Questions and Replies

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.

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:

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:

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:

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)

(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

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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. No, it is not a national key point.

2. The security measures in place are considerable

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:

(a) The media conference was postponed because the date that it was scheduled for clashed with the press briefings of other Government programmes such as the Budget and others, all of which was happening on the same day hence only two journalists had confirmed attendance and this was not going to help. The other reason was that the other Ministers within the Security Cluster were also unavailable.

(b) In light of the fact that the press conference had to be postponed, the department took a decision to release the comprehensive media statement outlining the success of the Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros, and including the rhino poaching and arrest statistics on 27 February 2017. The statement is attached, for ease of reference.

Minister Molewa highlights progress on Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros

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27 February 2017

This statement covers the period January through December 2016, which is inclusive of the period September to December 2016.  

As you will all know, rhino poaching is a National Priority Crime, and we as government continue to work as a team in the implementation of the Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros.

This is our multi-sectoral, interdisciplinary approach involving Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) and the South African National Parks (SANParks), the Department of Defence (as a leader of the SANDF) the South African Police Service (SAPS) and its Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) also known as the Hawks, the State Security Agency (SSA), the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, as well as the provincial conservation authorities.

Our respective government departments continue to work in unison with the private sector, communities and civil society in ensuring that our integrated approach yields success.

We have stated on numerous occasions that the media has an important role to play in raising awareness about the issue of rhino poaching.

A number of media houses have therefore been instrumental in mobilizing the South African public at large around our approach to conserving our country’s rhino and I want to encourage you to keep up the good work.

The Integrated Strategic Management Approach comprises four pillars, namely:

• Compulsory Interventions
• Managing Rhino Populations
• Long-term sustainability Interventions, and
• New interventions

All of the four pillars are implemented in the context of:

• Regional and International cooperation.

These have delivered a number of satisfying results that we will address during this briefing.

1.        Compulsory Interventions 

1.1    Arrests, investigations and prosecutions

As you are aware, enforcement operations related to rhino are led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) supported by the afore-mentioned departments and State Agencies.

These enforcement operations form a firm base from which SANParks, KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife, and our provincial parks authorities and agencies execute their well-planned anti-poaching operations.  Amongst these are enforcement operations that are implemented in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Limpopo and are also coordinated by the Mission Area Joint Operations Command (MAJOC) which is based in Skukuza. The Kruger National Park experiences relatively higher levels of rhino poaching, where due focus is given.

The Intensive Protection Zone (IPZ) approach in the KNP is working well and ensures more tailored solutions to the different protection zones, including for the protection of elephant. Key to this success has been the development of a world class anti–poaching unit like an Air wing, a Canine Unit, a Special Ranger capability, Protection Services and an Environmental Crime Investigation unit.

In addition to the existing interventions, we continue to identify and use game-changing technological interventions as critical to winning our battle against poaching. These include customized technology systems primarily aimed at situational awareness, such as early warning, detection and tracking systems. We appreciate the support of the donor community and the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for their innovation and partnership in this regard.

We are pleased to announce that in the period under review, there has been an increase in the number of arrests for poaching-related offences inside the Kruger National Park, the area hardest hit by poaching.

During 2016, the SAPS reported that a total of 680 poachers and traffickers were arrested for rhino-related poaching offences nationally. This is a marked increase in arrests from  317 in 2015. Of this number, 417 were arrested both within and outside the Kruger National Park.

A total of 148 firearms were seized inside the Park in 2016, and 6 just outside the Park.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation continues with its efforts towards disrupting and combating wildlife traffickers during 2016 and participated in several national and international initiatives in combating wildlife trafficking with national and international partners.

The Hawks currently have other projects under investigation.

We herewith provide an update on a number of high-profile cases.

• In the matter of State v Groenewald and 11 others the next court date: trial ready is scheduled for the 15th of June 2017. The accused face 1 840 charges of racketeering.
• In the matter of State v Ras and 10 Others, the accused face 318 charges of racketeering. The case has been provisionally postponed to the 15th of September 2017.
• In the matter of State v Big Joe Nyalunga and 9 others the accused face 73 charges of racketeering. The next court date is on the 14th of March 2017.
• In the matter of State v Sithole and 21 others the accused face charges of racketeering. The case went to trial on the 25th of January 2017.
• In the matter of State vs Gwala and two others the next court date is 17 March 2017.  It is envisaged that the trial in this case will proceed in the second part of 2017.

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development recognizes that to ensure   success on rhino anti-poaching, initiatives need to be adequately measured, cases have to be investigated and successfully prosecuted,  and those found guilty of rhino poaching convicted.

In the period under review a number of rhino poaching related offences went to trial.

The following are the highlights of some of the successful convictions.

• In the matter of State v Rodger and 2 others, the accused faced charges of illegal hunting of rhino, possession of rhino horn and the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. They were convicted on the 08th of March 2016. Accused number one was found guilty and sentenced to five (5) years imprisonment. Accused number two was found guilty and sentenced to twenty (20) years imprisonment. Accused number three was found guilty and sentenced to nine (9) years imprisonment.
• In the matter of State v Tlou and 5 others, the accused were charged with illegal dealing in rhino horn and the illegal hunting of rhino. On the 11th of March 2016 five of the accused were found guilty and sentenced to 15 years imprisonment. The sixth accused was found guilty and sentenced to 10 years imprisonment.
• In the matter of State v Pahmbudzirai, the accused was charged with the illegal hunting of rhino and the possession of rhino horn. On the 11th of August 2016 the accused was found guilty and sentenced to 12 years imprisonment.
• In the matter of State v Kubai and 1 other the accused were charged with the illegal hunting of rhino and the possession of rhino horn. On the 15th of August 2016 both accused were found guilty and sentenced to eleven (11) years imprisonment.

In order to successfully tackle the illicit trade in rhino horn, it is key that we detect and prevent incidents of smuggling, working with our colleagues in neighbouring countries.

We are pleased to inform you that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has decided to open the Skukuza Regional Court with effect from 7th March 2017.

Currently, high profile cases are being transferred to the Skukuza Regional Court. The decision to open this as a Regional Court will ensure that case turnaround times are expedited. 

1.2 Ports of Entry and Exit

In 2016, the Green Scorpions trained 905 border officials on initiatives focused on the Illicit International Cross Border Movement of Endangered Species.

In December 2016, 90 judicial officers from four different countries participated in a Judicial Colloquium related to the adjudication of crimes relating to biodiversity, the result of a partnership between DEA, the GEF-UNEP Rhino Programme and the South African Judicial Education Institute.

The GEF-UNEP Programme has also enabled the renovation of a new laboratory at the  Veterinary Genetics Laboratory of the University of Pretoria where the rhino DNA samples are analysed. This additional capacity has also enabled us to analyse some of the backlog of routine rhino horn samples.  During 2016, we also received rhino DNA samples from seizures in Mozambique and Vietnam. This  has enabled us to link these seizures to illegal activities in South Africa relating to rhino and providing investigators with critical information to guide further investigations.

1.3 Poaching Statistics

We are pleased to report that our Integrated Strategic Management Approach is yielding the desired results. The 2016 statistics indicate that we registered a decline in the number of rhino poached, both for the country as a whole and for KNP. A total of 1 054 rhino were poached in 2016, compared to 1 175 in the same period for 2015, representing a decline of 10.3%.

Specifically for the KNP, a total of 662 rhino carcasses were found in 2016 compared to 826 in 2015. This represents a reduction of 19.85% in 2016. This is despite a continued increase in the number of illegal incursions into the Kruger National Park. 

For 2016 there were a staggering 2883 instances of poaching-related activities (such as poaching camps, contacts, crossings, sightings, tracks and shots fired) in the Park, compared to 2 466 recorded in the same period in 2015. This is an increase of 16.9%.These criminal gangs are armed to the teeth, well-funded and part of transnational syndicates who will stop at nothing to get their hands on rhino horn. This decrease can be attributed to the efforts of our men and women on the ground, especially our rangers.

While there has been a decrease in the number of rhino killed for their horns in the Kruger National Park and Mpumalanga, the number of rhino poached unfortunately increased in some other provinces. This indicates that syndicates are feeling the pressure from the interventions being employed in the KNP. We are therefore prioritising these pressure points through enforcement operations.

It is with concern that we report that in 2016, 46 elephants were poached in the Kruger National Park. The interventions being implemented to counter rhino poaching are also used to respond to this emerging threat.

It is clear that more financial resources are required to address this challenge that we are experiencing in terms of both rhino and elephant poaching.

2. Managing Rhino Populations

2.1 Translocations

SANParks continues with the translocation of rhino from high risk poaching areas to safer and better suited, secure localities.

This has enabled us to evaluate the progress of our conservation management approach and sets out key actions and strategies needed to ensure the long-term survival and growth of the rhino species in the wild. 

During 2016 eleven rhino were internally translocated away from boundaries in the KNP for security reasons, thereby complimenting the internal movements that started during 2014.

We stated in our last briefing that we were in the process of conducting an evaluation of internal translocations. The evaluation will be formally completed by March this year. 

It is important to state that the moving of these animals always carries with it inherent risks, especially in respect of old cows and territorial bulls. But what is encouraging is that young cows and sub-adult males integrate easily into existing rhino populations.

