Questions and Replies
18 May 2016 - NW966
Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)What was the status of (a) cash-on-hand, (b) debtors book and age analysis, (c) collection ratio, (d) monthly operating (i) income and (ii) expenditure and (e) creditors book and age analysis of Makana Local Municipality Eastern Cape (i) for the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) since 1 April 2015; (2) (a) what capital grants have been awarded to the specified municipality in the 2015-16 financial year and (b) in each case, what amount was spent; (3) whether the funds for any capital grant have been utilised to finance operational expenditure; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) are the details thereof and (b) steps have been taken in this regard?
Reply:
1. The Honourable Member should note that this question should be referred to the relevant municipality or sourced from their Budget documents or annual reports (including audited financial statements). Only a municipality can verify such information.
The National Treasury collects budget, financial and other information as a consolidated resource center for the public but cannot verify the information. The National Treasury publishes annually by November the Budgets of all municipalities in terms of Section 17 of MFMA. In addition, the National Treasury also publishes detailed quarterly reports submitted by all municipalities as per the Section 71 of the MFMA. The latest publication available for the 2015/16 municipal financial year can be found on our website. The accuracy of the reports can only be confirmed by the respective municipality. The quarterly reports have been available since 2006/07 on the National Treasury Website.
http://mfma.treasury.gov.za/Media_Releases/s71/Pages/default.aspx
I refer the Honourable Member to the page or table in the latest report published on 4 March 2016 as follows:
(a) Cash-on-hand
See Part 3 of the 2-page summary per municipality
OR
Refer to the cash flow summary on C7 in the Municipal Budget and Reporting Regulation (MBRR) formats.
(b) Debtor’s analysis
See Part 4 of the 2-page summary per municipality
(c) Collection rate
Refer to the high level summary on C1 in the Municipal Budget and Reporting Regulation (MBRR) formats.
(d) Operation revenue and expenditure
See Part 1 of the 2-page summary per municipality
OR
Refer to the Statement of financial performance on C4 in the Municipal Budget and Reporting Regulation (MBRR) formats.
(e) Creditor’s analysis
See Part 5 of the 2-page summary per municipality
2. In terms of the information required regarding Capital grants, refer to the conditional grant summaries per municipality as well as the Summary per program / grant.
AND
Part 2 of the 2-page summary per municipality.
3. The National Treasury is not in a position to confirm whether Makana municipality spent its capital grant for operational purposes, reason being our reporting system does not provide detail to that level. However, the national department responsible for administering of the capital grant would be in a better position to provide required detail. It should be noted however, that Makana Municipality is allowed by law (DoRA) to use a portion of capital grant allocation for operational purposes within the threshold prescribed by the national department responsible for the grant.
As noted in the 2015 Division of Revenue Act, Makana municipality received one capital grant being Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) administered by the department of Corporative Governance. The MIG provides that municipalities can use a maximum of 5% of the grant allocation for operational purposes.
17 May 2016 - NW605
Madisha, Mr WM to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
(1)Whether she has issued or was in the process of issuing any invitation to a parliamentary delegation, comprising Members of Parliament from the different political parties, to accompany her and the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs on an in loco inspection of townships in two or three of South Africa’s richest provinces to get a view of life and the living conditions in such townships 21 years after the advent of democracy; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether she will make a statement on the current physical environment of the apartheid-era established townships and to what extent these had remained the same or have substantially been transformed and improved to accord dignity to those who lived there?
Reply:
(1) I hope the Honourable member is not suggesting that he awaits my invitation for him (or his party) to undertake his oversight responsibility. The Honourable member should ensure that his party is represented, if that is not the case, in the Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements or the Select Committee on Social Services. Both Committees have undertaken oversight visits to various provinces and made valuable recommendations to the National and Provincial Departments of Human Settlements. I encourage the Honourable member to do the same and partner with us in ensuring that we provide the much needed sustainable human settlements.
I must emphasize that as political representatives it is incumbent upon us to remain connected with our constituencies, thus we must and should always be aware of the living conditions of our citizens. In my view the entire days, weeks, months and years of a political representative must and should in fact constitute inspection-in- loco oversight of the impact of our work and what still remains to be done.
As part of our Ministerial outreach programmes, the Deputy Minister and I had on a regular basis undertaken oversight visits to areas referred to by the Honourable Member.
Notwithstanding, one of the key development focus areas of government has been to ensure that the previous Black dormitory residential areas comprising African, Coloured, Indian households, are transformed by providing all the essential infrastructure and services to ensure households quality of life is improved but also integrated with the mainly White residential areas and other economic infrastructure and services including retail, industrial, commercial, educational, technological, innovation and transport. This is a task carried out as a multi-sectoral and spherical government area of development and includes private business and communities as partners.
Since the dawn of democracy, the National, Provincial and Municipal spheres of government have planned and implemented various programmes and projects in the Black residential townships established prior and post 1994. These include the various Special Presidential Programmes, Special Provincial and Municipal Programmes and projects, which have been implemented and include amongst others but not limited to the Kathorus and Alexandra Special Presidential Projects in Gauteng, the INK Programme in Ethekwini in KZN, the Special Presidential Projects implemented in Khayalitsha and Mitchells Plan, in the City Of Cape Town, the focused infrastructure programme implemented in Soweto, in the City of Johannesburg and more recently the focused programmes implemented in Botshabelo in the Free State and Umtata in the Eastern Cape.
It is also important that we are reminded of our continued infrastructure and services grants which include the Municipal Infrastructure Grant, the Urban Settlements Development Grant, the Integrated Energy Grant, the Neighbourhood Development Grant as well as the Regional and Bulk Infrastructure Grant for water bulk and link infrastructure, are also applied in the goal of achieving the sustainable development transformation of inherited dislocated and apartheid created dormitory residential areas.
(2) The Honourable member is referred to my reply to question 279 wherein I indicated that;
“Indeed Honourable member, we have taken considerable strides in transforming apartheid established townships and we are determined to do more still in order to reverse the apartheid spatial planning and its legacy. For instance, in Soweto we have provided sports facilities, built malls, and paved roads. I invite the Honourable member to visit Cosmo City, which is one amongst our success stories. Evidence of our projects can be seen in many apartheid established townships nationally, places like Kwa-Mashu, Umlazi, Langa, Khayelitsha, Mamelodi and Atteridgeville are a few examples where our footprint can be seen.
We have managed to transform approximately 98% of all our projects to be representative of a human settlement, which includes access to amenities like schools, medical facilities, shopping centres, places of worship, points of transportation and access to roads.
The table below indicates the Human Settlements’ footprint.
Number of projects reflecting characteristics of a Human Settlements |
||||||
|
Number of projects being implemented (2014/15) |
Amenities: |
Access to roads |
|||
Province |
1 km |
5km Radius |
10km Radius |
1km Radius |
5km Radius |
|
EC |
977 |
829 |
941 |
942 |
904 |
942 |
FS |
1538 |
1282 |
1507 |
1521 |
1476 |
1521 |
GP |
1276 |
1156 |
1274 |
1274 |
1266 |
1274 |
KZN |
942 |
735 |
924 |
925 |
877 |
925 |
LP |
1251 |
882 |
1198 |
1224 |
1070 |
1224 |
MP |
1666 |
1208 |
1563 |
1581 |
1499 |
1583 |
NC |
573 |
354 |
433 |
448 |
430 |
467 |
NW |
473 |
436 |
544 |
555 |
542 |
560 |
WC |
1540 |
1438 |
1511 |
1516 |
1494 |
1516 |
Total |
10236 |
8320 |
9895 |
9986 |
9558 |
10012 |
% of projects within specific distances from the project, with characteristics of a human settlement |
|
81% |
97% |
98% |
93% |
98% |
It is further important to note that out of a total of 10 236 projects, only 70 projects (0.68%), fall outside a designated town boundary. That is due to the fact that they are projects that focus on rural communities and self-help projects (PHP).
Additionally, we have referenced and profiled a few of the largest towns in the country in relation to the above analysis (Annexure A). From this list there are none of these large towns that cannot be classified as a human settlement based on the definition of a human settlement”.
17 May 2016 - NW1055
Gqada, Ms T to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
Whether her department is still included in the Rural Household Infrastructure Grant budget; if not, why not; if so, how much funding was allocated to her department from the specified grant (a) in the (i) 2011-12, (ii) 2012-13, (iii) 2013-14 and (iv) 2014-15 financial years and (b) since 1 April 2016? W1188E
Reply:
No. The Rural Households Infrastructure Grant (RHIG) is no longer part of the Department of Human Settlements (DHS) allocation. This grant was transferred to the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in 2014 when this new Department was established as part of the National Macro Organisation of the State (NMOS).
(a) The Rural Household Infrastructure Grant was allocated the following amounts while still managed by the Department:
(i) R231.5 million in the 2011/12 financial year
(ii) R479.5 million in the 2012/13 financial year
(iii) R106.7 million in the 2013/14 financial year
(iv) R113.1 million in the 2014/15 financial year. The whole allocation was transferred to the Department of Water & Sanitation during the mid-term budget process
(b) The Department of Human Settlement has not been allocated any RHIG funding in 2016/17 financial year and over the MTEF period.
17 May 2016 - NW1341
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform
(a) How many applications for title deeds have been received for Lakeside in Orange Farm, Johannesburg, since 1 January 1996, (b) how many of the specified title deeds have been issued to date, (c) how many outstanding title deeds still need to be issued and (d) when will the outstanding title deeds be issued?
Reply:
a) The township Lakeside comprises of various extensions which are registered in the name of Merbuild Proprietary Limited and the Gauteng Provincial Government. The Gauteng Provincial Government is registered owner of only Lakeside Extension 4 Township. The total number of erven/stands in the township is 10977 of which 10363 have, since 1 January 1996, been transferred by the township owners to various parties.
b) The number of erven that have been transferred by the township owners, and held by means of separate title deeds, to date is 10363.
c) The number of erven still held by the township owners under various township title deeds is 614.
d) The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform is not in a position to know when the township owners will transfer the remaining erven, as it is the prerogative of the township owners to transfer erven still held under various township title deeds.
17 May 2016 - NW370
Steenkamp, Ms J to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
With reference to President Jacob G Zuma’s undertaking in his State of the Nation Address delivered on 12 February 2015, that the Government will set aside 30% of appropriate categories of state procurement for purchasing from Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs), co-operatives, as well as township and rural enterprises, what percentage of the total procurement of (a) her department and (b) every entity reporting to her went to (i) SMMEs and (ii) co-operatives from 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?
Reply:
(a) The total percentage spent by the National Department of Human Settlements for procurement from Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) for the period 01 April 2015 to 31 March 2016 is 32%.
(b) (i) The information related to Entities on Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises is as per the table below:
Entities |
% Spent on SMME's |
HDA |
30.41% |
NHBRC |
45% |
NHFC |
45% |
RHLF |
35.35% |
NURCHA |
15.81% |
EAAB |
49% |
CSOS |
45% |
Provinces
The Provinces are spending on average 66 % of the Human Settlements Development Grant on Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMME’s) of total procurement for the 2015/16 financial year ending 31 March 2016.Limpopo and Free State have spent more than 90% whilst Western Cape and Gauteng are spending the lowest at 46% and 32% respectively to their Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises.
Provinces |
% Spent on SMME's |
Eastern Cape |
- |
Free State |
90% |
Gauteng |
32% |
KwaZulu Natal |
55% |
Limpopo |
97% |
Mpumalanga |
63% |
Northern Cape |
70% |
North West |
71% |
Western Cape |
46% |
The percentages are 100% of the total procurement by provinces and it is as at 31/03/2016
(ii) Cooperatives
The Department is promoting and supporting the establishment of Cooperatives within the human settlements delivery chain. To this end, the Department (through People’s Housing Process Directorate) has partnered with the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) and the following has been achieved:
- Approximately 65 different Cooperatives have been established in six (6) Provinces, namely KZN, Gauteng, Free State, North West, Western Cape and the Eastern Cape
- Housing or human settlements Cooperatives serves as a catalyst for the establishment of other Cooperatives. The housing Cooperatives ranges from Construction Cooperatives, brick-making, window/door frame making Cooperatives, carpentry, plumbing, transport, electricity, painting etc.
- Other livelihood Cooperatives formed will focus on agriculture, sewing, catering, poultry, shoe-making etc.
