Questions and Replies

Reply:

1. Yes, the internal investigation into the escape of a certain person from the Warmbokkeveld Correctional Centre has been concluded and submitted to the delegated authority where decision has been taken for disciplinary measures to be instituted.
2. Following recommendations of the internal investigation, a chairperson and an initiator for the disciplinary process have been appointed. The disciplinary process is yet to be concluded.

Reply:

(a) A total of R443.765 million has been allocated by my Department for drought interventions for KwaZulu-Natal Province. The amount of this R172.219 million has been spent as follows:

• R66,9 million on the purchase of 45 water tankers;
• R19,733 million payments being processed; and
• R85,512 million already paid.

(c) A summary of the amounts spent in each Municipality is provided in Table 1 below. Refer to Table 2 for expenditure for each project type in each Water Services Authority.

Table 1: Drought relief funding see the link below:

http://www.pmg.org.za/files/RNW3469-151120.doc

(c) The drought relief interventions include the following different project types:

• purchase of water tankers
• installation of static water tanks
• spring protection
• refurbishment and upgrade of water supply systems
• development of boreholes
• water tanker rental
• interim water tanker rental
• programme management

---00O00---

Table 2 below indicates the expenditure for each project type in each Water Services Authority.

Table 2: KwaZulu-Natal drought intervention budget and expenditure: see the link

http://www.pmg.org.za/files/RNW3469-151120.doc

---00O00---

Reply:

1. (a) The ‘clean break principle’ in relation to the Government Employees Pension Law, 1996 (Proclamation No. 21 of 1996) (“the GEP Law”), which regulates the GEPF, was incorporated through the GEP Law Amendment Act, No. 19 of 2011, which came into effect on 14 December 2011. Section 24A was inserted into the GEP Law, to provide for the payment of pension interest upon divorce or dissolution of customary marriage.

It is important to note, that the GEPF is not regulated in terms of the Pension Funds Act, 1956 (Act No. 24 of 1956) (“the Pension Funds Act”), but is regulated in terms of the GEP Law. Section 24A of the GEP Law was modelled on and sought to align the GEP Law with section 37D of the Pension Funds Act, 1956 (Act No. 24 of 1956) in particular, to provide for the implementation of the ‘clean break principle’, by providing for the payment of a pension interest to a former spouse of a member on divorce or the dissolution of a customary marriage. Prior to the insertion of section 24A in the GEP Law, the GEP Law and the Rules of the GEPF did not allow a former spouse of a member to claim a portion of a member’s pension interest, in terms of a divorce order or an order for the dissolution of a customary, soon after the divorce order or the order for the dissolution of a customary marriage was granted. The former spouse could only receive a portion of the member’s interest after the exit of the member from the GEPF (on resignation or retirement). With the insertion of section 24A in the GEP Law and amendments to the Rules of the GEPF, a former spouse now can receive the proportion of a member’s pension benefit that is granted in terms of a court order for divorce or the dissolution of a customary marriage, soon after the order is granted.

In order to implement section 24A of the GEP Law, the Rules of the GEPF were amended, to include definitions of “divorce”, “divorce debt” and “divorce order”, and a new Rule 14.10 was inserted in the Rules of the GEPF with effect from 1 April 2012.

(b) GEPF and GPAA are still in the process of collating the statistics on members whose benefit has been reduced as a result of a divorce order settlement.

2. (a) The legal basis on which the ‘clean break principle’ is implemented is by virtue of section 24A of the GEP Law and Rule 14.10 of the Rules of the GEPF, as noted in the response to question 1(a) above. In relation to the administration of justice, a court issues a court order that includes an order for the distribution of pension benefits in terms of section 7(8) of the Divorce Act, 1979 (Act No. 70 of 1979). In terms of Rule 14.10 of the GEPF, the court order must then be provided to the GEPF, who then will implement the order in relation to the division of the pension fund benefits in accordance with the terms of the order and Rule 14.10.

(b) The implementation of the “clean break principle” for the GEPF is not in conflict with the Pension Funds Act (as amended by the Pension Funds Amendment Act, 2001 and subsequent amendments) as the GEPF does not fall under this Act. . Section 24A of the GEP Law gives effect to the ‘clean break’ principle for the GEPF.

It is not clear why the Honourable Member believes that the implementation of the “clean break principle” violates the National Credit Act. It is my understanding that the National Credit Act only applies in relation to “credit agreements” as defined in the National Credit Act. The “clean break principle” applies in relation to the implementation of a court order on divorce or the dissolution of a customary marriage, which is implemented in accordance with the GEP Law and the Rules of the GEPF. The court order does not constitute a “credit agreement” so the National Credit Act does not apply. Even if the court order was made in respect of a “settlement agreement”, it is an order of court, and cannot be construed as being a “credit agreement”.

3. The GEPF does not estimate the frequency of divorce. The GEPF will continue to honour divorce orders that are presented.

Reply:

1. (a) Please find enclosed (Annexure A) the list of South African Former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives who participated at the founding meeting that was held from 15-16 July 2005.

(b) Former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives

1. Membership is open to former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives who are retired from public

1. (a) No

(b) (i) No; (ii) No; (iii) No. However, it should be noted that on some occasions when specialist knowledge or institutional memory is required, the Department has, and will continue to, call upon former Ambassadors to assist on a particular issue, whether they are members of the Association or not. On such occasions, the normal consultancy rates are used for remuneration and the necessary assistance is provided to have these specialists participate in the requested role at DIRCO.

1. (a) The main objective is to create a platform for former Heads of Missions to network and serve as a resource to the Department of International Relations and Co-Operation, and other government departments that have international relations responsibilities; to work with the provinces, especially the offices of the Premiers through their provincial officials, as well as local governments regarding relationships with their counterparts in foreign countries.

It will further offer its members’ diverse, extensive experience and institutional memory to key and relevant stakeholders and partners to promote awareness of, stimulate discussion and deepen the understanding of international relations and diplomacy, and support the institutions responsible for implementing South Africa’s foreign policy.

It will also create opportunities to exchange views with experts, academics, scholars of international relations sand other with an interest in diplomacy and foreign policy.

It is hope that is will also mentor young diplomats to achieve best practice in the execution of their roles and responsibilities.

1. (b) The association is an independent non-profit organisation.