2.2 Biological Management

Our Rhino Stronghold Initiative continues, though the drought has affected our operations as it did for most of last year. Translocation has proven a viable biological management tool to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of South Africa’s rhino population.  During 2016, a total of 106 rhino were translocated to private rhino strongholds, following suitability assessments conducted by SANParks late last year.Overall, our translocations have been successful and no trans-located rhino were poached.

We are all aware of the damaging effect this drought continues to have on our country, and the KNP has not been immune.  We have found that the deaths of rhino in the KNP, as a result of the drought of drought condition, has risen.

During September 2016, a rhino survey using the scientifically accepted block count method recorded that a total of 6 649 - 7 830 white rhino lived in Kruger National Park.

This is lower than the 8 365 - 9 337 that lived in the Kruger National Park during 2015. It must be noted that the natural deaths of white rhino increased due to the unprecedented drought conditions.

A total of 349 – 465 black rhino lived in Kruger National Park in 2016 compared to 313 – 453 in 2015.  The drought effect was not as noticeable on the black rhinos.

2.4 Rhino Orphans 

Adding to the impact of rhino management strategies, are ongoing efforts to recover and rear young rhino calves left orphaned through poaching incidents. The Peace Parks Foundation, through the Rhino Protection Programme, continues to provide crucial operational support to the rescue, care and rehabilitation of rhino orphans and currently there are approximately 28 orphans under the care of Kruger National Park and partners, with a 10 being cared for by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.

3. Long-term Sustainability Interventions

3.1 Amendment of Norms and Standards

We have finalised the amendments to the Norms and Standards for the marking of rhinoceros and rhinoceros horn, and the hunting of rhinoceros for trophy hunting purposes. These amendments are now subject to the approval processes for implementation.

3.2 The Moratorium on the sale of rhino horn; the proposed regulations for the Domestic Trade in Rhino Horn; and the Proposed Prohibition on Powdering and Shaving of Rhino Horn

On 8 February 2017, we published three notices for public participation.

The first notice contains provisions relating to proposed regulations for the domestic trade in rhino horn, the second one proposes prohibitions on the powdering and shaving of rhino horn, and the third notice contains a proposal to remove the Eastern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli) from the list of invasive species and to include it in the list of threatened or protected species (as a protected species). The latter ensures that all rhino sub-species are covered by the proposed legislative provisions.

By way of a brief background, a moratorium or prohibition on the domestic trade in rhino horn was implemented in 2009 as one of the measures to address the illegal killing of rhino and the illegal trade in rhino horn.

This prohibition  was implemented to enable government to develop and implement compliance, regulatory, monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure domestic trade is well managed and regulated; while illegal activities are prosecuted.

We are convinced that the implementation of the 2009 moratorium  was a rational and reasonable measure that contributed positively to the conservation and protection of the rhino in South Africa.

In November 2015 the High Court of South Africa Gauteng Division ordered that the moratorium be set aside with retrospective effect. This followed an application brought by Johan Kruger and Another against the Department.

We have subsequently filed an application for leave to appeal this judgement to the Constitutional Court and we await the outcome of the court process. Until then the moratorium remains in place.

In considering actions to be taken relating to the moratorium and in response to the ongoing litigation, we developed a  set of regulations that are in compliance with the Integrated Strategic Management  of Rhino Approach adopted by Cabinet in 2014, Sections 56 and 57(2) of theNational Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (NEMBA), the Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) Regulations, existing CITES Regulations relating to the import, export or re-export of rhino specimens, as well as applicable provincial and national legislation.

This set of proposed regulations will ensure that there is no gap in regulatory provisions, thus ensuring the strict regulation of a prospective domestic trade in rhino horn. The commercial international trade in rhino horn is prohibited in terms of the CITES.

3.3 Communities

Community involvement in conservation is critical to the success of the Integrated Strategic Management approach. The Department, working closely with the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform with strategic partners from government, conservation agencies, NGOs and private sector is implementing detailed initiatives to actively facilitate transformation of the sector through land access and support programmes for new entrants.

The Biodiversity Economy provides a unique opportunity to enhance the livelihoods of communities based on the natural resources that they have at their disposal. Through the Biodiversity Economy Strategy, a number of initiatives aimed at unlocking the economic potential of biological resources have emerged.

These support programmes include basic infrastructure development, capacity building, game donation, business plan compilation, feasibility studies and facilitate market access. The wildlife economy component has to date provided support to community owned conservation enterprises in Mayibuye in KwaZulu-Natal, Double drift in the Eastern Cape, Balyepe, Leshiba and Mabaleng in Limpopo Province, Sepelong in the Free State, Nkambeni and Gidjana Bevhula around the KNP. The expected impact will be job creation, skills development and entrepreneurship. The average financial spending from the Department on these community intervention is R8m per project, excluding game donations and private sector investment.

In addition, as part of the implementation of the Biodiversity Economy Strategy, I am pleased to announce that we are in the process of consulting with provincial conservation authorities on a ground-breaking new initiative around game donation to previously disadvantaged communities. This is part of our efforts to transform the sector and ensure that we create opportunities for previously disadvantaged communities.

Making communities owners of wildlife remains key to our strategy. In this regard, as part of the implementation,  SANParks has called for public expressions of interest that will create opportunities for emerging game farmers around national parks to provide mechanisms for the transparent and equitable supply of founder herds of game to applicants and raise awareness for conservation, protected area management and sustainable utilisation principles in the wildlife industry.

The People and Parks flagship programme continues to be a key component of our community support strategy. We continue to engage with communities surrounding our parks and jointly planning with them on issues of mutual interest. The Department is currently implementing 30 support projects around the country in the various protected areas with a total budget of R1 334 098 200.  An additional 14 projects across all provinces are in the pipeline with an anticipated budget of R352 685 216. Through the People and Parks Window of the Environment Programme, we have created 1 585 408 job opportunities.

Through the implementation of the programme, facilitation of various pertinent aspects of communities related to protected areas management is diligently facilitated. In the eighth conference, which was hosted in September last year, significant strides were made,  where eight tittle deeds  were awarded and accompanying R1.2 million compensation each for North West claimed protected areas were transferred to the local communities.

At the recent conference, we endorsed the establishment of the Youth in Conservation Programme which seeks to mobilize for youth participation in matters of conservation. The inaugural youth workshop that conceptualized the action plan was held last month.

Furthermore, as part of the long-term sustainability measures, the DEA embarked on a capacity building programmes targeting rhino poaching hotspot provinces, and to date we have trained 120 young people in Mpumalanga, Limpopo and North West. Plans are in place to roll out this youth programme in the remaining provinces (40 per province = 240).

The Kids in Parks programme  continues to target a minimum of 5000 youth across the country. This programme involves young people at an early age, thus creating a sense of ownership towards conservation.

SANParks is in the process of conducting land suitability assessments on several properties owned by communities and entrepreneurs so that we can transfer animals to them, in line with the objectives of our Biodiversity Economy Strategy.

4.  International and regional cooperation 

4.1 Southern African Development Community (SADC)

The implementation of the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching Strategy (LEAP) remains a priority. During a recent extraordinary joint meeting of the South African Development Community (SADC) Ministers of Environment and Natural Resources and of the Organ on Defence, Peace and Security Co-operation which took place in Swaziland (from 1 to 3 February 2017), it was agreed that the implementation of the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching Strategy must be fast-tracked.

This means that at the highest level within both the SADC security and environmental structures there is commitment to establish National Wildlife Crime Prevention Task Forces in order to facilitate the implementation of this Strategy:

• To fast-track the implementation of the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching Strategy (LEAP), including the establishment and operationalization of the Wildlife Crime Prevention Coordination Unit (WCPCU);
• To put in place harmonized regional mechanisms for dealing with wildlife crime effectively, improve inter-agency cooperation and coordination between law enforcement officers to further align and harmonize law enforcement efforts; and
• Consider creating a window for wildlife under the SADC Regional Development Fund to support conservation and law enforcement as part of resource mobilization.

The Joint Ministers of Environment and Natural Resources and of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation further:  

• Considered and adopted the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching (LEAP) Strategy;
• Urged SADC Member States which have not established multi-agency National Wildlife Crime Prevention Task Forces yet, to do so in order to facilitate the implementation of the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching (LEAP) Strategy;
• Urged Member States to prioritize and integrate activities in the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching (LEAP) Strategy into their national plans;
• Recommended to Council to approve the establishment of a coordination, assessment and monitoring mechanism in the form of a Joint Committee of Ministers of Environment and Natural Resources, the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation and other relevant authorities to oversee implementation of the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching (LEAP) Strategy. The Committee will also serve as a platform for sharing of information and best practices, and meet annually;
• Recommended to Council to approve the establishment of a Wildlife Crime Prevention and Coordination Unit to coordinate implementation of the crime and law enforcement component of the SADC LEAP Strategy as part of the Secretariat structure review process and that it be placed in the Directorate of the Organ; and
• Directed the Secretariat to enhance synergies and linkages with all relevant stakeholders in the implementation of the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching (LEAP) Strategy.

4.2 Mozambique 

Collaboration with the Government of Mozambique continues to improve and the partnership has been greatly successful in the past year.

Significant progress has been made in terms of constructing new houses and relocating families. Over 30% of the families from eight villages have been relocated. With the remaining 70% of families still to be relocated, this project is now expected to be completed in 2018. It has been impressed upon us that the government of Mozambique puts priority on quality and humanity within this resettlement process.