- Most of these Cooperatives are led by Women and Youth and there is one Cooperative established in the Free State led by Disabled people
- A Military Veterans Cooperative called Matrosov was also established in the Eastern Cape for the Chatty 491 project in Port Elizabeth
- Delivered pre-formation and Cooperatives workshops in the six (6) Provinces
- Assessed the state of readiness for the Cooperatives Incentive Scheme (CIS) registration application for registered Cooperatives in KZN and Free State. The main objective of the CIS registration is to enable the Cooperatives to access grant funding from the DSBD as part of the start-up capital
- In partnership with DSBD, delivered CIS workshop to the registered Cooperatives in the Free State who have now applied for the CIS Grant from DSBD
- Through the partnership with DSBD, a project will be identified as a pilot under the new Cooperatives Incubator Programme led by DSBD
- The Department will be sourcing Training and Skills development initiatives for the registered Cooperatives through NHBRC, SEDA and other similar institutions
17 May 2016 - NW973
James, Ms LV to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
(a) How many Breaking New Ground houses will be built in the Ekuphumleni housing development project in the Ndlambe Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape, (b) by what date will the specified houses be completed and (c) what is the total amount of funding allocated to the specified project?
Reply:
(a) A total of 564 houses are to be built in the Ekuphumleni housing project in the Ndlambe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape;
(b) The estimated completion date is 31st March 2017;
(c) The budget allocated for the project is R89m.
17 May 2016 - NW845
Ollis, Mr IM to ask the Minister of Labour
(a) what action has she taken to re-open the Central Johannesburg Labour Centre since it was close 18 months ago, as the members of the public still arrive every hour to assisted at the specified office, (b) when will the specified office be re-opened , (c) what is delaying the re-opening of the specified office, (d) what is the closest office to the specified office where members of the public can get assistance and (e) why is this not publicised on (i) her department’s website and (ii) a notice on the door of the closed office?
Reply:
a) The current building has been condemned by the Johannesburg Emergency Services in July 2015, and all tenants had to vacate the building.
The Department of Labour is engaging with the Department of Public Works on procuring alternative accommodation. The Department of Public Works has identified land on which a building could be erected for the Johannesburg Labour Centre.
We are aware that this will take some time and we are engaging the Department of Public Works to identify suitable alternative premises that could be used in the interim. The request for alternative premises was sent to the Department of Public Works on 2 November 2015.
b) At this stage we do not have a date for re-opening of the office because alternative accommodation has not been identified. We will also first have to bring such accommodation up to standard and provide necessary infrastructure.
c) The office was due to re-open in June 2015, but unfortunately a fire broke out in the basement of the building which resulted in the closure and condemning of the entire building by the Johannesburg Emergency Services.
d) Closest offices are as following;
- Germiston Labour Centre situated at Number 141 Victoria Street.
- Alberton Labour Centre situated at Number 89 Voortrekker Street.
- Soweto Labour Centre situated at Number 2 Khumalo Stret
- Roodepoort Labour Centre situated at Number 125 Albertina Sisulu Road, Technikon .
- Randburg Labour Centre situated at corner Oak and Hill Streets.
- Sandton Labour Centre situated at Number 424 9th Street, Marlboro.
e) Notices were placed on the doors of the Johannesburg Labour Centre office, but normally removed by unknown persons. We have communicated through the media and also respond to all media enquires on the matter.
16 May 2016 - NW1080
Ndlozi, Dr MQ to ask the Minister Communications
(a) Has any of her senior officials met with certain persons (names furnished) during the period 1 January 2009 up to 31 December 2015 and (b) has any of the entities reporting to her awarded any contracts to Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, The New Age Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media in the specified period; if so, what (i) are the relevant details and (ii) is the amount of each specified contract?
Reply:
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GCIS):
(a) To the knowledge of the Accounting Officers of both the Department of Communications and the GCIS, senior managers of the departments did not meet with the above-mentioned people on their official capacity, between 2009 and 2015.
(b) No contracts were entered into with Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investment, Islandsite Investment, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, TNA Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media between 2009 and 2015 outside of normal procurement transactions.
Yes, there has been transactions with TNA Media to procure advertising. Payments made from the budget appropriated to Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) to TNA Media are detailed below:
DEPARTMENT |
FISCAL 2011-2012 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
GCIS |
Protection of Information Bill |
R132 526.37 |
SONA |
R153 900.00 |
|
SONA |
R1 700 000.00 |
|
Information Dissemination |
R874 888.00 |
|
GCIS Total |
R2 861 314.37 |
|
FISCAL 2012-2013 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
|
GCIS |
National Orders |
R450 000.00 |
Orders of Companions of OR Tambo |
R77 319.00 |
|
SONA |
R893 475.29 |
|
State Funeral |
R92 836.93 |
|
GCIS Total |
R1 513 631.12 |
|
FISCAL 2013-2014 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
|
Mandela Memorial Campaign: State Funeral |
R62 928.00 |
|
Recruitment |
R50 068.80 |
|
SONA |
R821 128.32 |
|
GCIS Total |
R934 125.12 |
|
|
FISCAL 2014-2015 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) |
Database registration |
R 14 945.40 |
|
Profiling Campaign |
R 720 990.72 |
|
Recruitment |
R 301 195.75 |
|
Recruitment Phase 3 |
R 57 078.43 |
|
SONA 2014 |
R 100 137.60 |
|
SONA 2015 |
R 101 888.64 |
GCIS Total |
|
R 1 296 236.54 |
|
FISCAL 2015/2016 |
|
GCIS |
SONA 2016 |
R 145 555.20 |
|
Voter Education |
R 81 874.80 |
GCIS Total |
|
R227 430.00 |
ENTITIES REPORTING TO DOC:
ICASA did not award any contracts to Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, The New Age Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media during 1 January 2009 up to 31 December 2015.
Brand South Africa did not award any contracts to Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, The New Age Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media during 1 January 2009 up to 31 December 2015.
Media Diversity and Development Agency did not award any contracts to Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, The New Age Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media during 1 January 2009 up to 31 December 2015.
South African Broadcasting Corporation
(a) N/A
(b) Yes, The New Age Media.
(i) 1. Newspaper subscriptions
2. The SABC and The New Age (TNA) have an agreement that the SABC will cover live all the TNA Business Breakfasts. This agreement is for a period of three years. The agreement stipulates that the TNA will arrange and organise the Business Breakfasts by providing the venue (as well as catering) and secure the participants. The SABC in turn broadcasts the event. The advantage for the SABC is the acquisition of content.
(ii) 1. R 733,930.
2. Nil
Film and Publications Board did not award any contracts to Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, The New Age Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media during 1 January 2009 up to 31 December 2015.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MR D LIPHOKO
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
16 May 2016 - NW1045
Marais, Mr S to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether she, her department and/or any entities reporting to her (a) awarded any tenders to and/or (b) concluded any contracts and/or financial transactions with (i) Sahara Holdings, (ii) Oakbay Investments, (iii) The New Age Media, (iv) Vusizwe Media, (v) Mabengela, (vi) Islandsite Investments 255, (vii) Afripalm Horizons Stakes, (viii) Dunrose Investments and/or (ix) JIC Mining Services since 1 May 2014; if so, (aa) which company or entity, (bb) what are the relevant details of the value of each specified tender, contract and/or financial transaction and (cc) what are the names of the companies who were unsuccessful for each specified tender, contract and/or financial transaction that was awarded?
Reply:
DoC and GCIS:
(a) Both the Department of Communications and GCIS - considering shared procurement systems in the initial year of the DoC’s operation - have not entered into contracts with the above mentioned companies since 1 May 2014, outside of normal procurement transactions.
(b) Yes, the Departments transacted with TNA Media to procure advertising. Payments made are detailed below:
DEPARTMENT |
FISCAL 2011-2012 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
GCIS |
Protection of Information Bill |
R132 526.37 |
SONA |
R153 900.00 |
|
SONA |
R1 700 000.00 |
|
Information Dissemination |
R874 888.00 |
|
GCIS Total |
R2 861 314.37 |
|
FISCAL 2012-2013 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
|
GCIS |
National Orders |
R450 000.00 |
Orders of Companions of OR Tambo |
R77 319.00 |
|
SONA |
R893 475.29 |
|
State Funeral |
R92 836.93 |
|
GCIS Total |
R1 513 631.12 |
|
FISCAL 2013-2014 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
|
Mandela Memorial Campaign: State Funeral |
R62 928.00 |
|
Recruitment |
R50 068.80 |
|
SONA |
R821 128.32 |
|
GCIS Total |
R934 125.12 |
|
|
FISCAL 2014-2015 |
INVOICE AMOUNT |
Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) |
Database registration |
R 14 945.40 |
|
Profiling Campaign |
R 720 990.72 |
|
Recruitment |
R 301 195.75 |
|
Recruitment Phase 3 |
R 57 078.43 |
|
SONA 2014 |
R 100 137.60 |
|
SONA 2015 |
R 101 888.64 |
GCIS Total |
|
R 1 296 236.54 |
|
FISCAL 2015/2016 |
|
GCIS |
SONA 2016 |
R 145 555.20 |
|
Voter Education |
R 81 874.80 |
GCIS Total |
|
R227 430.00 |
ICASA has not (a) awarded any tenders to and/or (b) concluded any contracts and/or financial transactions with (i) Sahara Holdings, (ii) Oakbay Investments, (iii) The New Age Media, (iv) Vusizwe Media, (v) Mabengela, (vi) Islandsite Investments 255, (vii) Afripalm Horizons Stakes, (viii) Dunrose Investments and/or (ix) JIC Mining Services since 1 May 2014.
MDDA has not (a) awarded any tenders to and/or (b) concluded any contracts and/or financial transactions with (i) Sahara Holdings, (ii) Oakbay Investments, (iii) The New Age Media, (iv) Vusizwe Media, (v) Mabengela, (vi) Islandsite Investments 255, (vii) Afripalm Horizons Stakes, (viii) Dunrose Investments and/or (ix) JIC Mining Services since 1 May 2014.
South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC):
(a) SABC has not awarded any tenders to (i) Sahara Holdings, (ii) Oakbay Investments, (iii) The New Age Media, (iv) Vusizwe Media, (v) Mabengela, (vi) Islandsite Investments 255, (vii) Afripalm Horizons Stakes, (viii) Dunrose Investments and/or (ix) JIC Mining Services since 1 May 2014.
(b) SABC concluded contracts with The New Age Media for Newspaper subscriptions at a cost of R733,930 since 1 May 2014.
Brand South Africa has not (a) awarded any tenders to and/or (b) concluded any contracts and/or financial transactions with (i) Sahara Holdings, (ii) Oakbay Investments, (iii) The New Age Media, (iv) Vusizwe Media, (v) Mabengela, (vi) Islandsite Investments 255, (vii) Afripalm Horizons Stakes, (viii) Dunrose Investments and/or (ix) JIC Mining Services since 1 May 2014.
Film and Publications Board has not (a) awarded any tenders to and/or (b) concluded any contracts and/or financial transactions with (i) Sahara Holdings, (ii) Oakbay Investments, (iii) The New Age Media, (iv) Vusizwe Media, (v) Mabengela, (vi) Islandsite Investments 255, (vii) Afripalm Horizons Stakes, (viii) Dunrose Investments and/or (ix) JIC Mining Services since 1 May 2014.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MR D LIPHOKO
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
16 May 2016 - NW1038
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) What is the full job description of the Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC); (2) whether the COO of the SABC has signed a performance agreement with her; if not; why not; if so, (a) when was the specified agreement signed and (b) what are the COO's key deliverables as per the specified agreement?
Reply:
(1) The COO’s job description is herein attached.
(2) No. The Executive Directors of the SABC sign performance agreements with the SABC Board, not the Minister.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
ANNEXURE A
Below is the job description of the SABC COO, as advertised on 15 February 2013, Ref.94358/2:
Key accountabilities: As a member of the Board and reporting to the Group Chief Executive Officer, with full day-to-day operating responsibility for the economic, content and platform performance of the SABC, the successful candidate will: ▪Ensure adherence to key performance areas, ie revenue, cost and quality ▪Ensure that the corporate strategy and the operational plans work in tandem and are geared towards positioning the SABC best in class public broadcaster ▪Work closely with the Group Chief Executive Officer and take direct corporate strategy for the operational growth of the corporation in order to improve profitability and quality of the service offering ▪Build the digital and new media capabilities of the organisation ▪Lead the various cross-functional teams across the organisation.
16 May 2016 - NW697
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether (a) her department and (b) any entities reporting to her sponsored any organisations in the (i) 2014-15 and (ii) 2015-16 financial years; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (aa) which organisations were sponsored, (bb) by what amount and (cc) what were the activities sponsored in each case in each of the specified financial years; (2) whether (a) her department and (b) any entities reporting to her intend to sponsor any organisations in the 2016-17 financial year; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (i) which organisations will be sponsored, (ii) by what amount and (iii) what activities will be sponsored in the specified financial year?
Reply:
(1)(a)The Department has not sponsored any organisations in the 2015-16 financial year, and was yet to be established in the 2014-15 financial year.
(1)(b) Brand SA has not sponsored any organisations in the 2014-15 and 2015-16 financial years.
FPB has not sponsored any organisations in the 2014-15 and 2015-16 financial years and will enter into partnerships with various institutions to save costs and for marketing benefits. The said partnerships are herein attached as Annexure A.
