:

Make

Model

Year Model

Price

Purchase date

Financial Year

Comments

Mercedes Benz

S 350

2015

R 1 317 517.47

17/11/2015

2015/2016

Mercedes Benz

Deputy Minister of State Security:

Make

Model

Year Model

Price

Purchase date

Financial Year

Comments

Jeep

Grand Cherokee 3.6L

2014

R626 661.00

12/08/2014

2014/2015

Official vehicle Gauteng

Jeep

Grand Cherokee LTD

2015

R547 320.00

31/03/2015

2014/2015

Official vehicle Western Cape

No vehicles have been procured since 1 April 2016 to date.

30 March 2017 - NW197

Profile picture: Topham , Mr B

Topham , Mr B to ask the Minister of Communications

(1) What written authority did she give to the board and/or the management of the SA Broadcasting Corporation to waive the legal obligation of television set owners to buy the required television licence without the necessary ministerial regulation being published in the Government Gazette; (2) will she provide Mr B R Topham with a copy of the specified written authority; if not, why not; if so, by what date; (3) will she gazette the waiving of the specified requirement as she promised she would before the joint meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and the Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications and Postal Service on 15 September 2016; if not why not; if so, by what date?

Reply:

As I mentioned before “together with the SABC management we have resolved to delink the TV license requirement from the STB subsidy registration process”. No mention was made of a decision to waive the legal obligation of the television set owners to buy the required TV licence.

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

 

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

30 March 2017 - NW445

Profile picture: Bagraim, Mr M

Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Communications

Whether her department 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?

Reply:

a) No, the department did not procure any services from Mr M Manyi. However, he was appointed as the Special Advisor to the Minister in 2016.

b) No

c) No

d) No

i) Not applicable.

ii) Not applicable.

iii) Not applicable.

iv) Not applicable.

v) Not applicable.

vi) Not applicable.

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

 

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

30 March 2017 - NW196

Profile picture: Shinn, Ms MR

Shinn, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Communications

(a) Which of the three set-top box suppliers who received orders from the Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA) on 6 August 2015 is taking legal action against (i) USAASA and (ii) her department for the cancellation and cessation of the assembly process, (b) what are the terms of the legal action being taken and (c) what has been the response of (i) her department and (ii) USAASA to the legal action?

Reply:

a) The three service providers, namely Leratadima Marketing Solutions, CZ Electronics and Bua Africa have separately declared a dispute for arbitration. So far only Leratadima Marketing Solutions has filed its claim in the Arbitration Foundation of Southern Africa. USAASA has not yet received claims of the other two service providers.

b) Leratadima Marketing Solutions claim is in two parts. In the first part it seeks an order declaring that USAASA is liable to pay Leratadima Marketing Solutions for variation in the foreign exchange rate, which occurred during the subsistence of the Purchase Order which Leratadima was executing. The second part relates to what Leratadima says is a consequential loss which it has suffered as a result of suspension of production.

c) USAASA is not contractually liable to the service providers to pay for the variance in the exchange rate. Insofar as the claim for consequential loss is concerned, the Supply and Delivery Agreements with service providers stipulate that neither party shall be liable for the special or consequential damages suffered by the other party arising out of the Agreement howsoever arising.

 

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

30 March 2017 - NW435

Profile picture: Van Dyk, Ms V

Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications

(1)  With reference to her reply to question 1965 on 30 September 2016, (a) what (i) is the current vacancy rate at the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) and (ii) positions are still vacant and (b) by what date will the specified vacancies be filled; (2) (a) how does the new organogram of the MDDA differ from previous organograms, (b) what impact does the new organogram have on the MDDA’s budget and (c) by what date will the new organogram be fully implemented?

Reply:

(1) (a)

(i) The vacancy rate has been decreasing steadily over the past two quarters of the financial year as a result of the focus being placed on appointing people to, in particular, critical posts. With the number of positions that have been filled from 1 January 2017, including that of Risk Specialist, Internal Audit Officer and Communications Officer, the vacancy rate is currently 35%.

