Questions and Replies
23 March 2017 - NW344
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)What is the nature and legal basis on which deposit-accepting banks depend to give protection to their clients in order to protect the money of such clients against fraud within and outside the banks and also against online scams; (2) whether banks are obliged to take out insurance concerning these risks; (3) whether banks are obliged to compensate their clients 100% concerning losses suffered where the clients themselves had not acted negligently and the problem had originated with the bank itself and with other service providers, such as cell phone companies; if not, why not; if so, what is the legal basis for such obligation?
Reply:
Please refer to the answer in PQ 2745 submitted on 15 December 2016, herewith attached.
23 March 2017 - NW416
Bergman, Mr D to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(a) How many flights has Inkwazi undertaken in February 2017, and (b) in each case, (i) what was the reason for the flight and (ii) who were the passengers aboard the flight?
Reply:
The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.
23 March 2017 - NW188
Vos, Mr J to ask the Minister of Tourism
What was the (i) destination, (ii) purpose and (iii) cost of each official international trip undertaken by (a) him and (b) the Deputy Minister since 26 May 2014?
Reply:
(a) Official International trips by the Minister of Tourism
(i)Destination & date |
(ii)Purpose |
(ii) Cost |
Rio de Janeiro & Sao Paulo, Brazil (21 to 25 September 2014) |
|
R 111 957.74 |
Uzbekistan, Turkey & Samarkand (29 to 30 September 2014 Turkey) (01 to 03 October 2014 Samarkand ) |
|
R 197 919.41 |
United Kingdom & Netherlands London & Amsterdam (03 to 06 November 2014) |
|
R 119 506.01 |
Namibia, Windhoek (23 to 24 February 2015) |
|
R 7 489.39 |
Germany & Italy Berlin & Milan (02 to 05 March 2015 Berlin) (06 to 07 March 2015 Italy) |
|
R 162 201.85 |
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (14 to 16 March 2015 UAE) (15 to 16 March 2015 Dubai) |
|
R 167 843.67 |
|
R109,127.39 |
|
United States of America (USA) & Spain (13 to 14 April 2015 New York) (15 to 16 April 2015 Madrid) |
|
R124,722.72 |
|
The cost is included in the USA trip (connection) |
|
Seychelles, Victoria (24 to 26 April 2015) |
|
R 54 173.04 |
United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai (04 to 05 May 2015) |
|
R 67 303.35 |
Croatia, Rovinj (27-29 May 2015) |
|
R 111 831.38 R 68,285.44 |
Zimbabwe, Harare (18 June 2015) |
|
R 27 549.34 |
Medellin, Colombia, (12 to 16 September 2015) |
|
R84,396.50 |
Antalya, Turkey (28 to 30 September 2015) |
|
R 61,894.72 |
Milan, Italy (14 to 16 October 2015) |
|
R145,043.72 |
London, United Kingdom (02 to 05 November 2015) |
|
R89,823.72 |
Saudi Arabia (13 to 15 December 2015) |
Working visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
|
R116,653.72 |
Cairo, Egypt
|
Ministerial working visit to Egypt to Promote South Africa as Tourism Destination
|
R28 985.72 |
Beijing and Shanghai, China (29 Mar18 May to 01 April 2016) |
Working visit to China Minister’s visit to China to meet with his counterpart to discuss policy related matters on tourism and engage with the tourism trade. |
R 65 568.46 |
Delhi and Mumbai, India (01 to 04 April 2016) |
The visits were part of South African Tourism’s roadshow to boost tourism from these key source markets. |
R59 568.46 |
Abidjan, Cote dÍvoire (19 to 21 April 2016) |
|
R89 161.23 |
Mahe, Seychelles (22 to 24 April 2016) |
|
R77 457.23 |
Malaga, Spain (09 to 11 May 2016) |
|
R72 394.23 |
China, Beijing (19 to 21 May 2016) |
|
R34 152.23 + R59,611.00 |
Khajuraho, India (01 to 02 September 2016) |
|
R58 560.23 |
Tehran, Iran (05 to 08 February 2017) |
|
R74 586.23 |
(b) Official International trips by the Deputy-Minister of Tourism
(i)Destination & date |
(ii)Purpose |
(ii) Cost |
China (16-22 September 2014) |
|
R117 983.90 |
Dublin, Ireland (23-26 September 2014) |
|
R105 000.00 |
Mahe, Seychelles (20-21 November 2014) |
|
R61235.39 |
Frankfurt, Germany (18-22 May 2015) |
|
R80,954.72 |
South East Asia (21-23 August 2015) |
|
R120 896.23 |
Brazil (22-23 September 2015) |
|
R62 613.78 |
Malawi (21-25 November 2015) |
|
R85 995.00 |
Iran, (07-09 November 2015) |
|
R100 875.02 |
Angola (1-5 March 2016) |
|
R92,728.09 |
Berlin, Germany (08-13 March 2016) |
Internationale Tourismus-Borse Berlin (ITB) The ITB is an effective business platform, global market place, networking and meeting place, trend barometer, knowledge platform, think tank, career springboard-for trade visitors and exhibitors. The trip included:
To attend the Africa Forum – Community based Tourism: factors for success and best practice examples from Botswana |
R109 585.45 |
Frankfurt, Germany (19-21 April 2016) |
To attend IMEX and to participate in the Politicians Forum. |
R251 851.66 |
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (14-18 June 2016) |
|
R14 024.44 |
East Asia (25 June – 09 July 2016) |
|
R120 896.23 |
Maputo, Mozambique (14 to 17 October 2016) |
|
R 14 629.26 |
United States of America (15-22 October 2016) |
|
R155 753.22 |
Caucun, Quintana, Mexico (30 November - 05 December 2016) |
|
R99 897.23 |
23 March 2017 - NW408
Robertson, Mr K to ask the Minister of Police
(1)Whether, with reference to his reply to question 1875 on 22 September 2016, the identity of the person(s) who was being escorted by the security convoy detail has been established; if not, why not; if so, who was being escorted by the security convoy detail on the day of the specified accident; (2) what is the current status of the investigation into CAS 208/08/2016 opened at the Piet Retief Police Station in Mpumalanga; (3) whether any person(s) has or have been (a) arrested or (b) prosecuted yet; if not, in each case, why not; if so, (i) what are the relevant details in each case and (ii) (aa) on what date and (bb) where will the next court appearance take place
Reply:
(1) Yes, Mr Vusi Motha, the Executive Mayor of Mkhondo Municipality, was escorted by the security convoy detail from the RSS Security Company, of Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2) The investigation with regards to Piet Retief CAS 208/08/2016, has not yet been concluded. Medical reports of the persons who were injured in the collision and four witness statements must still be obtained.
(3) (a) Nobody was arrested in this matter.
(b) Nobody has been prosecuted in this matter.
(b)(i) The investigation must first be concluded, subsequent to which the case docket will be presented to the Senior Public Prosecutor at the Piet Retief Magistrate’s Court, for a decision on prosecution.
(b)(ii)(aa) Not applicable, as prosecution has not been initiated.
(bb) Not applicable, as prosecution has not been initiated.
23 March 2017 - NW414
Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
With reference to the visit by the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma, to the People’s Republic of China to attend the G20 Summit in September 2016, (a) why was Inkwazi not used to transport the President, (b) from which company was a flight chartered, (c) which airplane was chartered, (d) what was the nationality of each crew member aboard the flight and (e) what was the total cost for the entire charter?
Reply:
The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.
23 March 2017 - NW412
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)Whether a SA Air Force aircraft was used to transport her and the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, to attend the funeral of the late Mr Fidel Castro in the Republic of Cuba in November and December 2016; if not, (2) whether the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) chartered a private plane to transport her and the President on the specified trips; if so, (a) which company was used, (b) what did the specified chartered aircraft cost, (c) which aircraft were chartered and (d) what was the nationality of each crew member on board; (3) whether each of the specified crew members were vetted by the Intelligence Services of the SANDF; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) whether the specified charters were authorised in terms of National Treasury RT61 contract specifications; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.
23 March 2017 - NW233
Mbabama, Ms TM to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(a) How many members of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) were deployed for the occasion of the State of the Nation Address from 6 to 12 February 2017, (b) which SANDF units did they represent, (c) how many members of each respective unit were deployed, (d) how many members were deployed on the parliamentary precinct on 9 February 2017, (e) which specific units did the specified members represent and (f) what are the specific reasons and motivations for the deployment of the members in each case?
Reply:
The response to be provided to this question currently forms the basis of a court case brought by the Democratic Alliance on 10 February 2017. A response to this question will thus only be provided once the court case has been finalised.
23 March 2017 - NW503
King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether, with reference to her reply to question 2396 on 19 November 2016, she has received the 2014 draft report from the National Education Evaluation and Development Unit; if not, why not; if so, when will she make rthe report available to the public?
Reply:
The Minister has not received the NEEDU 2014 National Report as it was finalised on 9 March 2017. Internal processes are being followed to ensure that the report reaches the Minister by the end of March 2017. Once the Minister has engaged with the report, it will be posted on the website of the Department of Basic Education.
23 March 2017 - NW417
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
Were any trips undertaken with Inkwazi in November 2016; if so, in each case (a) what was the purpose of the trip, (b) who were the passengers on board and (c) why was Inkwazi not used to transport the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, (i) on his state visit to Zimbabwe and (ii) for his attendance of the funeral of the former president of the Republic of Cuba in November 2016?
Reply:
The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence
23 March 2017 - NW567
Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)Did a certain person (name and details furnished) receive a payment of R120 000 from funds of the specified council in December 2016; if so, (a) what was the purpose of this payment, (b) who authorised the payment, (c) on what date was the payment authorised and (d) from what account was the payment drawn; (2) were certain persons (names and details furnished) aware of the payment?
Reply:
1. Ms V Hofmeester has never received the amount of R120 000.
a) N/A
b) N/A
c) N/A
d) N/A
2. (i) Mr Rej Brijraj is not aware of such a transaction.
(ii) Mr Cliff Nndwambi is not aware of such a transaction.
23 March 2017 - NW127
Boshoff, Ms SH to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(a) What is the total number of learners in (i) primary and (ii) secondary schools who fell pregnant in each province during the (aa) 2014, (bb) 2015 and (cc) 2016 school years and (b) how many of the specified learners returned to school in each year respectively and (c) how many were reported by schools to the South African Police Service for reasons related to sexual offences in each year?
Reply:
The responses below are provided as per:
The total number of learners in (i) primary and (ii) secondary schools who fell pregnant in each province during the (aa) 2014, (bb) 2015 and (cc) 2016 school years.
(a)(i)(ii)(aa)(bb)(cc)
Table 1: Number of learners who fell pregnant, by province, between 2014 and 2016
Year |
Province |
Grade 3 |
Grade 4 |
Grade 5 |
Grade 6 |
Grade 7 |
Grade 8 |
Grade 9 |
Grade 10 |
Grade 11 |
Grade 12 |
Other |
Total |
2014 |
EC |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
16 |
42 |
67 |
99 |
164 |
134 |
0 |
527 |
FS |
0 |
1 |
0 |
12 |
7 |
27 |
95 |
182 |
167 |
262 |
12 |
765 |
|
GT |
0 |
0 |
4 |
16 |
71 |
201 |
639 |
1 541 |
1 486 |
1 204 |
55 |
5 217 |
|
KZ |
7 |
7 |
12 |
27 |
49 |
146 |
338 |
731 |
852 |
862 |
8 |
3 039 |
|
LP |
0 |
1 |
|
6 |
6 |
37 |
105 |
197 |
161 |
148 |
2 |
663 |
|
MP |
3 |
9 |
83 |
105 |
169 |
357 |
490 |
723 |
670 |
593 |
8 |
3 438 |
|
NC |
1 |
1 |
3 |
11 |
39 |
69 |
152 |
379 |
278 |
187 |
0 |
1 119 |
|
NW |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
10 |
203 |
282 |
196 |
106 |
59 |
95 |
953 |
|
WC |
0 |
0 |
5 |
25 |
49 |
166 |
498 |
671 |
709 |
740 |
1 |
2 864 |
|
National |
11 |
19 |
107 |
208 |
416 |
1 248 |
2 666 |
4 719 |
4 593 |
4 189 |
181 |
18 357 |
|
2015 |
EC |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
6 |
19 |
26 |
49 |
82 |
57 |
0 |
243 |
FS |
1 |
1 |
4 |
6 |
19 |
29 |
56 |
178 |
179 |
221 |
0 |
694 |
|
GT |
0 |
1 |
4 |
13 |
56 |
239 |
610 |
1 410 |
1 689 |
1 219 |
5 |
5 246 |
|
KZ |
2 |
2 |
4 |
6 |
18 |
87 |
235 |
553 |
729 |
673 |
99 |
2 408 |
|
LP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
9 |
34 |
148 |
308 |
216 |
189 |
1 |
909 |
|
MP |
4 |
0 |
6 |
22 |
172 |
409 |
489 |
607 |
561 |
378 |
122 |
2 770 |
|
NW |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
3 |
23 |
54 |
71 |
73 |
46 |
0 |
274 |
|
NC |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
18 |
16 |
20 |
0 |
69 |
|
WC |
0 |
0 |
7 |
18 |
45 |
165 |
443 |
668 |
799 |
746 |
0 |
2 891 |
|
National |
7 |
4 |
27 |
78 |
332 |
1 009 |
2 065 |
3 862 |
4 344 |
3 549 |
227 |
15 504 |
|
2016 |
EC |
|
|
|
1 |
1 |
5 |
10 |
20 |
32 |
37 |
0 |
106 |
FS |
1 |
|
1 |
3 |
21 |
30 |
50 |
123 |
120 |
138 |
0 |
487 |
|
GT |
1 |
2 |
6 |
28 |
83 |
280 |
615 |
1 069 |
1 118 |
1 164 |
0 |
4 366 |
|
LP |
|
|
|
9 |
5 |
35 |
103 |
241 |
223 |
212 |
0 |
828 |
|
NW |
|
1 |
|
|
5 |
17 |
56 |
109 |
91 |
80 |
0 |
359 |
|
WC |
|
1 |
5 |
15 |
48 |
187 |
369 |
526 |
612 |
666 |
0 |
2 429 |
|
NC |
|
|
|
|
3 |
6 |
27 |
50 |
40 |
31 |
0 |
157 |
|
National |
2 |
4 |
12 |
56 |
166 |
560 |
1 230 |
2 138 |
2 236 |
2 328 |
0 |
8 732 |
Source 1: 2014-16 Annual School Survey
Source 2: PEDs submissions
Note 1: 2016 data for KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga are still not available.
Note 2: The ASS question on learner pregnancy asks the school principal for: “the number of learners (That they are aware of) who got pregnant the previous academic year”.
Note 3: The data, as received from the provinces, are preliminary and must be treated with caution, since it has not been published in this format.
(b) The Department is in no position to report on learners who returned to school after pregnancy.
(c) The following cases were reported to South African Police Services (SAPS) for reasons related to sexual offences in each year:
2013 /14 = 56 680
2014 /15 = 53 617
2015 /16 = 51 895
The South African Police Services collects data on a yearly basis on sexual offences. However, they not only concentrate on reported schools cases but to the entire public services. The referred data is from ‘Crime situation in South Africa’.
23 March 2017 - NW368
Stander, Ms T to ask the Ms T Stander (DA) asked the Minister of Public Works
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for use by (i) him and (ii) his deputy (aa) in the (aaa) 2014-15 and (bbb) 2015-16 financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016?
Reply:
(i) The Minister of Public Works
(a) and (b) Make & Model |
(c) Price |
(d) Date purchased |
BMW X5 F15 XDrive 4.0D |
R918 459.61 |
12 November 2015 |
(ii) The Deputy Minister of Public Works
(a) and (b) Make & Model |
(c) Price |
(d) Date purchased |
Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 V6 TDI |
R709 484.00 |
21 November 2014 |
BMW F10 535i |
R681 432.34 |
01 January 2015 |
(bb) No motor vehicle has been purchased since 01 April 2016.
23 March 2017 - NW466
Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister of Science and Technology
Whether her Department procured any services from and/or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progrssive Professional Forum, (C) the Decolonisation Fund and / or (d) Black Business Council, if not, in each case, why not, if so, what (i) services were procured , (ii) was is the total cost, (iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (iv) was the total amount paid (v) was the purpose of the payments (vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payment in each case?
Reply:
a) No, Mr Mzwanele Manyi did not respond to any bids advertised by the department.
b) No, the Progressive professionals Forum did not respond to any bids advertised by the department
c) No, the Decolonisation Fund did not respond to any bids advertised by the department
d) No Black Business Council did not respond to any bids advertised by the department.
- Not applicable
- Not applicable
- Not applicable
- Not applicable
- Not applicable
- Not applicable
23 March 2017 - NW232
Marais, Mr EJ to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)Whether, with regard to the 38 schools that have achieved less than a 40% pass rate for the past five years as listed in the National Senior Certificate School Performance Report for 2016, her department has identified such underperforming schools on an annual basis; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) what steps has her department taken to assist each school in addressing its underperformance; (3) has any action been taken against the principals of schools that underperform consistently; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW245E
Reply:
1. In terms of section 58B of the South African Schools Act (Act 84 of 1996), the Head of Department must, annually, identify any public school that is underperforming in relation to any matter referred to in subsection (2) (a), (b) or (c). Heads of Department have identified all underperforming schools, including the 38 schools. The list of the 38 schools that have performed below 40% is attached as Annexure A.
2. Heads of Department were provided with guidelines and a management plan for the management and support of all underperforming schools. Therefore, based on this, Heads of Department have taken the following steps to assist the identified schools to address their underperformance:
- Issuing of written notices to the principals of all underperforming schools (including independent schools as contemplated in paragraph 5.2 c), d) and g).
- As part of provincial consequence management strategies, issuing of written notices to all principals of the schools identified as serial underperforming schools requesting them to motivate and provide reasons as to why the Provincial Education Departments must not remove them from their positions as principals. For instance:
- In Free State, in some areas principals of weak schools were removed to smaller schools and placed under strict supervision. The province has managed to eliminate most schools that performed below 50 per cent, and the number of these schools has been reduced to one school. The province is now working on reducing the number of schools that performed below 75% since 2014.
- In KwaZulu-Natal, there are regular accountability sessions with teachers, heads of department, school principals, circuit managers and subject advisors on the performance of schools and subjects for which they are responsible.
- Requiring of District Directors to conduct a diagnostic analysis of the challenges that led to underperformance in the identified schools, for submission to HoDs.
- Requiring of school principals of the schools identified as underperforming to prepare and submit Academic Performance Improvement Plans to the Head of Department.
- Evaluating Academic Performance Improvement Plans from schools identified as underperforming and providing the necessary guidance and support.
To ensure that there is improvement in the performance of the schools identified as underperforming; Heads of Department must take all reasonable steps to assist schools identified in terms of subsection (1) of the South African Schools Act (Act 84 of 1996) in addressing the underperformance. For instance:
- In Gauteng, the Department is in the process of providing subject support packages which include the following: Curriculum policy; Lesson plans; Exam guidelines; SSIP material; SBA and PAT guidelines; Diagnostic Reports; analytical reports; weighted ATPs; and weighted weekly assessment items for each subject.
- In KwaZulu-Natal:
- Circuit managers and subject advisors are monitoring curriculum coverage in all underperforming schools; ensuring that schools have curriculum delivery targets and that they receive well-prepared lesson plans, assessment exercises and memoranda.
- The Just-In-Time (JIT) programme is being used to improve teachers’ knowledge of subject content and application of teaching methods. The focus of the programme is on Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Accounting, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Agricultural Sciences and Geography.
- The province developed an ‘SMT Toolkit on Curriculum Management’, and has printed approximately 10 000 copies for heads of department, deputy principals, school principals and circuit managers as support material.
MECs for Education shall submit reports on the 31st March 2017 on the actions taken by their Heads of Department regarding support provided to underperforming schools, to assist the Minister in carrying out her duties referred to in section 8 of the National Education Policy Act.
3. The Department of Basic Education has provided guidance to this effect and provincial education departments are expected to submit comprehensive reports to the DBE.
23 March 2017 - NW411
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
Whether any measures have been taken to (a) revive the 35 Squadron’s (i) Dakota or (ii) any other long-haul sea border patrol aircraft and/or (b) re-establish a squadron of patrol and response aircraft to ensure that the sea borders of South Africa are protected and that South Africa can carry out its international commitments in the southern sea oceans; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.
23 March 2017 - NW410
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)What are the overall objectives of hosting the annual Armed Forces Day celebrations, given the budget constraints and enormous need for financial resources in the SA National Defence Force; (2) what was the (a) budget and (b) total actual cost of hosting the (i) 2016 and (ii) 2017 Armed Forces Days; (3) why was the (a) Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and (b) eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality selected to host the (i) 2016 and (ii) 2017 Armed Forces Days respectively?
Reply:
(1) In 2012, the President of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) and Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), President J.G. Zuma, proclaimed that 21 February will be observed and commemorated as Armed Forces Day. It is to be a day on which the South African population honours men and women of the South African National Defence Force by affirming its support and gratitude to them for upholding the Constitution of the Republic and defending the territorial integrity of the Republic and protecting its people. It is fortunate the Armed Forces Day 2017 coincided with the centenary commemoration of the sinking of the SS Mendi on 21 February 1917. To reciprocate, the SANDF also uses this annual event to strengthen its relationship with the broader population and to reach out to local communities.
(2) The SANDF does not have an allocated budget for the Armed Forces Day and therefore the host Service (rotated amongst the Services on an annual basis) budgets for the corporate costs while all participating Services and Divisions budget for their participating members’ subsistence and travel costs.
a) The guideline prescribes an estimated budget of RM25.
b) The total actual cost of hosting is as follows:
(i) For 2016 Armed Forces Day: R 20 845 897.00.
(ii) For 2017 Armed Forces Day: R 24 777 028.00.
(3) Since its proclamation, the Armed Forces Day has been celebrated in five provinces, namely Gauteng, the Free State, the North West Province, Eastern Cape Province and KwaZulu Natal. It is the prerogative of the Chief of the South African Nation Defence Force to select the venue in which the Armed Forces Day is celebrated.
a) Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan in 2016 was part a provincial rotation; the venue was ideal for the host service, the SA Navy, to showcase its capabilities in a more tangible way than in the previous three years.
b) The eThekweni Metropolitan Municipality was recommended by the SA Army as the most suitable venue to celebrate the 2017 Armed Forces Day considering that it coincided with the centenary commemoration of the sinking of the SS Mendi.
23 March 2017 - NW495
Hunsinger, Dr CH to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)(a) What is the total number of interns who are employed in each directorate of her department, (b) what amount is each intern paid for (i) regular working hours and (ii) overtime hours and (c) how long has each intern been employed as an intern; (2) what is the total number of interns who were placed in permanent positions in her department once their internships had ended in the (a) 2013-14, (b) 2014-15 and (c) 2015-16 financial years?
Reply:
1(a) Currently the Department has recruited 74 interns. Placement of interns differs from one Directorate to the other. Some Directorates have one intern and some have more than one. The table below indicates the number of interns per Directorate:
Name of the Directorate |
Number of Interns |
ASIDI |
2 |
Communication and Research |
5 |
Curriculum Implementation and Monitoring |
3 |
Curriculum Policy Support and Monitoring |
1 |
Curriculum Policy, Development and Implementation |
1 |
Curriculum Research |
1 |
Curriculum, Implementation and Quality Improvement |
1 |
District Co-Ordination Monitoring and Support |
2 |
Donor Grant Management, Dinaledi/Technical Secondary Schools |
1 |
Education HR Planning, Provisioning and Monitoring |
1 |
Education Labour Relations and Conditions of Service |
2 |
Educator Performance Management and Development and Whole School Evaluation |
1 |
EMIS |
4 |
Financial Planning, Economic Analysis and Provincial Budget Monitoring |
5 |
Financial Services |
8 |
Health Promotion |
1 |
Initial Teacher Education |
1 |
International Relations and Multilateral Affairs |
1 |
Kha Ri Gude Literacy Project |
1 |
LTSM Policy development and Innovation |
2 |
Media Liaison &National & Provincial Communication |
2 |
National Assessment and Public Examinations |
1 |
NEEDU |
1 |
Partnership |
1 |
Physical Planning and Rural Schooling |
3 |
Provincial Monitoring |
1 |
Research Co-ordination, Monitoring and Evaluation |
1 |
Safety in Education |
3 |
School Nutrition |
1 |
Social Cohesion and Equity in Education |
3 |
Sport and Enrichment in Education |
2 |
Strategic Planning, Research and Coordination |
1 |
Teacher Development Implementation |
2 |
Teacher Development Research |
1 |
Training and Social Responsibility |
3 |
UNESCO |
4 |
Total |
74 |
1(b)(i) Interns are paid in accordance with the Remuneration Schedule as outlined in the Determination of Interns in the Public Service issued by the DPSA. The Remuneration Schedule provides for the minimum stipend to be paid to interns in accordance with their qualification. As a result of that, a qualification that an intern has obtained determines the amount of stipend he or she should receive per month.
The Remuneration Schedule has three categories to be considered when determining the stipend for interns:
Category A1-3: consist of interns with NQF level 4 equivalent to Matric. Category B1-4: consist of interns with National Diploma, Degree, BTECH, Honours and Masters Certificate.
Category C1-C2: consist of interns with Masters and Doctoral Degrees.
The Qualifications of interns recruited in the Department in terms of the Determination have obtained NQF level 4 -10 qualifications.
Interns who have a National Diploma, BTECH or Degree are paid R4 035.06 per month. Interns who have Masters and Doctoral Degree are paid R4 981.63 per month.
1(b)(ii) Overtime calculations:
Normal hours
Notch X 7 X 1 X 1.5 X total hours
1 365 40
Sunday hours
Notch X 7 X 1 X 2 X total hours
1 365 40
1(c) Interns are appointed on contract for a duration of 24 months in terms of the DPSA revised Guidelines on Internship Programme. However, as part of the capacity building programme, the Department gives interns the opportunity to manage projects. Interns who are assigned projects have their Personal Development Plans (PDPs) aligned to the duration of the projects. As a result their internship contract may extend beyond 24 months until the end of the project. During that period the Department ensures that there is a skills transfer in order to address issues of scarce and critical skills. This process of engaging interns in projects assists the Department in building capacity and ensuring that interns acquire scarce and critical skills that are to the benefit of the public service as a whole. Furthermore interns are being assessed on a quarterly basis by their mentors or supervisors.
2
|
|
|
|
Number of Interns |
14 |
5 |
22 |
23 March 2017 - NW288
Bara, Mr M R to ask the Minister of Basic Education
With regard to the claiming of concessions from her department, (a) what amount was requested and (b) what amount was actually paid for the 2015 academic year for each school in the (i) Edenvale, (ii) Tembisa and (iii) Kempton Park school districts?
Reply:
The response below was sourced from Gauteng Department of Education
SCHOOL NAME |
(a) Total exemption granted * |
(b) Amount actually paid |
Districts |
DUNVEGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 1 425 000 |
R 59 882 |
EDENVALE |
EASTLEIGH PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 3 564 204 |
R 84 457 |
EDENVALE |
EDENGLEN HIGH SCHOOL |
R 2 025 300 |
R 68 560 |
EDENVALE |
EDENGLEN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 1 488 553 |
R 40 951 |
EDENVALE |
EDENVALE HIGH SCHOOL |
R 1 134 600 |
R 10 348 |
EDENVALE |
HOËRSKOOL EDENVALE |
R 730 000 |
R 23 080 |
EDENVALE |
HURLYVALE PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 1 335 840 |
R 33 209 |
EDENVALE |
LAERSKOOL M W DE WET PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 1 839 200 |
R 53 495 |
EDENVALE |
ARBOR PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 1 633 280 |
R 47 757 |
KEMPTON PARK |
BIRCH ACRES PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 442 200 |
R 17 267 |
KEMPTON PARK |
BONAERO PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 942 480 |
R 46 931 |
KEMPTON PARK |
CRESSLAWN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 819 000 |
R 47 771 |
KEMPTON PARK |
EDLEEN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 273 000 |
R 39 518 |
KEMPTON PARK |
HOËRSKOOL BIRCHLEIGH |
R 4 158 000 |
R 162 072 |
KEMPTON PARK |
SCHOOL NAME |
(a) Amount requested |
(b) Amount actually paid |
Districts |
HOËRSKOOL JEUGLAND |
R 3 324 420 |
R 89 324 |
KEMPTON PARK |
HOËRSKOOL KEMPTON PARK |
R 1 822 800 |
R 46 258 |
KEMPTON PARK |
KEMPTON PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 392 370 |
R 19 538 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL BIRCHLEIGH |
R 1 377 000 |
R 52 681 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL BREDELL |
R 989 175 |
R 35 896 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL EDLEEN |
R 833 085 |
R 36 401 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL IMPALA |
R 1 097 250 |
R 42 142 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL JEUGPARK PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 1 387 100 |
R 81 849 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL KEMPTON PARK |
R 1 615 900 |
R 96 147 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL KREFT |
R 1 062 600 |
R 68 840 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL KRUINSIG |
R 772 200 |
R 31 139 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL MOOIFONTEIN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
R 1 426 590 |
R 92 700 |
KEMPTON PARK |
LAERSKOOL VAN RIEBEECKPARK |
R 1 155 220 |
R 105 390 |
KEMPTON PARK |
NORKEM PARK HIGH SCHOOL |
R 3 108 400 |
R 190 533 |
KEMPTON PARK |
RHODESFIELD TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL |
R 1 203 300 |
R 50 963 |
KEMPTON PARK |
SIR PIERRE VAN RYNEVELD HIGH SCHOOL |
R 1 971 420 |
R 91 580 |
KEMPTON PARK |
MASIQHAKAZE SECONDARY SCHOOL |
R 61 000 |
R 169 885 |
TEMBISA |
MASISEBENZE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL |
R 347 500 |
R 77 423 |
TEMBISA |
Source: Gauteng Provincial Education Department
* Assuming that all learners were granted 100% fee exemption
23 March 2017 - NW413
Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
Whether Inkwazi aircraft made any trips in November 2016; if so, in each case (a) what was the purpose of the trip, (b) who were the passengers on board and (c) why was Inkwazi not used to transport the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, (i) on his state visit to Zimbabwe and (ii) to attend the funeral of the former president of the Republic of Cuba in November 2016?
Reply:
The information requested relates to the movement of the VVIP and such information can only be disclosed in a closed session of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence.
23 March 2017 - NW491
Davis, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Basic Education
With regard to a presentation by her department to the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education on 28 February 2017, during which Dr Govender from her department mentioned that the inclusion of Shakespeare in the drama curriculum of the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement was being reviewed, what progress has been made in this regard?
Reply:
In response to issues raised by the committee on decolonisation, clarification was given of how the Curriculum review process since Curriculum 2005 has included the need for transformation. Examples were provided from the current CAPS, such as the change in the History curriculum.
Mention was also made of the fact that in future curriculum review processes, a focus on decolonisation will continue to feature. The example provided was English Literature used in the schooling system, e.g. the need to review the genre of novels and drama prescribed for teaching and learning, which includes a possible review of the continued emphasis on the works of Shakespeare.
There is a need to move towards the greater inclusion of African and South African writings for novels/drama and poetry and this will be part of the long-term curriculum review process. Therefore, the consideration of the works of Shakespeare is an aspect of the overall literature review process targeted for 2020 and thus concrete work on this shall only begin in 2018.
23 March 2017 - NW442
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesQUESTION
Whether his department procured any services from and/or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what (i) services were procured, (ii) was the total cost, (iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (iv) was the total amount paid, (v) was the purpose of the payments and (vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payments in each case?
Reply:
The Department has no payment record of any payments to the suppliers a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council. No orders were also issued.
23 March 2017 - NW415
Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(a) Why has Inkwazi not been used to transport members of the Executive even though it was confirmed that Inkwazi is operational and (b) for what alternative purposes has Inkwazi been used in the meantime?
Reply:
(a) The utilisation of the Inkwazi is an internal operational issue.
23 March 2017 - NW444
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether her department procured any services from and/or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what (i) services were procured, (ii) was the total cost, (iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (iv) was the total amount paid, (v) was the purpose of the payments and (vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payments in each case?
Reply:
According to the records at Supply Chain Management, the Department has not procured any services or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professional Forum, (c) The Decolonisation Fund and/ or (d) the Black Business Council.
The Department has not procured any services from the service providers in question as there was no need for services from these service providers.
23 March 2017 - NW623
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(a) What is the difference between (i) an honorary colonel and (ii) a patron, (b) what number of civilians have been appointed in each case since 10 May 1994, (c) what criteria are used for appointing civilians in each case and (d) what are their current functions?
Reply:
1. The difference between a Honorary Colonel/Captain (SA Navy) and a Patron is:
a) a Honorary Colonel/Captain (SA Navy) is the conduit to foster, maintain or renew civilian local and regional connections of goodwill and support to Arms of Service/Formation/Base/Units of the SANDF.
b) Honorary Colonels/Captains (SA Navy) are draw cards to market the SANDF.
c) a Patron represents the Chief of the SA National Defence Force or Chiefs of Service, respectively.
d) a Patron is a delegated authority drawn from the General Staff ranks of the SANDF and Honorary Colonels/Captains (SA Navy) are identified from the Private or Public Sector.
e) a Patron provides organisational, co-ordination and implementation advice to Chief of the SA National Defence Force or Chiefs of Service whom they represent at a Board, Fund or Sporting Code.
2. The appointment of Honorary Colonels/Captains (SA Navy) in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is regulated by the Department of Defence Instruction: Pol and Plan No 49/2001. The appointment of Honorary Colonels is an established tradition in the SANDF and any person appointed in this capacity does not form part of the chain of command. Any prominent citizen of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) interested in the preparedness and well-being of the SANDF, and any unit in particular, may be considered for appointment. Such a person may not necessarily have any military experience. An appointment as an Honorary Colonel/Captain is purely a titular appointment and shall confer no military status or power of command.
3. Seventy Two (72) civilians have been appointed since 10 May 1994.
4. Criteria for Appointment. The requirement/criteria for all the appointed civilians as Honorary Colonels/Captains is as follows:
a) Age. Preferably over 40 years and below 75 years.
b) Residence. RSA.
c) Profile. Candidates shall be worthy of the appointment as determined by the vetting process.
d) Security Clearance. An appropriate security clearance.
5. Functions. The main current functions of Honorary Colonels are:
a) to foster esprit-de-corps,
b) maintaining regimental and unit traditions,
c) to foster civilian local and regional connections, goodwill and support,
d) provide advice to the Chiefs of the Services on matters which the respective Chiefs may refer to them,
e) assistance in the control of, or advice on, regimental/unit organisations, charities, funds, properties, museums and memorials,
f) maintenance of goodwill and liaison between all parts of the Services whether Regular Force, Reserve Force or any other constituents that may be established in the SANDF and
g) assisting in the recruitment of officers, warrant officers, non-commissioned officers and other ranks into their particular regiments or unit and advice on the selection of unit commanders.
6. The appointment of Patrons in the South African National Defence Force is regulated by the Fundraising Act, 1978 (Act No 107 of 1978), SANDF Sports Policy HSP/D SPORT/103/13/B dated 13 June 1993 and Log 17 Pamphlet 2. Patrons are appointed by the Chief of the South African National Defence Force or Chiefs of Service, respectively to either a Board, Fund or Sporting Code.
7. Patrons are noteworthy members of the SANDF whom the Chief of the SANDF or Chiefs of Service deem it necessary to support the functions of a Board, Fund or Sporting Code. Patrons are mainly appointed from the General Staff or Senior Officers’ ranks of the SANDF to represent the Chief of the SA National Defence Force or Chiefs or Service, respectively.
8. Nineteen (19) General Staff and Senior Officers are delegated as either Board, Fund or Sporting Code Patron in the SANDF.
9. Criteria of Appointment.
(a) Rank Level: General Staff or Senior Officer in the SANDF.
(b) Profile: Demonstrated ability to support the functions of a Board, Fund or Sporting Code.
(c) Mandating Authority: Delegated authority to represent the Chief of the SA National Defence or Chiefs of Service, respectively.
10. Functions. The main functions of Patrons are:
a) to foster esprit-de-corps,
b)act as ceremonial functionary at events or activities of the Board, Fund or Sporting Code.
c) promote the functions of the Board, Fund or Sporting Code.
d) act in an advisory capacity to Chief of the SA National Defence Force, Chiefs of Service, Chairperson of Board, Fund or Sporting Code.
e) kept abreast of development or requirements of the Board, Fund or Sporting Code iro its operations.
23 March 2017 - NW285
Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Are principals who accept learners without the proper identification documentation liable to face prosecution and/or a fine if found guilty; if so, what agreement has been reached with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure identification documentation can indeed be verified immediately?
Reply:
Paragraph 15 of the admission policy states the following: “When a parent applies for admission of a learner to an ordinary public school, the parent must present an official birth certificate of the learner to the principal of the public school. If the parent is unable to submit the birth certificate, the learner may be admitted conditionally until a copy of the birth certificate is obtained from the regional office of the Department of Home Affairs. The principal must advise parents that it is an offense to make a false statement about the age of a child (see Births and Deaths Registration Act, 1992 No 51 of 1992) The parent must ensure that the admission of the learner is finalised within three months of conditional admission.”
Section 39, (1) of the Immigration Act provides as follows:
“(1) No learning institution shall knowingly provide training or instruction to-
(a) an illegal foreigner;
(b) a foreigner whose status does not authorise him or her to receive such training
(c) a foreigner on terms or conditions or in a capacity different from those contemplated in such foreigner’s status
(2) If an illegal foreigner is found on any premises where instruction or training is provided, it shall be presumed that such foreigner was receiving instruction or training from, or allowed to receive instruction or training by, the person who has control over such premises unless prima facie evidence to the contrary is adduced.”
Section 42(I) Subject to this Act, and save for necessary humanitarian assistance, no person, shall aid, abet, assist, enable or in any manner help - (a) an illegal foreigner; or (b) a, foreigner in respect of any matter, conduct or transaction which violates such foreigner’s status, when applicable, including but not limited to - (i) providing instruction or training to him or her…
Section 49(6) provides as follows:
Anyone failing to comply with one of the duties or obligations set out under sections 42 to 46 of this Act shall be guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or to imprisonment not exceeding 18 months.
In terms of the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, 2005 (Act No. 13 of 2005) the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) signed an Intergovernmental Protocol Agreement, to establish a formal channel of information sharing and collaboration. Emanating from this formal agreement, the DBE is able to ensure the Learner Unit Record Information and Tracking System (LURITS) interfaces with data from the National Population Register (NPR) of DHA, and triangulates the data to verify learner ID numbers and learner living status. This enables the DBE to determine the true authenticity of learners in the system and therefore eliminate ghost learners. Work is underway to automate data transfer between LURITS and the NPR to streamline data verification. The DBE is also currently modernising the South African School Administration and Management System (SA-SAMS) to include integration of data/systems with DHA, to enable verification of learner ID numbers as soon as the school comes to point of contact to an online facility.
22 March 2017 - NW384
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)With reference to diesel refunds claimed but not yet refunded as at (a) 28 February 2016 and (b) 28 February 2017, (i) what is the total value of diesel refunds claimed, (ii) what is the total number of diesel refunds claimed, (iii) total value of diesel refunds under audit and (iv) what is the monthly age analysis by (aa) value and (bb) number of claims in each case; (2) will he make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
The following information is submitted by the South African Revenue Service and cannot be verified by the National Treasury:
1. (a)(i) The total value of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was R6, 704, 966, 735 of which R806, 047, 046 were not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.
(ii) The total number of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was 50, 931 of which 7, 191 claims were not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that only the returns required during the period in question were included. The information therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.
(iii) Diesel audits are conducted manually and information is only available for ongoing or completed audits. Information for audit cases, ongoing at a specific historic point in time is not available.
(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:
AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 29 February 2016 |
Volume |
Value (R) |
% Volume |
% Value |
0 to 1 Month |
2 546 |
-R 412 278 143.78 |
35% |
51% |
2 to 3 Months |
1 631 |
-R 161 455 695.28 |
23% |
20% |
4 to 6 Months |
1 478 |
-R 139 218 514.26 |
21% |
17% |
7 to 9 Months |
1 347 |
-R 83 750 122.50 |
19% |
10% |
10 to 12 Months |
189 |
-R 9 344 571.16 |
3% |
1% |
|
7 191 |
-R 806 047 046.98 |
100% |
100% |
(b)(i) The total value of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was R2, 557, 865, 443 of which R657, 079, 282 were not refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.
(ii) The total number of Diesel refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was 55, 547 of which 6, 064 claims were not
refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that only returns required during the period in question were included. The information therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.
(iii) The total value of Diesel refunds still being audited as at 28 February 2017 was R237, 115, 712.
(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:
AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 28 February2017 |
Volume |
Value (R) |
% Volume |
% Value |
0 to 1 Month |
2 607 |
-R 313 996 337.02 |
43% |
48% |
2 to 3 Months |
1 262 |
-R 122 845 855.28 |
21% |
19% |
4 to 6 Months |
1 015 |
-R 133 252 934.28 |
17% |
20% |
7 to 9 Months |
1 088 |
-R 79 436 521.18 |
18% |
12% |
10 to 12 Months |
92 |
-R 7 547 635.00 |
2% |
1% |
|
6 064 |
-R 657 079 282.76 |
100% |
100% |
2. While I am unable to verify the above data, I have, as you are aware, approved the request by the Tax Ombud, Judge Ngoepe, to undertake a systemic investigation into VAT refunds and related matters given the unusual number of complaints received by the Ombud’s office.
22 March 2017 - NW383
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)With reference to value added tax (VAT) refunds claimed by VAT vendors but not yet refunded as at (a) 28 February 2016 and (b) 28 February 2017, (i) what is the total value of VAT refunds claimed, (ii) what is the number of VAT refunds claimed, (iii) what is the total value of VAT refunds under audit and (iv) what is the monthly age analysis by (aa) value and (bb) number of claims in each case; (2) will he make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
The following information is submitted by the South African Revenue Service and cannot be verified by the National Treasury:
1. (a)(i) The total value of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was R128, 199, 029, 418 of which R18, 132, 500, 365 was not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.
(ii) The total number of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2015 to 29 February 2016 was 341, 167 of which 34, 132 claims were not refunded by 29 February 2016. It should be noted that only returns required during the period in question were included. The information
therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.
(iii) The total value of VAT refunds still being audited as at 29 February 2016 was R12, 211, 133, 733.
(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:
AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 29 February2016 |
Volume |
Value (R) |
% Num |
%Value |
0 to 1 Month |
18 199 |
-R 13 246 824 575.38 |
53% |
73% |
2 to 3 Months |
6 797 |
-R 3 049 763 560.52 |
20% |
17% |
4 to 6 Months |
4 617 |
-R 1 234 288 282.26 |
14% |
7% |
7 to 9 Months |
2 980 |
-R 387 210 521.74 |
9% |
2% |
10 to 12 Months |
1 539 |
-R 214 413 425.68 |
5% |
1% |
|
34 132 |
-R 18 132 500 365.58 |
|
|
(b)(i) The total value of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was R129, 276, 961, 011 of which R19, 614, 184, 427 was not refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that the rand value represent the amount as supplied by the vendor on the return.
(ii) The total number of VAT refunds claimed for the period 1 March 2016 to 28 February 2017 was 343, 674 of which 43, 650 claims were not refunded by 28 February 2017. It should be noted that only returns required during the period in question were included. The information therefore excludes all late returns and / or carry over from previous years.
(iii) The total value of VAT refunds still being audited as at 28 February 2017 was R17, 345, 095, 383.
(iv)(aa)(bb) The age analysis on value and numbers are as follows:
AGE - Refund claimed, not refunded by 28 February 2017 |
Volume |
Value (R) |
% Num |
%Value |
0 to 1 Month |
25 484 |
-R 15 618 903 496.32 |
58% |
80% |
2 to 3 Months |
8 159 |
-R 2 306 849 282.77 |
19% |
12% |
4 to 6 Months |
5 407 |
-R 1 167 860 197.89 |
12% |
6% |
7 to 9 Months |
3 113 |
-R 372 262 868.44 |
7% |
2% |
10 to 12 Months |
1 487 |
-R 148 308 582.46 |
3% |
1% |
|
43 650 |
-R 19 614 184 427.88 |
|
|
2. While I am unable to verify the above data, I have, as you are aware, approved the request by the Tax Ombud, Judge Ngoepe, to undertake a systemic investigation into VAT refunds and related matters given the unusual number of complaints received by the Ombud’s office.
20 March 2017 - NW57
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)With reference to the incident that took place on 4 November 2016 on the square outside the Nelson Mandela Bay City Hall (details furnished), why (a) were the SANDF members armed, (b) was the specified site targeted and (c) did the SANDF members allegedly attempt to drive over a municipal vehicle occupied by a member of the Mayoral Committee at the time; (2) whether the SANDF members were acting on orders from the SANDF headquarters; if not, on whose orders were they acting; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether any of the SANDF members involved in the incident will be court-martialled for their actions; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details
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.
20 March 2017 - NW298
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)(a) What is the condition of the perimeter security fences around the Silvermine Military Complex in Simon’s Town, Western Cape, (b) is there any alert detection system connected to the fences, (c) is there any siren attached to the fences in the event of a breach of security, (d) are there soldiers and security guards protecting this strategic facility and (e) are there surveillance cameras monitoring this facility; (2) is she aware of any breach of security at the specified facility; if so, what directives were issued from her office in this regard; (3) did the Officer Commanding of the specified facility take all the necessary measures to address the breach of security and report it to higher authorities when he was unable to resolve it?
Reply:
1. (a) It is in a serious state of disrepair.
(b) No.
(c) No.
(d) Yes.
(e) No.
2. N/A.
3. Yes.
20 March 2017 - NW297
Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
What (a) is the strategic significance of the Silvermine Military Complex in Simon’s Town, Western Cape, to the SA Navy, (b) negative impact did the theft of cables and damage to antennae have on the effective communication with vessels at sea and otherwise, (c) maintenance and repairs took place after each incident and (d) are these reports available for inspection?
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.
20 March 2017 - NW531
Terblanche, Ms JF to ask the Minister of Transport
What is the current status of the traffic control lights at the (a) north and (b) south weighbridge stations on the N12 at Potchefstroom in the Tlokwe Local Municipality; (2) Whether the cameras were installed at each of the specified weighbridge stations; if not, in each case, (a) why not and (b) what happened to the specified cameras; is so (i) on what date were the cameras installed and (ii) what ae the further relevant details; (3) What are the minimum amount of hours that each of the weighbridge stations are operational on each day of the week?
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.
20 March 2017 - NW432
Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
(1) With reference to her department’s draft regulations for the domestic trade in rhinoceros horn, or a part, product or derivative of rhinoceros horn, published in Notice 74 in Government Gazette 40601 on 8 February 2017, (a) how many times a year can a person export the two rhinoceros horns limitation contained in regulation 3(3) and (b) what steps will be taken to ensure that fraud, forgery and corruption will not be included in this process; (2) will full criminal investigations and analyses be conducted in (a) South Africa and (b) internationally on any person applying for a permit to trade in rhinoceros horns; if not, why not; if so, (i) will the specified persons be excluded from trading in rhinoceros horns if they are found guilty and (ii) what are the further relevant details in this regard; (3) whether the legal ramifications for non-compliance with Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species resolutions contained in the specified regulations will be amended to include harsher penalties for perpetrators; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the relevant details, (b) will specialised courts with magistrates who specialise in environmental and conservation laws be established and (c) will enforcement bodies dealing with corruption, fraud and forgery be made available?
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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20 March 2017 - NW479
Madisha, Mr WM to ask the Minister of Transport
(a) What is the rationale for seconding Mr Collins Letsoalo to the position of Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and the Road Traffic Management Corporation and (b) what steps does she intend to take with regard to his alleged unacceptable conduct at PRASA?
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
20 March 2017 - NW474
Horn, Mr W to ask the Minister Transport
Whether her department procured an y services from and/or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Coouncil; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what (i) services were procured,(ii) was the total cost, (iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (iv) was the total amount paid, (v) was the purpose of the payments and (vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payments in each case? NW530F REPLY The Department of Transport did not procure any services from / or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council. The reason is because no bids or quotations were awarded to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/ or (d) the Black Business Council.
Reply:
The Department of Transport did not procure any services from / or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council.
The reason is because no bids or quotations were awarded to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/ or (d) the Black Business Council.
20 March 2017 - NW58
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
Whether the board of inquiry established into possible irregularities at the SA Air Force’s 21 Squadron has (a) completed the specified inquiry and (b) compiled a report with its findings; if not, by what date will the inquiry be completed; if so, (i) by what date will the specified report be made available to the (aa) Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans and (bb) public, (ii) what were the main (aa) findings and (bb) recommendations of the report and (iii) what action has been taken to date to implement the recommendations?
Reply:
The Board of Inquiry is not completed yet
20 March 2017 - NW295
Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)Whether the Silvermine Military Complex in Simon’s Town, Western Cape, is a national key point; if not, why not; if so, what security measures are required for such a facility; (2) whether the required security measures are in place at the specified military complex; if not, what are the (a) shortcomings and (b) challenges; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. No, it is not a national key point.
2. The security measures in place are considerable
20 March 2017 - NW352
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Economic Development
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for use by (i) him and (ii) his deputy (aa) in the (aaa) 2014-15 and (bbb) 2015-16 financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016?
Reply:
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-
20 March 2017 - NW296
Esau, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1)(a) How many burglaries occurred at the Silvermine Military Complex in Simon’s Town, Western Cape, since 1 January 2014, (b) what was stolen or vandalised in each instance and (c) what were the related costs of each incident; (2) whether any person was apprehended and/or arrested for any of the specified crimes; if so, what were the consequences in each case; (3) what remedial measures were put in place to prevent a future occurrence of theft and vandalism at the specified military complex?
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.
20 March 2017 - NW59
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
With reference to her reply to oral question 268 on 16 November 2016, how many (a) C130s in the 28 Squadron and (b) Dakotas in the 35 Squadron are currently fully operational in the SA Air Force?
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.
17 March 2017 - NW431
Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
(1) With reference to her department’s draft regulations for the domestic trade in rhinoceros horn, or a part, product or derivative of rhinoceros horn, published in Notice 74 in Government Gazette 40601 on 8 February 2017, how (a) do the references to non-commercial purposes tie in with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species resolution regarding rhinoceros, (b) will she ascertain that any person importing rhinoceros horn will not sell the horn commercially, (c) will she ensure that the freight agents are authorised to import and export rhinoceros horn and (d) will the freight agents attain authorisation; (2) whether persons residing in South Africa but who are not South African citizens will be able to own (a) live or (b) dead rhinoceros; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (3) (a) who may export rhinoceros horn, (b) how will the Environmental Management Inspectorate and any other authorised officials verify the authenticity of permits and (c) what training will they receive in this regard?
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.
17 March 2017 - NW361
Terblanche, Ms JF to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for use by (i) him and (ii) his deputies (aa) in the (aaa) 2014-15 and (bbb) 2015-16 financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016?
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
- 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.
- 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 |
17 March 2017 - NW354
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for use by (i) her and (ii) her deputy (aa) in the (aaa) 2014-15 and (bbb) 2015-16 financial years and (bb) since 01 April 2016?
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.
17 March 2017 - NW472
Horn, Mr W to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether his department procured any services from and/or made any payments to (a) Mr MzwaneleManyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what (i) services were procured, (ii) was the total cost, (iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (iv) was the total amount paid, (v) was the purpose of the payments and (vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payments in each case?
Reply:
a. 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
17 March 2017 - NW430
Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
(a) Why was the press conference scheduled to announce her department’s highly anticipated rhinoceros management programme postponed and (b) by what date will the specified press conference take place?
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
node
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
17 March 2017 - NW400
Steenkamp, Ms J to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
With reference to the site inspection at Portion 100, Bokfontein 448JQ, by her department, (a) what corrective measures will the owner of Microlife Organic Products implement and (b) by what date will the owner of the specified site comply with the implementation of the specified measures?
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.
16 March 2017 - NW229
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What was the delivery rate of (a) textbooks and (b) other school stationery items in each province in the (i) 2012, (ii) 2013, (iii) 2014 and (iv) 2015 school years?
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% |
16 March 2017 - NW228
McLoughlin, Mr AR to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)Whether, with regard to her reply to question 2686 on 4 January 2017, (a) the appointment of a new service provider for the remainder of the campaign was costed; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) what was the nature of the disagreement between her department and the Auditor-General on a technical point in the procurement process?
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.
16 March 2017 - NW292
Tarabella - Marchesi, Ms NI to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Does her department have a national policy on school transport; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
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
16 March 2017 - NW288
Bara, Mr M R to ask the Minister of Basic Education
With regard to the claiming of concessions from her department, (a) what amount was requested and (b) what amount was actually paid for the 2015 academic year for each school in the (i) Edenvale, (ii) Tembisa and (iii) Kempton Park school districts?
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.
16 March 2017 - NW348
Walters, Mr TC to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for use by (i) her and (ii) her deputy (aa) in the (aaa) 2014-15 and (bbb) 2015-16 financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016?
Reply:
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 |