UNQUOTE

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

FOUNDING DOCUMENT OF THE ASSOCIATION OF FORMER SOUTH AFRICAN AMBASSADORS, HIGH COMMISSIONERS AND CHIEF REPRESENTATIVES

1. BACKGROUND

Many countries have established entities to tap into the institutional knowledge of their previous high-ranking diplomats and envoys after they have left specific posts and government service. The establishment of such a body in South Africa is a ground-breaking development that will enhance and uplift the country’s status internationally. It will put South Africa on a par with others and help towards raising awareness and understanding of the complex issues confronting the practice of international relations and diplomacy. In doing so it will draw on members’ diverse expertise, experience and institutional memory to enrich the formulation of foreign policy and underscore the country’s efforts to be a respectable member in the family of nations.

2. VISION

To contribute to the pursuit of South Africa’s national interest to achieve a prosperous, united, non-racist, non-sexist, democratic and peaceful South Africa and Africa, and for a just and better world.

3. MISSION

The Association seeks to maximize usage of its resources regarding the conduct of its foreign relations and the broad attainment of South Africa’s interests and foreign policy objectives.

4. OBJECTIVES:

The main objective is to create a platform for former Heads of Missions to network and serve as a resource to:

• Have a constructive relationship with the Department of International Relations and Co-Operation, and other government departments that have international relations responsibilities; to work with the provinces, especially the offices of the Premiers through their provincial officials, as well as local governments regarding relationships with their counterparts in foreign countries.

• Offer its members’ diverse, extensive experience and institutional memory to key and relevant stakeholders and partners to promote awareness of, stimulate discussion and deepen the understanding of international relations and diplomacy, and support the institutions responsible for implementing South Africa’s foreign policy.

• Provide assistance to the Presidency, for example, by serving as Special Envoys.

• Create opportunities to exchange views with experts, academics, scholars of international relations sand other with an interest in diplomacy and foreign policy.

• Analyse global, regional and bilateral political, economic, peace and security, social and cultural trends in foreign relations and diplomacy.

• Mentor young diplomats to achieve best practice in the execution of their roles and responsibilities.

• Foster relations with relevant South African, regional and international organizations.

5. VALUES

Patriotism

Loyalty

Integrity

Professionalism

6. PROGRAMMES

The Association will fulfil its mission through programmes designed to educate, inform and interact with the public about key foreign policy issues affecting the national interest. Such programmes will include but not be limited to:

• Conferences, ambassadors’ fora and other means of public interaction around the country to enhance the public understanding of international issues affecting the national interest;

• Mentorships that foster and develop young students, particularly in international relations;

• An orientation programme for Heads of Mission;

• Availing its members to support the Presidency including, for example to serve as Special Envoys or support staff;

• Providing its membership and associates with information so they can fulfil the Association’s mandate.

7. FUNDING

The Association is a non-profit organization funded by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and other sources.

8. STRUCTURE

The Association is led by an Executive Committee to be elected by its members on a simple majority and by a show of hands for periods of two years.

The Executive Committee consists of a Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary, plus three additional committee members elected for periods of two years.

The Executive Committee is further mandated to bring about appropriate administrative and support structures within the necessary and appropriate legal framework.

The association elected the following as an Executive:

• Chairperson - Amb G Nene

• Deputy Chairperson -Amb. J Bardil

• Secretary - Amb F Land

• Treasurer -Amb M Moopeloa

• Additional Members

Amb W Nhalpo

Amb. M Rakwena

Amb. T Skweyiya

9. MEMBERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Membership is open to former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives who are retired from public service and who meet its criteria and annual fee requirements, which will also be applied to any associate membership that may be established.

10. SYMBOLS.

The Association will make use of a symbol and logo for identification.

Annexure A

List of Ambassadors
	Initials & Surname	Designation
1	Abba Omar Y	Ambassador
2	Chikane M	Ambassador
3	Chiliza TH	Ambassador
4	Coovadia I	Ambassador
5	Crewe-Brown L	High Commissioner
6	De Swart I	Ambassador
7	Dietrichsen PR	Ambassador
8	Dr Kekana I	Ambassador
9	Funde E	Ambassador
10	Gantso	Ambassador
11	Jacobs D	Ambassador
12	Janse van Rensburg JG	Ambassador
13	January-Bardill N	Ambassador
14	January-McLean T	Ambassador
15	Khasu MJ	Ambassador
16	Kilian J	Ambassador
17	Kotane J	Ambassador
18	Kotane SS	Ambassador
19	Kubheka TMN	Ambassador
20	Land F	Ambassador
21	Lujabe-Rankoe T	Ambassador
22	Mabude NI	High Commissioner
23	Mabuza L	Ambassador
24	Magugu Z	Ambassador
25	Manley AL	Ambassador
26	Maqetuka M	Ambassador
27	Matabane	Ambassador
28	Mathoma TP	Ambassador
29	Mavimbela DJ	Ambassador
30	Mazibuko-skweyiya	Ambassador
31	Mbatha KZ	Ambassador
32	Mdlalose F	Ambassador
33	Meyer DN	Ambassador
34	Mfenyana S	Ambassador
35	Mngqikana LMS	Ambassador
36	Modise BIL	Ambassador
37	Moloi S	Ambassador
38	Mongalo ALCK	Ambassador
39	Moolla M	Ambassador
40	Moopela	Ambassador
41	Msimang	Ambassador
42	Nene SG	Ambassador
43	Ngakane LD	Ambassador
44	Ngubane BS	Ambassador
45	Nhlapo WAW	Ambassador
46	Olivier GC	Ambassador
47	Pekane LST	Ambassador
48	Phologane	Ambassador
49	Pitso J	Ambassador
50	Rakwena M	Ambassador
51	Roux JP	Ambassador
52	Saloojee YM	Ambassador
53	Schoombie N	Ambassador
54	Shaik M	Ambassador
55	Sigwela EM	Ambassador
56	Sisulu BR	Ambassador
57	Sisulu SM	Ambassador
58	Skweyiya ZST	Ambassador
59	Tsheole N	Ambassador
60	Visser TG	Ambassador
61	Wheeler TF	Ambassador
62	Zazeraj VJ	Ambassador
63	Zulu VT	Ambassador

Reply:

1(a) The Director General (DG) is presently on precautionary suspension. Two Deputy Directors General (DDGs) have resigned and two DDGs were dismissed by the DG. There were no other suitable candidates.

1(b) The decision was based on the experience of Mr. Mjwara and his understanding of the work of the Department.

1(c) Mr. Mjwara has resigned as special adviser to the Minister before his appointment as Acting DG. He will continue to act until the Public Service Commission has completed its inquiry.

2(a) No.

2(b)(i) and 2(b)(ii)

Mr. Mjwara only receives compensation as Acting DG and this is in terms of the SMS Handbook, Chapter 3 Clause 10 read with Chapter 8 Clause 16.

Reply:

(a) The Public Service Commission (PSC) has as yet not completed its inquiry. I have been advised by the PSC that their approved final report will be submitted to the Minister by 18 December 2015. There are presently no outcomes.

(b) Save that I have decided to charge the DG, no actions have been taken yet.

Reply:

1. The State Security Agency (SSA) is not aware of this purported process and therefore cannot respond.
2. When Parliament commence with any process that require our involvement we can react.

Reply:

(a) The total amount of narcotics seized can be accessed in the Annual Report of the SAPS as listed below:

Quantity of narcotics seized in 2013/14

Cannabis : 275 550, 750 kg

Mandrax : 424 391 tablets

Cocaine : 139, 455 kg

Crystal Meth (Tik-Tik) : 324 kg

Quantity of narcotics seized in 2014/15

Cannabis : 440 434.284 kg

Mandrax tablets : 302 790.75 tablets

Crystal Meth (Tik-Tik) : 598,74 kg

Cocaine : 122,14 kg

(b) No amounts of seized narcotics have been reported as being missing during the specified requested period.

(c) As no drugs have been reported as missing, no SAPS members have faced disciplinary action as a result of missing narcotics for the requested period.

Reply:

(a)(i-ii) Acting appointments have been approved for (5) five Chief Directors from the respective Branches against the 5 vacant Deputy Director-General (DDG) positions.

(b) The posts of DDG: ISAD (ICT Information Society Development and Research); DDG: ICT Enterprise Development and State-Owned Entity Oversight; and DDG: Administration, have been shortlisted and the Department is in the process of finalising the dates for the interviews.

Reply:

The Department is not aware of any legal action taken by any Deputy Directors-General (DDG) against any person.

One matter was referred for conciliation by one DDG and has not proceeded further. The other matter has been referred for arbitration by another DDG in terms of the Labour Relations Act, 66 of 1995.

(a) Yes.

(i) No, the above matter is dealt with at the General Service Sectoral Bargaining Council (GPSSBC).

(ii) Yes.

(b) None

Reply:

I have been advised by the Department as follows:-

The bid for the National e-Strategy was advertised and proposals were received from qualifying bidders. The Department undertook the bid evaluation process. The appointment process is yet to be addressed.

Following the receipt of proposals for Professional Counselling Services, the Department undertook the evaluation process. Three suitable service providers were selected to render professional Counselling Services as and when the need arises.

Reply:

(1) Only Eskom in its 2015 Annual Financial Statements reported an amount of R4 million as irregular expenditure relating to the SABC/The New Age business breakfast briefings. This amount was incurred within the contract period but prior to the Board’s ratification. The R4 million amount was only paid over to TNA after the Board’s ratification.

Regarding irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure in general, I am assured that the Boards and Management regularly review the SOCs internal control environment to minimise the risk, and where an incident occurs appropriate measures are taken to deal with the matter, including disciplinary action and/or criminal or civil action against those involved, as considered appropriate. Reporting in respect of financial misconduct has also improved in compliance with the PFMA to ensure that incidents are detected early.

(2)(a) Alexkor, Denel, SAFCOL and SA Express have not entered into an agreement with SABC/The New Age on the business breakfast briefings; Eskom and Transnet have existing contracts.

(2)(b) With regard to Eskom, the SABC/The New Age breakfast briefings contract is R43.2 million, effective 1 May 2014 to 30 April 2017 with 36 briefings planned for the period of the contract. Transnet has contracted for R20 million effective 1 April 2015 to March 2016 with 20 briefings planned for the period. In both SOCs, the Boards have assured me that these agreements have been concluded in line with SOC’s governance processes and that the required approvals are in place.

Reply:

(1)(a) There is no company that was awarded a tender to carry out a socio-economic impact assessment (SEIAS) for the National Integrated ICT Policy White Paper. The SEIAS for the National Integrated ICT Policy White paper is undertaken by officials within the Department, supported by the Department of Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME).

(b-c) Not applicable

(2)(a-e) Not applicable refer to 1(a)

Reply:

No, only the disciplinary hearings involving two Deputy Directors-General (DDGs), and 1 Director have been concluded, and the PA of one the DDG’s.

(a) The disciplinary hearings involving other staff members have been suspended pending the outcome of the inquiry by the Public Service Commission.

 (i) Both DDGs were found guilty in absentia of misconduct and a sanction of dismissal imposed.

 (ii) The staff member at the level of Director was found guilty of misconduct and a suspension without pay for a period of two (2) months was imposed.

 (iii) The PA of the one DDG was found not guilty

(b) (i) One DDG was dismissed on account of misconduct.

(ii) The other DDG resigned and prior to the finalisation of the hearing his resignation was accepted by the Minister

(iii) The implementation of the sanction against the Director has been suspended pending the outcome of the inquiry by the Public Service Commission.

(iv) No action has been taken against the other departmental staff members, as the hearings are suspended pending the outcome of the inquiry by the Public Service Commission.

Reply:

South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA)

(a) The outcome will be determined upon conclusion of the investigation.

(b) The investigation is in progress and lessons learned will be in the final report when published.

(c) (i) & (ii) The investigation is at a stage where additional data/evidence is being collected for analysis for factual information report writing. Following that will be the compilation of the findings, cause/contributory factors, recommendations and approval process. After that the report with its findings and recommendations will be published.

(iii) Prevention mechanisms will be put in place as and when identified by the accident findings and causes.

Reply:

(a)  Markers are currently appointed based on stringent criteria relating to teaching experience and qualification in the subject. In order to be appointed, a marker must have a recognised three year post school qualification, which must include the subject to be marked at second or third year level. The marker must have teaching experience at the Grade 12 level in the subject concerned and must be proficient in the language of teaching and learning. These criteria, together with a report on the performance of the marker as a teacher in the classroom, and his/her performance in previous marking sessions, are strictly applied, thus ensuring that the most suitable educators are appointed.

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) audits the selected list of markers across all Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) to ensure that PEDs comply with these criteria.

The writing of the competency test by markers, if applied, is only an enhancement to the current protocols and criteria for the appointment of markers, and not an essential pre-requisite that, if omitted, has the potential of compromising the marking process. The competency test would have been used to verify the above criteria and was never intended to be the sole criterion for the appointment of markers. Therefore, in the absence of the competency test, which would have merely confirmed the knowledge levels of the markers, there would be no compromise to the marking quality.

(b) The DBE ensures that marking standards are maintained across all PEDs through the following quality control measures :

1. Prior to the marking, a national standardisation meeting is convened at the DBE, which sees the assembly of the chief markers and internal moderators for each subject from each of the provinces. At this meeting, the marking guidelines are discussed extensively and a common understanding of its application is established. This is followed by training of the chief markers and internal moderators, who will take responsibility for the marking in the province.
2. The introduction of the Tolerance Range which ensures that during the moderation process the mark awarded by the moderator and the marker should not vary beyond an agreed range. This ensures that marking standards are strictly controlled to ensure that marking quality is rigidly applied.
3. Markers are also authorised based on an initial sample of scripts that are provided to the marker for marking. These are moderated and only after the marker shows that he/she is capable of complying to the tolerance range, will he/she be allowed to mark.
4. Intensive moderation of marking. Marking at the marking centre is organised based on five tiers of quality control and quality assurance. Scripts are marked by the marker and then moderated by the senior marker, who is in turn overseen by the Deputy Chief Marker and the final quality control is the responsibility of the chief marker. In addition to these four levels of quality management, an internal moderator serves as the final judge of marking standards for that subject at that centre. The DBE and Umalusi will appoint independent external moderators to ensure that external quality checks on the marking process.

No additional norms and standards have been set:

1. The norms and standards currently utilised for the appointment of markers is the criteria specified in the Personnel Administrative Measures.
2. No copies of specified norms and standards will be provided.

It should be noted that the credibility and integrity of the marking process is not at stake or in jeopardy, due to the deferment of the competency test for prospective markers. The procedures and criteria listed above are more than adequate to ensure that the quality of marking is of the highest standard. The DBE will pursue in its endeavours to ensure that the concerns of the social partners are addressed with regard to the competency test, so that this useful tool can be introduced to enhance the marking process.

Reply:

(1)(a-c)

Position	Expense	2012/13	2013/14	2014/15
Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	2 060.00	103.00	927.00
	Other allowances	0	0	0
Deputy Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	618.00	721.00	618

Position	Expense	2012/13	2013/14	2014/15
STAFFCO Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	2 163.00	1 751.00	1 854.00
	Other allowances	0	0	0
FINCO Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	515.00	515.00	309.00
	Other allowances	0	0	0
PRODCO Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	1 236.00	-	-
	Other allowances	0	0	0
AUDCO Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence
	Other allowances	0	0	0
ADVOCCO Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	927.00	515.00	1 442.00
	Other allowances	0	0	0
ETHCOM Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	-	-	618.00
	Other allowances	0	0	0
REGCO Chairperson	Travelling	0	0	0
	Subsistence	-	927.00	1 133.00
	Other allowances	0	0	0
Other non-executive council members		B MCOYANA 1 133.00 BM DU TOIT 103.00 CJ NEL 1 133.00 DE MABATHA 206.00 ES THEMBA 309.00 FNJ FOURIE 824.00 G BENGELL 412.00 G BOWLES 721.00 G CLARK 824.00 G HARRISON 721.00 J EASTES 206.00 JA BREED 515.00 JHE JEFTHA 927.00 L FEZEKA 103.00	B MCOYANA 1 133.00 BRAHM FLEISH 103.00 CJ NEL 1 133.00 ES THEMBA 309.00 FNJ FOURIE 824.00 G BENGELL 412.00 G BOWLES 721.00 G CLARK 824.00 H HARRISON 515.00 HJ DEACON 206.00 G HARRISON 721.00 J EASTES 206.00 J RUSTIN 206.00 JA BREED 515.00 JHE JEFTHA 927.00 JW BESYER 412.00 LG CELE 206.00 LH SWANEPOEL 206.00 ME MASEKO 309.00 MJ KUTUMELA 412.00 ML MAPHILA 515.00 MMC MAFUNDA 103.00 MS MOLOI 618.00 N LUKWE 206.00 NA MOSIA 412.00 NV MAGI 309.00 PR MOROATSSHEHLA 721.00 SM MAYONGO 927.00 TK GEZA 206.00 TTJ LEDIMO 412.00 W HLAISE 1 751.00	BRAHM FLEISH 309.00 CJ NEL 412.00 ES THEMBA 103.00 FNJ FOURIE 309.00 G BENGELL 515.00 G BOWLES 1133.00 G CLARK 515.00 I BEKEER 103.00 HJ DEACON 103.00 HN MAKHANGA 103.00 G HARRISON 618.00 J EASTES 412.00 J RUSTIN 412.00 JA BREED 309.00 JW BESYER 309.00 L MOTSHWANE 206.00 LG CELE 309.00 LH SWANEPOEL 618.00 ME MASEKO 309.00 M BOMVANA 103.00 M SCHOEMAN 103.00 ML MAPHILA 515.00 MMC MAFUNDA 206.00 MS MOLOI 306.00 NA MOSIA 515.00 PN CALUZA 309.00 PR MOROATSSHEHLA 618.00 RM DU TOIT 206.00 SM MAYONGO 712.00 TK GEZA 515.00 TTJ LEDIMO 515.00 W HLAISE 1 854.00

(2)(a-c)

Chairperson’s additional remuneration:

	2012/13	2013/14	2014/15
Additional Remuneration	0	0	0

No additional remuneration was made to the Chairperson.

Reply:

1. (a)(b)(i)(ii)(iii) Please refer to the table below:

Table 1: Number and percentage of learners enrolled for Mathematics in Graaff-Reinet district, in 2015; see the link below:

www.pmg.org.za/files/RNW3826-151118.doc

Source: LURITS, 2015 Second Quarter upload

1. (a)(b) There is no discrepancy because the response indicated that 15,3% of learners are enrolled at Grade 12. The 66,7% was indicated as the number of schools offering Mathematics, not the number of learners. Please see below the table that was inserted as part of the response:

Table 2 indicates the number of schools that declared offering Mathematics the in relevant Grades:

Grade	Total Number of schools	Number of schools with Mathematics learners	% to total number of schools
Grade 10	15	12	80.0
Grade 11	15	11	73.3
Grade 12	15	10	66.7

Source: Source: LURITS, 2015 Second Quarter upload

Reply:

(1) Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) were expected to submit their training and implementation plans in respect of the Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) policy by 30 August 2015.

(2) (a)(i) The Department of Basic Education (DBE) does not provide direct funding to PEDs to support the implementation of the SIAS policy and (ii) PEDs are expected to provide a budget to support schools in the implementation of the policy.

(b)(i) The provision of human resources is a provincial competence and therefore the DBE does not provide human resources to PEDs to support the implementation of the policy. PEDs are expected to use their existing resources to implement SIAS, including the use of existing therapist and psychologist posts. (ii) Similarly, PEDs are expected to provide support to schools, including training of teachers, within their existing resources.

(c) The Department will provide support (i) to PEDs and (ii) to schools by developing norms and standards for the implementation of the policy, supplying training materials and programmes, as well as implementation guidelines.

Reply:

(1)(a)(b) The budget allocation for information and communication technology (ICT) in education in the 2014-15 financial year in each provincial education department is reflected in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Provincial Education Departments: ICT Budget and Expenditure for 2014/15

Province	2014/15 Approved Budget
	R"000
Eastern Cape	No budget was allocated for ICT due to budget constrain.
Free State	No budget was allocated for ICT due to budget constrain.
Gauteng	115 059
KwaZulu Natal	No budget was allocated for ICT due to budget constrain.
Limpopo	45 396
Mpumalanga	47 186
Northern Cape	No budget was allocated for ICT due to budget constrain.
North West	9 365
Western Cape	77 631
Totals	294 637

(2) Each provincial department identify ICT training requirement and allocates available provincial budgets to address the training requirements. The Department of Basic Education in collaboration with Intel South Africa further assist provinces by providing ICT training for provincial and district officials based on their provincial requirements.

Reply:

(A)(i) - No MOU is signed between the Corporation and Driving Schools

(ii) - The Corporation facilitated the signing of a letter of acknowledgement by Min Ndebele.

(b) (i) The Minister Congratulate the Driving School Industry on the Establishment of the National Driving School Forum

(ii) The Minister lledged support to them to enhance the standard of learner driver training in SA. The Minister also stated that the National Driving School Forum will be consulted when the Driving School Legislative Framework will be finalized. The Minister stated that a Driving School Summit will as requested by the Forum. This Summit was held as requested ( facilitated by the Corporation during March 2011)

(c) the letter was signed on 07/04/2011

(d) A summit was held was held as requested by the Driving School forum

(cc) N/A

(dd) The letter referred to above was submitted to the National Driving School Forum, which consists of the following 4 national driving school associations: 

South African Driving School Association (SADSA)

South African Driving Operators Association (SADSOA)

Southern African Institute of Driving Instructors (SAIDI)

South African National Driving School Association (SANADS)

Reply:

The Airports Company South Africa SOC Limited (ACSA) has set a strategic objective to increase the contribution of non-aeronautical revenue to total revenue from 37%, as it currently stands, to 55% by 2020.

(a) All non-aeronautical opportunities at one of ACSA’s nine airports, such as retail and advertising opportunities, are subject to an open tender process to ensure that an open, fair, transparent and equitable approach is followed. ACSA does not enter into partnerships for non-aeronautical services other than when the Company bids for concessions outside the Company’s nine airports, where shareholder agreements have been entered into by the Company.

(i) ACSA has a shareholder agreement between with GVK (an Indian conglomerate with diverse interests across various sectors including airports, transportation and energy), and Bidvest, for the concession held by the Company in Mumbai, and Invepar (a Brazilian investment group, which operates in the transportation infrastructure segment in Brazil) for the concession held in Sao Paolo.

(ii) There are no definite planned partnerships which ACSA will enter into in the future.

(b) Presently, the Company has 10% equity holding in the Mumbai concession and a shareholder agreement was signed in 2006. Also, since February 2012 the Company holds 10.2% equity in the Guarulhos Airport, Sao Paolo. ACSA does earn consultancy fees from Guarulhos Airport, which is rendered directly by Company to the Guarulhos Airport.

Reply:

Whether, with reference to her department's annual report for the 2014-15 financial year, her department has ascertained why each of the 1 321 young and qualified educators under the age of 30 have left the system; if not, why not; if so, what are the reasons, in descending order of prevalence, for young educators leaving the system?

The indicator in question reports on all educators who were terminated on the system regardless of the category of termination. The main categories for this particular indicator are contract expiry (903), resignation (385), and death (22). Nine (9) educators were discharged due to misconduct. The reasons for termination related to resignation, that is, the 385 cases indicated above, are captured on PERSAL. The main reasons in order of prevalence are:

• resigning of position to take up another position either within the sector or in government;
• taking up another position outside the sector for better remuneration or simply changing of occupation; and
• issues about working conditions including personal grievances and nature of work.

Reply:

(a) Yes. The following modern technology and ideas are used to police protests and

gatherings:

• Water Cannon
• Long Range Acoustic Device
• Video cameras
• Recording devices
• Mediation and conflict resolution and intensified community relations programmes

(b) The above cutting-edge technology contributed to the following positive

outcomes:

• No loss of life, minimised physical contact between the participants and the police and improved method of collecting evidence for criminal court purposes.

:

Reply:

According to the Gauteng Provincial Department of Health -

1. Specifications have been completed;
2. The scope and project plan is still to be finalised. This will provide the specifics with regard to the envisaged time-frames to complete the renovations. It is however, expected that it will be completed before the end of this financial year.

END.

Reply:

(1) Operation Phakisa Ideal Clinic is an ongoing programme that involves improving current weaknesses in primary health care facilities as well as ongoing maintenance pertaining to the 10 components of the programme. The cost estimate has not been completed.

(2) No. We are currently in discussions with National Treasury about this.

END.

Reply:

Bosasa is a duly registered business with PSIRA. It is true that it is also providing security services at OR Tambo International Airport and they make use of camouflage uniform.

We have never had specific engagement with Bosasa regarding the wearing of camouflage uniform.

Bosasa uniform does not constitute any contravention regarding wearing of uniform. Wearing uniform is regulated in terms of Regulation 13 of the Act. Particularly regulation 13(7)(b) provides as follows:

(7)…Any security service provider who…

(b) without legal justification wear a uniform badge or insignia identical to, so closely resembling a uniform, badge or insignia of the South African Police Service, South African Defence Force, the Department of Correctional Services or any other Law enforcement agency or service established in terms of law, as to be calculated to deceive, is guilty of an offence and an conviction liable to a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 24 months.

Bosasa’s camouflage uniform is per attached Annexure and it does not violate regulations.

In the event Bosasa, at some stage or another, used uniform in violation of regulation 13 it has since complied voluntarily – see Annexture below.

BOSASA AIRPORT SECURITY

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL DEFENCE FORCE

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

1. No. There is no investigation underway or conducted.

What we regard as important to make a positive change in terms of municipal compliance is instilling culture of compliance with the critical provisions of the Act. This will be an on-going rather than a once-off process. In this regard, the department wrote letters to the relevant municipalities outlining issues of non-compliance and how those matters should be addressed, and it would continue monitoring municipal progress towards resolution of those matters.

2. Not applicable.

3. From the monitoring and assessments conducted, some of the causes were lack of understanding that until certain Council adopted documents (i.e by-laws to give effect to rates policies and resolution levying rates) are published in the relevant Provincial Gazette as required by the law, there is no full compliance with the law.

4. Yes. As already indicated in (1) above, the department is continuing to monitor municipal compliance with the critical provisions of the Act and where required it would provide the necessary guidance. In this regard, in the 2015/16 financial year the department would follow-up with those municipalities that were identified as having been non-compliant, with a view to rectifying those matters with respect of the 2016/17 municipal budget preparation process.

Reply:

No, there are presently no plans to renovate the Dental Departments in any government hospital.

The Department is in the process of developing norms and standards for Oral Health Services for the country. Once these norms and standards have been finalised, plans for renovations will be developed in line with the norms and standards.

END.

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

Government is currently building the capacity of economic regulators, who play a vital part in allocation of scarce resources, price-setting in monopoly markets and regulating conduct.

The BRICS Conference on Inclusive Growth and Competition held in November 2015, brought together economic regulators from the five BRICS countries as well as from elsewhere on the continent and from developed countries, to share experiences and insights.

As part of the work with regulators, we will be exploring the possibility of further consolidation of regulators and balance the specialist expertise that may be located within sector regulators with the broader economic and legal capacity that the competition authorities have built up over the years.

-END-

Reply:

1.The Prescribed Minimum Benefits under the Medical Schemes Act,131 of 1998 make provision for minimum benefits for people with physical disabilities such as:

(a) Mobility impairments

Included in the PMBs is rehabilitative therapy such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy up to level of functional plateau; i.e. up to a point where no additional significant improvement from continued therapy is reached. No monetary limit is placed rather a therapeutic value threshold is set. This is a critical clinical intervention to improve the mobility of the physically disabled patient. Additionally, equipment to assist with mobility is included in the PMBs such as wheelchairs. This is dependent on the cause of immobility being a consequence of a PMB condition.

(b) Visual impairment

Currently the PMB package only provides for visual aids such corrective optometry devices. If a member suffers a PMB condition which threatens their vision, the PMB entitlements first include interventions that will prevent the visual loss and secondarily, will reverse such any degree of visual impairment. Thus the PMB package with regards to the visual system is predominantly a secondary and tertiary prevention package, and is highly aligned with National Policy (e.g. cataract surgery and treatment algorithms for Glaucoma). With regards to other supportive health technology such as walking sticks for those with complications for PMBs aligned with national policy and included in their management is corrective medical and surgical interventions.

(c) Hearing losses

Preventative care: Common conditions that cause hearing loss are included in the PMB package and their early and effective management is included as PMB level of care. These include early management of otitis media, rupture of eardrums post-trauma or infection etc. Supportive care for hearing loss as a complication of PMBs is not precluded when other means of restoration such as tympanoplasty have failed.

The PMB framework enables Medical Schemes to institute Managed Care principles in order to ensure members of medical schemes have access to quality healthcare at affordable prices. Bringing down the cost of care via these mechanisms would allow for a more equitable disbursement of risk pool funds to both disabled and non-disabled members of medical schemes.

It is important to note that the PMBs are not an exhaustive and comprehensive list. The Medical Schemes Act, however, provides for a regular revision to the PMB package to identify and proactively address some of the current deficiencies. The revised package under consideration contains a preventative and curative components in line with National policy. It further does not neglect wholesale the supportive measures for irreversible disabilities, albeit with plenty of room for improvement. The PMB package revision is a work in progress with an emphasis on trying to bring it into closer alignment with current national priorities and policy.

2. (a) (i) Public hospitals do provide mobility enhancing equipment (assistive technology) to persons with physical disabilities in the form of crutches, walking aids and wheelchairs (manual and motorized),

(ii) Public hospitals do provide refractive services and issue the relevant visual enhancing equipment in the form of spectacles or readers. In certain instances where refractive services are not available in a public facility, arrangements are made for this to be provided by a service provider from an NGO or private sector,

(iii) Public hospitals do provide audiology services which include testing for hearing loss, and fitting and training on the use of hearing aids.

(b) There are no further relevant details.

END.

Reply:

1. (a) The information we got indicates that the Safety and Security Sector Education and

Training Authority (SASSETA) concluded five contracts without obtaining three

quotations.

(b), (c) and (d) The table below gives details of the names of the awarded companies, services procured and value of each contract:

Awarded Company	Services	Value/Amount
(a) Mabuya Auditors	Witnessing in a disciplinary case	R12 500.00
(b) Maweza	Information Technology services	R479 988.00
(c) Wolf	Security	R250 000.00
(d) TRONCOP	Construction	R22 175.28
(e) Bokhabane Event Hire	Catering	R2 580.00

2. (a) Yes, corrective action has been taken to prevent future irregular expenditure. The

following corrective action were taken:

• Supply Chain Management policies and procedures were reviewed and implemented;
• Forensic audits/investigations were conducted; and
• Regulation of spending.

(b) Yes, disciplinary action was taken as outlined:

• The Administrator of SASSETA has instituted disciplinary action against three affected staff members, all of whom are no longer with SASSETA.
• A notice to suspend a senior staff member, pending the finalisation of investigations into irregular activities, has been served.

3. (a) Based on the information at our disposal, the Local Government Sector Education and

Training Authority (LGSETA) concluded three contracts without obtaining three

quotations.

(b), (c) and (d) The table below gives details of the names of the awarded companies, services procured and value of each contract:

Awarded Company	Services	Value/Amount
Nameng Chartered Accountants (SA) Incorporated	Asset Verification Project	R432 960.00
MQQR Investment CC	Events Management Services - Sterkspruit Career Exhibition	R2 395 776.12
Jacqueline K Consulting	Provision of Project Management services to assist LGSETA with the office relocation project	R999 780.24

4. No corrective or disciplinary action was taken, due to the following reasons:

• Assets Verification Project: Three quotations were not obtained for this transaction on the basis that it was an emergency. The transaction was correctly identified as irregular expenditure, condoned by the Accounting Authority and disclosed in the Annual Financial Statements in line with revised National Treasury guidelines on irregular expenditure.
• Events Management Services-Sterkspruit Career Exhibition: This project did not follow the normal competitive processes of advertising through the Tender Bulletin. Since the SETA was under administration, there was no Accounting Authority to approve its condonation other than the originator of the transaction, i.e. Administrator, which performed the role of both the Chairperson and Accounting Authority of the SETA. The transaction was correctly disclosed in the Annual Financial Statements.
• Provision of Project Management Services: Three quotations were not obtained for this transaction on the basis that it was an emergency. The transaction was correctly identified as irregular expenditure, condoned by the Accounting Authority and disclosed in the Annual Financial Statements in line with revised National Treasury guidelines on irregular expenditure.