(ii)  The vacant positions are Chief Executive Officer; Executive Secretary; Chief Financial Officer; Internal Audit Manager; HR Corporate Manager; Strategy, Monitoring and Evaluation Director; Project Director; Knowledge Management Coordinator; Research and Capacity Building Manager; Legal and Compliance Officer; Human Resources Officer; and Digital Media Coordinator.

  1. (b)

The MDDA had held off the appointment of executive positions, filling them in an acting capacity, to enable the incoming CEO to be part of the interview and appointment process. However, with the recent resignation of the newly appointed CEO, the priority is to fill key executive positions, to be followed by management positions and then junior staff. Candidates for the HR Corporate Manager have been interviewed and the MDDA is in the process of making an offer to the preferred candidate. The CEO position is expected to be filled by the end of the first quarter of 2017/2018 financial year.  The recruitment process for the other key executive, management and junior positions is currently underway with all positions to be filled by the end of quarter one of the 2017/2018 financial year.

2. (a)

The new organogram was drawn up to align it with capacity requirements of the MDDA strategy going forward and in response to challenges in the media industry, as well as meeting the need to reposition MDDA internally to become a knowledge-based organisation.  Executive positions, such as Strategy, Monitoring and Evaluation Director and functional positions, such as Digital Media Coordinator, have been included to meet this need.  

2. (b)

The two new positions, an additional Supply Chain Officer will assist with compliance, and the Travelling and Logistic Coordinator will assist with planning around travelling and managing stakeholder events and training sessions. This increased the personnel budget by R616 000.

                                                                                                

(2) (c) The new organogram will be fully implemented from 1 April 2017.

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

 

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

30 March 2017 - NW195

Profile picture: Shinn, Ms MR

Shinn, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Communications

(1) Why was the full report of the enquiry that was commissioned by the National Treasury into the procurement process for the government-sponsored set-top boxes (details furnished) not provided to the (a) Portfolio Committee of Communications and (b) Portfolio Committee of Telecommunications and Postal Services as promised to the joint meeting of the specified committees on 15 September 2016; (2) why were selected excerpts of the full report published on her department’s website instead?

Reply:

  1. The investigation into the procurement process for government sponsored Set Top Boxes was commissioned by the Department of Communications and not the National Treasury. The report on the investigation was shared with the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services and the concerned party, Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA) for implementation. The intention was to receive an update from USAASA on the implementation of the recommendations and submit a comprehensive report to both the Portfolio Committee of Communications and of Telecommunications and Postal Services.
  2. We are not aware of excerpts from the report being published on the departmental website.

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

30 March 2017 - NW573

Profile picture: Van Dyk, Ms V

Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications

(1)   With reference to her reply to question 141 on 27 February 2017, (a) what was the budget allocation for the specified project, (b) who (i) did the shortlisting and (ii) decided to appoint the specified service provider, (c) what are the full details of the processes followed to appoint the service provider, (d) what is the name of the service provider, (e) what was the total value amount of the contract tendered and (f) what total amount has been paid to the service provider; (2) Whether a tender process was followed to appoint the specified service provider; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of the tender process that was followed? NW631E

Reply:

(1)

(a) Budget was R286 500.00

(b)(i) A proposal was submitted to the Research and Development unit according to the MDDA funding criteria and guidelines.

(b)(ii) The project proposal was submitted to the MDDA Board meeting held on 29 May 2013 for adjudication according to section 14(b) of the MDDA Act of 2002.

(c) Proposals are submitted according to the MDDA funding criteria and guidelines. Once the proposal has been received, the relevant unit prepares a submission for consideration and adjudication by the MDDA Board as provided in section 14 (b) of the MDDA Act of 2002. The Board makes the final decision to either approve or reject a project proposal.