MDDA has sponsored the MTN Radio Awards 2015 to an amount of R 78 300 ex Vat. The sponsorship was for an Award category and was in support of the recognition given to the community radio stations by the Awards. As a partnership between the MDDA and MTN, the MDDA branding was incorporated in the promotion of the Awards.
ICASA has not sponsored any organisations in the 2014-15 and 2015-16 financial years.
SABC
1(b) (i) Yes.
(ii) Yes.
(aa) 2014/15 - Writers Guild of South Africa.
2015/16 - Writers Guild of South Africa (Muse Awards).
(bb) 2014/15 - Writers Guild of South Africa: R37 000.
2015/16 - Writers Guild of South Africa (Muse Awards): R50 000.
(cc) 2014/15 - 15 Previously disadvantaged youth with the creative writing flair got an opportunity to attend a two day workshop where they had an opportunity to have one-on-one sessions with Andrew Welsh who assisted them with turning their ideas into tangible concepts. They also received course materials which they could use for future idea development.
2015/16 – Support of the local independent production industry. The annual awards celebrate South African drama writers.
(2)(a) The Department does not intend to sponsor any organisations in the 2016- 17 financial year due to budgetary constraints.
(1)(b) Brand SA does not intend to sponsor any organisations in the 2016-17 financial year.
FPB does not intend to sponsor any organisations in the 2016-17 financial year.
MDDA does not intend to sponsor any organisations in the 2015-2016 financial year. Sponsorships are only considered where they will directly benefit community media and encourage media diversity and the MDDA does not anticipate that approaches for sponsorship that meet these criteria will materialise.
ICASA does not intend to sponsor any organisations in the 2016-17 financial year.
SABC intends to sponsor the Durban International Film Festival & Durban Film Mart in the 2016-17 financial year.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
13 May 2016 - NW1079
Mokause, Ms MO to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources
(1) Was he in Dubai at any time in December 2015; if so, (a) when and (b) what was the purpose of his visit;(2) whether he held any meetings while in Dubai; if so, (a) what was the purpose of the specified meetings and (b) was any of the specified meetings with the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma? (2) whether he held any meetings while in Dubai; if so, (a) what was the purpose of the specified meetings and (b) was any of the specified meetings with the President, Mr Jacob G Zuma?
Reply:
(1) Yes, Official trip to promote mining and investment opportunities in South Africa. The trip was also as opportunity to be apprised about the work done with African countries on matters pertaining to stemming the flow of illicit diamonds, and precious metals.
(2) Yes (a) To promote mining investment opportunities, as well as South Africa, as a preferred destination; (b) No.
Approved/not approved
Mr MJ Zwane, MP
Minister of Mineral Resources
Date Submitted: 11/05/2016
12 May 2016 - NW737
Madisha, Mr WM to ask the President of the Republic
1. Whether the Government is implementing a policy across all spheres of government to actively and determinedly restrain the Government wage bill so that it does not (a) outpace inflation, (b) constrain the capital budget, (c) curtail service delivery (d) erode the contingency fund and (e) impact negatively on social spending on the poor; if not, why not; if so, what measure of success has the specified policy had in the period 1 January 2013 up until the latest specified period for which information is available; (2) Whether the Government is equally restraining government expenditure on the salaries of public representatives and office bearers in order to minimise the budget deficit; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Government is committed to remaining within overall expenditure ceilings which were initially introduced in 2012. The main driver of growth in the past in the government wage bill has been the implementation of above inflation salary increases. However, careful reprioritisation of spending since 2012 has led to a reduction in the share of compensation of employees from 36.1 per cent in 2012/13 to a revised estimate of 34.5 per cent in 2015/16.
In the 2016 Budget Speech, the Minister of Finance announced measures to curtail growth in the wage bill, including reducing compensation budgets by R25 billion over the next three years. An additional R7.2 billion has been shifted out of compensation budgets over the medium term to other spending priorities. The National Treasury, the Department of Public Service and Administration, and the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation are working on proposals to reform wage negotiation processes. Appointments to non-critical posts will be blocked on the payroll system. However, to protect service delivery, teachers, nurses, doctors, police officers and other critical posts will be excluded from this process. To further restrain growth in wage bill, the 2016 Appropriation Bill proposes earmarking compensation budgets. The success of these interventions will be assessed during the next three-year period.
The process of determining salaries of public representatives and office bearers is undertaken by the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Office Bearers (“the Commission). The Commission is an independent statutory body mandated in terms of section 8 (4) and (5) of the Commission’s Act (Act No. 20 of 1998), to make annual recommendations relating to salaries, allowances, benefits and making submissions to the President for consideration. A number of factors are taken into consideration with the objective of restraining expenditure. Such factors include affordability, economic conditions, and inflation forecasts, amongst other. These factors are carefully considered by the President prior to taking a decision on the Commission’s recommendations. The process also involves consultation with various stakeholders including the Legislative Sector Forum (LSF) and the Minister of Finance. A case in point is the recently announced cost-of-living adjustments for public office bearers nationally and provincially. The Commission had recommended between 5% and 6% for main categories of public office bearers but the President, after due consideration, determined a below inflation increase, (i.e. Consumer Price Index minus 1% which translates to 4.4%) for the 2015/16 financial year.
12 May 2016 - NW280
Lekota, Mr M to ask the President of the Republic
(1)Whether, in view of the rapidly diminishing fiscal space and poor state of the country’s economy, he has (a) ordered an analysis of the sustainability of having 37 Ministers, 34 Deputy Ministers and a government in each sphere and (b) requested Parliament to revisit section 46(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, with a view to reducing the cost of Parliament to the fiscus; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (2) whether he will make a statement on the affordability of Government in all three spheres as constituted currently?
Reply:
1. During the State of the Nation Address I announced a far reaching programme that is aimed at reigniting our economy and creating jobs for our people. The programme I announced, details of which were further announced in more detail in the Budget Speech by the Minister of Finance, includes measures government is taking to reduce wastage of resources in the state. I believe that if this turnaround and fiscal consolidation strategy is fully implemented, we will successfully address the matters you raise in your question.
One of the main contributors to cost is keeping two capitals, one in Pretoria and the other in Cape Town. I made a call to Members of Parliament to look into this matter and ensure that it is addressed with the urgency it deserves.
The State of the Nation Address as well as the Budget Speech contain details of our government’s plan to address wastage in the state.
12 May 2016 - NW603
Lekota, Mr M to ask the President of the Republic
Whether, in view of the fact that he, the Minister of Finance and the Statistician-General for Statistics South Africa, Mr Pali Lehohla, amongst others, are all pinning their hopes on the National Development Plan (NDP) to generate the economic growth our country needs, he would (a) take immediate and decisive steps to issue an invitation to every political party and organised interest groups which publicly, unreservedly and fully support the NDP to gather at an economic CODESA to agree to steps that would see the plan being fully implemented and (b) ensure that the mooted economic CODESA will set up an NDP Support Group that will closely and continuously monitor progress and issue reports for government to act on; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; 2) whether he has established whether every member of the national Executive was willing to subscribe fully and unreservedly to the NDP and speak in open support of it at all times; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The National Development Plan (NDP) was formulated through a thorough consultative process. Various stakeholders and members of the public were consulted in several road shows and extensive public engagement programmes by the National Planning Commission. The Plan was adopted by Parliament in 2013 with the objective to accelerate economic growth, eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. The Plan is already being implemented. The 2013 Budget was the first to be tabled within the framework of the National Development Plan (NDP). The NDP remains the cornerstone of all our budget allocation decisions. The Plan has been translated into a five year Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is government’s five year programme of action. In this way, it forms part of the strategic plan of every government department.
The key priority for South Africa at the moment is to remove all possible impediments to implementation. The government cluster system ensures that there is alignment, facilitation and monitoring of implementation of priority programmes which feed from the NDP. Parliament is also able to monitor the implementation through the normal parliamentary oversight processes.
We have also introduced innovative programmes such as the Operation Phakisa Big Fast Results methodology. The programme is being implemented in a few sectors such as the ocean economy, information and communication technologies in schools, health and mining. Operation Phakisa is proving to be an effective implementation mechanism. Other programmes such as the Industrial Policy Action are also aimed at implementing the NDP, in order to promote inclusive growth and create jobs.
Every member of the Executive subscribes to the NDP. All government programmes are informed by the NDP.
12 May 2016 - NW811
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation
(a) How many applicants applied for the vacancy of Boxing SA's Chief Executive Officer, (b) how many of the specified applicants were shortlisted and (c) what are the (i) names, (ii) qualifications and (iii) designated positions in (aa) his department and (bb) Boxing SA of the members of the interview panel who interviewed the shortlisted candidates for the vacant position?
Reply:
a) 18 applications were received by the Human Resource Unit of Boxing SA.
b) 3 candidates were shortlisted.
c) at this moment the names and other details required of the applicants cannot be revealed as the process of appointment is still in progress and the approval from Minister of Finance as per the Boxing Act is still awaited.
12 May 2016 - NW742
Lekota, Mr M to ask the President of the Republic
(1) Whether, in view of the dire economic situation that the country finds itself and the extreme difficulty millions of persons are experiencing in finding jobs at a time when the mining sector, manufacturing and agriculture are all declining, the Government has succeeded in (a) achieving policy coherence, alignment and co-ordination across government, (b) creating a vibrant partnership between the Government and the business sector as a whole and (c) eliminating regulatory obstacles impeding investment in South Africa; if not, why not in each case; if so, what has the Government succeeded in doing in the first quarter of this year that has removed investor frustration and bolstered business confidence; (2) whether he will indicate in which way South Africa has succeeded in becoming a capable state and being accepted as such?
Reply:
The National Development Plan (NDP) is a coherent policy framework that is used to achieve alignment and co-ordination across government.
A number of implementation strategies are in place. They include addressing the growth path challenges to the creation of more jobs, and implementing industrial and agriculture policies. Our Medium-term Strategic Framework puts timeframes to specific actions in these strategies.
In order to ensure that our planning and our policies do in fact achieve what we want them to, we have, amongst other initiatives, strengthened the role of Parliament in the budget through the Money Bills Amendment Act, and established a Department of Performance Monitoring and Evaluation.
To improve the ease of doing business, we are now conducting socio-economic impact assessments on new legislation to enable the true costs and benefits to be known.
A large share of public sector spending, is aimed at establishing and maintaining conditions in which the private sector can invest. Public investment levels are robust and contributed to creation of jobs and opportunities for industrialisation.
As regards regulation, we have recently amended our visa regime to better balance the various policy objectives and to help the growth of tourism. Government departments are committed to helping municipalities cut red tape and provide a range of support measures for small businesses.
Many of our largest municipalities are participating in a programme intended to reduce red tape for business in areas such as getting construction permits, obtaining electricity connections and registering property.
To develop and strengthen a vibrant partnership with key economic stakeholders, we have engaged foreign and domestic investors, trade unions and community leaders. NEDLAC continues to remain an important body which facilitates consensus and cooperation between Government, Labour, Business and the Community in dealing with South Africa’s socio-economic challenges.
In the run up to this year’s State of the Nation, I met with business leaders to hear their concerns and exchange views on what each social partner can do to lift the rate of inclusive growth and job creation. We met again on the 9th of May and announced to the nation a package of interventions to unlock growth.
These measures that I have outlined are part of our efforts to build a capable, developmental state. While are stepping up efforts to improve the performance of the state, a number new investment commitments by the private sector, including foreign investors, point to examples of successful implementation of polices by the state. These include the automobile production sector as well as renewable energy plants.
12 May 2016 - NW63
Atkinson, Mr P to ask the President of the Republic
(1)(a) How many persons in his delegation attended the 2016 World Economic Forum conference in Davos, Switzerland and (b) what are their (i) names and (ii) formal designations or positions in Government; (2) (a) how many of the persons in his delegation paid the full £29 000 conference fee and (b) what was the total cost of his delegation’s visit to the specified conference in terms of amounts paid for (i) conference fees, (ii) accommodation, (iii) subsistence and (iv) travel costs; (3) whether any rebates were negotiated for additional members; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) whether any family members of delegates travelled with them to Switzerland at the State’s expense; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) what are their names and (b) who did they accompany?
Reply:
The World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos is a premier global marketing opportunity, bringing together Heads of State and Government and global business executives and owners to discuss the state of the global economy.
WEF traditionally provides an excellent opportunity for South Africa to market itself as an investment destination. The January 2016 meeting was important, given the depressed global economic climate. We met global captains of commerce and industry to brief them on the various interventions that we have undertaken to reignite growth and create jobs, especially the Nine Point Plan that I introduced during the 2015 State of the Nation Address, within the framework of the National Development Plan. The engagements went well as Team South Africa, both government and business, was able to send out a common message that South Africa is open for business.
I was accompanied by my wife Ms Bongekile Zuma as well as the Ministers of Finance, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Energy, Trade and Industry, Economic Development, Health, Water and Sanitation. Officials from the Presidency included Ms Lakela Kaunda, the Chief Operations Officer; Mr Silas Zimu; the Special Advisor to the President; Dr Bongani Ngqulunga, Deputy Director-General in the Private Office of the President. In addition, the support staff responsible for research, protocol, communication and general included Ms Grace Mason, Mr Bongani Majola; Ms Milka Bosoga; Mr Pride De Lange; Mr T Sekano; Mr K Sebata; Ms T Khambane; Ms N Dlamini and Mr G Moloisi. Ministers were also accompanied by a limited number of support staff. The cost of travel, accommodation and transport is still awaited and will be available after final reconciliation.
I am not aware of any family member of a delegate being on the visit as well. Other than my wife, no other delegate from the Presidency travelled with a family member.
None of the government delegates were required to pay the amount mentioned. Accommodation for participants and support teams in Davos is arranged through a WEF-appointed travel agency in Davos. There are no individual country arrangements.
The visit to Davos contributed immensely to the drive by government to assure investors and to promote the country as an investment destination.
12 May 2016 - NW868
Carter, Ms D to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
Whether the Government is working with international partners to help end the siege of Gaza and push for a rapprochement between Gaza and Israel so that the conflict in the Middle East could find a resolution and come to an end in the region which is creating huge problems for neighbouring countries and the world; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Government is not only working with international partners and stakeholders regarding the “siege of Gaza and push for a rapprochement between Gaza and Israel”, but to address the full spectrum of challenges between Palestine and Israel, including those in the occupied territories and Jerusalem.The South African Government interacts on this issue with the international community in many structures, including the United Nations, the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the European Union (EU), the Commonwealth, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and BRICS.
In addition this issue also forms part of discussions in our bilateral relations.This process of engaging international partners and stakeholders is further facilitated through the appointment in 2014, of the Special Envoys for the Middle East Peace Process, former Minister Skweyiya and Former Deputy Minister Pahad. Since their appointment, the Special Envoys have visited Palestine, Israel and neighbouring countries to convey President Zuma’s grave concern over the then escalating violence, the civilian displacement and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
More recently visits included high-level discussions to understand the impact of conflict in the broader Middle East region on the Middle East Peace Process and to assess a possible South African contribution. The Envoys intend briefing all structures of Parliament as soon as the necessary arrangements can be made.Similarly, DIRCO will also brief Parliamentary structures.
UNQUOTE
12 May 2016 - NW718 - Amended
Carter, Ms D to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
Whether Durban or any other city in the country is regarded as an environmental hotspot on account of (a) a lack of proper and adequate sanitation, (b) overexploitation and depletion of natural resources, (c) soil or beach erosion of one type or the other, (d) diminishing water availability and compromised water quality and (e) destruction of highly prized and unique eco-systems; if not, why not; if so, (i) which cities are regarded as environmental hotspots in respect of the aforementioned, (ii) what steps has the Government taken to address the specified problems proactively and aggressively in order to remedy the situation and (iii) what measure of success is being achieved in rectifying the specified problems?
Reply:
(a) This needs to be responded by the Department of Water and Sanitation
(b) The situation described below and under (a) is not applicable to Durban or any specific city but is in general applicable to most cities. Given their population density and sheer intensity of economic activity, cities are a major source of overexploitation and depletion of natural resources. As was noted in the recent OECD Environmental Outlook to 2050, the number of people living in cities will increase to around 6.4 billion by 2050, or approximately 70% of the total world population (OECD 2012).
Therefore all cities can be considered environmental hotspots– this shear density of humanity means that cities are huge sinks for food, water, energy and other natural resources as well as being significant sources of waste, effluent, heat and atmospheric emissions (often mostly vehicle emissions).
Loss of natural habitat is the biggest single cause of loss of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in the terrestrial environment. Outright loss of natural habitat takes place mainly as a result of conversion of natural vegetation for necessary infrastructure development and urban development, which means that patterns of land use have a great impact on the health and functioning of terrestrial ecosystems, resulting in impacts on their ecological functioning and viability, particularly in the context of climate change.
Furthermore, waste generated by urban settlements generates water pollution, soil pollution and air pollution, impacting on ecosystems, species and ecological processes (National Biodiversity Assessment, 2011).
Nothwithstanding the above, Durban like any other city in South Africa is subject to environmental laws of the country. This city has a dedicated environmental and planning institutional arrangement that is meant to mitigate and manage potential environmental impacts. Part of their environmental vision, the eThekwini Metropolitan city, advocates for conserving biodiversity and the ecosystem goods and services.
Operation Phakisa led by the Department of Environmental Affairs has key focus areas on Marine Protection Services and Governance that include key initiatives addressing overexploitation and depletion of natural resources or marine living species. These include a network of Marine Protected Areas and Coordinated enforcement programs.
The monitoring and evaluation of local authorities’ performance is the mandate of COGTA.
(c) (i), (ii) and (iii)
The Department is in the process of conducting a National Coastal Assessment which will identify such hotspots.
(d) (i), (ii) and (iii)
Coastal cities by their nature are potential environmental hotspots with respect to water quality. As an example, some of recreational beaches in Durban had lost their Blue Flag status due to poor water quality but have since regained this Blue Flag Status.
The Department has tools that aim to assist municipalities to better manage water quality.
(e) (i), (ii) and (iii)
All cities contain highly prized ecosystems, but continue to face pressing needs of ever expanding need to provide for housing and other land uses. However, most of the more advanced metropolitan areas and bigger cities entertain these pressures through proper land use planning. Conservation plans and other tools are in place to indicate where the environmental hotspots are located. Planning of infrastructure takes these hotspots into consideration. Designing these cities consider environmental impacts and is dedicated to the minimization of the required inputs of energy, water and food, waste output and water pollution.
A number of conservation and legislative tools to ensure conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity have been developed.
---ooOoo---
12 May 2016 - NW700
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation
Whether it is his position that the serious allegations of financial misappropriation made in a KPMG report against the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the SA Rugby Union (SARU), Mr Jurie Roux, during his tenure as financial director of the University of Stellenbosch, poses a conflict of interest in any way with his current appointment as SARU's CEO; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the relevant details and (b) what steps will he take to deal with Mr Roux?
Reply:
The Minister sees no possible conflict of interest between allegations relating to employment in one role and the pursuance of employment in another.
(a) If the question is asking whether allegations against an employee in one role are compromising to his employment in a second, in this case that of the CEO of SA Rugby, the Minister is satisfied that the Federation has properly exercised its fiduciary responsibility and would point the questioner to the legal opinion provided by Fanie Cilliers, S.C. and Professor Michael Katz. They advised that it would be unfair labour practice to take action against an employee on perceptions of third parties or on the basis of a report of which the facts have not been tested in court.
(b) Based on the above advice, the Minister will not be taking any action against Mr Roux.
12 May 2016 - NW771
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Small Business Development
(1)(a) What is the current status of the plan to reduce red tape in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality in North West, (b) what is the total number unnecessary (i) policies, (ii) by-laws and (iii) regulations that were rescinded during the process to reduce red tape in the specified municipality and (c) what total amount of administration costs will the specified intervention save businesses in the specified municipality; (2) can she list three or more examples of the red tape that was cut because of the specified intervention in the specified municipality?
Reply:
(1) (a) The current plan of the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) regarding the Red Tape Reduction Programme is to revisit the piloted municipalities to assess progress made in relation to the following: complaints notification system, 30 payment system, building plan approval processes, business registration permits, by-laws and communication of small business information to SMMEs and Cooperatives. Specifically for Moses Kotane Local Municipality in North West, the turnaround times for payment to small businesses have been reduced to the required 30 days period.
(b) There is no record of unnecessary (i) policies, (ii) by-laws and (iii) regulations rescinded in the specific municipality. The total number of policies, by-laws and regulations that impede the development and promotion of small businesses will only be outlined upon the conclusion of the proposed study on regulatory protocols affecting small businesses to be conducted by DSBD during the 2016/17 financial year. However, in terms of Moses Kotane Local Municipality the by-laws are reviewed every two years.
(c) The current assessment did not consider the administration costs. However, the improvement on turnaround times as well as communication on compliance will reduce Red Tape in each of the identified municipalities ultimately reducing costs experienced by SMMEs.
2. Some of the examples that can be referred to regarding how the red tape has been reduced include: improvement on turnaround times regarding complains on service delivery from 48 to 24 hours.
11 May 2016 - NW752
McLoughlin, Mr AR to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1)With reference to her department’s Third Quarter Expenditure Report for the 2015-16 financial year, what capital assets were purchased from the R5,9 billion that was spent from her department’s operational budget between 1 April 2015 and 31 December 2015, in each case detailing (a) how much each item cost, (b) the (i) nature and (ii) location of each item and (c) the purpose of the specified acquisitions; (2) with reference to her department’s underspending of R3,275 billion with regard to Transfers and Subsidies and Operational Expenditure by the end of the third quarter of the 2015-16 financial year, what are the full details of the plans that have been put in place to ensure that her department achieves its targets by the end of the 2015-16 financial year without resorting to fiscal dumping; (3) (a) how many employees are (i) employed by her department and (ii) compensated through transfers from her department and (b) how much is spent on the compensation of employees at each different (i) salary scale and (ii) level of employment; (4) how does she reconcile the apparent contradiction between the statement in the report that read respectively that the slow spending is expected to be resolved as the implementation of projects gets accelerated towards the end of the financial year and that it is projected that the department will underspend towards the end of the financial year on the second to last page of the report; (5) (a) how did her department fund the 419.7% overspend on the Water Trading Entity: Operations and Maintenance budget line and (b) what was the reason for such a high overspend?
Reply:
(1) As at 31 December 2015, an amount of R47.864 million was spent on the adjusted allocation of R132.717 million for capital assets in the normal voted funds (operational budget) of the Department. The details of each item cost, and the location thereof are outlined in Annexure A.
- Machinery and Equipment: These assets which can be used continuously or repeatedly in production for at least one year. Examples of Machinery and Equipment are Water laboratory equipment, construction and maintenance equipment, auto visual equipment, photographic equipment, office furniture, computer hardware, printing equipment, etc
- Software and Intangible Assets are the identifiable non-monetary asset without any physical substance. Examples of intangible fixed assets are mineral exploration rights; computer software; literary and artistic originals; and miscellaneous other intangible fixed assets. To qualify as a fixed asset, the item must be intended for use in production for more than one year and its use must be restricted to the units that have established ownership rights over it or to units licensed by the owner. (The units that have established ownership rights refer to the entity that created the software for example “Microsoft” and units licensed by the owner refers to the unit buying a license to use or the right to use the software, but will not be able to change the software).
(2) Refer below for full details of the plans that have been put in place to ensure that her department achieves its targets by the end of the 2015-16 financial year without resorting to fiscal dumping:
- Reallocation of budget within projects for improved level of expenditure between the slow and fast moving projects;
- This will assist to expedite service delivery and improve expenditure. Over and above this, the following actions were to be taken;
- Dedicated efforts to collect outstanding invoices from all suppliers (Including municipalities) for work completed;
- Drive and expedite the recruitment and selection processes for the recently advertised positions;
- Improve working relations between line function, finance and municipalities to improve supply chain management processes;
- Perform an internal expenditure review and provide more realistic cash flow projections and practical measures (recovery plans) to put in place to ensure adherence to the cash flow projections (At project level, for all programmes).
(3) As at 31 December 2015, an amount of R1.021 billion was spent on the adjusted allocation of R1.428 billion for Compensation of Employees, refer to Annexure B.
(4) The Water Trading Entity spent the allocated funds in line with Treasury Regulations and Departmental Policy regarding the Budget.
(5) The Department’s operation and maintenance expenditure is reflected under operational clusters in the third quarter report. According to the report, there is no overspending reflected therein. The Audited financial statement for the 2014/15 financial year as reflected on the comprehensive income does not show any over expenditure on operation and maintenance.
---00O00---
Annexure A
The details of each item cost, and the location thereof are outlined in the table below:
OFFICE |
MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT |
SOFTWARE & INTANGIBLE ASSETS |
Adjusted Budget |
Spent 31 Dec 15 |
% Spent |
||||
Adjusted Budget |
Spent 31 Dec 15 |
% Spent |
Adjusted Budget |
Spent 31 Dec 15 |
% Spent |
||||
EASTERN CAPE |
8,019 |
2,082 |
26% |
- |
- |
0% |
8,019 |
2,082 |
26% |
FREE STATE |
5,684 |
1,089 |
19% |
- |
0% |
5,684 |
1,089 |
19% |
|
|
|||||||||
GAUTENG |
2,742 |
1,372 |
50% |
- |
0% |
2,742 |
1,372 |
50% |
|
KWAZULU-NATAL |
1,865 |
985 |
53% |
- |
0% |
1,905 |
985 |
52% |
|
LIMPOPO |
18,216 |
3,644 |
20% |
- |
0% |
18,216 |
3,644 |
20% |
|
MPUMALANGA |
3,874 |
1,164 |
30% |
- |
0% |
3,874 |
1,164 |
30% |
|
HEAD OFFICE |
40,838 |
24,354 |
60% |
40, 370 |
10,306 |
33% |
81,168 |
34,661 |
43% |
NORTH WEST |
1,229 |
327 |
27% |
- |
0% |
1,229 |
327 |
27% |
|
NORTHERN CAPE |
2,758 |
829 |
30% |
- |
0% |
2,758 |
829 |
30% |
|
WESTERN CAPE |
7,122 |
1,706 |
24% |
- |
0% |
7,122 |
1,706 |
24% |
|
GRAND TOTAL |
92,347 |
7,557 |
41% |
40,370 |
10,306 |
33% |
132,717 |
47,864 |
36% |
Annexure B
The details for Compensation of Employees are outlined in the table below:
Classification Item |
Programme |
Adjusted Budget |
Spent 31 Dec 15 |
% Spent |
COMPENSATION OF EMPLOYEES |
ADMINISTRATION |
645,589 |
481,719 |
75% |
|
WATER PLANNING & INFORMATION MAN |
350,644 |
244,837 |
70% |
|
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE DEV |
114,679 |
60,237 |
53% |
|
WATER & SANITATION SERVICES |
148,102 |
96,939 |
65% |
|
WATER SECTOR REGULATION |
169,383 |
137,694 |
81% |
Grand Total |
|
1,428,397 |
1,021,427 |
72% |
The funds allocated to the department for each salary scale and) level of employment are as follows:
Salary Level |
Number of officials |
Original Budget per Salary Level |
1 |
1 |
98 |
2 |
305 |
22,750 |
3 |
381 |
56,326 |
4 |
165 |
23,912 |
5 |
744 |
169,567 |
6 |
423 |
126,911 |
7 |
524 |
143,440 |
8 |
450 |
146,085 |
9 |
299 |
109,661 |
10 |
371 |
149,050 |
11 |
290 |
145,574 |
12 |
287 |
216,925 |
13 |
116 |
115,818 |
14 |
35 |
45,546 |
15 |
9 |
14,582 |
16 |
3 |
5,888 |
Total |
4,404 |
1,492,133 |
11 May 2016 - NW1204
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1) What amount is the subcontract for cutting steel for 238 Badger vehicles awarded by Denel to a certain company (VR Lazer) worth; 2) did she approve the subcontract; if not, (a) why not and (b) who approved the subcontract; if so, why was it approved?
Reply:
(1) The orders placed on VR Laser as of 29 April 2016 on the Badger vehicle programme amount to R236 646 034.
(2) I do not approve sub-contracts
(a) Awarding of contracts is a business operational matter within the mandate of Management and the Board of Directors, depending on Delegations of Authority.
(b) Management awarded the contract in line with Denel’s procurement prescripts. The contract was awarded to VR Lazer as it presented the best value proposition to Denel for the services required.
11 May 2016 - NW429
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Whether the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has an audio bouquet; if not, why not; if so, (2) whether the specified audio bouquet will carry all of the SABC’s radio stations; if not, why not; if so, (3) whether any provisions have been made for community radio stations to be included in the specified bouquet; if not, (a) why not, and (b) how will advertisers be convinced to still advertise on community radio stations if the community radio stations are not broadcast nationally; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) Yes, the SABC has an audio bouquet, it currently sits on the DSTV bouquet
(2) Yes, all 19 SABC radio stations will be carried, this includes 15 PBS Radio stations, 3 PCS Radio stations as well as Channel Africa.
(3) Not yet, Community Broadcast Services will decide on how many TV and Radio services there will be on their portion of MUX1. All TV and Radio Services on DTT (SABC and Community) will also be available on the Direct to Home (DTH) Satellite platform that has a 100% National footprint.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
11 May 2016 - NW803
Van Damme, Ms PT to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether the executive directors of all the entities reporting to her signed performance agreements with her; if not, (a) which executive directors did not sign, (b) for what reasons and (c) when will each executive director sign a performance agreement; if so, (i) on which date did each executive director sign a performance agreement and (ii) what are the key deliverables listed in each performance agreement?
Reply:
No, the Executive Directors of all the entities reporting to the Ministry of Communications do not sign performance agreements with the Minister. The legal framework for Brand South Africa; South African Broadcasting Corporate Services SoC Ltd; Films and Publications Board; and Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) requires them to report to the Boards which are the Accounting Authorities for the entities.
Only ICASA’s Chairperson and the other Councillors are required - in terms of section 6A of the ICASA Act, No 13 of 2000, as amended - to sign a performance agreement with the Minister. In this regard, the 2016/17 performance agreements between the Chairperson, other Councillors and the Minister have been developed and are ready for signature.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 May 2016 - NW1357
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Trade and Industry
(1)(a) To what extent the Legal Metrology Act, Act 9 of 2014, is an improvement on the Trade Metrology Act, Act 77 of 1973, and (b) what is the legal effect of any metrology instruments for which it is obligatory to develop standards in terms of the specified Acts, but for which no standards have yet been developed; (2) whether the specified metrology instruments may be used in the absence of the specified standards; if not, what is the legal effect of any (a) business conducted and (b) accounts generated by the use of the specified metrology instruments in terms of each specified Act; if so, on which legal grounds in respect of each specified Act; (3) what is the legal effect of any metrology instruments for which it is obligatory to comply with standards already developed, but which do not comply with these; (4) whether the specified metrology instruments may be used in the absence of such compliance; if not, what is the legal effect of any (a) business conducted and (b) accounts generated by the use of the specified metrology instruments in terms of each specified Act; if so, on which legal grounds in terms of each specified Act? NW1506E
Reply:
1. (a) The Legal Metrology Act, Act 9 of 2014 is an improvement on the Trade Metrology Act, Act 77 of 1973. The Act expands trade metrology to the legal metrology domain for trade, health care and the environment amongst others, which were previously excluded from appropriate administrative control.
(b) In circumstances where standards have not been developed yet, for any metrology instrument, the CEO of the NRCS, in consultation with the user, may set interim requirements and conditions for the use of such an instrument until such time that relevant standards are developed.
2. (a) The Act makes provision for specified metrology instruments to be used in the absence of specified standards according to the stipulated process outlined above.
(b) The interpretation of the Department of Trade and Industry is that revenue generated in circumstances where there is not yet a standard, is legally permissible.
3. Section 18(1) of the Legal Metrology Act 9 of 2014 confers powers to the NRCS to take appropriate action against a defaulting party who has utilized an instrument, product or service that does not conform to legal metrology technical regulations (standards). The Act allows the NRCS to direct in writing any non-compliant instrument, product or service to be brought into compliance with the relevant standards, failing which the instrument or product may be confiscated, destroyed or returned to the country of origin.
4. Section 17(1) of the Legal Metrology Act, 9 of 2014 states that no person may import, manufacture, sell or supply a measuring instrument or product, or render a service, to which a legal metrology technical regulation applies. Costs incurred by the National Regulator for the confiscation, destruction of non-compliant measuring instrument, product or service may be recovered from the person using such measuring instrument or product, or rendering such service.
11 May 2016 - NW1094
Robertson, Mr K to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
(1) What are the reasons why 49 non-operational tractors at his departments’s Umzinti training facility in Mpumalanga have not been repaired for more than 12 months; (2) Is his department ring-fencing finances for the continued maintenance of the specified tractors; (3) What is the impact on emerging farmers when the land of beneficiaries cannot be properly prepared due to a lack of operational tractors?
Reply:
DAFF has engaged Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLE). They provided the following answers:-
1.The DARDLE has collected all the tractors that used to be allocated to cooperatives into one central place after realizing that there were challenges in this method when it comes to servicing farmers on the ground who were not members of the cooperatives. Furthermore, the maintenance of the tractors was also a challenge. Mzinti Training Centre was then selected for the safekeeping of the collected tractors. This move assisted the department to be able to evaluate the current status of all the tractors that were collected.
The centre currently has 58 tractors, of which 16 are in good working condition, which comprises of 4 new tractors bought in 2015 and 12 tractors that were repaired.
DARDLE acknowledges that 42 tractors are not functioning. This fleet was bought in 2006/07 financial year and has not been properly serviced all these years as they were with the cooperatives. The assessment conducted by the department revealed that 14 have serious mechanical challenges like engine replacements, gearboxes etc and this will require huge sums of money to repair. The DARDLE has therefore requested the Mpumalanga Department of Public works Roads and Transport to auction them so that they can be cleared in our asset register. The department is awaiting the auction date.
2. Yes, the DARDLE has set aside budget to continue servicing the operational tractors and also to repair the 28 tractors that could not be repaired during the last financial year.
3. The impact is minimal due to the fact that the department has in the centre 16 operational tractors. DARDLE has in the past financial year 2015/16 appointed 14 private service providers to complement the existing fleet, to ensure that farmers receive the expected services from the department.
11 May 2016 - NW279
Lekota, Mr M to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
Whether her department has transformed any of the apartheid established townships in order to ensure that the specified townships conform to the full definition of a human settlement in keeping with its own designation as the Department of Human Settlements; if not, why not; if so, which townships are now fully functional human settlements?
Reply:
Indeed Honourable member, we have taken considerable strides in transforming apartheid established townships and we are determined to do more still in order to reverse the apartheid spatial planning and its legacy. For instance, in Soweto we have provided sports facilities, built malls, and paved roads. I invite the Honourable member to visit Cosmo City, which is one amongst our success stories. Evidence of our projects can be seen in many apartheid established townships nationally, places like Kwa-Mashu, Umlazi, Langa, Khayelitsha, Mamelodi and Atteridgeville are a few examples where our footprint can be seen.
We have managed to transform approximately 98% of all our projects to be representative of a human settlement, which includes access to amenities like schools, medical facilities, shopping centres, places of worship, points of transportation and access to roads.
The table below indicates the Human Settlements’ footprint.
Number of projects reflecting characteristics of a Human Settlements |
||||||
|
Number of projects being implemented (2014/15) |
Amenities: |
Access to roads |
|||
Province |
1 km |
5km Radius |
10km Radius |
1km Radius |
5km Radius |
|
EC |
977 |
829 |
941 |
942 |
904 |
942 |
FS |
1538 |
1282 |
1507 |
1521 |
1476 |
1521 |
GP |
1276 |
1156 |
1274 |
1274 |
1266 |
1274 |
KZN |
942 |
735 |
924 |
925 |
877 |
925 |
LP |
1251 |
882 |
1198 |
1224 |
1070 |
1224 |
MP |
1666 |
1208 |
1563 |
1581 |
1499 |
1583 |
NC |
573 |
354 |
433 |
448 |
430 |
467 |
NW |
473 |
436 |
544 |
555 |
542 |
560 |
WC |
1540 |
1438 |
1511 |
1516 |
1494 |
1516 |
Total |
10236 |
8320 |
9895 |
9986 |
9558 |
10012 |
% of projects within specific distances from the project, with characteristics of a human settlement |
|
81% |
97% |
98% |
93% |
98% |
It is further important to note that out of a total of 10 236 projects, only 70 projects (0.68%), fall outside a designated town boundary. That is due to the fact that they are projects that focus on rural communities and self-help projects (PHP).
Additionally, we have referenced and profiled a few of the largest towns in the country in relation to the above analysis (Annexure A). From this list there are none of these large towns that cannot be classified as a human settlement based on the definition of a human settlement.
11 May 2016 - NW1216
Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
With reference to the takeover by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of the function of monitoring the usage of marine resources from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, what measures and plans has her department put in place to ensure the conservation and monitoring of the marine resources on the KwaZulu-Natal provincial coastline?
Reply:
The Department of Environmental Affairs continues to have a contract with Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife and iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority. The Department of Environmental Affairs has structured monitoring plans and arrangements with Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife. These include monitoring the KwaZulu-Natal Marine Protected Areas and the New Proposed Marine Protected Areas included in the recently gazetted 22 Network of Marine Protected Areas (for public comments) under Operation Phakisa: Ocean Economy.
The plan in this financial year 2016/2017 from 15 to 19 August 2016 is for the Department of Environmental Affairs to host another training programme for officials of Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal on the management of the Marine Protected Areas.
---ooOoo---
11 May 2016 - NW517
Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Communications
Whether the progress report of the allegations made against the Media Development and Diversity Agency about processes and procedures around (a) supply chain management, (b) organisational structures and (c) human resources processes in its 2012-13 Annual Report will be included in its 2014-15 Annual Report; if not, (i) why not and (ii)(aa) how and (bb) when will such a report be made available; if so, (aaa) why was the progress report not published in the 2013-14 Annual Report and (bbb) what are the further relevant details?
Reply:
The 2014/15 annual report has already been published in September 2015, and all audit findings were addressed accordingly as remedial actions which will be included in the 2015/16 annual report currently being drafted.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 May 2016 - NW996
Macpherson, Mr DW to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
How much does her department charge government departments every time the respective Ministers make use of the (a) protocol lounges and (b) chauffeur services at each airport under the management of the Airports Company of SA?NW1128
Reply:
(a) The Department (DIRCO) does not charge other Government Departments for the usage of the State Protocol Lounges by Ministers.
The Department (DIRCO) does not pay for any chauffeur services at the Airport for Ministers.
11 May 2016 - NW701
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)(a) How many projects have been funded by the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) in terms of community printing and (b) how many of the specified projects are still running since the entity was established in 2004; (2)(a) how many projects have been funded by the MDDA in terms of community radio and (b) how many of the specified projects are still running since her reply to question 2876 on 26 August 2015; (3)(a) how many of the specified projects have been funded more than once, (b) which companies have been funded more than once and (c) what was the reason for allocating additional funding in each case?
Reply:
(1) (a) The MDDA has, since inception, funded 68 Small Commercial Media Print Projects
(b) 45 Small Commercial Media Print projects are currently receiving both financial (disbursement) and non-financial support (fully disbursed)
(2) (a) The MDDA has funded 103 Community Radio Stations since 2004
(b) 99 stations are fully operational
(3) 36 Small Commercial Media publications and 27 community radio stations as follows:
Small Commercial Print
- Genuine Magazine
- Isibane News
- Maputaland Mirror
- Phumelela Express
- Seipone/Xivoni/Tshivhoni
- Taxi Talk
- Uxhumano/Ziwaphi
- Bravo,
- Free State News
- Winelands Echo
- Rainbow News
- Hope Community
- Coal City
- Chalkline
- Northwest on Sunday
- Masilonyana
- Ngoho News
- Dizindaba News
- Eastern Cape Women Magazine
- Ezakwazulu News
- Lema Printing and Media house
- Die Horison
- Religious News
- Nkomazi Observer
- Mmaiseng News
- Metro News
- Multi – Purpose Magazine
- North Western Times
- Langa Media
- Ikhwezi
- Mmega Dikgang
- Zithethele
- Treasure Magazine
- Gulova Magazine
- Alex Pioneer
- Nthavela
Community Radio
- Barberton Community Radio
- Vukani Community Radio
- Eastern Cape Community Radio Hub (NCRF)
- Indonsakusa Community Radio
- Maputaland Community Radio
- Mokopane Community Radio
- Moutse Community Radio
- Moletjie Community Radio
- Radio Teemaneng
- eKhepheni community Radio
- Ermerlo Community Radio
- Makhado radio station
- Greater Giyani community radio
- Umgungundlovu community radio
- Inanda FM,
- Vibe FM,
- Mohodi CR,
- Sekhukhune CR,
- Radio Riverside
- Bushbuckridge CR
- Voice of Tembisa
- Alex FM
- Alfred Nzo CR
- Bush Radio
- NFM
- Koepel FM
- Motheo CR
(c) Additional funding is recommended taking consideration of the escalating printing and distribution costs, providing opportunity to the publication to increase market share such moving from publishing monthly to fortnightly and increasing the distribution footprint, funding allocated for 12 months is not sufficient for the businesses to break even and establish themselves in the market. (including Cities) in South Africa.
MR NN MUNZHELELE
DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE
11 May 2016 - NW1257
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Trade and Industry
(a) How many (i) international and (ii) domestic trips has a certain person (name and details furnished) undertaken since her appointment, (b) what class of travel did she use in each case and (c) what was the cost per financial year for these trips in terms of (i) accommodation costs, (ii) car rental costs and (iii) subsistence allowances?
Reply:
The requested information relates to a period that spans 11 years, which exceeds the period that the NEF stores records of the nature requested once audited. In terms of National Treasury Regulations, the NEF is required to keep records containing the requested information for a maximum period of 5 years.
It is therefore not possible at this point in time to respond comprehensively to the question as this is an onerous task by virtue of the considerable time that has lapsed since appointment of the CEO in 2005. Over the last few years the NEF has responded to similar questions relating to its CEO from the DA and has provided all necessary information as that related to information which was within its possession. We would also like to bring the Hon. Bagraim’s attention to the fact that the Hon. McPherson asked a similar question about the CEO of the NEF on 15 April 2016 and the NEF has provided responses thereto.
It is therefore regrettable that the NEF has had to contend with this volume and frequency of questions that relate to the same matter as this distracts valuable care and attention from the core business of the NEF. The latest request might necessitate the appointment of an external service provider to review NEF records and compile the report required by Hon. Bagraim.
11 May 2016 - NW917
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1)Has she earned any additional income from businesses, in particular businesses doing work for the Government, since her appointment as Minister; if so, (a) when, (b) how much did she earn, (c) from which businesses and (d) for what work; (2) whether her (a) spouse, (b) children and (c) close family earned income from businesses, in particular businesses doing work for the Government, through her appointment as Minister; if so, in respect of each case, (i) when, (ii) how much did each earn, (iii) from which businesses and (iv) for what work?
Reply:
Minister |
|
(1) |
No |
(a) |
Not applicable |
(b) |
Not applicable |
(c) |
Not applicable |
(d) |
Not applicable |
(a)spouse |
(b)children |
(c)close family |
|
(2) |
No |
No |
No |
(i) |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
(ii) |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
(iii) |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
(iv) |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
Not applicable |
11 May 2016 - NW1358
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Trade and Industry
(1)(a) To what extent the Legal Metrology Act, Act 9 of 2014, is an improvement on the Trade Metrology Act, Act 77 of 1973, and (b) what is the legal effect of any metrology instruments for which it is obligatory to develop standards in terms of the specified Acts, but for which no standards have yet been developed; (2) whether the specified metrology instruments may be used in the absence of the specified standards; if not, what is the legal effect of any (a) business conducted and (b) accounts generated by the use of the specified metrology instruments in terms of each specified Act; if so, on which legal grounds in respect of each specified Act; (3) what is the legal effect of any metrology instruments for which it is obligatory to comply with standards already developed, but which do not comply with these; (4) whether the specified metrology instruments may be used in the absence of such compliance; if not, what is the legal effect of any (a) business conducted and (b) accounts generated by the use of the specified metrology instruments in terms of each specified Act; if so, on which legal grounds in terms of each specified Act?
Reply:
1. (a) The Legal Metrology Act, Act 9 of 2014 is an improvement on the Trade Metrology Act, Act 77 of 1973. The Act expands trade metrology to the legal metrology domain for trade, health care and the environment amongst others, which were previously excluded from appropriate administrative control.
(b) In circumstances where standards have not been developed yet, for any metrology instrument, the CEO of the NRCS, in consultation with the user, may set interim requirements and conditions for the use of such an instrument until such time that relevant standards are developed.
2. (a) The Act makes provision for specified metrology instruments to be used in the absence of specified standards according to the stipulated process outlined above.
(b) The interpretation of the Department of Trade and Industry is that revenue generated in circumstances where there is not yet a standard, is legally permissible.
3. Section 18(1) of the Legal Metrology Act 9 of 2014 confers powers to the NRCS to take appropriate action against a defaulting party who has utilized an instrument, product or service that does not conform to legal metrology technical regulations (standards). The Act allows the NRCS to direct in writing any non-compliant instrument, product or service to be brought into compliance with the relevant standards, failing which the instrument or product may be confiscated, destroyed or returned to the country of origin.
4. Section 17(1) of the Legal Metrology Act, 9 of 2014 states that no person may import, manufacture, sell or supply a measuring instrument or product, or render a service, to which a legal metrology technical regulation applies. Costs incurred by the National Regulator for the confiscation, destruction of non-compliant measuring instrument, product or service may be recovered from the person using such measuring instrument or product, or rendering such service.
11 May 2016 - NW1221
Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesQUESTION
Whether, with reference to the takeover by his department of the function of monitoring the conservation and usage of marine resources from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, his department has enough resources to fulfill this important role; if so, what are the relevant details in respect of the human resources that his department has allocated for the specified monitoring?
Reply:
The Protocol Agreement between the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is in force until 31 July 2016. In preparation for the termination of this agreement, the Department has already entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with an organisation called Amagagasoshintsho for the implementation of the Small-scale Fisheries programme in the province as well as for the deployment and management of the Catch Data Monitors for the Small-scale fishery. In addition, the Department will redirect the financial resources currently spent on the Ezemvelo KZN contract to ensure that there will be monitoring, control and surveillance capacity in KZN post July 2016.
10 May 2016 - NW1179
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Health
(1)With reference to his reply to question 3682 on 20 October 2015 regarding the one-stop centres that were set up by his department (details furnished), (a) what is the total expenditure per centre to date, (b) what are the sources of funding and (c) what is the total amount that has been contributed by each source to date; (2) (a) what is the total number of claimants who have been seen at each one-stop centre to date and (b) what is the total number of claimants who have had (i) a full medical assessment and (ii) their assessment report submitted to the Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases (MBOD) to be certified; (3) what are the main reasons for the specified claims not being submitted for certification with the MBOD?
Reply:
1. (a) The capital cost for the Mthatha One Stop Centre was approximately R5 million and the recurrent costs amounted to approximately R9.2 million until the end of March 2016. The capital cost for the Carletonville One Stop Centre was R5.2 million and the recurrent costs were approximately R9.4 million until the end of March 2016. The costs are approximate as they cover the costs of personnel and diagnostic services such as chest X-rays, lung function tests and TB tests.
(b) The sources of funding for the Mthatha One Stop Centre were the National Department of Health for the capital costs, the Eastern Cape Department of Health for the recurrent costs and the World Bank for the project manager. The sources of funding for the Carletonville One Stop Centre were the Chamber of Mines and the National Department of Health for the capital costs, the Gauteng Department of Health and the Chamber of Mines for the recurrent costs and the World Bank for the project manager.
(c) The National Department of Health has contributed R5.5 million, the Chamber of Mines R8.7 million, the Eastern Cape Department of Health R7.8 million, the Gauteng Department of Health R4 million and the World Bank R2.8 million.
2. (a) The total number of workers and ex-workers seen at Mthatha from April 2014 to March 2016 was 4 306 and at Carletonville was 4 674.
(b) The workers and ex-workers who have had Benefit Medical Examinations (medical assessments) are (i) 2 660 at Mthatha and 3 303 at Carletonville, and (ii) 1 564 medical assessment reports were submitted to the MBOD from Mthatha and 1 660 submitted from Carletonville to the MBOD.
3. The workers and ex-workers who attend the One Stop Centres were also assessed for non-occupational health-related problems and referred to the hospital for care. The reasons for non-submission of the medical assessment reports to the MBOD include lack of record of service of the claimant and missing documents such as bank account forms. Many of the workers and ex-workers also visit the One Stop Centres to seek information on the status of their claim.
END.
10 May 2016 - NW1010
Volmink, Mr HC to ask the Minister of Health
How many (a) state ambulances are there in the (i) Nelson Mandela Bay, (ii) City of Tshwane, (iii) City of Johannesburg and (iv) City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality and (v) the Tlokwe Local Municipality in the North West, (b) of the specified ambulances are operational in each of the specified municipalities and (c) of the specified ambulances are staffed in accordance with the correct Health Professionals Council requirements?
Reply:
According to the Provincial Departments of Health concerned, the following table reflects the details in this regard:
Table 1.
Municipality |
No. of ambulances allocated to the Municipality |
Operational Ambulances |
Operational Ambulance that are staffed in accordance with the correct Health Professionals Council requirements |
Nelson Mandela Bay |
37 |
16 |
16 |
City of Tshwane |
102 |
75 |
Yes |
City of Johannesburg |
143 |
65 |
Yes |
City of Cape Town Municipality |
110 |
68 |
68 |
Tlokwe Local Municipality |
5 |
4 |
4 |
END.
10 May 2016 - NW1208
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation
(1)What is the total remuneration package in rand payable by the SA Football Association to each coach of the national (a) men’s, (b) women’s and (c) under-23 national soccer teams; (2) whether each of the total remuneration packages includes any bonuses for (a) winning and/or (b) drawing matches; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details in each
Reply:
We are still sourcing information from SAFA (South African Football Association) in this regard
10 May 2016 - NW1180
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Health
(1)(a) What is the total number of applications for registration from doctors who were trained in other countries that were received by the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA) (i) in (aa) 2010, (bb) 2011, (cc) 2012, (dd) 2013, (ee) 2014 and (ff) 2015 and (ii) since 1 January 2016, (b) what is the total number of the specified doctors who successfully registered in each of the specified years and (c) what are the main reasons for unsuccessful applications; (2) is there a target processing time set for applications received from the specified doctors to register with the HPCSA from initial application to completion of registration; if not, why not; if so, (a) what is the target time, (b) what is the actual average processing time for the specified applications, (c) what are the main reasons for delays in the processing of the specified applications and (d) what steps have been put in place to address the delays?
Reply:
(1) (a) and (b) The following table reflects the details in this regard
No |
Year |
Applications Received |
Successfully Registered |
Percentage Registered |
aa |
2010 |
369 |
324 |
87.80% |
bb |
2011 |
238 |
237 |
99.58% |
cc |
2012 |
349 |
216 |
61.89% |
dd |
2013 |
527 |
275 |
52.18% |
ee |
2014 |
541 |
412 |
76.16% |
ff |
2015 |
383 |
336 |
87.73% |
2016 |
142 |
135 |
95.07% |
(c) The reasons for unsuccessful applications are due to the following:
- Curriculum not equivalent to the South African Education system
- Failure to submit verified credentials
- Failure to comply with DOH Foreign Workforce requirements, and,
- Incomplete documents
(2) (a) and (b) Yes, there is a target processing time of six weeks. The specified period entail assessment of applications for regulatory compliance, administrative compliance and submission to the relevant committee for consideration. Upon approval of the application, it takes 21 days to finalise applications for registration.
(c) The delays are influenced by the following:
- Curriculum not equivalent to the South African Education system
- Failure to submit verified credentials
- Failure to comply with DOH Foreign Workforce requirements, and,
- Incomplete documents
(d) The process of reviewing and considering applications from foreign qualified practitioners is being reviewed with the aim of eliminating the delays.
END.
10 May 2016 - NW1217
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
(1)(a) In which media did the Independent Electoral Commission advertise for the voter registration held on (i) 5 and 6 March 2016 and (ii) 9 and 10 April 2016 in each province and (b) what total amount was spent in each province on the specified advertisements for each registration weekend in each medium; (2) whether any of the specified advertising was placed in community print media; if not, why not; if so, (a) in which community print media were the specified advertisements placed for each of the specified registration weekends and (b) what were the costs in this regard; (3) whether any of the specified advertising was placed on community radio stations; if not, why not; if so, (a) on which community radio stations were the specified advertisements placed on each of the specified registration weekends and (b) what were the costs in this regard?
Reply:
(1)(a)(i-ii) The following media channels formed part of the Electoral Commission’s registration communication initiatives in all nine provinces: Outdoor media (billboards), print media (newspapers, magazines, community newspapers and other publications), radio (including community, regional and national stations), television (including SABC, eTV, a variety of DSTV stations and community channels), digital media, social media and internet advertising). It must be noted that the media planning and implementation to promote registration during both the March 2016 and April 2016 registration weekends were identified and selected based on a variety of factors including target audience (especially aimed at eligible voters under 30 years old), available budget and cost efficiency, as well as the distribution of eligible voters around South Africa as informed by the Electoral Commission’s own databases and those of the media.
(1)(b) Electoral Commission does not segment its media purchases, planning or expenditure according to provincial boundaries. Most media transcend provincial boundaries (especially television, radio and digital/social media). It is therefore not possible to provide accurate data regarding the provincial split of media usage or expenditure per province as provincial expenditure is not tracked.
.However, the total spend on all media in all provinces to promote the two registration weekends in March and April 2016 was as follows: (Inclusive of VAT)
- Television: R28 552 505
- Radio: R21 581 577
- Print: R6 195 149
- Digital media: R17 964 903
- Outdoor media: R4 312 827
(2) Community print was used extensively to promote the first registration weekend in March 2016. A four-page guide to the 2016 Elections was published in six languages and 8.306 million copies were inserted into 325 community newspapers based in all provinces.
(2)(a) See attached list marked Annexure A of community newspapers used.
(2)(b) R4 683 622 (Inclusive of VAT)
- Community radio stations (which included student radio stations) were included in the media plan for both registration weekends.
(3)(a) See attached list marked Annexure B of community radio stations used
(3)(b) R2 231 002 (Inclusive of VAT)
ANNEXURE A: PQ 1217 on IEC
(2)(a) List of community newspapers used:
African Reporter |
Midweek Review |
Alberton Record |
Midweek Potch Herald |
Alex News |
Mmega District News |
Aliwal Weekly |
Mogol Post |
Al-Qalam |
Mopani Herald |
Amanzimtoti Fever |
Mossel Bay Advertiser |
Athlone News |
Mpumalanga Mirror |
Atlantic Sun |
Mpumalanga News |
Barberton Times |
Mpumalnga Commuter |
Bedfordview & Edenvale News |
Mthatha Express |
Benoni City Times |
Nelspruit Post |
Berea Mail |
Newcastle & District Advertiser |
Bloemfontein Courant |
Newcastle Express |
BloemNuus/News |
Newcastle Sun |
Blouberg Today |
Ngoho News |
Boksburg Advertiser |
Noordelike Nuus |
Bolander |
Noordkaap |
Bonus |
Noordwester Die |
Bosveld Review |
Noordwester/Oewernuus |
Brakpan Herald |
North Coast Courier |
Breederivier Gazette |
North Coast Times |
Brits Pos |
North Eastern Tribune |
Bua Sedibeng News |
North Eyethu |
Bugle The |
North West Independent |
Bullein |
North West Journal |
Bulletin |
Northcliff & Mellville Times |
Cape Flat News |
Northern Bulletin |
Capricorn Voice |
Northern News (Bellville/ Durbanville) |
Carletonville Herald |
Northern News (Goodwood/Parow) |
Centurion Sun |
Northern News (Kuilsriver/ Brackenfell/ Kraaifontein) |
Chatsworth Rising Sun |
Northern Star |
Chatsworth Tabloid |
Northglen News |
Chiawelo Urban News |
Ons Kontrei |
City Vision Link |
Onze Nuus |
Coastal Weekly |
Orange Farm News |
Comaro Chronicle |
Orange Farm Poortjie Indaba |
Community Focus |
Orlando Urban News |
Constantiaberg Bulletin |
Oudtshoorn Courant |
Corridor Gazette |
Our Times |
Cosmo City Chronicle |
Overport Rising Sun |
Cosmos News |
Overvaal |
Courier |
Paarl Post |
CXPress |
Parys Gazette |
De Aar Echo |
PE Express |
Die Courant Swartland & Weskus |
PE Express Indaba |
Die Daller |
People's Post Link |
Die Ghaap |
Phalaborwa Herald |
Die Hoorn |
Phoenix Tabloid |
Die Pos |
Pimville Urban News |
Diepkloof Urban News |
Pinetown & Hammarsdale Izindaba |
Dikelethu News |
Plainsman |
District Mail |
Platinum Weekly |
Dobsonville Urban News |
Polokwane Express |
Drakenstein Gazette |
Polokwane Observer |
Dumelang News |
Pondo News |
Durban North News |
Potchefstroom Herald |
Eagle Eye News |
Pretoria Record Central |
East Griqualand Fever |
Pretoria Record Centurion |
Eastern Cape Mirror |
Pretoria Record East |
Eastern Cape Today |
Pretoria Record Mamelodi |
Eastern Free State Issue |
Pretoria Record Moot |
Echo Maritzburg Central |
Pretoria Record North |
Edendale Echo |
Pretoria Record Noweto |
Edendale Eyethu |
Pretoria Record West |
Eikestad Nuus |
Protea Urban News |
Ekasi News |
Public Eye |
Ekurhuleni News |
Public Eye PMB |
Eldorado Park Urban News |
Queensburgh News |
Eldorado Times |
Randburg Sun |
Estcourt & Midlands News |
Randfontein Herald |
eThekwini Times |
Recorder |
Excelsior News |
Rekord – Nigel & Heidelberg |
Express Eastern Free State |
Reporter, The |
Express Free State (Mangaung) |
Richmond Times Group |
Express Northern Cape |
Ridge Times |
Eyethu Amajuba |
Roodepoort Northsider |
Eyethu Bay Watch |
Roodepoort Record |
Eyethu Edendale |
Rosebank Killarney Gazette |
Eyethu Ilembe |
Rustenburg Herald |
Eyethu Intshonalanga |
Sandton Chronicle |
Eyethu Ugu |
Sasolburg Ster |
Eyethu Umlazi |
Sedibeng Ster |
Eyethu Umngeni |
Seipone |
Eyethu Uthukela |
Sentinel News |
Eyethu Zululand |
Somerset Budget & Pearston Adv. |
False Bay Echo |
Sosh Times |
Fordsburg & Mayfair Rising Sun |
South Cape Forum |
Fourways Review |
South Coast Fever |
Frankfort Herald |
South Coast Herald |
Free State Sun |
South Coast News |
Gemsbok |
South Coast Sun |
George Herald |
Southern Courier |
Germiston City News |
Southern Mail |
Glenwood Weekly Gazette |
Southern Star |
Go! & Express East London |
Southern Suburbs Tatler |
Graaff Reinet Advertiser/Karoo Nuus |
Southlands Sun |
Greater Alex Today |
Soweto Express |
Greenstone Guide |
Soweto Times |
Greytown Gazette |
Springs Advertiser |
Grocotts Mail |
Standerton Advertiser |
Harrismith Chronicle |
Standerton Ibis |
Hazyview Herald |
Stanger Weekly |
Heidelberg Nigel Heraut |
Steelburger Inc. Lydenburg News |
Heilbron Herald |
Stellalander |
Helderberg Gazette |
Stellenbosch Gazette |
Herald The, (Middelburg) |
Streeknuus |
Hermanus Times |
Swartland Gazette |
Highlands Panorama |
Tabea News (Vaal Times) |
Highveld Gazette |
Tabletalk |
Highveld Tribune |
Talk of the Town |
Highvelder/Hoevelder |
Tame Times - Leseding News Bojanala |
Highway Mail |
Tame Times |
Highway News (Pinetwon and Hammersdale Izindaba) |
Tame Times Limpopo |
Hillcrest Fever |
Tame Times: Alberton, Bedfordview, Edenvale,Germiston, Johannesburg South and Boksburg |
Hoedspruit Herald |
Tembisan |
Horizon |
Thaba Chweu News |
Ilembe Eyethu |
The Beat Community Newspaper |
Impact 24/7 News |
The Cape Towner |
Intshonalanga Eyethu |
The Echo |
Isolomzi Express |
The Representative |
Jabavu Urban News |
The Soweto Bulletin |
Jeffreys Bay Courant |
Theewaterskloof Gazette |
Joburg Eastern Express |
Times of Ladysmith |
Kalahari Bulletin |
Tongaat/Verulam & Phoenix Sun |
Kathu Gazette |
Township Times |
Kempton Express |
Triangle Courier |
Klerksdorp Midweek |
Tshwane Sun Attridgeville |
Klerksdorp Record |
Tshwane Sun Central |
Knysna Plett Herald |
Tshwane Sun Hammanskraal |
Kokstad Advertiser |
Tshwane Sun Mamelodi |
Kormorant |
Tshwane Sun Soshanguve |
Kouga Express |
Tshwane Sun West |
Kroonnuus |
Tygerburger |
Krugersdorp News |
UD News |
Kwêvoël |
Umlazi Eyethu |
Ladysmith Gazette |
Umlazi Times |
Ladysmith Herald |
Umvoti Light |
Laudium Sun |
uPhongola News |
Lenasia Rising Sun |
Uvo Lwethu Express |
Lenasia Times |
Vaal Weekblad |
Lentswe |
Vanderbijlpark Ster |
Leseding News - Bojinala |
Vereeniging Ster |
Letaba Herald |
Victoria West Messenger |
Life & Style |
Village Talk |
Limpopo Mirror |
Vista |
Lowvelder/Laeveder |
Vryheid Herald |
Mabopane Sun |
Vrystaat |
Mafikeng Mail |
Vukani |
Makhulu News |
Weekend Review |
Maluti |
Weekly Gazette |
Mangaung Issue |
Weslander |
Maritzburg Sun |
West Side Urban News |
Meadowlands Urban News |
Westville Weekly Gazette |
Meander Chronicle |
White River Post |
Merebank Rising Sun |
Winelands Echo |
Messenger |
Witbank News |
Mid South Coast Mail |
Witzenberg Herald |
Mid South Coast Rising Sun |
Worcester Standard |
Middelburg Observer |
Your Money |
Midlands News |
Zeerust News |
Midrand Reporter |
Zola Urban News |
Midvaal Ster |
Zoutpansberger |
Zululand Observer |
- END -
ANNEXURE B of PQ 1217
(3)(a) List of community radio stations used:
Aganang |
Radio Alpha |
Alfred Nzo |
Radio Atlantis |
Alx FM |
Radio Botlokwa |
BayFM |
Radio Bushbuckridge |
Bok Radio |
Radio Eden |
Bush Radio |
Radio Islam |
East Rand Stereo |
Radio Kangala |
EK Fm |
Radio Kanyamazane |
Ekhephini FM |
Radio Khanya |
eMalahleni Community |
Radio Khwezi |
Energy Fm |
Radio Mafikeng |
Forte FM |
Radio Mafisa |
Gamkaland |
Radio Mohodi |
Giyani FM |
Radio Moletsi |
Greater Lebowakgomo |
Radio Moretele |
Greater Middelburg |
Radio Mosupatsela |
Greater Tzaneen FM |
Radio Moutse |
Highway |
Radio Naledi |
Hlanganani |
Radio Newcastle |
Inanda FM |
Radio Riverside |
Inkonjane |
Radio Rosestad |
Izwi Lomzansi |
Radio Sekgosese |
Jozi FM |
Radio Soshanguve |
Karabo |
Radio Sunny South |
Kasie FM |
Radio Takalani |
KC |
Radio Teemaneng |
Koepel Fm |
Radio TUKS |
Kopanong |
Radio Turf |
KovsieFM |
Radio Tygerberg |
Lekoa |
Radio Unitra |
Lentswe Stereo |
Radio Univen |
Lephalale FM |
Radio Vukani |
Lethlabile |
Radio Zibonele |
Lukhanji |
Sedibeng FM |
Makhado FM |
Setsoto FM |
Malamulele FM |
SKFM |
MAMS FM |
Star FM |
Maputaland Radio |
Thetha FM |
Mdantsane FM |
TshwaneFM |
MFM |
Tubatse |
Mix FM |
TUT Radio |
Mmabatho |
UCT Radio |
Modiri FM |
Umgungundlovu |
Mogale FM |
Valley FM |
Motheo FM |
Vibe FM |
Mozolo |
Village FM |
Musina |
Voice of the Cape |
NFM |
VOW |
Nkomazi FM |
VUT |
Nkqubela Radio |
Zebediela |
Overvaal Stereo |
Zululand |
PE FM |
|
Phalaborwa |
|
PukFM |
|
Qwa Qwa Radio |
- END -
10 May 2016 - NW1087
Ntobongwana, Ms P to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs
Has any of her senior officials met with certain persons (names furnished) during the period 1 January 2009 up to 31 December 2015 and (b) has any of the entities reporting to her awarded any contracts to Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, The New Age Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media in the specified period; if so, what (i) are the relevant details and (ii) is the amount of each specified contract?