An agreement between the government of Mozambique and its Private Concessionaires located on the Eastern boundary of the Kruger National Park was signed on 22 February in Maputo. The essence of this agreement is to formalize the involvement of Private Sector on enhanced protection of Wildlife as well as improvement of livelihoods of adjacent communities. This is a replication of what we in South Africa have done with our concessionaires on the Western side of the Kruger national Park and thus a direct result of our collaboration.

Specific interventions focused on the youth of the two countries were agreed upon. As a result, a youth awareness programme was developed as part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Areas (GLTFCA) initiative.  The aim of this programme would be to develop interventions which are specifically designed to createawareness amongst the youth on the value of the natural heritage of the two countries.

Following this, community members from the villages of Mavodze, Chibotane, Macavene and Mahlaule living in, and adjacent to, the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique were taken across the border into Kruger National Park (KNP) from 22 to 27 August 2016 on a Youth Programme Pilot Project.  The main aim of the pilot was to empower local communities, create awareness and promote wise use of natural resources and was developed under the guidance of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park Joint Management Board and its implementing agencies in Mozambique and South Africa (SANParks). This pilot was implemented by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation (Laureus) in collaboration with the Peace Parks Foundation (PPF).

The Joint Management Board is in the process of evaluating the pilot youth project, after which a framework to guide the development and implementation of a longitudinal programme will be designed. The longer term programme will also be extended to include the Zimbabwean component of the TFCA.

4.3 Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Vietnam

Our work with Lao is part of the strategic collaboration with rhino range and consumer states, aimed at neutralising the threat of organised transnational criminal syndicates involved in the illegal wildlife trade.

A Memorandum of Understanding in the field of Biodiversity Conservation and Management was signed with the Lao People’s Democratic Republic during the 17th Conference of the Parties to CITES in September 2016.

The second phase of a Vietnamese Youth Education Project, implemented in partnership with Peace Parks Foundation and Wilderness Foundation, was launched in schools throughout Ho Chi Minh City in May 2016.

The campaign utilizes print, social and entertainment media integrated into the school, to educate and empower youth as ambassadors for rhino protection and conservation. 

4.4. International Cooperation

During 2016 South Africa participated in the Hanoi Conference on Illegal Wildlife Trade in Vietnam, a follow-up from conferences in London in 2014 and Kasane in Botswana in 2015.

Recognizing the significant scale and detrimental economic, environmental, security, and social impacts of the illegal trade in wildlife, much of the focus was on implementation of actions following the commitments made at the previous events.

In 2016 South Africa also successfully hosted the 17th Conference of the Parties to CITES and adopted a number of decisions relating to the illegal international trade in wildlife; combating wildlife cybercrime and strengthening wildlife forensic capacity.

All Parties were urged to review the implementation of the Resolution on the conservation and trade in rhino. The resolution urges all parties to adopt and implement comprehensive legislation and enforcement controls aimed at reducing illegal trade in rhino parts and derivatives, and that make provision for strong penalties, (including custodial sentences) to deter illegal killing of rhinoceros and illegal possession of and trade in rhino horn.

Other resolutions of importance include the Resolution aimed at prohibiting, preventing, detecting and countering corruption which facilitates activities conducted in violation of the Convention.

The Resolution on enforcement further strengthens international cooperation, the sharing of best practice and the mobilization of funds for sustainable interventions to combat wildlife trafficking in general.

The COP also adopted decisions directed at the CITES Secretariat to conduct missions to Vietnam and Mozambique and to report to the CITES Standing Committee.

4.5 International Law Enforcement Engagements

In a bid to improve coordination and communication between law enforcement agencies from different countries we continue to support and engage with the International Consortium to Combat Wildlife Crime (ICCWC) and in particular the CITES Secretariat, INTERPOL and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), that brings together law enforcement officials in African and South East Asian countries.

The Hawks have further strengthened their priority actions through engagement with international agencies, partnering with the Asset Recovery Inter Agency Network Southern Africa (ARINSA), the Wildlife Inter-Regional Enforcement (WIRE) group harnessing the support of international partners for those priorities that involve transnational syndicates. This addresses wildlife trafficking, combining resources and efforts and facilitating training opportunities and technology development.

The management of rhino populations aimed at optimising birth rates is one of the focus areas of the Rhino Lab that was held in August 2016 as part of the broader Operation Phakisa programme. Guided by the outcomes of the Cabinet endorsed Committee of Inquiry report, the lab resulted in the establishment of a number of initiatives with detailed action plans. They will further strengthen the integrated approach to Rhino protection and conservation in South Africa.

The groundwork has been laid and excellent progress has been made in the past two years.

The successes we have achieved are because of, inter alia, our dedicated law-enforcement authorities, dedicated prosecutors, customs and excise officials and the Department of Environmental Affairs’ Green Scorpions. They are to be commended for the great work they have been doing in this space.

All South Africans are urged to report any wildlife crime so that we, as an integrated law enforcement effort team, can continue to successfully act against organised criminal enterprises fostering rhino poaching.

For media inquiries contact:

Albi Modise

Cell: +27 83 490 2871

 

Reply:

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

	Question (aaa) 2014/15	Make	Model	Price	Date purchased
(i)	Minister of Justice and Correctional Services	Mercedes Benz	ML 350 BlueTec (Black)	R716 500.00	16/8/2013
	Minister of Justice and Correctional Services	Mercedes Benz	ML 350 BlueTec(Silver)	R784 190.00	06/9/2013

	Question (bbb) 2015/16	Make	Model	Price	Date purchased
(i)	Minister of Justice and Correctional Services	Mercedes Benz	ML 350 (Black)	R716 500.00	As per table (aaa) – vehicle not replaced
	Minister of Justice and Correctional Services	Mercedes Benz	ML 350 (Silver)	R784 190.00	As per table (aaa) –vehicle not replaced

*No vehicles purchased since 1 April 2016 to date.

Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development

1. Did not purchase any vehicle in the 2014/15, 2015/16 financial years and since 1 April 2016. The vehicles Deputy Minister is currently using have been bought in the 2013/14 financial year.
2. The table below provides details of vehicles purchased for use by the Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development:

Question type	FINANCIAL YEARS
	2014-15	2015-16	Since 1 April 2016
a) Make	Two (2) Toyota Lexus	No vehicle purchased in the 2015-16 financial year, and since 1 April 2016 to date. The Deputy Minister is currently using the same vehicles purchased in July 2014.
2.b) Model	ES250 EX
c) Price	R438 152.00 per vehicle
d) Date purchased	July 2014

N.B: The two vehicles are split as follows: One vehicle for usage in Cape Town and surrounding areas, and the other vehicle for usage in Pretoria and surrounding areas.

Deputy Minister of Correctional Services

(a) (b) (c)(d) (i) The Deputy Minister of Correctional Services has two official vehicles. A Mercedes Benz S400 which is utilised in Pretoria and Mercedes Benz ML400 for Cape Town. The details of official vehicles for the Deputy Minister as follows:

(ii)(aa)(aaa)(bbb)(bb)	a) Make	b) Model	(c)Price	(d) date on which each vehicle was purchased	Date used by his deputies
2014-15	MERCEDES BENZ	S400	R1 198 834.19	2014/09/03	2014/2015 to date
2014-15	MERCEDES BENZ	ML400	R1 200 000.00	2014/09/03	2014/2015 to date
2015-16	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2015-16	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2016-17	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2016-17	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

Reply:

a. Mr MzwaneleManyi

(i) No services procured

(ii)- (vi) Not applicable

b. Progressive Professionals Forum

(i) No services procured

(ii)- (vi) Not applicable

c. Decolonisation Fund

(i) No services procured

(ii)- (vi) Not applicable

d. Black Business Council

(i) No services procured

(ii)- (vi) Not applicable

Reply:

1. (a)In terms of Article III 3. (c) of the text of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) a Management Authority of the State of import can grant an import permit if it is satisfied that the specimen is not to be used for primarily commercial purposes. The permit issued then reflects that it’s for personal purposes. Further guidance on the interpretation of the term “primarily commercial purposes” is provided in a Resolution, i.e. Resolution Conf. 5.10 (Rev. CoP15) – Definition of ‘primarily commercial purposes’. The following strict provisions in the text of the Convention are important to note in this regard:

A CITES import permit must be issued first by the CITES Management Authority of the importing country (import permit is required before an export permit can be issued). Before an import permit can be issued:

a) a Scientific Authority of the country of import must have advised that the import of the rhino horn will be for purposes which are not detrimental to the survival of the species involved; and

b) the Management Authority of the country of import must be satisfied that the rhino horn is not to be used for primarily commercial purposes.

When satisfied that such a CITES import permit has been issued, the exporting country (South Africa) can then issue an export permit in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA), provided that:

c) a Scientific Authority of South Africa has advised that such export will not be detrimental to the survival of that species; and

d) the Management Authority of South Africa is satisfied that the rhino horn was not obtained in contravention of South Africa’s biodiversity legislation.

It should be noted that the above provisions are legally binding on all Parties to the Convention and non-compliance with provisions result in a Party being subjected to compliance procedures, which could lead to trade suspensions. These provisions are included in the provisions of the CITES Regulations promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No 10 of 2004) and the proposed regulations introduce further restrictions provided for in terms of Article XIV 1. (a) of the Convention that gives Parties the right to adopt stricter domestic measures.

(b) The draft regulations propose that, before a CITES export permit will be issued, the CITES Management Authority of the importing country must first confirm in writing that it has adequate domestic legislation in place to ensure that the rhino horn, once imported, will not be used in a manner that would be in conravention with the provisions of CITES as far as it relates to the importation of Appendix I specimens.

(c) Yes. A person is required to obtain a permit in terms of NEMBA to import or export a specimen of a listed threatened or protected species. These draft regulations pertaining to the domestic trade in rhino horns require that all export permits must be endorsed at the port of exit (this is already a requirement in terms of the CITES Regulations, 2010). The draft regulations further propose that rhino horns may only be exported via OR Tambo International Airport, and only by a freight agent who is authorised to do so in terms of an export permit. The endorsement of the permit at OR Tambo International Airport upon exportation of the rhino horn is the means to ensure that the freight agent is duly authorised to export the rhino horns. This restriction will ensure that all exports are directed through a specific process and will facilitate monitoring and enforcement without disrupting detection activities at OR Tambo and all other ports of entry and exit.

(d) Yes. Black rhino is listed as an endangered species in terms of section 56 of NEMBA, and white rhino is listed as a protected species and therefore permits area required in terms of section 57 of NEMBA to carry out restricted activities (including export) involving rhino specimens. The procedure to obtain permits in terms of NEMBA, is prescribed in the Threatened or Protected Species Regulations, 2007; this procedure also applies for the application of a permit to export rhino horn. Freight agents must follow this procedure to submit their applications for the exportation of rhino horn to the relevant issuing authority. The latter is determined in terms of section 87A of NEMBA.

2. (a)Yes. The NEMBA does not prevent a person who is not a citizen of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) or a permanent resident within the RSA, to own a live rhino, provided that such a person has a permit issued in terms of NEMBA, for the possession of live rhino. However, to obtain a possession permit, such person must prove legal acquisition of the live rhino; e.g. provide a copy of a permit to purchase/ receive live rhino.

(b) Yes. A person referred to in Paragraph (2)(a) will be legally in possession of a dead rhino, if the live rhino he/ she has purchased/ received legally, dies, whether the mortality is due to natural causes or as a result of poaching.

3. (a)The provisions of CITES do not impose a restriction as to who may export rhino horn, provided that the appropriate permit procedure referred to in Paragraph (1)(a) is followed. The draft regulations do not intend to impose a restriction in this regard, and clarifies that persons who are not citizens of the Republic of South Africa or permanent residents within the RSA, and who legally own rhino or who have obtained rhino horn legally within the RSA, may also export rhino horn, provided that the CITES provisions referred to above and the requirements contained in the draft regulations are met.

(b)& (c) The need for a CITES import or export permit is not a new requirement in terms of these draft regulations; this permit requirement has previously been in place in terms of provincial conservation legislation, and since 2010 in terms of the national CITES Regulations. As a result, Environmental Management Inspectors have already been trained in the ability to verify the authenticity of CITES permits. Additional training will be provided prior to the implementation of the final set of regulations to ensure EMI’s are aware of the restrictions relating to export. It should also be borne in mind that these trained EMI’s are already deployed and are working at OR Tambo, endorsing permits, monitoring exports and imports and undertaking detection.

 

Reply:

The Environmental Management Inspectors from the Department of Environmental Affairs did not undertake an inspection at this site. We have been informed however, that Inspectors from the North West Department of Rural, Environment and Agricultural Development (NW READ), which is the department responsible for issuing the Environmental Authorisation in respect of the facility, did carry out such an inspection.

A. The matter was investigated and it appeared that the facility is undertaking certain processes and using equipment which are not included in the Environmental Authorisation. Accordingly, an administrative enforcement process was initiated by the North West READ and a pre-compliance notice was served on Microlife on 2 March 2017. This notice provides the facility with an opportunity to provide representations (as required by administrative law) in response to the allegations against them and to provide reasons why a final compliance notice should not be issued. We are advised that the representation from Microlife was received on 6 March 2017 and is currently being evaluated by the provincial officials. Thereafter, a decision will then be made as to whether or not a compliance notice with corrective instructions will be issued.

B. As mentioned above, although an administrative enforcement action has been initiated, further investigation and review of information is required prior to making a decision on any final instructions.

 

Reply:

Kindly note that the vehicles of the Minister and Deputy Minister were purchased in 2014 and therefore the response to this question is still the same as that we gave to question no 259 in July 2014 which reads as follows:

The New Executive was announced in May 2014 and is setting up departments according the proclamation by the President dated the 3 July 2014.

Government is committed to apply austerity measures as spelt out by Cabinet and each Ministry is expected to inherit existing infrastructure. However, should there be none the normal government procurement process will be followed.While Government seeks value for money, it will source purchases from the local market in line with a commitment to support local industry and producers of goods and services.

Official vehicles are the property of the state and are used on official duty for direct interaction with communities and stakeholders as part of the Public Participation programmes and Parliamentary programmes of Ministers. These enable Ministers to fulfil their duties which may call for their presence in different parts of the country.

When official vehicles are purchased for Ministerial use, procurement is done according to an existing framework and guidelines that stipulate that new purchases of vehicles may take place when the currently provided official vehicle for that office has reached 120 000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first. 

Official vehicles may (sometimes) experience serious mechanical problems or could be in a poor condition.  In such cases, the respective Department may approve the replacements of such a vehicle, subject to obtaining a detailed mechanical report by the vehicle manufacturer or approved dealer.

The total purchase price of the vehicle chosen by the Member may not exceed in respect of a prescribed percentage of the inclusive annual remuneration package of an Executive Member.

 

Reply:

	Financial year	a) Make	b) Model	c) Price	d) Date
(i) Minister Nkwinti	(aa)(aaa) 2014	Audi	Q7 3.0 TDI Quattro	R731 548.34	19/02/2015
	(aa)(bbb) 2015	None	Falls away	Falls away	Falls away
	(bb) 2016	Audi	Q7 3.0TDI Quattro	R1 039 872.66	19/01/2017
(ii) Deputy Minister Mashego Dlamini	(aa)(aaa) 2014	Mercedes	ML350 BLUETEC	R898 155.41	10/03/2015
	(aa)(bbb) 2015	Mercedes	ML350 BLUETEC	R898 155.41	23/06/2015
	(bb) 2016	None	Falls away	Falls away	Falls away
Deputy Minister Skwatsha	(aa)(aaa) 2014	Mercedes	ML350 BLUETEC	R999 864.41	25/03/2015
	(aa)(bbb) 2015	Mercedes	ML350 BLUETEC	R937 755.42	23/06/2015
	(bb) 2016	None	Falls away	Falls away	Falls away

Reply:

 

(a), (b), (c), and (d), No services were procured and/or payments made.

________________________

Approved by the Minister on

Date………………………..

Reply:

The Department has forwarded the question to the Provincial Education Department and is awaiting the response. The response will be forwarded as soon as the Department receives it.

Reply:

(a)(b)

There were 150 schools for learners with special needs in Gauteng in 2016. The majority of the schools (53), were situated in Johannesburg followed by Pretoria with 28 schools.

Table 1: Number of special Schools in Gauteng, by town, in 2016

Town/City	Total
ALBERTON	2
BENONI	7
BOKSBURG	3
BRAKPAN	3
BRONKHORSTSPRUIT	1
CARLETONVILLE	2
CULLINAN	1
EDENVALE	1
GERMISTON	7
HEIDELBERG	2
JOHANNESBURG	53
KEMPTON PARK	3
KRUGERSDORP	2
MAGALIESBURG	1
MEYERTON	3
MIDRAND	2
MOGALE CITY	2
PRETORIA	28
RANDBURG	4
ROODEPOORT	4
SEBOKENG	1
SOSHANGUVE	1
SOWETO	3
SPRINGS	5
VANDERBIJILPARK	1
VANDERBIJLPARK	4
VEREENIGING	4
Grand Total	150

Source: 2016 Snap survey for special schools

(c)(d)(e)

The Department has forwarded the question to the PED and is awaiting the response. The response will be forwarded as soon as the Department receives it.

Reply:

a) i) A generic orientation manual was used for all workshop participants and no orientation manuals were specifically prepared for educators teaching in South African Sign Language (SASL) or

ii) Through the medium of Braille.

b) No audit was conducted of workshop participants having prior training in SASL or Braille because training that is linked to a medium of instruction either in (i) SASL or (ii) Braille is provided for as a separate process to the workshop on Technical Occupational subjects. However, as per the attendance register, three (3) teachers from schools for the Deaf attended the National Training Programme of 27 February to 3 March 2017 and these teachers had already received training in SASL.

c) It needs to be clarified that training for Braille and SASL processes, and training for the pilot of the Technical Occupational subjects, are two completely separate processes. Hence, there are no specific targets for (i) SASL and (ii) Braille, as reflected in the question.

Reply:

In response to the question, please see tabulated information below.

(i) Minister	(aa)(aaa) 2014/15	(aa)(bbb) 2015/16	(bb) Since 1 April 2016
a) Make	BMW	None	Mercedes Benz
b) Model	5 series sedan	None	GLE 500
c) Price	R 769 022.76	None	R 849 900.00
d) Date	25 August 2014	None	15 September 2016

(ii) Deputy Minister	(aa)(aaa) 2014/15	(aa)(bbb) 2015/16	(bb) Since 1 April 2016
a) Make	None	Audi	None
b) Model	None	Q7	None
c) Price	None	R 680 878.04	None
d) Date	None	8 September 2015	None

Reply:

The response below was provided by the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) of Gauteng Department of Education.

(1)

a) A total of 331 625 Grade 1 and 8 applications were received for the 2017 academic year.

b) In terms of the 10th day statistics, the Department had a total number of 355 420 Grade 1 and 8 learners enrolled in the schools in 2016. The Grade 7 learners in the combined schools are not accounted for in the 2017 applications as they were progressed in grade. These learners did not have to apply to Grade 8 as they were already registered in the combined schools. There is, however, sufficient space to accommodate all the 2016 applicants.

c) A total of 331 625 learners were placed as of 20 February 2017.

d) Please see Annexure A for the number of government-funded educator positions and the average learner to government-funded educator ratio for each of the specified schools in the Ekurhuleni district.

e) Please see Annexure B for the number of school governing body-funded educators employed in each of the specified schools in the Ekurhuleni district based on the 2016 data. Please note that the Department is still finalising the collection of 2017 data.

2. Please see Annexure A for the average learner to government-funded educator ratio for each of the specified schools in the Ekurhuleni district.

 

Reply:

1. Yes.

According to the Agricultural Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSETA):

(a) “The purpose of the trip was to meet the former Chairperson, Professor Mayende, to finalise the hand-over process following his resignation as the Chairperson of the AgriSETA Board to take up the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor for the University of Fort Hare. During this trip, the acting Chairperson scheduled a meeting with the former Member of Executive Council of Agriculture in the Free State, Ms M Qabathe, and the Head of Communications at Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Mr Q Khedama, regarding partnerships with AgriSETA.

(b) Names and positions of people transported

(i) Name	(ii) Position
Mr Thami ka Plaatjie	Acting Chairperson of the Board

(c) The following places were visited:

• Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality; and
• University of Fort Hare campus in East London.

(d) The acting Chairperson had to attend a meeting in Bloemfontein (Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality) which was followed by a meeting in East London (University of Fort Hare) the next day. As flights could not be found on the specified meeting dates, a decision was taken to use road transport.

2. Based on the information submitted by the SETA, the detailed breakdown of the cost incurred per trip is as follows:

(a) R38 290.30 was incurred for car hire and R3 300.12 for hotel accommodation at the Blue Lagoon Hotel in East London and Protea Hotel in Bloemfontein.

(b) Travel with Flair was appointed by AgriSETA to manage its travel bookings.

(c) Only board members are entitled to use this category of vehicles.”

3. The AgriSETA Policy is silent on this matter.

4. No official has been held accountable, however, the Department is still investigating the matter in terms of the relevant prescripts of the Skills Development Act, No. 97 of 1998 (as amended).

COMPILER/CONTACT PERSONS:

EXT:

MR GF QONDE

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

QUESTION 385 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

Reply:

The response to question (a) (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) is reflected on the excel spreadsheets (data is disaggregated per province, per year, per school). SNAP Survey 2012 - 2016

The response to question (b) (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) is reflected on the excel spreadsheets (data is disaggregated per province, per year, per school) the source is the Exam Mainframe System housed by SITA

Reply:

a) (i) A total of 1783 schools were connected to the internet in collaboration with Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services (DTPS) and Independent Communication Authority of South Africa (ICASA) through the USAO initiative in 2016.

The breakdown per province is as follows:

Provinces	Number of schools connected
Eastern Cape	354
1. Free State	78
2. Gauteng	109
3. KwaZulu-Natal	215
4. Limpopo	134
5. Mpumalanga	241
6. North West	147
7. Northern Cape	219
8. Western Cape	286
Total	1783

(ii) The number of schools allocated to each district that the Government connected to the Internet in 2016 academic year:

1. EASTERN DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Alfred Nzo	1
Butterworth District	18
Cofimvaba District	12
Cradock	8
Dutywa District	15
East London	11
Fort Beaufort	13
Francis Baard	1
Graaff-Reinet	7
Grahamstown	12
King Williams Town	40
Lady Frere District	14
Libode	13
Maluti	7
Mbizana	19
Mt Fletcher	9
Mthata District	20
Port Elizabeth	42
Qumbu District	4
Sterkspruit	14
Uitenhage	17
Lusiki	14
Mount Frere	10
Ngcobo	6
Queenstown	20
King Sebata Dalinyebo	7
Total	354

2. FREE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Fezile Dabi	7
Lejweleputswa	13
Motheo	22
Thabo Mofutsanyana	8
Xhariep	5
Bloemfontein	3
Botshabelo	1
Mangaung	13
Mohokare	5
Vrede	1
Total	78

3. GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits Districts	Number of schools connected
Tshwane West District (D15)	83
Tshwane District (105)	24
D15	1
D105	1
Total	109

4. KWAZULU NATAL DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Amajuba	5
Ilembe	5
Pinetown	20
Sisonke	8
Ugu	4
Umgungundlovu	21
Umkhanyakude	17
Umlazi	29
Umzinyathi	8
Uthukela	6
Uthungulu	31
Zululand	22
Ixopo	1
Kwambonambi	1
Mahlabathibi	4
Nongoma	1
Thekwini	1
Umgugundlovu	21
Umkhanyakude	6
Umzimkhulu	4
Total	215

5. LIMPOPO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Bochum	10
Bolobedu	11
Giyani	5
Greater Sekhukhune District	17
Letaba	2
Lulekani	1
Mankweng	4
Mokerong	2
Naphuno	4
Phalaborwa	1
Polokwane	1
Ritavi	2
Sekgosese	6
Seshego	16
Thabamoopo	4
Waterberg District	23
Capricorn	13
Mopani	1
Sekhukhune	5
Vhembe	6
Total	134

6. MPUMALANGA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Bohlabela	40
Ehlanzeni	74
Gert Sibande	49
Nkangala	75
Middelburg	2
Mbombela	1
Total	241

7. NORTH WEST DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Bojanala	30
Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati	32
Greater Delareyville	2
Greater Taung	10
Madibeng	4
Mahikeng	1
Maquassi Hills	2
Matlosana	9
Rustenburg	2
Taledi	2
Tlokwe	1
Christiana	1
Dr Kenneth Kaunda	26
Hartswater	1
Klerksdorp	5
Ngaka Modiri Molema	12
Vryburg	3
Litchenburg	1
Moretele	1
Moses Kotane East	1
Zeerust	1
Total	147

8. NORTHERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Frances Baard District	42
John Taolo Gaetsewa	71
Namakwa District	28
Pixley-Ka-Seme	31
Siyanda District	42
Kimberley	5
Total	219

9. WESTERN CAPE

Districts/Circuits	Number of schools connected
Cape Winelands	24
Eden And Central Karoo District	27
Metro Central	38
Metro East	55
Metro North	54
Metro South	44
Overberg District	19
West Coast District	16
Wynberg	1
Metro Coast	5
South East	3
Total	286

(b) The names of the schools are attached at Annexure A.

 

Reply:

The table which was attached is an adaptation of the fee exemption table contained in the Regulations relating to the exemption of parents from payment of school fees in public schools (2006), and was produced by a specific school to assist its parents who apply for fee exemption. The school should update the table annually since it is linked to the level of their school fees which will presumably change each year. The fee exemption table contained in the Regulations relating to the exemption of parents from payment of school fees in public schools (2006) is not linked to a specific level of school fees or salaries and therefore need not be updated annually.

Reply:

There are no poultry projects which were closed in Limpopo province since January 2016 to date. What (a) is the budget allocation available from his department to curb the armyworm invasion and (b) action has his department taken to date to assist farmers with pesticide(s)?    

(a) No additional budget has been allocated in DAFF for the control of new pest outbreaks, including the Fall Armyworm (FAW). However, ministerial approval has been obtained to allow provinces to use funding allocated for the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) for the control of the Fall Armyworm. For instance, Limpopo has asked to redirect some R8.4 million for pesticides for FAW control, and permission has been given.

(b) Emergency registration of pesticides has continued rapidly within DAFF with a growing number of active ingredients now available to producers. These have various modes of action on the pests, so could support control in a variety of circumstances. Pesticides are registered for use on a number of crops including maize and other grains (e.g. wheat, barley and sorghum), potatoes, cotton, sunflowers and various vegetables as well as grazing- and lawn grasses.

Reply:

1. No, it was not costed. The appointment of the new service provider for the remainder of the campaign was not an ideal approach, considering that the new service provider would have to take over the campaign in the last part of its existence, the new service provider would have to provide systems to be used to administer the project; it would take time to test the new system, integrate it with the current system and thereafter hand over to the new service provider while the campaign was continuing.

(2) Response:

The disagreement was around the interpretation of the Terms of Reference, the evaluation criteria. (a) The Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) evaluated all responsive bids on functionality and calculated the minimum required points. Site visits were conducted to bidders which scored the minimum points. This was because site visits would be conducted to verify the information that was stated in the bid documents. (b) The Office of the Auditor-General felt that site visits should have been conducted to all responsive bidders, and thus form part of the functionality score. The Department disagreed with this, however the Auditor-General ruled against the Department.

Reply:

(i) Minister - (Mr) S Zokwana, MP	a) Make	b) Model	c) Price	d) Date of purchase	aaa)
Cape Town	Audi	Q7 3.0 TDi Q Tip	R630 953.38	26 August 2014	Bought in 2014/2015 financial year
Pretoria	Audi	Q7 3.0 TDi Q Tip	R626 199.72	26 August 2014	Bought in 2014/2015 financial year

bbb) No procurement of official vehicles in 2015/2016.

bb) No procurement of official vehicles since 01 April 2016.

(ii) Deputy Minister - Gen Bheki Cele, MP	a) Make	b) Model	c) Price	d) Date of purchase	aaa)
Cape Town	Jeep	Grand Cherokee	R622 661.00	19 August 2014	Bought in 2014/2015
Pretoria	Jeep	Grand Cherokee	R622 661.00	14 August 2014	Bought in 2014/2015

bbb) No procurement in 2015/2016.

bb) No procurement since 01 April 2016.

Reply:

a)  See table below.

Provincial Education Department	Number of schools built 2009/10	Number of schools built 2010/11	Number of schools built 2011/12	Number of schools built 2012/13	Number of schools built 2013/14	Number of schools built 2014/15	Number of schools built 2015/16	Number of schools built 2016/17	Total number of schools delivered
Eastern Cape	34	62	33	13	5	32	11	6	196
Free State	13	4	0	2	3	5	3	1	31
Gauteng	10	10	14	21	12	24	13	3	107
KwaZulu-Natal	6	19	10	2	17	12	11	4	81
Limpopo	34	4	14	7	7	13	17	2	98
Mpumalanga	4	1	4	11	7	19	14	4	64
Northern Cape	1	2	2	4	3	0	4	1	17
North West	3	0	7	7	8	2	4	2	33
Western Cape	6	9	19	5	4	14	23	1	81
Total number delivered	111	111	103	72	66	121	100	24	708

.

b) &(c) The requested information may be found on the link to the following webpage: http://www.education.gov.za/Newsroom/ParliamentaryQuestions/AnnexuretoNA290.aspx containing the Annexure with the names of schools.

(d)The information was sought from the Provincial Education Departments and will be provided as soon as it is consolidated.

(e) The information was sought from the Provincial Education Departments and will be provided as soon as it is consolidated.

Reply:

The information has been requested from the Gauteng Education Department.

Reply:

a) Setting of examination question papers:

All National Examination papers are set at the Department of Basic Education (DBE) office in a secure environment. Each question paper is set by a panel comprising 3 to 4 subject experts of which one is the chief examiner. Setting takes place during scheduled writing sessions. The same panel is responsible for the setting of the March supplementary, June Senior Certificate (SC) and November National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. These papers are set concurrently to ensure comparable standards. Each question paper is compiled based on a test blue print (analysis grid) which provides the framework for the question paper, specifying the content covered, mark allocation and cognitive levels. An accompanying marking guideline is developed concurrently during the development of the question paper.

b) Moderation of examination question papers:

On completion of the setting process, the question paper, marking guidelines and analysis grids are submitted to an internal moderator, appointed by the DBE. The internal moderator reviews and moderates the question papers following agreed criteria which include: content coverage, cognitive levels, mark allocation, accuracy of marking guidelines etc. Technical criteria such as format, font, clarity of diagrams, etc. are also considered. The internal moderators’ comments are discussed with the examining panel, in order for the examining panel to effect changes. The panel effects the internal moderator’s recommended changes. The paper is then again presented to the internal moderators. This process is only completed once the internal moderator/s is satisfied with the quality and standard of the papers. The internal moderator then approves the paper/s for external moderation.

The external moderators are appointed by Umalusi. They are invited through Umalusi to moderate the papers. External moderation also takes place within the secure environment of the DBE. Moderation is based on pre-determined criteria utilised for the moderation of all subjects. The external moderator reviews the question paper, marking guidelines and accompanying analysis grids and provides a detailed report with recommendations for improvement.

Once all the external moderation changes are effected and the external moderators are satisfied with the standard of the papers; the papers are approved and signed off.

Final editing and quality assurance is done by a team of expert editors appointed by the DBE to ensure that the question papers are error free. The papers are also translated, and adapted for the blind and deaf where required.

c) Evaluation of candidate performance:

The final score obtained by a candidate in a subject comprises various components such as School Based Assessment, Practical Assessment Tasks and Orals, where applicable, as well as Examination marks

Marking of the final NSC examination scripts is conducted across all 9 Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) at designated marking venues. Prior to marking, all Chief markers and internal moderators convene at the DBE where they participate in the standardisation of the marking guidelines and are trained on the implementation of the approved marking guidelines. The chief markers and internal moderators replicate the training received at the DBE at their various PEDs with their markers prior to marking. The marking process is monitored by the DBE which deploys onsite moderators to moderate the marking to ensure that all PEDs are adhering to the marking guidelines and marking within the agreed Tolerance Range. The Exam marks scores are thereafter captured unto the system.

d) Standardisation of marks attained by candidates:

Standardisation of marks is an Umalusi function. The DBE, however, provides Umalusi with reports from marking and other qualitative inputs on the standard and quality of the question paper for consideration during standardisation. This is in view of the fact that the fairness of the paper and the appropriateness of its standard can only be determined once it has been written.

Reply:

The Department of Basic Education, in collaboration with the Department of Transport, developed the National Policy on Learner Transport which was gazetted in October 2015. The two departments have a shared responsibility. For relevant details, follow the link below to access the policy document: http://www.gov.za/sites/www.gov.za/files/39314_gon997.pdf

Reply:

(a) (i)-(iv) It is worth noting that different provinces employ different procurement models and therefore the delivery rate will vary from province to province. In terms of the South African Schools Act No. 84 of 1996, schools that are allocated a Section 21 function procure Learning Teaching Support Material (LTSM) utilising their allocated budget and the provinces procure for schools with a Section 20 function. According to provincial reports from 2012 – 2015, all orders placed were delivered and therefore makes the delivery rate to be 100% in all provinces. The percentage reflects a cycle that involves the initial orders, mop-ups, retention and retrieval as well as top-ups based of the retrieval report

It is further worth noting that the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) was incrementally implemented as follows:

• Grades 1 – 3 and 10 were implanted in 2012;
• Grades 4 – 6 and 11 were implanted in 2013;
• Grades 7 – 9 and 12 were implanted in 2014; and
• Grades 10 – 12 and Grade R were implemented in 2015 and 2016 respectively.

The implementation of CAPS necessitated that new textbooks be utilised hence the development of National Catalogues for provinces to procure these listed LTSMs. These National Catalogues were developed a year prior to implementation allowing provinces and schools to procure LTSM a year in advance. Therefore the universal coverage could only be fully monitored at the end of the cycle of the implementation of CAPS.

As a result, in the middle of 2014, the Department consolidated the figures to determine the universal coverage of textbooks in the country. Below is a table that indicates the Universal Coverage at the per province

Province	As at mid-2014	2015
Eastern Cape	100%	100%
Free State	100%	100%
Gauteng	93%	93%
KwaZulu-Natal	63%	85%
Limpopo	99%	99%
Mpumalanga	100%	100%
Northern Cape	98%	98%
North West	92%	92%
Western Cape	94%	95%
Average Universal access	93%	95.8%

b) (i-iv)

Province	2012	2013	2014	2015
	Stationery	Stationery	Stationery	Stationery
Eastern Cape	100%	100%	100%	100%
Free State	100%	100%	100%	100%
Gauteng	100%	100%	100%	100%
KwaZulu-Natal	100%	100%	100%	100%
Limpopo	100%	100%	100%	100%
Mpumalanga	100%	100%	100%	100%
Northern Cape	100%	100%	100%	100%
North West	100%	100%	100%	100%
Western Cape	100%	100%	100%	100%

Reply:

(1) The Department received a memorandum from the Maluti Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College dated 6 April 2016. The Director-General and senior managers visited the college on 19 May 2016 and met with the College Council, management and concerned parties on the matters raised.

(2) (a) The Department attended to and resolved all the matters raised, allocating R6.088 million to infrastructure, maintenance and security for all campuses as per the proposal received from the college:

Maluti TVET College Campus	Amount (R)
Bethlehem Campus	2 011 000
Bonamelo Campus	934 000
Itemoheleng Campus	436 000
Kwetlisong Campus	1 197 000
Main Campus	368 000
Harrismith New Building	1 142 000
Total	6 088 000

The Table below summarise the issues and actions taken.

ISSUE	UPDATE
Maluti Students and Staff Memorandum	The Director-General and Deputy Director-General for TVET convened a meeting on 19 May 2016) with the Maluti TVET College students and staff.
Delivery of outstanding textbooks, protective clothing, tables and chairs	A total of 3 727 textbooks were purchased. Three campuses received protective clothing. 750 Tables and 850 chairs were ordered for three campuses.
Windows and doors should be fixed	Bonamelo’s doors and windows were fixed and the service provider was sent to other campuses to ascertain the need and fix where required. At the main campus, Kwetlisong, Lere la Tshepe and Itemoheleng doors and locks were fixed.
Water crisis	Water supply to each site was a serious challenge due to the drought. The Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation was approached on the matter. The college has managed was then able to source more water to truck to each site. The college also purchased its own water tanker to augment the current supply. In addition more water tanks were installed at each site
Lecturer vacancies due to natural attrition and maternity leave	College has filled lecturer vacancies and continues to do so as and when a need arises.
Students access cards	A service provider was sourced to print student cards for all campuses. All students have student cards.
Audit of all workshop at the college	An audit was conducted in line with the 2013 DHET Resources List. Computers and equipment have been bought for the workshops.
Library access (implementation plan)	Study rooms have been identified and availed while Student Support Service centres are planned to be built at campuses where there are none.
Temporary toilets to be procured	The toilets at Bonamelo and Sefikeng were fixed on the 20 May 2016.
Student Representative Council (SRC) induction	The SRC was inducted on 20 May 2016.
Feedback report on practical exposure of students to courses and workload of lecturers	The Principal will ensure that students are exposed to practicals. A meeting was held with the lecturers of Itemoheleng on 1 June 2016 and Bonamelo on 3 June 2016. The outcome of both meetings were that there was no lecturer who worked more than the maximum contact time of 25 hours per week.
Audit the college registration process and employ staff to focus on registration	An intensive audit of the registration process was undertaken and the outcome was that there is nothing wrong with the process itself. In fact, the campuses that implemented it correctly showed a reduction on time spent during registration.
Circular on criteria used in awarding bursaries to students	The guidelines were explained to students during the induction process.