(d) Name of the service provider is Chumani TS Networks.

(e) Total value of contract was R286 500.00.

(f) Total amount paid for work done is R143 250.00.

(2) The tender process was not followed on this occasion due the following reasons-:

  • Proposals are submitted according to the MDDA funding criteria and guidelines. Once the proposal has been received the relevant unit prepares a submission for consideration and adjudication by the MDDA Board as provided in section 14 (b) of the MDDA Act of 2002. The Board makes the final decision to either approve or reject a project proposal.
  • Based on the research proposal received, the amount is below the threshold for tender purposes as per PFMA and MDDA supply chain management policy.

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

 

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

30 March 2017 - NW803

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Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services

With regard to the Minister of Social Development’s reply to question 1505 on 12 May 2015, was there ever a Letter of Agreement signed between the SA Social Security Agency and the SA Post Office; if not, why not; if so, on what date was it (a) signed and (b) terminated?

Reply:

I have been advised by the South Africa Post Office (SAPO) as follows:-

With regard to the Minister of Social Development’s reply to parliamentary question 1505 on 12 May 2015, SAPO confirms that there was no signed Letter of Agreement with SASSA.

30 March 2017 - NW447

Profile picture: Bagraim, Mr M

Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

Whether her department 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?

Reply:

Whether her department procured any services from and/or made any payments to

(a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi,

No.

b) the Progressive Professionals Forum,

No.

c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or

No.

d) the Black Business Council; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what

No.

(i) services were procured,

Not Applicable

(ii) was the total cost,

Not Applicable

(iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs,

Not Applicable

(iv) was the total amount paid,

Not Applicable

(v) was the purpose of the payments and

Not Applicable

(vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payments in each case?

Not Applicable

30 March 2017 - NW707

Profile picture: Kalyan, Ms SV

Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services

(1)Did (a) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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) his department or (b) any entity reporting to him 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?

Reply:

I have been informed by the Department and Entities reporting to me as follows:

(1) – (2) No

30 March 2017 - NW576

Profile picture: Matsepe, Mr CD

Matsepe, Mr CD to ask the Minister of Communications

With reference to her reply to question 143 on 28 February 2017, (a) what is the total number of persons who made use of the (i) transport, (ii) accommodation and (iii) meals facilities in respect of each training session, (b) what accommodation facilities were used in each case, (c) what is the name of the transport vendor, (d) what form of transport was used and (e) what is the name of the point of departure from where each specified person was transported?

Reply:

Training conducted

Training provider

4(a)(i) No of transport

4(a)(ii) No of accommodation

4(a)(iii) No of

People booked for meals

4(b) Type of accommodation

4(c) Name of transport vendor

4(d) Form of transport

4(e)

Point of departure

Content Development

SASJA/SAASTA

34

34

34

Hotel

Public transport, own transport, flights (SAA)

Buses, cars and flights

Limpopo, North West, Eastern Cape and KZN

Governance

 

WITS University

31

31

31

Hotel

Public transport, own transport, flights (SAA)

Buses, cars and flights

KZN, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, Eastern cape

Grantee Orientation

MDDA

132

132

132

Hotel

Public transport, own transport, flights (SAA)

Buses, cars and flights

All provinces

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

 

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE

30 March 2017 - NW349

Profile picture: Vos, Mr J

Vos, Mr J to ask the Minister of Communications

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

Reply:

Minister Faith Muthambi

  • 2014 BMW X5 XDrive 3.0D R926 310.00 (reached 120 000 km)
  • 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee R862 838.00
  • 2016 BMW X5 XDrive 3.0D R1 064 628.00  (Replacement for BMW X5 XDrive acquired in 2014 in line with Ministerial Handbook)

Deputy Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams

  • 2014 Audi A8 3.0TDI Quattro (demo vehicle) R852 041.00
  • 2014 Audi Q7 4.2TDI V8 R882 250.00

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

 

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE