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07 October 2015 - NW3695

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Mbatha, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training

How many students (a) were registered by the (i) Further Education and Training colleges and (ii) universities across the country in 2015 and (b) will be registered by the specified institutions in 2016?

Reply:

a) (i) Public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges have a number of enrolment intakes within an academic year. Headcount enrolments in public TVET colleges across the nine provinces as at 21 August 2015 are tabulated below. This excludes headcount enrolments for Engineering Trimester 3 N1 – N6 programmes, which will only be available on 30 October 2015.

Total Headcount Actual students enrolled as at 21 August 2015

Province

NC(V)
Engineering

NC(V)
Business and General Studies

Engineering

Intro N4 - N6
Business Studies

Other Programmes

TOTAL
Headcount Actual students Enrolled

     

N1 - N3

N4 - N6

     

Eastern Cape

5 600

15 066

10 294

4 959

29 880

2 646

68 445

Free State

1 721

5 273

10 380

4 760

24 744

1 851

48 729

Gauteng

8 426

18 303

38 059

18 122

52 234

4 983

140 127

KwaZulu-Natal

9 800

21 365

20 880

10 259

43 898

10 255

116 457

Limpopo

9 839

16 538

19 622

7 450

32 181

1 044

86 674

Mpumalanga

4 590

6 912

9 133

3 299

9 270

119

33 323

North-West

3 405

6 628

9 886

3 293

14 554

1 017

38 783

Northern Cape

731

1 537

3 686

269

6 814

756

13 793

Western Cape

3 887

10 920

11 403

3 057

25 391

13 369

68 027

National

47 999

102 542

133 343

55 468

238 966

36 040

614 358

Data source: Weekly Enrolment Monitoring as at 21 August 2015.

(ii) Universities have a number of enrolment intakes within an academic year and will be submitting their 2015 enrolment data to the Department on 30 November 2015. The university headcount enrolment target for the 2015 academic year is 1 020 000.

b) The preliminary headcount enrolment targets for the 2016 academic year are as follows:

   (i) Public TVET colleges: 829 000

   (ii) Universities: 1 035 000

 

 

 

Compiler/Contact persons:

Ext:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

REPLY TO QUESTION 3695 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr B NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

07 October 2015 - NW3616

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Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation

(1)​What have the total legal costs been to date in respect of (a) past and concluded and (b) present and ongoing cases between him and/or his department and a certain person (name and details furnished) in respect of (i) defamation of character and (ii) broadcasting rights; (2)what was the outcome of each specified past and concluded case; (3)(a) which legal firms represented his department in each of the specified cases and (b) who are the (i) directors and (ii) partners of each of the specified legal firms?NW4284E

Reply:

The Department is currently sourcing the information required from Boxing South Africa and will reply to the question when all information is available.

07 October 2015 - NW3353

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Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation

(1)What are the reasons for not supplying piped water to the Mazizini area situated in Ward 6 of the Okhahlamba Local Municipality and within the uThukela District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, which has been without piped water for six months; (2) whether her department has made alternative arrangements to supply water to the community; if not, why not; (3) whether her department (a) has taken or (b) will take action in order to reinstate piped water supplies to the specified area; if not, why not; if so, (i) what action has been taken and (ii) when will the supply of piped water be restored to the specified area?

Reply:

  1. The Mazizini area collectively comprises of two communities, the Newstand and Obonjaneni communities.

The Obonjaneni community currently has no interruptions in water supply and receives piped water from a reservoir which is fed from the KwaMfalazi River. The water is chlorinated at the reservoir.

The Newstand community in Ward 6 is normally supplied by a reservoir which is fed from the Zwelitsha Water Treatment Works (WTW). However, the Zwelitsha WTW currently does not have sufficient capacity to meet the demands of both the Zwelitsha and the Newstand areas.

The Uthukela District Municipality (DM) has therefore opted to supply the affected Newstand Community with water through a production borehole. The water from the production borehole was being pumped into the existing reservoirs which then supplied the community through the existing reticulation network. However, due to the drought currently being experienced in the Kwazulu-Natal Province, the groundwater levels have dropped substantially and there has been very little water in the borehole to pump. This resulted in the pump running dry which caused damage to the pump and the subsequent collapse of the pipe work within the borehole thus leaving the community without piped water supply for the past 6 months. This production borehole will therefore need to be replaced.

(2) The area currently has two (2) functional hand pump boreholes which are supplying approximately 900 community members with water as a temporary measure. These boreholes do not meet the full needs of the community and the Uthukela DM will be deploying water tankers to the area to fill up the reservoirs twice on a weekly schedule.

(3)(a) Yes, my Department has taken steps to reinstate piped water supplies to the area.

(3)(b)(i) As an interim measure the UThukela DM has appointed a service provider to investigate the availability of groundwater in the area and drill additional production boreholes for supply to the affected community.

(3)(b)(ii) This work is planned to commence within September 2015. The Zwelitsha WTW requires an upgrade in order to meet the required demands of both the Zwelitsha and Newstand areas. There is a planned upgrade by the Uthukela DM to increase the Zwelitsha WTW capacity scheduled to start in December 2015.

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07 October 2015 - NW3352

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Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation

(1)What are the reasons for the non-supply of piped water to the Divaal area situated in Ward 2 of the Indaka Local Municipality and within the uThukela District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, which has been without piped water for six months; (2) whether her department has made alternative arrangements to supply water to the community; if not, why not; (3) whether her department (a) has taken or (b) will take action in order to reinstate piped water supplies to the specified area; if not, why not; if so, (i) what action has been taken and (ii) when will the supply of piped water be restored to the specified area?

Reply:

  1. The Uthukela District Municipality (DM) is the Water Services Authority responsible for providing water services in the Indaka Local Municipality (LM). The area is supplied through the Ekukeveni Water Scheme and the Oliphantskop Dam is the raw water source.

The Divaal area has not been without piped water supply for any extended period. The entire Indaka area has an interrupted water supply i.e. the water supply is not available on a continuous basis due to a shortage of water. The water demand exceeds the available water supply because the Ekuvukeni Water Scheme was designed for a particular area and water demand, however more areas were brought onto and supplied from this water scheme, exceeding the scheme’s design capacity.

The different areas of Indaka LM receive piped water on a rotational basis with each area receiving water supply on different days of the week. Some areas, receive water more than once a week depending on location in the area. This is influenced by the proximity to the water treatment works and the layout of the water scheme. The Divaal area is at the end of the water scheme and receives water once a week on Thursdays.

(2) When an area is not receiving water through the water scheme, the Uthukela DM provides water tankers to fill static water tanks and individual containers so residents have access to water.

(3)(a) The Uthukela DM has identified and is implementing a range of measures to ensure continuous piped water supply in the area.

(3)(b)(i)As part of the drought intervention programme, which is managed by my Department, the UThukela DM is allocated R3 million to implement a borehole programme to improve water availability in the district. Contractors are currently on site conducting investigation of sites to start drilling boreholes. The Uthukela DM has made a further application for R3.5 million under the Municipal Water Infrastructure Grant to extend the borehole programme in this area.

(3)(b)(ii)The long term sustainable solution depends on the rollout of the Driefontein Complex Regional Bulk Scheme, a Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant funded project with various phases to ultimately supply water to the region from the Spioenkop Dam.

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07 October 2015 - NW3179

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van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the MINISTER OF SPOPRT & RECREATION

(a) Whether his department meets the Government’s employment equity target of 2% for the employment of persons with disabilities that was set in 2005; (b) if not, why not; and (c) what are the relevant details? NW3777E PARLIAMENTARY QUESTION FOR THE MINISTER QUESTION NUMBER 3179 QUESTION 3179 FROM MS LL VAN DER MERWE (IFP) TO THE MINISTER (a)Whether his department meets the Government’s employment equity target of 2% for the employment of persons with disabilities that was set in 2005; (b)if not, why not; and (c)what are the relevant details? NW3777E REPLY (a) No. The Department is currently at 1.4 % of the desired 2% (b)Given the small size of the department, the 2% minimum target is constituted by 3 people. The department had previously been in excess of the 2% target until the resignation of one staff member. The process to ensure compliance through recruitment is currently underway and the department has an Employment Equity Policy and Employment Equity Plan to guide this process. (c)Not applicable.

Reply:

(a) No. The Department is currently at 1.4 % of the desired 2%

(b) Given the small size of the department, the 2% minimum target is constituted by 3 people. The department had previously been in excess of the 2% target until the resignation of one staff member. The process to ensure compliance through recruitment is currently underway and the department has an Employment Equity Policy and Employment Equity Plan to guide this process.

(c) Not applicable.

07 October 2015 - NW3551

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Grootboom, Mr GA to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training

With reference to the board members of the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority having reportedly spent public funds on their families, (a) what amount of public funds was spent on family members of each specified board member, (b) have any of the funds been recouped and (c) what (i) actions have been taken against the specified board members who misappropriated funds and (ii) measures have been put in place to prevent such actions in the future?

Reply:

a) The investigation commissioned by the Administrator of the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) found no wrongdoing by Board members, but instead made certain findings against some senior staff members of CATHSSETA.

b) Not applicable.

c) (i) Staff members implicated by the findings were formally charged and have since left the organisation.

(ii) To prevent the occurrence of similar fraudulent activities in the future, the Administrator developed new policies and amended existing policies, such as:

  • Risk Management

A Risk Management Framework was developed to address identified shortcomings in the risk register, fraud prevention policy and procedures, and risk management policy.

  • Discretionary Grant Allocations

A Discretionary Grant Policy and Procedures was developed to guide the allocation of discretionary funding.

  • Financial Management and Procurement Procedures

These procedures were amended to improve financial management.

 

 

 

Compiler/Contact persons:

Ext:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

REPLY TO QUESTION 3551 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

07 October 2015 - NW3257

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Moteka, Mr PG to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation

(1)​What (a) total amount did his department spend on air travel between Gauteng and Cape Town for employees attending Parliament business in the 2014-15 financial year and (b) is the total number of trips that were undertaken; (2)what is the total amount that his department spent on (a) accommodation and (b) car rental in Cape Town for employees attending Parliament business in the specified financial year?NW3859E

Reply:

The Department requires additional time to respond to this question as the details required needs sufficient time to collate. The Department of Sport and Recreation has a very small finance Directorate and will not be able to respond to this question within the period allocated to reply to questions.

07 October 2015 - NW3618

Profile picture: Malatsi, Mr MS

Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation

Has he engaged the SA Football Association to address the inequality in match fee payments between Banyana Banyana players and Bafana Bafana players; if not, why not; if so, (a) when did the meetings take place and (b) what were the outcomes of the specified meetings?

Reply:

The Minister has taken notice of the inequity in match fee payments amongst women's and men's national teams. The Departmental Review Committee with the Big 5 sporting bodies (Athletics, Netball, Football, Rugby and Cricket) seeks to address this matter amongst the many issues being looked into. The work includes specific support to support the National Women's teams, improvement of match fees, ring fenced funding for development and tournaments and professionalising the women's sport to attract sponsors. The situation is improving and various tailor made strategies are currently being implemented

07 October 2015 - NW3617

Profile picture: Malatsi, Mr MS

Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation

(1)​Will his department take steps to recover money that was (a) unethically spent and (b) fraudulently earned by two certain persons during their tenures (names and details furnished) at Boxing South Africa, in light of the findings of the investigations against them; if not, why not; if so, what amounts does his department intend to take steps to recover; (2)when will (a) he advertise the vacancy for the position of Chief Executive Officer of Boxing South Africa, (b)(i) applications for the specified position be assessed and (ii) applicants be interviewed and (c) the specified vacancy be filled?NW4285E

Reply:

The Ministry and Department are not aware of money that was unethically spent and fraudulently earned at Boxing South Africa. The vacancy for CEO has been advertised and the process underway.

07 October 2015 - NW3256

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Khawula, Ms MS to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation

(1)What (a) total amount did her department spend on air travel between Gauteng and Cape Town for employees attending Parliament business in the 2014-15 financial year and (b) is the total number of trips that were undertaken; (2) what is the total amount that her department spent on (a) accommodation and (b) car rental in Cape Town for employees attending Parliament business in the specified financial year?

Reply:

  1. The total amount spent on air travel and the total number of trips that were undertaken between Gauteng and Cape Town for employees attending Parliamentary business for the financial year 2014/2015 was as follows:

(1)(a) The total amount spent on air travel is R 8 436 100.63

(1)(b) The total number of air travel undertaken is 1852 between Gauteng and Cape Town for employees attending Parliamentary business for the financial year 2014/2015

2. The total amount spent on accommodation and car rental costs in Cape Town for employees attending Parliamentary business for the financial year 2014/2015 was as follows:

(2)(a) The total amount that the department has spent on accommodation is R 4 624 218.12

(2)(b) The total amount that her department spent on car rental costs R 371 270.55

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07 October 2015 - NW3286

Profile picture: Malatsi, Mr MS

Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation

(1)​(a) On what date was a fighting licence issued to the late Phindile Mwelase for her fight on 12 October 2014 with Liz Butler, (b) by which official at Boxing South Africa was the licence issued and (c) what was the position of the official who issued the licence at the time; (2)(a) who are the members of the team appointed to investigate the specified person’s death and (b) from which (i) company or (ii) department were the specified team members appointed; (3)what amount (a) has been budgeted for the investigation of the specified person’s death and (b) has been paid to the investigative team as at 25 August 2015; (4)has the investigative team submitted its (a) preliminary report and (b) final report; if not, (i) why not and (ii) when are the respective deadlines for submission of the specified reports; if so, when did the specified team submit the specified reports?NW4043E

Reply:

The Department is currently sourcing the information required from Boxing South Africa and will reply to the question when all information is available.

07 October 2015 - NW2660

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Horn, Mr W to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation

(1)How many households in the jurisdictional area of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality made use of (a) bucket system serviced toilets (b) VIP toilets and (c) pit latrines from (i)(aa) 31 May 2011 and (bb) each calendar year till 31 May 2015 and (ii) 1 June 2015 up to the latest date for which information is available; (2) how many households in the specified municipality are expected to still be using the (a) bucket system serviced toilets (b) VIP toilets and (c) pit latrines by 31 May 2016?

Reply:

(1)(b) The official figure for bucket toilets in the Metro area is 1 585 but a recent survey has indicated that 1 347 buckets are being removed in Mangaung and 757 in Botshabelo giving a total of 2 104. It must however be noted that the majority of these buckets are on informal sites and that all bucket toilets have been eradicated in Thaba Nchu.

(1)(b) The Mangaung Metro has a total of 33 382 VIP toilets.

(1)(c) The spread sheet depicts the number of pit latrines as per a financial year as requested:

HHs with Sanitation Services in MMM

Month Year

Pit Latrines

(aa) May-11

33 745

(bb) May-12

32 998

(bb) May-13

31 255

(bb) May-14

30 825

(bb)May-15

29 823

(ii)(bb) May-16

28 437

(2) Mangaung Metro Municipality has committed itself to eradicate the sanitation backlog which includes all bucket and VIP toilets by 2018. With the current bucket and VIP eradication program, the Metro is expected to have the following backlog which will be addressed annually until the above mentioned eradication date:

HHs with Sanitation Services in MMM

Month Year

(2)(a) Buckets Toilets

(2)(b) Pit Latrines

(2)(c) VIPs

May-16

1 223

28 437

31 468

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07 October 2015 - NW3386

Profile picture: Moteka, Mr PG

Moteka, Mr PG to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation

(1)​(a)(i) What total amount did his department spend on his travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) how many trips did he undertake between Cape Town and Gauteng in the specified financial year and (b) what total amount did his department spend on (i) hotel and (ii) residential or other accommodation for him in (aa) Cape Town and (bb) Pretoria in the 2014-15 financial year; (2)(a)(i) what total amount did his department spend on the Deputy Minister’s travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) how many trips between Gauteng and Cape Town did the Deputy Minister undertake in the specified financial year and (b) what total amount did his department spend on (i) hotel and (ii) residential or other accommodation for the Deputy Minister in (aa) Cape Town and (bb) Pretoria in the 2014-15 financial year?NW3890E

Reply:

The Department requires additional time to respond to this question as the details required needs sufficient time to collate. The Department of Sport and Recreation has a very small finance Directorate and will not be able to respond to this question within the period allocated to reply to questions.

07 October 2015 - NW3508

Profile picture: Mackenzie, Mr C

Mackenzie, Mr C to ask the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services

(1)(a) How many Gauteng motor vehicle licences were renewed at South African post offices in each month during the period 1 January to 31 August 2015 and (b) what is the total monetary value of the transactions that took place during the specified period; (2) have the specified amounts been paid over to the Gauteng provincial government; if so, (a) what amount was paid over in each case and (b) on what dates were the specified amounts paid?

Reply:

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

 

  1. Please see the table below in terms of the number of vehicle licenses renewed during the requested period and the monetary value thereof. Kindly note that the amounts collected are inclusive of the SAPO transaction fees.

MONTH

TRANSACTIONS VOLUMES

AMOUNT COLLECTED

Jan-15

228 170

R 119 299 153.47

Feb-15

177 993

R 99 689 200.01

Mar-15

200 791

R 112 294 174.68

Apr-15

173 128

R 95 966 091.69

May-15

177 244

R 105 498 716.07

Jun-15

169 278

R 102 662 712.57

Jul-15

215 355

R 129 590 982.51

Aug-15

189 843

R 109 654 347.04

Total

1 531 802

R 874 655 378.04

 

2. Please see the table below in terms of the payments made to the Gauteng Provincial Government per month during the requested period. The amounts paid over are exclusive of the SAPO transaction fees.

MONTH

TRANSACTIONS VOLUMES

ACT-EFT-AMNT (BANKED AMOUNTS)

Jan-15

228 170

R 101 785 538.80

Feb-15

177 993

R 89 094 993.31

Mar-15

200 791

R 107 526 815.80

Apr-15

173 128

R 79 614 110.61

May-15

177 244

R 100 417 522.65

Jun-15

169 278

R 91 653 567.64

Jul-15

215 355

R 109 478 868.19

Aug-15

189 843

R 104 154 828.07

Total

1 531 802

R 783 726 245.07

07 October 2015 - NW3492

Profile picture: Terblanche, Ms JF

Terblanche, Ms JF to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training

(a) What amount is the EastCape Midlands Technical and Vocational Education and Training College spending annually (i) on its own internal security arrangements internally and (ii) to hire external security firms and (b) what are the (i) names and (ii) details of each external security firm; (2) is there a current budget deficit at specified college; if so, (a) how much is the budget deficit, (b) how did the deficit arise and (c) how does his department intend to resolve the deficit; (3) has any money from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme been used by the college for any purpose other than student loans and bursaries; if so, (a) why and (b) what are the relevant details?

Reply:

  1. (a) The following table provides details of the amounts spent by Eastcape Midlands Technical and Vocational Education and Training College (EMC) on its internal and external security.

Security

Per month

Amount Spent from January to September 2015

1. Internal

R45,417.00

R408,753.00

2. External

(a) Metro Security Services (3.5 months only)

R239,474.61 per month

R838,161.15

(b) Eagle Eye Security Services and Guarding (monthly)

R622 634.60 per month

R5,603,711.40

Total (9 Months)

R6,850,625.55

(b) The table below provides details of each external firm:

Name of the Firm

Number of Guards

Grades

Commencement Date

Termination Date

Metro Security Services

20

A, B, C and D

26 January 2015

15 May 2015

Eagle Eye Security Services and Guarding

52

A, B, C, D and E

1 March 2014

28 February 2017

NB: It should be noted that Metro Security Services was only appointed to bolster security at

EMC during the unrest.

2) (a) The current operating budget deficit for 2015 is R9.9 million which excludes non-cash items totalling R14.5 million for depreciation and bad debts.

     (b) The budget deficit is predominantly attributable to extraordinary items not budgeted for such as strike related costs in terms of security, repairs to property, legal fees, etc.

(c) Following the conclusion of the employees’ industrial action and restoration of normal operations, a budget review will be undertaken. Whilst there were exceptional strike related costs, there were also savings on certain expenditure items that will mitigate the deficit. A revised budget, including virements will be presented to the College Council before the end of the financial year.

3) Funds from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme have not been utilised by the College for any purposes other than student bursaries.

 

 

Compiler/Contact persons:

Contact number:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

REPLY TO QUESTION 3492 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

07 October 2015 - NW3371

Profile picture: Basson, Mr LJ

Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation

(1)What is the status of the Wentzel Dam’s capacity to deliver water to Schweizer-Reneke in the North West; (2) whether, given the fact that five of the 16 boreholes in Schweizer-Reneke are currently dry, she has taken any measures to prevent a water crisis in the event

Reply:

  1. The Wentzel Dam’s water level has dropped to 22% effective from end August 2015. The volume of water supplied from the Schweizer-Reneke Water Treatment Plant has also dropped from 4 Ml to 2.8 Ml per day. This has resulted in water supply shortages in Schweizer-Reneke Town and Ipelegeng Township.

The most affected are high-lying areas of Ipelegeng which are getting water intermittently during the night. To address this challenge, my Department in collaboration with water services authority, the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati DM, implemented the following short term interventions:

  • The Fire and Disaster Unit from the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati DM is on standby to supply water to the clinics and schools.
  • Two water tanker trucks are currently supplying water to the most affected areas of Ipelegeng Extension 4, 6, 8 and portion of Extension 5.
  • A total of 9X10 000 liters Jojo tanks are placed at Ipelegeng (including clinics, schools, police station) and are being filled from 06H00 until 20H00 on daily basis.

2.  My Department has allocated R5,1 million to Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati DM under the Municipal Water Infrastructure Grant (MWIG) for intervention in addressing the short term water supply issues. Already eight non-functional boreholes have been tested and the results have confirmed dewatering on the aquifers. The scope of work for this funding entails:

  • rehabilitation and refurbishment of existing boreholes;
  • sitting and drilling of new boreholes;
  • equipping of boreholes; and
  • connecting mains.

Furthermore, my Department allocated R1, 589 million to Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati DM under Accelerated Community Programme (ACIP) to address Water Conservation Demand Management issues in Mamusa Local Municipality. The Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati DM is in the process of getting Bid approval and the work is anticipated to commence in October 2015.

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06 October 2015 - NW3421

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Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs

(1)Whether, in light of the amendment of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act no. 107 of 1998) which provides for measures to deal with electronic waste as hazardous waste, all industries producing electronic waste, lighting and packaging submitted their plans on how to deal with the specified waste; if not, which producers did not submit their plans; if so, what are the relevant details; and (2) Whether she intends to take legal action against all producers who did not submit their plans as required by the specified amendment; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS REPLIES:

1) In July 2015, the Minister published a gazette which gave published notice of her intention, in terms of section 28(1) read with section 28(5) of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008), to require the Paper and Packaging Industry, Electrical and Electronic Equipment Industry and Lighting Industry to prepare and submit their industry waste management plans. The notice invited members of the public to submit comments within thirty (30) days. Once all the comments have been considered, the Minister will then publish a
section 28(1) notice which will require the 3 sectors to submit the plans.

2) The Minister has not yet published a section 28(1) notice requiring the sectors to submit an industry waste management plan. Failure to comply with an approved plan is an offence.

 

 

END

06 October 2015 - NW3458

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Stander, Ms T to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs

(1)How many environmental impact assessments have been received by her department since 2009; (2) how many of these were (a) rejected and (b) approved; (3) of the specified approved assessments, how many (a) appeals against their approval were received and (b) of the appeals were upheld?

Reply:

 THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS REPLIES:

(1) Since 01 January 2009 to 10 September 2015, approximately 2850 applications for Environmental Authorisation were received by the department.

(2) (a) Seven applications have been refused authorisation, and

     (b) 1651 have been granted authrorisation. The remainder may have lapsed, withdrawn or are currently being processed.

(3) Since 01 January 2009

     (a) 301 appeals against the issuance of Environmental Authorisations were lodged.

     (b) Of those 301 appeals, 20 were upheld, 29 were varied and 38 were withdrawn following settlements reached between the      parties. The rest of the appeals were dismissed.

 

END

06 October 2015 - NW3506

Profile picture: Boshoff, Ms SH

Boshoff, Ms SH to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)(a) How many full service schools have adapted their scholar transport vehicles to accommodate the needs of (i) disabled learners, particularly (aa) wheelchair-bound learners and (bb) visually-impaired learners in respect of each province and district and (b) what is the total number of vehicles that have been adapted for the specified purpose in each province; (2) how many (a) full service schools have boarding facilities to accommodate learners with disabilities and (b) learners are currently placed on a waiting list due to lack of accommodation in respect of each province and district; (3) how many full service schools with boarding accommodation do not have sufficient support staff to provide for the needs of learners with disabilities in respect of each province and district?

Reply:

 

(1)  (a) Full service schools do not as yet have their specific transport to transport learners and therefore there are:

             (i) no vehicles that can accommodate disabled learners, particularly

                  (aa) learners who are wheelchair users

                  (bb) learners with visual impairment in respect of each province and district.

      (b) There are no vehicles that have been adapted for the specified purpose in each province.

(2)  There are (a) 36 full service schools with boarding facilities, of which it is not certain how many are able to accommodate learners with disabilities and (b) DBE is not aware of learners who are currently placed on waiting lists due to accommodation in respect of each province and district.

(3)  The information on full service schools with boarding facilities that are without sufficient support staff is not readily available. DBE will make future plans to collect the data.


END

06 October 2015 - NW3480

Profile picture: Waters, Mr M

Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Social Development

Whether, in terms of the close protection contracts awarded by (a) the SA Social Security Agency and/or (b) her department to any other contractors beside certain companies (names furnished), any other equipment was bought beside weapons and ammunition; if so, (i) what was the nature of each specified item, (ii) what was the cost of each specified item and (iii) who authorised the purchase of each specified item?

Reply:

(a) No

(b) No

  1. Not applicable
  2. Not applicable
  3. Not applicable

06 October 2015 - NW3583

Profile picture: Mazzone, Ms NW

Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises

(1) How many contracts does Eskom have with a certain company (name and details furnished); (2) what is the (a) nature, (b) value and (c) details of each of the specified contracts; (3) have all the specified contracts followed the prescribed tender process; if not, what are the reasons for deviation from the prescribed tender process; (4) in respect of what other financial or business interests is Eskom directly and indirectly contracted with the businesses owned by a certain family?

Reply:

(1) Eskom has 1 (one) contract for the supply of coal with Tegeta Exploration and Resources.

(2) (a-c) The details of the contract are commercially sensitive as per contractual terms. The contract is for the supply of coal to Eskom.

(3) The contract followed the relevant governance process for the commodity in question.

(4) We are able to conduct a search based on companies information. The member is therefore requested to provide specific information.




END

06 October 2015 - NW3422

Profile picture: Singh, Mr N

Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs

(1) Whether her Department has developed policies and mechanisms to prevent America and Europe from dumping old computers in the country under the guise of donations; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; and (2) Whether her Department has any programme in place (a) to educate the public and (b) create awareness about the risks of cancer and neurological disorders that could be caused by electronic waste?

Reply:

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS REPLIES:

1. The Department is the competent authority for the Basel Convention which controls the transboundary movement of hazardous wastes and their disposal. The Department ensures that the Basel Convention is complied with by implementing the control system. Developed countries are not allowed to export wastes to developing countries for disposal purposes. Information Technology Association of Canada controls the imports of second-hand goods through the Second-hand Goods Act – by providing conditions for imports of second-hand goods, including electrical and electronic goods, which then ensures that no used goods are imported into the country under the guise of donations.

​2. (a and b)

The Department provides education and awareness training to provinces and municipalities on the legislation and policies developed, which includes the Waste Act; and emphasis is always on prevention for the protection of the environment and health. The Waste Act classifies Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) as hazardous waste. Other regulations that outlines specific measures related to WEEE include the National Waste Information Regulations and Waste Classification and Management Regulations. This information is made available to the public. The Department also envisages that there will be a waste-stream specific education and awareness training programme, linked to the industry waste management plans, which is expected to be provided by the WEEE sector. The programme should provide effective communication that informs EEE consumers about the potential dangers of improper, and the potential value of proper e-Waste treatment and disposal. These campaigns will have to be of a general public nature using various media.


END

06 October 2015 - NW3482

Profile picture: Waters, Mr M

Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Social Development

With regard to weapons that were purchased by the SA Social Security Agency and her department for two certain companies (names and details furnished), (a) where is each weapon currently held and (b) what is the reason why these weapons do not appear on her department’s asset register?

Reply:

(a) (b) Not applicable

06 October 2015 - NW3481

Profile picture: Waters, Mr M

Waters, Mr M to ask the Minister of Social Development

(1)With reference to the close protection contracts entered into with two certain companies (names and details furnished), what amount did (a) the SA Social Security Agency and (b) her department spend on the purchasing of (i) weapons and (ii) ammunition for each of the specified companies; (2) (a) what was the type of each weapon that was purchased, (b) how many units of the specified weapon were bought, (c) what was the date of purchase of each weapon and (d) what is the name of the person the weapon was licensed to; (3) (a) what was the type of each stock of ammunition that was purchased, (b) how many units of the specified ammunition were bought, (c) what was the date of purchase of each stock of ammunition and (d) what is the name of the person the ammunition was licensed to; (4) who gave the authority for the purchase of each (a) weapon and (b) stock of ammunition?

Reply:

  1. None
  2. Not applicable
  3. Not applicable
  4. Not applicable

06 October 2015 - NW3610

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Lovemore, Ms AT to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(a) How and (b) on what legal basis has Umalusi (i) monitored the performance of, (ii) accredited and (iii) exercised control over provincial education departments since the repeal of section 22 of the General and Further Education and Training Quality Assurance Act, Act 58 of 2001 in 2008?

Reply:

Umalusi’s response to question:

(a) How and (b) on what legal basis has Umalusi:

      (i)  monitored the performance of provincial education departments since the repeal of section 22 of the General and             Further Education and Training Quality Assurance Act, 2001 (Act No. 58 of 2001, as amended in 2008)?

Umalusi’s response:

In terms of section 27 (i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act, 2008 (Act No. 67 of 2008), Umalusi, as the Quality Council, is required to develop and implement policy for quality assurance. In this regard Umalusi, for example, commenced in 2009 with the process of conducting systemic evaluation for the General Education and Training Certificate, and the National Certificate (Vocational), by monitoring the Department of Higher Education and Training and the provincial education departments. Umalusi further plans to conduct systemic evaluation for the National Senior Certificate in due course.

Umalusi monitors the conduct, administration and management of examinations of all the qualifications on its sub-framework across the provincial education departments.


      (ii) Accredited provincial education departments since the repeal of section 22 of the General and Further Education              and Training Quality Assurance Act, 2001 (Act No. 58 of 2001, as amended in 2008).


Umalusi’s response:

Umalusi has never accredited any national or provincial education department, as the national and provincial education departments are deemed accredited.

      (iii) exercised control over provincial education departments since the repeal of section 22 of the General and Further             Education and Training Quality Assurance Act, 2001 (Act No. 58 of 2001, as amended in 2008).


Umalusi’s response:

The National Qualifications Framework mandates Umalusi to:-

  • develop a sub-framework of qualifications;
  • recommend the qualifications to the South African Qualifications Authority for registration;
  • develop and implement policies for the quality assurance of those qualifications; and
  • advise the Minister on the enactment of the qualifications.

On this basis, and the fact that the Department offers and assesses the qualifications registered on Umalusi’s sub-framework, Umalusi monitors their enactment and assessment, reports their performance to the Minister, and recommends steps to rectify any deficiencies.

 


END

06 October 2015 - NW3465

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Hadebe, Mr TZ to ask the Minister of Environmental Affairs

Is her Department aware of the problems faced by the Oyster Bay community in the Eastern Cape as a result of sand dune encroachment on streets, public spaces and residential homes; if so, (a) what has her Department done thus far to assist the specified community, (b) what plan does her Department have going forward and (c) what is the timeline for all such assistance?

Reply:

 

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS REPLIES:

The Department of Environmental Affairs is aware of the problems faced by the Oyster Bay Community regarding dune encroachment onto properties and infrastructure.

a)  An application for an environmental authorisation for the proposed Slang River bank erosion stabilisation revetment, as well as management of dune sand encroachment on various ervens, including Brander Street in Oyster, Eastern Cape was submitted by Kouga Local Municipality and approved on 9 May 2015 by the competent authority being the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism.

b)  The Department of Environmental Affairs is in the process of undertaking a situational analysis report which will provide guidance on the best rehabilitation mechanism or practices.

c)  The Department has scheduled a stakeholder’s consultation meeting with all interested and affected parties during the month of October and November 2015 in order to seek short- and long-term solutions.


END

06 October 2015 - NW3125

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Hoosen, Mr MH to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

With reference to his reply to question 2519 on 19 August 2015 (a) what is the estimated time frame for the specified Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Immigration Regulations to complete its work and (b) what authority will the IMC have to implement changes on the visa regulations?

Reply:

The Cabinet has tasked the Office of the Deputy President to deal with all Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) related matters, including the possible unintended consequences of the visa regulations. I, therefore, recommend that such matters be referred to Deputy President’s Office.


END

06 October 2015 - NW3324

Profile picture: Mkhaliphi, Ms HO

Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(1)(a)(i) What total amount did his department spend on his travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) how many trips did he undertake between Cape Town and Gauteng in the specified financial year and (b) what total amount did his department spend on (i) hotel and (ii) residential or other accommodation for him in (aa) Cape Town and (bb) Pretoria in the 2014-15 financial year; (2) (a)(i) what total amount did his department spend on the Deputy Minister’s travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) how many trips between Gauteng and Cape Town did the Deputy Minister undertake in the specified financial year and (b) what total amount did his department spend on (i) hotel and (ii) residential or other accommodation for the Deputy Minister in (aa) Cape Town and (bb) Pretoria in the 2014-15 financial year?

Reply:

(1-2) The total amount used on travel by the department for Minister and Deputy Minister is made available on 2014/15 Annual Report tabled in Parliament in September 2015.


END

06 October 2015 - NW2704

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Wilson, Ms ER to ask the Minister of Social Development

Whether (a) she, (b) her Deputy Minister and (c) any officials in her department travelled to China in the 2014-15 financial year; if so, what was the (i) purpose of each specified visit and (ii)(aa) total cost and (bb) breakdown of such costs of each specified visit?

Reply:

Minister and Deputy Minister did not travel to China during 201-2015 financial year. However, 3 officials visited China from 28 November - 6 December 2014 and participated during the World Family Summit.

Breakdown of costs:

Flights: R 144, 109.12

Accommodation: R59, 000.00

Allowance: R 18, 300.00

Total: R 221, 409.12

Funds have been budgeted for this activity

 

06 October 2015 - NW3484

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Kopane, Ms SP to ask the Minister of Social Development

Whether, with reference to her reply to question 2478 on 30 July 2015, the SA Social Security Agency (SASSA) obtained the specified authorisation from the SA Police Service (SAPS) to provide the services which are not within SASSA’s mandate, which has been the subject of the consultation between the SAPS Crime Intelligence, VIP Protection Services and SASSA since 2013; if not, (a) why not and (b) was the authorisation sought; if so, (i) will she provide proof of such authorisation and (ii) on which date will she provide this proof?

Reply:

 

(a) Refer to PQ 115

(b) Refer PQ 115

(i) Yes

(ii) Documents attached

06 October 2015 - NW3504

Profile picture: Boshoff, Ms SH

Boshoff, Ms SH to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)How many learners with disabilities and barriers to learning have been turned away from mainstream and/or full service schools and referred to special needs schools in respect of each province and district as at the latest specified date for which information is available; (2) (a) how many learners with disabilities and barriers to learning are currently on waiting lists to attend (i) mainstream schools and (ii) special needs schools in each province and district and (b) what is the maximum time period that the specified learners may be placed on a waiting list in respect of (i) mainstream schools and (ii) special needs schools; (3) how many officials at (a) district offices and (b) provincial education departments are suitably qualified to determine a learner’s disability in respect of each province and district; (4) how many learners with disabilities or barriers to learning (a) drop out of school and/or (b) do not complete their schooling successfully in respect of each province and district (5) how many learners with disabilities or barriers to learning at mainstream schools (a) completed their compulsory education and (b)(i) found employment and/or (ii) progressed to further education in respect of each province and district?

Reply:

 

1. The number of learners with disabilities and/or barriers to learning that have been turned away from mainstream and/or full service schools and referred to special needs schools in respect of each province and district is not readily available in the Department of Basic Education given that the Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) Policy has only been promulgated in December 2014 and its rollout plan to scale is starting from 2015 through to 2018.

​2. (a) The number of learners with disabilities and barriers to learning who are currently on waiting lists:

    (i) to attend mainstream schools per province and district is not readily available given that the SIAS Policy implementation has only just commenced in 2015; however, learners currently on waiting lists

    (ii) to attend special schools per province is provided in the table below. The information is not available in disaggregations per district.

Province

Number of Children/Learners on Waiting Lists: 2014

EC

 183

FS

561

GT

155

KZN

 1111

LP

 1027

MP

725

NC

1643

NW

 There are no learners on waiting lists. All learners placed in schools awaiting appropriate placement

WC

147

Most learners identified as needing special school placement are in ordinary/full-service schools receiving support while awaiting placement. 

National total:

5552

(2)  (b) There is no maximum time period specified for learners in respect of

      (i) mainstream schools and

      (ii) special needs schools to be on the waiting lists. Instead, the Admissions Policy advocates for urgent intervention by             a Provincial Head of Department in setting up an assessment and alternative placement process to ensure that                    learners in this situation access education with immediate effect.

(3)   The number of officials at:

(a) District offices; and

(b) Provincial Education Departments that are suitably qualified to determine a learner’s disability in respect of each province and district is not readily available in the DBE as the DBE makes referrals on disabilities to local health professionals and medical practitioners employed by the Department of Health.

4.  (b) Percentage of 7- to 18-year old children with disabilities who are out of schools/educational institutions.

 

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

EC

32.4

45.0

40.0

25.0

33.8

30.8

44.1

22.8

13.1

13.9

19.8

18.0

17.5

FS

14.5

34.4

37.7

12.9

20.4

21.6

25.6

11.0

8.5

6.6

5.7

9.3

11.5

GP

25.0

17.6

11.8

9.5

13.5

20.5

13.6

14.7

10.7

8.0

15.0

3.8

7.6

KZ

45.9

41.4

65.8

29.7

29.6

32.3

36.1

14.9

17.0

10.4

7.8

11.1

10.4

LP

33.5

36.7

31.3

43.0

22.5

33.6

42.5

13.2

8.3

5.4

12.3

15.1

12.7

MP

31.0

32.6

36.3

37.7

34.4

37.6

23.8

5.8

5.6

3.2

5.2

11.5

12.4

NW

35.0

38.0

47.8

25.8

23.2

23.4

36.3

26.7

7.3

14.4

10.4

5.4

7.5

NC

37.2

30.1

25.9

23.4

24.9

31.8

36.0

34.6

11.3

4.1

4.9

14.6

1.4

WC

24.5

36.3

26.5

28.6

24.0

11.9

27.4

9.9

5.0

23.6

13.7

6.3

8.6

SA

31.8

35.1

39.2

25.5

26.4

28.3

30.6

15.0

10.3

9.2

11.1

10.5

11.2

Source: General Household Survey (GHS), 2002-2014, DBE own calculation.

 

5. The number of learners with disabilities or barriers to learning at mainstream schools who:

(a) Percentage of 15- to 24-year olds with disabilities who completed grade 9 and above.

 

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

EC

21.4

8.7

19.5

24.6

35.6

35.6

22.8

20.2

60.4

48.1

25.9

52.1

21.6

FS

32.0

31.3

13.1

46.3

41.8

44.8

41.0

54.0

49.9

53.2

58.1

55.6

66.7

GP

48.8

47.2

47.1

54.0

43.3

40.7

68.2

52.9

58.8

58.8

76.1

84.6

73.2

KZ

41.9

18.8

19.1

35.8

37.5

34.3

37.7

40.8

52.4

56.2

34.8

53.4

39.8

LP

49.7

38.0

27.5

13.2

33.6

33.6

49.3

23.6

43.7

21.2

51.9

49.5

27.6

MP

36.6

43.9

27.9

50.5

39.8

35.4

35.1

60.1

44.8

43.5

54.2

46.8

55.1

NW

47.4

32.9

35.0

44.2

28.3

42.6

52.8

44.1

52.6

46.5

39.2

46.3

40.2

NC

45.9

18.5

21.7

41.9

20.2

48.8

46.1

30.0

33.9

47.1

50.1

51.7

91.1

WC

40.1

37.9

17.2

61.5

32.9

31.2

32.1

34.8

61.4

52.8

73.7

64.1

76.8

SA

39.2

30.3

26.6

39.1

36.8

36.9

43.5

40.3

54.4

49.7

50.2

57.4

51.0

(a)    Source: General Household Survey (GHS), 2002-2014, DBE own calculation.

b.  (i) found employment should be available from the Department of Labour (DoL); as well as

    (iii) progressed to further education in respect of each province and district should be available from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).



END

05 October 2015 - NW2952

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Davis, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Communications

Whether, with reference to her reply to question 2037 on 22 December 2014, the SA Broadcasting Corporation has completed the review of its editorial policies; if not, (a) why not and (b) when is the review expected to be completed; if so, (i) on what date was the review completed, (ii) was there a public participation process, (iii) who was involved in the process and (iv) what were the outcomes of this process?

Reply:

(a) The SABC is in the process of concluding its editorial policy review, public reviews and participation were undertaken in the 2014/2015 financial year.

(b) Review completion date is 31 December 2015

      (i)  N/A

      (ii) Yes across all provinces

      (ii) SABC audiences and stakeholders

      (iv) All feedback is currently being integrated into the policy

 

 

 

 

MR NN MUNZHELELE

DIRECTOR GENERAL [ACTING]

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

MS AF MUTHAMBI (MP)

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

05 October 2015 - NW3299

Profile picture: Paulsen, Mr N M

Paulsen, Mr N M to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

(1) (a) (i) What total amount did his department spend on his travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) how many trips did he undertake between Cape Town and Gauteng in the specified financial year and (b) what total amount did his department spend on (i) hotel and (ii) residential or other accommodation for him in (aa) Cape Town and (bb) Pretoria in the 2014-15 financial year; (2) (a)(i) what total amount did his department spend on the Deputy Minister’s travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) how many trips between Gauteng and Cape Town did the Deputy Minister undertake in the specified financial year and (b) what total amount did his department spend on (i) hotel and (ii) residential or other accommodation for the Deputy Minister in (aa) Cape Town and (bb) Pretoria in the 2014-15 financial year? NW3907E

Reply:

  1. (a)(i) The total amount spend on travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year for the Minister was R 268 638.82.

(a)(ii) The Minister undertook 40 trips between Gauteng and Cape Town in 2014-15 financial year.

(b)(i) The total amount spent on hotel was R 185 828.80 and (ii) residential or other accommodation for the Minister in Cape Town and Pretoria in the 2014 financial year .This information relates to prestige accommodation which will mainly be municipal charges as residential accommodation is paid by Department of Public Works Prestige Unit.

2.  (a)(i) The total amount spent by DAFF on travel costs between Gauteng and Cape Town in the 2014-15 financial year for the Deputy Minister was R122 157.85.

(a)(ii) The Deputy Minister undertook 19 trips between Gauteng and Cape Town in 2014-15 financial year.

(b)(i) The total amount spent by DAFF on hotel was R 265 416.58 and (ii) residential or other accommodation for the Deputy Minister in Cape Town and Pretoria in the 2014 financial year. This information relates to prestige accommodation which will mainly be municipal charges as residential accommodation is paid by Department of Public Works Prestige Unit.

05 October 2015 - NW3082

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Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications

(a) How does (i) her department and (ii) entities reporting to her define red tape and (b) what (i) specific interventions and/or (ii) systems have been implemented to (aa) identify and (bb) reduce red tape in (aaa) her department and (bbb) the entities reporting to her? NW3623E MINISTRY:COMMUNICATIONS REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA Private Bag X 745, Pretoria, 0001, Tel: +27 12 473 0164 Fax: +27 12 473 0585 URL: http://www.gov.za NATIONAL ASSEMBLY QUESTION FOR WRITTEN REPLY QUESTION NUMBER: 3082 OF 2015 DATE OF PUBLICATION: 21 AUGUST 2015 Ms V van Dyk (DA) to ask Minister of Communications (a) How does (i) her department and (ii) entities reporting to her define red tape and (b) what (i) specific interventions and/or (ii) systems have been implemented to (aa) identify and (bb) reduce red tape in (aaa) her department and (bbb) the entities reporting to her? NW3623E REPLY: MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS Government recognises the need to review its policy and regulatory environment that continue to hinder the development, growth and competitiveness of small businesses. Government has requested all spheres to institutionalise the guidelines aimed at reducing red tape at local government level. To date, the Red Tape Reduction guidelines workshops have been conducted for 102 municipalities across the country in partnership with the Provincial Departments of Economic Development as well as District and Local municipalities, Department of Trade and Industry and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. MR N MUNZHELELE [ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS DATE: MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS DATE:

Reply:

Government recognises the need to review its policy and regulatory environment that continue to hinder the development, growth and competitiveness of small businesses. Government has requested all spheres to institutionalise the guidelines aimed at reducing red tape at local government level. To date, the Red Tape Reduction guidelines workshops have been conducted for 102 municipalities across the country in partnership with the Provincial Departments of Economic Development as well as District and Local municipalities, Department of Trade and Industry and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

 

 

 

MR N MUNZHELELE

[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

05 October 2015 - NW3491

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Bozzoli, Prof B to ask the Prof B Bozzoli (DA) to ask the Minister of Higher Education and Training

(1) Does the East Cape Midlands Technical and Vocational Education and Training College (East Cape Midlands TVET College) intend to perform a membership audit of all of the unions representing employees at the specified college; if not, why not; if so, (a) when will the audit be conducted and (b) will the results inform the manner in which collective bargaining is undertaken at the specified college; (2) a) why have approximately 66 former members of staff who received formal dismissal notices from the specified college for striking illegally, 33 of whom have serious criminal charges already laid against them, including arson, intimidation and attempted murder, been rehired by the specified college and (b) what are the terms of employment for the rehired staff members; (3) were the relevant positions advertised; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; ( 4) what is the total monetary value of the damage caused to property during the violent strike earlier in 2015?

Reply:

(1) Yes. The Eastcape Midlands Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college in conjunction with the Department of Higher Education and Training will be conducting a union membership audit as part of an annual requirement to determine which recognised unions have organisational rights within the College.

(a) The audit will be conducted during the last quarter of the 2015 academic year.

(b) No. Collective bargaining can only take place at a central level through the General Public Service Sectorial Bargaining Council (GPSSBC), Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) and/or Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC). It is envisaged that through the College Labour Relations Forum, many issues of rights can be discussed, which will improve and enhance employer-employee relations, as well as secure labour peace and stability.

(2) (a) The College, after seeking legal advice, realised that the dismissals could be declared null and void on procedural grounds. The College therefore agreed to a "re-hearing'', which meant the dismissals would be null and void. There is no concept of "re-hearing" in the labour relations regime and such a process would be highly contestable. The dismissals would have only been fully effective after their appeals were rejected, and even then they would have had the right to challenge the dismissals further through dispute resolution mechanisms, including the labour courts and other courts. The affected employees were not rehired but re-instated.

The inherent risks in waiting for the process to be concluded and based on the legal advice, the unprocedural actions by the College would have impacted on the normalisation of learning and teaching, as well as resources of the College. If the College was found to have acted "unprocedurally" during the hearings, the possibility existed that the employees could have returned to the College on their own terms which was something that the Department and College had to mitigate against. The re-instatement of the employees was part of a settlement agreement with the National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (NEHAWU).

(b) The terms and conditions of the settlement agreement are as follows:
• The employees were on leave without pay from the date of their dismissal to 6 September 2015;
• All employees who embarked on the unprotected strike will forfeit a month's salary and repay any payments made to them while they were part of the unprotecied strike. This is aligned to the principle of "no work no pay"; and
• Accept a twelve month final written warning not to engage in any misconduct activities. The final written warning indicates that if the employee is found guilty of any misconduct. it will lead to a call for their dismissal.

While there were a number of employees who faced charges related to acts of arson, intimidation and attempted murder, they remain innocent until found guilty of the charges in terms of the South African legal system. In South Africa, both criminal charges and disciplinary hearings can be undertaken in parallel. It should be noted that charges were laid/instituted by individuals and not the College. At this time, the Department and College are investigating all employees who embarked on the unprotecied strike for misconduct, which will soon be followed by disciplinary action.

(3) The positions were not advertised as there were appeal processes still to be completed. However, the College opted to appoint temporary lecturers to replace striking or dismissed lecturers in order for teaching and learning to continue.

(4) Since no single employee could be identified for causing any loss or damage, the College will be undertaking a forensic audit to accurately quantify the expenses and damage incurred or caused during the strike. According to estimated College calculations, the monetary value of expenses and damage caused to property is estimated at R4 297 180.16. The College intends exercising its right to claim these damages from NEHAWU and individuals who are found guilty after disciplinary hearings are completed. This excludes the expenses and damage caused to the vehicles and property of College personnel who were not on strike, as they have their right to claim damages reserved.

Compiler/Contact persons:

Ext:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

REPLY TO QUESTION 3491 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr BE NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:
 

05 October 2015 - NW3008

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Carter, Ms D to ask the Minister of Finance

Whether he launched any investigation to find out why only R218 billion of the R256 billion allocated by the State for use on fixed capital spending had been taken up and whether as a result thereof any money budgeted for infrastructure development had failed to materialize; if not, why not; if so, what (a) was the outcome of the investigation, (b) action was taken against those persons who failed the State in one way or the other, (c) implications arose for the State as a result thereof and (d) remedial actions were taken to correct the situation?

Reply:

The budget and outcomes cited in the question relate to 2012/13 financial year as published in the Budget Review 2013. Public sector infrastructure budgets have increased significantly over the past 10 years, from R89.8 billion in 2005/06 to R262.4 billion in 2014/15. In some instances, capital budgets have grown faster than the capacity to spend. In addition, some projects experience implementation difficulties resulting in underspending. Despite this, inflation-adjusted infrastructure spend has more than doubled over the past 5 years.