 

(b) A forensic investigation was conducted at the college and finalised in 2016. The forensic report will be handed over to the College Council for further action.

(3) The college Principal has been providing feedback on a regular basis to staff.

COMPILER/CONTACT PERSONS:

EXT:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

QUESTION 387 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

Reply:

a) The total cost of printing of manuals for the national training conducted by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) has been R160 000.

b)(i) The 60 specialist educators and subject advisors referred to in the presentation, were responsible for the development of the content of the training manuals. The cost of the workshop was R640 000.

b)(ii) The cost of training 1000 educators across all provinces is estimated at R2 million.

Reply:

1. (a)(i)(ii), (b), (c) and (d) The requested information is not readily available at the DBE. It has been requested from the provinces and will be supplied as soon as it is obtained.

2. (a) and (b) This requested information is not readily available at the DBE, it has been requested from the provinces and will be supplied as soon as it is obtained.

3. (a), (b) (i) (ii). This requested information is not readily available at the DBE, it has been requested from the provinces and will be supplied as soon as it is obtained.

Reply:

 

1. In terms of the NEDLAC forensic investigation case no CAS132/1/015, NPA has informed NEDLAC that the matter is receiving attention and that the provisional report that was to be finalised on the 24th February 2017, has not been completed. The NPA has promised that NEDLAC will be advised in due course when the report is ready.

Reply:

No services were procured and no payments were made to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund.

d(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(v)(vi)

Over the past 3 years, a transfer payment of R7 million was paid to the Black Business Council as appropriated. The objective of the transfer payment was to strengthen and promote advocacy and the roll-out of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Amendment Act 46 of 2013 and in particular, the Black Industrialist Programme.

Reply:

The Department / Minister of Labour did not pay for any Member of Parliament.

Reply:

A. In 2014, South Africa launched Operation Phakisa which focuses on unlocking the economic potential of the country’s oceans. Initially there were four focus areas selected as new growth areas in the ocean economy, with the objective of growing them and deriving value for the country. These were:

1. marine transport and manufacturing activities, such as coastal shipping, trans-shipment, boat building, repair and refurbishment;
2. offshore oil and gas exploration;
3. aquaculture; and
4. marine protection services and ocean governance.

 

 During an oceans economy review workshop in 2015, two focus areas were added namely; Coastal and Marine Tourism(CMT) and Small Harbours.

B. The Coastal and Marine Tourism Lab[1] convened on a full-time basis from 11 April to 23 May 2016 with the purpose of identifying specific initiatives to accelerate growth, development and transformation in the sector. The Lab supported the implementation of the Oceans Economy Phakisa, thereby contributing to the President’s 9 Point Plan to accelerate job-creation and inclusive growth. The Lab’s work was guided by six principles namely; economic sustainability, transformation, environmental integrity, community empowerment, responsible tourism, and a community-centred approach. Detailed plans outlining the specific projects in each of these priority initiatives are presently being finalised and will be sent to Cabinet for approval.

[An intense session (five weeks) where all stakeholders come together to identify challenges to economic growth and provide initiatives to address those challenges] ↑

Reply:

(a) Toyota, Audi & Jeep

(b) Fortuner 3.0 D. A 6 & Grand Cherokee 3.0 D

(c) Toyota Fortuner = R469 450.88, Audi A 6 = R513 508.08 and Jeep R899 241.00

(d) Toyota Fortuner 21 July 2014, Audi A 6 23 July 2014 and Jeep 21

February 2017

(i) Replacement of the Minister’s old vehicle

(ii) New vehicles for newly appointed Deputy Minister

(aa) (aaa) 2014 / 2015 Financial Year

(bbb) 2015 / 2016 Financial Year, there was not procurement done

(bb) Since 1 April 2016, Jeep Grand Cherokee for the replacement of the Minister’s old vehicle

Reply:

 

DEVELOPMENT CHAMBER DELEGATES

NO.	NAME & SURNAME	CONSTITUENCY	ORGANISATION
1	FaniXaba	Business	BUSA
2	Mpumalanga Myataza	Business	BUSA
3	ZinziMgolodela	Business	BUSA
4	Kevin Cowley	Business	BUSA
5	Nomsa Kula	Business	BUSA
6	SharnaJohardien	Business	BUSA
7	ThamiSkenjana	Business	BBC
8	Zama Ndaba	Business	BBC
9	TafadzwaMupeti	Business	BBC
10	Philip Maseko	Business	BBC
11	PhilaFakude	Business	BUSA
12	Herman Tsebe	Community	DPSA
13	Lucas Qakaza	Community	SANCO
14	Lawrence Bale	Community	SANACO
15	Laura Kganyago	Community	WNC
16	MaloseRamashala	Community	FSCC
17	ThulaneMabuza	Community	SANACO
18	Tumelo Zwane	Community	SAYC
19	ThethiswaMakaya	Community	DPSA
20	Adam Mthombeni	Government	DPW
21	Catherine Mavi	Government	DPW
22	NgubeThokwana	Government	DHS
23	NolwaziMgibe	Government	DPW
24	CJ Abrahams	Government	DPW
25	Devan Pillay	Government	DPW
26	Nyanisile Jack	Government	COGTA
27	Shirley Lloyd	Government	DHET
28	Matthew Parks	Labour	COSATU
29	Godfrey Selematsela	Labour	FEDUSA
30	Tom Bacote	Labour	NACTU
31	Busisiwe Mnisi	Labour	NACTU
32	MaloseKutumela	Labour	NACTU
33	LuthandoBrukwe	Labour	COSATU
34	LebogangMulaisi	Labour	COSATU
35	Mpho Kekana	Labour	NACTU
36	Brenda Modise	Labour	FEDUSA

LABOUR MARKET CHAMBER DELEGATES

NO.	NAME & SURNAME	CONSTITUENCY	ORGANISATION
1	KaizerMoyane	Business	BUSA
2	Elize van der Westhuizen	Business	BUSA
3	Jonathan Goldberg	Business	BUSA
4	Lucio Trentini	Business	BUSA
5	MotsamaiMotlhamme	Business	BUSA
6	Tommy Oliphant	Business	BBC
7	Elias Monage	Business	BBC
8	SharnaJohardien	Business	BUSA
9	NavishaMitoo (Alternate)	Business	BBCBE
10	Dr Thuthula Balfour-Kaipa	Business	CHAMBER OF MINES
11	Aruna Ranchod	Business	BUSA
12	Jesse Doorasamy	Business	Group Five
13	Thembinkosi Mkalipi	Government	DoL
14	David Khumalo	Government	DoL
15	Ian Macun	Government	DoL
16	Ntsoaki Mamashela	Government	DoL
17	Setsomi Molapo	Government	DoL
18	Stephen Rathai	Government	DoL
19	Mbongeni Magula	Government	DoL
20	Masilo Lefika	Government	DoL
21	MduduziMbongwe	Labour	COSATU
22	BhabhaliKaMaphikela - Nhlapo	Labour	COSATU
23	Patrick Phelane	Labour	COSATU
24	Johan van Niekerk	Labour	FEDUSA
25	MajakhunameMphahlele	Labour	COSATU
26	MartleKeyter	Labour	FEDUSA
27	TumedisoModise	Labour	NACTU
28	Matthew Parks	Labour	COSATU
29	ZanoxoloMpendu	Labour	NACTU
30	JanekWilimiec	Labour	UASA
31	Louisa Nett	Labour	COSATU
32	Mpho Kekana	Labour	NACTU

PUBLIC FINANCE AND MONETARY POLICY CHAMBER DELEGATES

NO.	NAME & SURNAME	CONSTITUENCY	ORGANISATION
1	Paul Bondi	Business	BUSA
2	Jeff Gable	Business	BUSA
3	Christo Van Der Reede	Business	BUSA
4	Olivier Serrao	Business	BUSA
5	Tyson Sibanda	Business	BUSA
6	StravrosNicolaou	Business	BUSA
7	SelloRasethaba	Business	BBC
8	George Sebulela	Business	BBC
9	Jesse Doorasamy	Business	BBC
10	SelvanNaicker	Business	BBC
11	Hamlet Hlomendini	Business	BUSA
12	Raymond Masoga	Government	National Treasury
13	OlanoMakhubela	Government	National Treasury
14	Basil Maseko	Government	National Treasury
15	Ismail Momoniat	Government	National Treasury
16	Sidney Kgara	Labour	NEHAWU
17	GodukileMacatha	Labour	NUM
18	Matthew Parks	Labour	COSATU
19	Jan Mahlangu	Labour	COSATU
20	Louise Nett	Labour	COSATU
21	SekgotaPhochana	Labour	NACTU

TRADE AND INDUSTRY CHAMBER DELEGATES

NO.	NAME & SURNAME	CONSTITUENCY	ORGANISATION
1	Johan Pienaar	Business	AGRISA
2	Nico Vermeulen	Business	BUSA
3	DanieJordaan	Business	BUSA
4	Michael Lawrence	Business	NCRF
5	John Purchase	Business	AGBIZ
6	HenkLangenhoven	Business	COM
7	DanisaBaloyi	Business	NBBC
8	Olivier Serrao	Business	BUSA
9	Tyson Sibanda	Business	BUSA
10	Kurt Moore	Business	SALBA
11	Gregory Mofokeng		BBC
12	Angela Dick	Business	TRANSMAN
13	Deidre Penfold	Business	CAIA
14	Zama Ndaba	Business	BUSA
15	MluGanto	Business	BUSA
16	Faried Adams	Government	DTI
17	Tendani Ramulongo	Government	DTI
18	Jan Magoro	Government	DTI
19	Niki Kruger	Government	DTI
20	TshifhiwaMahosi	Government	DTI
21	MzikayiseMgijima	Government	DTI
22	Tony Ehrenreich	Labour	COSATU
23	Ashley Benjamin	Labour	FEDUSA
24	Abraham Daniels	Labour	COSATU
25	Etienne Vlok	Labour	SACTWU
26	Tony Franks	Labour	NACTU
27	MpheaneLepaku	Labour	COSATU
28	MolefeRadinne	Labour	COSATU
29	NokanyoYolwa	Labour	COSATU

END

Reply:

(i) Minister

The vehicles purchased are as follows:

(a) Make	(b) Model	(c) Price	(d) Date of purchase	(aaa) FY 2014/2015	(bbb) FY 2015/2016	(bb)FY Since 1 April 2016/2017	Place
Lexus	LEXUS ES HYBRID ES 300H EX C21E	514 649.74	2014/09/26	Yes	N/A	N/A	CPT
Lexus	ES350 EX 36Z	464 819.04	2016/04/20	N/A	N/A	Yes	PTA

(ii) Deputy Minister

(a) Make	(b) Model	(c) Price	(d) Date of purchase	(aaa) FY 2014/2015	(bbb) FY 2015/2016	(bb)FY Since 1 April 2016/2017	Place
Audi	AUDI A8 4H20BA TDI Q TIP	881 629.99	2014/06/05	Yes	N/A	N/A	CPT
Lexus	LEXUS 460 16 G	808 279.00	2016/09/14	N/A	N/A	YES	PTA

Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved

Mr. Mogokare Richard Seleke Ms. Lynne Brown, MP

Director-General Minister of Public Enterprises

Date: Date:

Reply:

St Albans Prison comprises of the following sections mentioned on the table below:

• St Albans Maximum
• St Albans Remand Detention
• St Albans Medium B

ST ALBANS MAXIMUM
DATE/ YEAR	1(a) NUMBER OF ASSAULTS REPORTED	(b)(i)(ii) NUMBER OF CASES INVESTIGATES AND OUTCOME OF THE INVESTIGATIONS
2014	35 Cases reported	32 x cases were not opened by victims therefore they were finalised 3 x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised
2015	43 cases reported	36x cases were not opened by victims therefore they were finalised 3x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 4 x cases opened with SAPS but offender did not want to open a case – Finalised
2016	11 cases reported	9 x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 1 x case - offender did not want to open a case- Finalised 1 x case opened with SAPS - Pending
2017 AS OF 31 JANUARY	1 case reported	1 x case opened with SAPS in 2017 – Pending
ST ALBANS REMAND DETENTION
2014	14 cases reported	2x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 5 x cases opened with SAPS – Pending 6 x cases reported but detainees did not open the case
2015	35 cases reported	4 x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 1 x case opened with SAPS – Pending 30 x reported but not opened by detainees therefore finalised
2016	11 cases reported	7 x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 3 x cases opened with SAPS - Pending 1 x case not opened by the Detainee
ST ALBANS MEDIUM B
2014	34 cases reported	8 x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 8 x cases opened with SAPS – Pending 1 x case withdrawn by the Prosecutor – Finalised 17 x cases not opened by offenders
2015	35 cases reported	11 x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 4 x cases opened with SAPS – Pending 20 x cases not opened by offenders therefore finalised
2016	10 cases reported	3 x cases opened with SAPS – Finalised 7 x cases not opened by offenders therefore finalised
2017	1 case reported	1 x case opened with SAPS - Pending

Reply:

1. Yes.

(a) The South African Human Rights found in the matter between the Democratic Alliance on behalf of the Residents of Witbank (eMalahleni) under file reference number MP/2011/0134 that the Municipality violated the rights of the residents to have access to sufficient water, largely as a result of lack of maintenance plan for its infrastructure, and consequently their rights to dignity. The Municipality appealed the Commission`s findings and the appeal was dismissed in September 2015.

(b) The findings of the Commission were that the Municipality had failed to provide the residents with access to sufficient water in violation of the provisions of section 27 of the Constitution. The Commission continues to receive complaints of violation of the rights of communities to have access to sufficient water against the Municipality.

2. (a) Following the impression by the Commission on the essence of “Meaningful Engagement” between the Municipality and the communities, the Municiplaity held a mass meeting with the community in eMalahleni on 29 July 2015.

(b) On 09 November 2015, the Municipality sent its Comprehensive Maintenance Plan to the Commission.

(c) The Commission also engaged the Municipality through, inter alia, a meeting between its Former Chairperson: Advocate Luarence Mushwana, Provincial Manager: Eric Mokonyama and the Municipal Manager: Mr Theo van Vuuren on 20 June 2016, with a view to obtain the Municipality`s implementation plan aimed at resolving water supply challenges faced by communities in eMalahleni (e.g. Masakhane, Sizanane, Phola villages)

(d) Following further engagement, 7 February 2017 and 15 February 2017 the Municipality advised the Commission in writing about steps it is taking address the challenges, namely that:

1. Through its Integrated Development Plan coupled with ongoing discussions with Glencore Mine on water augmentation, it is engaging all affected communities with a view to address within available resources its water supply capacity challenges by end of June 2017.
2. Related sanitations challenged are currently addressed through a pit- latrine (long-drops) and VIP system which the Municipality is implementing; and
3. It may, in the long-term have to relocate the Masakhane settlement to Dhuva and Siyanqoba locations so as to create space for development.

The Commission also raised challenges presented by the overflow of sewer at Louise Street in Del Judor Extension 4 due to the blockage of the line as well as the manhole overflow at Mandela Street which has been flowing into the tributary of Klein Olifant`s. an investigation by the Municipality revealed that the blockage was caused by foreign objects and that the line needs to be replaced. The line has been blocked and the Municipality has allocated R10 Million to rehabilitate the spillage and resolve the problem. A written and costed rehabilitation plan has been presented to the Commission.

The Commission is monitoring the implantation plan of the Municipality aimed at resolving the abovementioned issues.

Reply:

(a) The communities within the Harry Gwala District Municipality (HGDM) and uMkhanyakude DM (UKDM) have been without water for over two years due to two factors, i.e. severe drought impact which has plagued most parts of the KwaZulu-Natal including some of Harry Gwala and uMkhanyakude areas and secondly it has been due to infrastructure limitations in some areas.

(b) The department provides funding to uMkhanyakude and Harry Gwala District Municipalities in order to try to resolve the water challenges faced by the districts and my department will continue to support the municipalities to ensure that the communities have access to good quality clean water.

Refer to the table below for allocations for UMkhanyakude DM (UKDM):

Grant	2015/16	2016/17	2017/18	2018-19
RBIG	R313 Million	R110Million	R119 Million	None
MWIG	R54 Million	None	None	None
WSIG	None	R70 Million	R50 Million	R65 million

Refer to the table below for allocations for Harry Gwala DM (HGDM):

Grant	2015/16	2016/17	2017/18	2018-19
RBIG	R14 Million	R48 Million	R90 Million	R100 Million
MWIG	R43.5 Million	None	None	None
WSIG	None	R86 Million	R98 Million	R108 million

 

Reply:

1. Mr Letsoalo secondment was done in terms of section 15(3) of the Public Service Act. The matter of the remuneration of the secondment allowance is a matter that is being dealt with within PRASA.

a. See background information above

b. See background information above

2. PRASA is investigating the matter

a.  See the background information above

Reply:

No funds have been specifically allocated for nuclear power procurement in the 2017 Budget.

Reply:

1. A complaint was received by the Presidential Hotline on 20 November 2016 relating to Performance Management at theSouth African Weather Service (SAWS) specifically relating to the 2014/15 performance assessment period. The allegations included the following:

a) Unlawful powers of the Executive Committee to change moderated performance scores;

b) Unilateral correction of scores

c) Implementation of performance-based salary increases.

The allegations were referred to the Board of SAWS for further investigation on 28 January 2016.

OMA Chartered Accountants Incorporated (OMA) was appointed to conduct an investigation into allegations made by the complainant. No Board members were involved in the appointment of OMA. The recommendations in the OMA report have been implemented.

2. A senior manager of SAWS brought allegations to the Board, on the matter of the guarantee for the radars. A preliminary analysis has revealed no irregularity. Further investigation is underway.