Reply:
(a) No
(b)
(i) The Department of Environmental Affairs received editorial, advertising and media coverage services from The New Age Media (TNA) Media related to the implementation of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) Rio+20 Summit Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Strategy.
South African National Parks utilised the services of Comair Flight Services on 11 April 2014.
South African Biodiversity Institute, iSimangaliso, and South African Weather Service have not awarded any contracts to Sahara Holdings, Comair, Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Afripalm Horizons Stakes, The New Age Media, JIC Mining Services and Vusizwe Media in the specified period.
(ii) The payment amounts to TNA Media (The New Age Media) and Comair Flight Services are reflected in the relevant financial reports of the Department.
---ooOoo---
10 May 2016 - NW1157
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1) (a)How many trustees of the Transport Pension Fund and the Transnet Second Defined Benefit Fund respectively are required to be present in order to form a quorum and (b) whether a requirement exists that any of the elected pensioner-trustees also need to be present in order to constitute a quorum; if so, (2) whether (a) a decision was taken recently by the board not to pay a bonus to pensioners in April and (b) any of the elected pensioner-trustees was present at the meeting where the specified decision was taken; if not, (i) why decisions can be taken when the elected pensioner-trustees are not present and (ii) how this agrees with the principles of transparency, representivity and democracy in the two specified pension funds; (3) (a) what is the reason for the decision not to pay bonuses in April and (b) when will the bonuses actually be paid; (4) (a) what are the names of such pensioner-trustees and (b) did each of the persons vote in favour of or against the decision; (5) with reference to her reply to question 732 on 11 April 2016, what is the official current surplus in each fund
Reply:
1. (a) The Rules of the Transport Pension Fund and the Transnet Second Defined Benefit Fund provide that the majority of the Trustees be present to form a quorum.
(1) (b) There is no further requirement for the constitution of a quorum other than the majority of Trustees be present.
2. (a) No decision was taken not to pay a bonus in April. A proposal was prepared for approval by the Boards of Trustees, however, the pensioner trustees did not approve the resolution and queried the proposed bonus. This required additional calculations and reports to be prepared by the actuary, as well as a further resolution for approval, which delayed the submission of a proposed bonus for approval to the Transnet Board of Directors.
(b) As no such decision was taken, the question is not applicable.
(3) (a) As no such decision was taken, the question is not applicable.
(b) The ad hoc bonuses proposed by the Board of Trustees of the Transport Pension Fund: Transnet Sub Fund and the Transnet Second Defined Benefit Fund may be paid after the necessary governance process has concluded, with the final approval by the Transnet Board of Directors.
(4) (a) As no such decision was taken, the question is not applicable.
(b) As no such decision was taken, the question is not applicable.
(5) The Transport Pension Fund surplus per the latest actuarial valuation report as at 31 March 2015 was R3 644 million. The Transnet Second Defined Benefit Fund surplus per the latest actuarial valuation report as at 31 March 2015 was R3 145 million.
10 May 2016 - NW993
Ross, Mr DC to ask the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
With reference to notices served by Eskom to the (a) Nketoana, (b) Masilonyana, (c) Tokologo, (d) Mantsopa, (e) Ngwathe, (f) Dihlabeng, (g) Nala and (h) Phumelela Local Municipalities in the Free State to suspend electricity supply by 30 March 2016 due to non-payment of their bulk electricity accounts, (i) what are the details of each agreement signed with Eskom and (ii) (aa) what amount has been paid to Eskom by each specified municipality and (bb) on what dates were the respective payments made since the agreements were signed?
Reply:
The requested information is not readily available within the department. We have however, since requested these municipalities to provide the information and will therefore submit to you as soon as it becomes available.
10 May 2016 - NW1249
Macpherson, Mr DW to ask the Minister of Trade and Industry
1)Whether any of his department’s employees have been on suspension with full salary since 1 January 2015; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) How many employees have been receiving their full salaries while on suspension, (b) (i) what is the total cost, (ii) the names of the specified employees; and (iii) their professional designations, (c) Why was each of the specified employees suspended, (d) When was each employee suspended and (e) What is the total amount paid out for each of the suspended employees’ salary to date; (2) What is the status of each disciplinary process started against each of the specified employees?NW1397E
Reply:
Response:
Questions 1 and 2
QUESTION 1 a) |
QUESTION 1 (b)(i) |
QUESTION 1 (b)(ii) |
QUESTION 1 (b)(iii) |
QUESTION 1 (c) |
QUESTION 1(d) |
QUESTION 1 (e) |
QUESTION 2 |
Nine (9) Officials were suspended with full pay |
R 6, 653 082,68 |
The Names of the officials cannot be disclosed |
|
Forgery and misrepresentation |
07/07/2015 |
R 96 232.87 |
Finalised. |
|
Victimisation of staff, unfair treatment and abuse of power |
09/07/2013 |
R 2 081 006.63 |
Finalised. |
|||
|
Breach of sabattical contract/ Absence from work without permission |
22/02/2016 |
R 199 549.68 |
Finalised. |
|||
|
Bribery and conflict of interests |
03/12/2013 |
R 1 912 773.82 |
Finalised. |
|||
|
Fraud |
23/07/2015 |
R 132 702.16 |
Finalised. |
|||
|
Misrepresentation and dishonesty |
01/04/2015 |
R 753 367.75 |
Finalised. |
|||
|
Bribery and conflict of interests |
03/12/2013 |
R 1 112 049.11 |
Finalised. |
|||
|
Corruption |
24/10/2014 |
R 194 966.07 |
Finalised. |
|||
|
Misrepresentation |
02/11/2015 |
R 170 434.59 |
Disciplinary Enquiry in progress. |
10 May 2016 - NW1202
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1)What is the total cost of maintenance backlog accumulated at the (a) Medupi and (b) Kusile power stations since construction started at the specified stations; (2) what is the line item breakdown of cost overruns incurred at the (a) Medupi and (b) Kusile power stations (i) including capitalised interest, (ii) excluding interest and (iii) only construction overruns? NW1342E
Reply:
(1)(a) Medupi power station units 1-5 are not yet in operation, therefore there is no cost of accumulated maintenance backlog. Unit 6 is in operation and there is no maintenance backlog.
(1)(b) Kusile power station is not yet in operation, therefore there is no cost of accumulated maintenance backlog.
(2)(a)(i) & (ii) Medupi Power Station Project cost make up is R 134.20 billion including capitalised interest. The key cost components are: Total Value of Packages, Owner’s Development Cost, Escalation, Cost of Cover, Contingencies and Rate of Exchange Adjustment as indicated below:
Cost to completion component |
R’billion |
Total value of construction packages |
74.15 |
Owners Development Cost (ODC) |
11.19 |
Escalation |
12.69 |
Cost of Cover |
3.97 |
Contingencies |
3.00 |
Total project cost (excluding interest during construction) |
105.00 |
Interest during construction |
29.20 |
Total project cost (including interest during construction) |
134.20 |
(2)(a)(iii) Medupi Construction cost escalations are currently going through the Eskom governance process.
(2)(b)(i) & (ii) Kusile Power Station Project cost make up is R 167.20 billion including capitalised interest. The key cost components are: Total Value of Packages, Owner’s Development Cost, Escalation, Cost of Cover, Contingencies and Rate of Exchange Adjustment as indicated below:
Cost to completion component |
R’billion |
Total value of construction packages |
66.9 |
Owners Development Cost (ODC) |
12.9 |
Escalation |
22.7 |
Cost of Cover |
5.6 |
Contingencies |
10.4 |
Total project cost (excluding interest during construction) |
118.5 |
Interest during construction |
48.7 |
Total project cost (including interest during construction) |
167.2 |
(2)(b)(iii) Kusile construction cost escalations are currently going through the Eskom governance process.
10 May 2016 - NW994
Ross, Mr DC to ask the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
(1)With reference to notices served by Eskom to the (a) Nketoana, (b) Masilonyana, (c) Tokologo, (d) Mantsopa, (e) Ngwathe, (f) Dihlabeng, (g) Nala and (h) Phumelela Local Municipalities in the Free State to suspend electricity supply by 30 March 2016 due to non-payment of their bulk electricity accounts, (i) what is the current outstanding amount owed by each of the specified municipalities to Eskom (ii) when will the specified amount be paid (iii) what is the interest rate payable in each case and (iv) what are the conditions of the settlement agreement;
Reply:
The requested information is not readily available within the department. We have however, since requested these municipalities to provide the information and will therefore submit to you as soon as it becomes available.
10 May 2016 - NW1144
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1)Which are the other companies, apart from a certain company (Regiments), that participated in the tender process for making investments on behalf of the Transnet Second Defined Benefit Fund and the Transport Pension Fund; (2) What was the motivation for appointing the specified company; (3) What are the specified company’s relevant background and achievement that make the company the most suitable entity for making investments on behalf of the specified pension funds?
Reply:
- The companies that participated in the tender process were Regiments, Old Mutual and Colourfields.
- The Board of Trustees appointed Regiments based on the outcome of the technical evaluation process during the tender process.
- The company’s background and achievements were evaluated and scored during the tender process conducted by a technical task team consisting of the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Principal Officer, Trustee, Actuary, Investment Consultant and a Transnet Representative.
- The appointment of the specified company was based, inter alia, on the fact that they are well established as a financial company managing this specific type of liability-driven mandate and the team executing the mandate are all experts in their field. In addition, during the due diligence process carried out by the technical team, their risk management structure and practices were found to be compliant with industry standards.
10 May 2016 - NW995
Ross, Mr DC to ask the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
Whether, with reference to notices served by Eskom on the (a) Nketoana, (b) Masilonyana, (c) Tokologo, (d) Mantsopa, (e) Ngwathe, (f) Dihlabeng, (g) Nala and (h) Phumelela local municipalities in the Free State to suspend electricity supply by 30 March 2016 due to non-payment of their bulk electricity accounts, any of the specified municipalities’ equitable share was used to pay their outstanding Eskom accounts; if so, (i) which accounts were paid, (ii) what amounts were paid, (iii) on which dates were the payments made and (iv) what is the balance of the equitable share in each case?
Reply:
The requested information is not readily available within the department. We have however, since requested these municipalities to provide the information and will therefore submit to you as soon as it becomes available.