 

 

Compiler/Contact persons:

Ext:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

REPLY TO QUESTION 3820 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

1. No, I have not tabled a proposal to Cabinet in respect of free tertiary education.
2. Not applicable.
3. No, Cabinet has not mandated me to work with the National Treasury in preparing a funding model for free tertiary education.

In terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, White Paper 3: A programme on Transformation of Higher Education in South Africa of 1997, or the White Paper for Post-School Education and Training of 2013, it is not government’s policy to consider free tertiary education for all. The position has consistently been to ensure affordable university education, support those who cannot afford to pay through financial aid, and progressively introduce free university education for the poor in South Africa.

The National Development Plan affirms this position indicating that:

• all students who qualify for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) must be provided access to full funding through loans and bursaries to cover the costs of tuition, books, accommodation and other living expenses; and
• students who do not qualify for NSFAS should have access to bank loans, backed by State sureties.

In order to support this position, the Department of Higher Education and Training has, in line with the recommendations of the Ministerial Working Group on Fee Free Education for the Poor of 2013, submitted annual bids to National Treasury in 2013, 2014 and 2015 as part of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) budget process.

In the 2015 MTEF bid process, the Department focused on the increase required for NSFAS funding to assist financially needy and academically deserving students as identified in the Ministerial Working Group. The emphasis of the bid was to address the need to fully fund all qualifying NSFAS students at university level through Full Cost of Study (FCS) loans, for which an amount of R36.983 billion was requested over the 2016/17 to 2018/19 MTEF period for university students.

The Department has also brought this matter to the attention of the Standing Committee on Appropriations at meetings held on 21 October 2014, 26 May 2015 and 4 November 2015. At the Standing Committee on Appropriations meeting of 4 November 2015, as part of the parliamentary/political process for the finalisation of the 2016 MTEF allocations., requirements of supporting university and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students through NSFAS loans and bursaries were discussed.

National Treasury attended the Committee meeting and is fully aware of the status of NSFAS funding.

In addition, National Treasury and the Department of Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation are undertaking an Expenditure and Performance Review of the NSFAS, which was initiated in October 2014.

Compiler/Contact persons:

Ext:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

REPLY TO QUESTION 3857 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

1. (a) The 2014/15 District Health Barometer provides information regarding deaths from diarrhoea, pneumonia and Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) amongst children under five years of age. (see below) is taken from the District Health Barometer. The table shows that the number of deaths due to these conditions, as well as the associated case fatality rates (the proportion of children who are admitted to hospital who die during that admission), have declined substantially since 2009/10.

Table 1: Deaths and case fatality rates from diarrhoea, pneumonia and SAM in children under five years of age, 2009/10 – 2014/15[1]

	Diarrhoea	Pneumonia	SAM
	No. of deaths	Case Fatality Rate	No. of deaths	Case Fatality Rates	No. of deaths	Case Fatality Rates
2009/10	3 008	7.1%	2 769	6.6%	2 345	19.3%
2010/11	2 558	7.0%	2 287	5.8%	2 114	16.4%
2011/12	1 550	4.6%	1 796	4.2%	1 605	13.3%
2012/13	1 526	4.3%	1 395	3.8%	1 642	12.7%
2013/14	1 775	3.9%	1 532	3.5%	1 672	11.3%
2014/15	1 513	3.3%	1 411	2.9%	1 852	11.6%

(i) All public sector hospitals report on the number of deaths from these conditions amongst children under five years of age on a monthly basis. The Department uses these numbers to identify provinces, districts and hospitals with a high number of deaths or high case fatality rates, so that remedial action can be taken.

Deaths from these conditions were from all provinces during 2013/14 and 2014/15 are shown in . Deaths from diarrhoea declined in all provinces except Limpopo and Mpumalanga, and deaths from pneumonia declined in all provinces except Gauteng. Deaths from SAM increased in a number of provinces, and in the country as a whole. As noted in the District Health Barometer, this may reflect better identification of cases, but needs to be carefully monitored. The Department is currently implementing strategies to reduce the number of deaths from SAM.

Table 2: Deaths in children under-five years from diarrhoea, pneumonia and SAM by province for 2013/14 and 2014/15[2]

	Deaths as a result of:
	Diarrhoea	Pneumonia	SAM
	2013/14	2014/15	2013/14	2014/15	2013/14	2014/15
Eastern Cape	542	351	322	274	356	339
Free State	111	100	84	80	132	148
Gauteng	109	108	138	151	82	126
KwaZulu-Natal	387	347	305	300	337	405
Limpopo	239	246	283	232	288	291
Mpumalanga	163	189	201	198	144	233
Northern Cape	61	55	46	41	68	67
North West	151	105	126	103	251	225
Western Cape	12	12	27	18	14	32
South Africa	1 775	1 513	1 532	1 411	1 762	1 852

(ii) The numbers of child deaths by category of hospital during 2014/15 are shown in . The majority of deaths occur in district hospitals (which account for the majority of hospitals). Departmental interventions to improve quality of care therefore focus predominantly on these hospitals.

Table 3: Deaths in children under five years of age from diarrhoea, pneumonia and SAM by category of hospital for 2014/15[3]

	Deaths as a result of:
	Diarrhoea	Pneumonia	SAM
National Central Hospitals	53	116	25
Provincial Tertiary Hospitals	115	93	96
Regional Hospitals	343	404	513
District Hospitals	987	789	1 202
Totala	1 498	1 402	1 836

a Totals are slightly lower than in Table 2 as a small number of deaths are reported from Primary Health Care facilities

(b) Diarrhoea and pneumonia result from infections. Children with weakened immune systems (due to undernutrition or other conditions such as HIV infection) are more likely to acquire these infections, which are in turn more likely to be severe (and result in hospitalisation and/or death). Children whose nutritional intake is less than their nutritional requirements are at risk of developing severe acute malnutrition; this often results from a combination of poor food intake (due to unavailability of food and/or poor feeding) and repeated infections.

(c) The reduction in the number of deaths in children due to diarrhoea, pneumonia and SAM can be attributed to implementation of the following child survival interventions:

• Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV.
• Inclusion of pneumococcal and rotavirus vaccines in the routine immunisation programme. In 2014/15, 89.8% of children under one year of age had received all the recommended immunisations.
• Promotion of breastfeeding as outlined in the Tshwane Declaration which commits the country to promoting breastfeeding, especially exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. In 2014/15, 45.1% of children were reported to be exclusively breastfed at 14 weeks of age. This represents a substantial improvement, but further improvements are required.
• Provision of micronutrients through food fortification and Vitamin A supplementation. In 2014/15, 52.2% of children aged 1 – 5 years received the recommended two doses of supplementary Vitamin A.
• Monitoring of the growth of children using the Road-to-Health booklet and ensuring that children with growth faltering and mild or moderate malnutrition receive nutritional supplements.
• Correct management of children with diarrhoea, pneumonia and SAM at all levels of the health system. District Clinical Specialist Teams have been appointed in all districts. One of their key functions is to ensure the quality of clinical care provided in health facilities.
• Promotion of hand washing: the Health Promotion Directorate is currently implementing a hand-washing campaign.

2. Many other departments and stakeholders are involved in efforts to improve child survival and health.

Two of the most important departments are the Departments of Social Development (DSD) and the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS). DSD has led the development of the Early Childhood Development policy, and also ensures that vulnerable children receive child support grants. The DWS plays a critical role in improving access to clean water and sanitation for children and their families.

The Department also works with a range of partners. These include United Nations Agencies (e.g. the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO)), other technical assistance partners (e.g. Save the Children, PATH, FH360), academic and research institutions (e.g. the Medical Research Council) and private sector partners (e.g. Discovery Health).

END.

1. Massyn N, Peer N, Padarath A, Barron P, Day C, editors. District Health Barometer 2014/15. Durban: Health Systems Trust; October 2015. ↑

2. Massyn N, Peer N, Padarath A, Barron P, Day C, editors. District Health Barometer 2014/15. Durban: Health Systems Trust; October 2015. ↑

3. District Health Information. Extracted 4th November 2015. ↑

Reply:

The Minister of Public Works

No.	Client	Maintenance Amount
(a)(i)	President	R3 783 088.27
(a)(ii)	Deputy President	R1 596 390.38
(iii)(aa)	Ministers	R22 562 089.50
(iii)(bb)	Deputy Ministers	R9 430 690. 86
(b)	Parliamentary Villages	R90 402 420.00

Reply:

I intend to introduce legislation to further strengthen our efforts to tackle anti-competitive practices which impose unnecessary costs on consumers, undermine industrial policy objectives and reduce the competitiveness of the economy. The Department has undertaken work on the scope of the amendments required, using the jurisprudence and the experience of the competition authorities to identify weaknesses or gaps in the legal framework. We are holding discussions and consultations with relevant parties to enable the drafting process to be completed as soon as possible. A Bill will be published on completion of the process.

-END-

Reply:

Yes.

Agreements reached with food manufacturers -

(a) The Department of Health is working closely with the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA), which is an organization where various groups of the food industry are affiliated. Through this collaboration the food industry have committed to support the drive by Government to reduce the prevalence of Obesity. The need to reformulate some food products was identified as one of the priority areas. In this regard, it is imperative to identify the ultra processed, frequently consumed foods in South Africa and to do this. the CGCSA and the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI) South Africa, have commissioned a Dietary Intake Study which aims to identify these foods and beverages to target them for reformulation.

Furthermore, the Department promulgated the regulations relating to reduction of sodium in certain foodstuffs and related matters (R214) in 2013. It is stipulated in the Regulations, that as of 2016, there should be reduction of sodium content in various foodstuffs until the desired nutrient levels are reached in 2019.

(b) The Department of Health also collaborates with the Food Legislation Advisory Group (FLAG) which comprise of the industry, academia, research institutes and nutrition professional bodies. This collaboration has resulted in the development of a Nutrient Profile Model (NPM) for South Africa to provide a scientific evidence-based approach to determine the eligibility of foods to carry nutrient and health claims on their labels in South Africa. This Nutrient Profile calculator is a user-friendly electronic tool which has been made available to assist manufacturers on the formulation of new products or reformulation of their products where necessary and when they intend to make health or nutrition claims.

END.

Reply:

Technical work is continuing in order to give effect to the phased introduction of the Competition Amendment Act and ensure capacity to implement effectively. This has been done successfully with the market enquiry provisions. Further announcements can be expected within the next six months, based on progress made with additional areas of the Amendment Act.

-END-

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

The Gauteng Department of Health agreed to the relocation of the Hospital subject to the developer undertaking to fund the relocation fully at their own cost. It is the duty of the developer to ensure that all approvals (including but not limited to Environmental Authorisation) are obtained prior to any developments and relocation taking place on the site where the Hospital is currently located. It is assumed that until such time that the developer and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and Human Settlements obtain approval to relocate the Hospital, the relocation will not take place.

The Department of COGTA and Human Settlements has since brought to the attention of the Gauteng Department of Health that the developer no longer wished to follow through with terms of relocation as was agreed upon.

END.

Reply:

1. The Department provides funding to its institutions based on the mandate of the particular entity. Annually the baseline budgets of entities are adjusted for inflation or cost of living. In addition to the baseline allocations, entities may receive funding (on a needs basis) for capital works projects. Such funds are ring-fenced for capital project(s) only and cannot be used to augment operational budgets.
2. Funding for the implementation of GRAP 103 will be on a needs basis. Each entity has been requested to cost its funding requirements for the implementation of the GRAP 103. The costing exercise conducted by the forum of the CFOs of DAC public entities revealed that the costs of implementation include valuation costs, human resources costs, IT costs and security costs. Entities have submitted their respective budgets for the implementation of GRAP 103 and will receive funding based on the availability of resources.
3. As mentioned in 2 above, the costing exercise conducted by the forum of the CFOs of DAC public entities revealed that the costs of full implementation include valuation costs, human resources costs, IT costs and security costs. All the entities were appraised of these costs and were requested to incorporate them in their respective GRAP 103 costing or budgeting exercises. As such the budgets requests are inclusive of all costs relating to the implementation of GRAP 103.

 

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

The information requested by the Honourable Member is not readily available within the Department. We have, however, requested the Kouga Local Municipality to provide this information.

The Honourable Member will be provided with the requested information as soon as it is available.

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.

Reply:

The information requested will be obtained from the appropriate authority. The information will be communicated to the Hon Member when it is available.