Underspending of funds implies that projects may not be delivered on time and on budget, and the expected outcomes may be delayed. In some cases additional financial resources may be needed to complete the project. National Treasury has not undertaken any specific investigation in this regard. However, it closely monitors these matters on an on-going basis. When there is underspending at any level of government, the Accounting Officer for the relevant institution is responsible for taking appropriate action to address the situation. Every Accounting Officer ultimately has to account to Parliament. National Treasury plays an active role in building capacity and ensuring that resources are deployed appropriately to drive capital spending across all three spheres of government.

In addition to this government has put in place many programmes to improve infrastructure spending. For instance:

  • The PICC is coordinating the implementation of strategic infrastructure projects.
  • A performance-based approach to the allocation of infrastructure grants to provinces has been introduced. Provinces that adhere to best practice in planning and procurement are eligible for additional allocations.
  • The provincial infrastructure skills development grant has placed 240 graduates in municipal jobs in areas such as civil and electrical engineering.
  • The Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency is working with water services authorities to eradicate backlogs and conduct maintenance in water and sanitation infrastructure.


    END

05 October 2015 - NW2072

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Madisha, Mr WM to ask the Minister of Communications:

Whether SA Broadcasting Corporation undertook any investigations during the period 1 January 2010 to 31 May 2015 into its administration to bring to light (a) corruption (b) futile and fruitless expenditure (c) abuse of power (d) cover up of irregularities and the violation of the constitution of RSA to serve the best interest of the public; if not (i) why not in each case and (ii) what steps does she intend to take in this regard; if so, what are the (aa) relevant details and (bb)outcomes of such investigation in each year. MINISTRY:COMMUNICATIONS REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA Private Bag X 745, Pretoria, 0001, Tel: +27 12 473 0164 Fax: +27 12 473 0585 URL: http://www.gov.za NATIONAL ASSEMBLY QUESTION FOR WRITTEN REPLY QUESTION NUMBER: 2072 OF 2015 DATE OF PUBLICATION: 29 MAY 2015 Mr W Madisha (Cope) to asked Minister of Communications: Whether SA Broadcasting Corporation undertook any investigations during the period 1 January 2010 to 31 May 2015 into its administration to bring to light (a) corruption (b) futile and fruitless expenditure (c) abuse of power (d) cover up of irregularities and the violation of the constitution of RSA to serve the best interest of the public; if not (i) why not in each case and (ii) what steps does she intend to take in this regard; if so, what are the (aa) relevant details and (bb)outcomes of such investigation in each year. REPLY: MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS SABC undertook investigations against Ms Gugu Duda former CFO Ms Nompilo Dlamini Manager: Supply chain N/A N/A N/A This was resolved MR N MUNZHELELE [ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS DATE: MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS DATE:

Reply:

SABC undertook investigations against

(a) Ms Gugu Duda former CFO

(b) Ms Nompilo Dlamini Manager: Supply chain

(c) N/A

(d) N/A

(i) N/A

(ii) This was resolved

 

 

 

 

MR N MUNZHELELE

[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP

MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS

DATE:

02 October 2015 - NW3427

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Maynier, Mr D to ask the Minister of Finance

Whether the National Treasury intends to expand the scope of the mandatory cost containment measures specified in the National Treasury Instruction 01 of 2013/2014; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

After more than 18 months of implementing Treasury Instruction 01 of 2013/2014, the National Treasury recognises that further savings could be realised by refining the cost containment applicable to institutions governed by the PFMA. For instance, conference expenditure has been identified as an area in which expenditure could be curtailed. Once the refined document has been through the approved processes it will replace the current one.

02 October 2015 - NW3433

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America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Finance

Whether the SA Airways Group has a programme in place to (a) minimise pilferage and/or (b) loss of (i) bar items, (ii) major galley equipment, (iii) high value in-flight items and (iv) any other specified item(s); if not, why not; if so, in respect of each specified case, what (aa) is the description of the item(s) that were pilfered and/or lost and (bb) was the value of the item(s) pilfered and/or lost in the (aaa) 2009-10, (bbb) 2010-11, (ccc) 2011-12, (ddd) 2012-13, (eee) 2013-14 and (fff) 2014-15 financial years?

Reply:

SAA has a streamlined hand-over process for the transportation of bar items, major galley equipment and high value inflight items from the catering unit to the aircrafts (outbound flights) as well as from the aircrafts back to the catering unit (inbound flights). This process has security visibility in order to ensure that service providers adhere to SAA’s normal operating procedures and the security of these items is maintained.

(i) Bar Items – SAA monitors consumption daily and provides monthly reports and wherever there are spikes in consumption investigation pursues.

(ii) Major Galley Equipment – SAA provides the galley loading plans to the caterers, the caterers need to adhere to and not deviate from these loading plans. Checklists are in place to ensure that the caterers do not deviate from the loading plans and any deviations attract penalties.

(iii) High-value inflight items – SAA has a rigorous security and recycling program where items such as headsets, amenity kits, cabin comfort items and catering items are recycled and rotated to ensure that SAA derives full value for money on all its recyclable and re-usable items.

02 October 2015 - NW3428

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Maynier, Mr D to ask the Minister of Finance

In respect of the additional cost containment measures for consideration by accounting officers and accounting authorities specified in the National Treasury Instruction 01 of 2013/2014, which specified (a) departments, (b) constitutional institutions and (c) public entities listed on Schedule 2 and 3 of the Public Finance Management Act, Act 1 of 1999, (i) acquired air tickets using corporate air miles accumulated through loyalty programmes, (ii) discontinued supplying employees with newspapers and other publications and (iii) ensured team-building functions, social functions and end-of-year functions, are not financed from the establishment budget in the (aa) 2013-14, (bb) 2014-15 and (cc) 2015-16 financial years?

Reply:

The provisions of paragraph 4 of the National Treasury Instruction 01 of 2013/3014 that relate to expenditure on the engagement of consultants, travel and subsistence, domestic hotel accommodation, hiring of vehicles, entertainment allowances and expenditure related to catering and the hosting of social events are mandatory. The areas contained in the Annexure to the Treasury Instruction are not mandatory for implementation and expenditures related thereto are not auditable.

Therefore information related to (i) the acquisition of air tickets using corporate air miles and (ii) the discontinuing of purchases related to newspapers and other publications are cost containment measures that are not mandatory and can only be obtained directly from the respective departments, constitutional institutions and public entities. The information on expenses related to (iii) team building, social functions and year end functions are specifically precluded from being financed from the budgets of departments. Information related thereto is thus not available from the National Treasury and can be obtained directly from the respective departments, constitutional institutions and public entities.

02 October 2015 - NW3442

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Chance, Mr R to ask the Minister of Small Business Development

(1) With reference to her reply to question 1642 on 5 June 2015, can she provide an update on the status of the ongoing discussions between her department and the Department of Trade and Industry regarding the possible splitting of the Incubator Support Programme (ISP) between the two departments; (2) is she aware that (a) the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) is working with certain large organisations, including BHP Billiton, Hulamin and Amalgamated Beverage Industries, to establish small business incubators and (b) SEFA executives are concerned that this programme will overlap with the ISP; if so, how does she plan to streamline government programmes for small business to (i) reduce duplications and (ii) concentrate resources and best practice? NW4103E

Reply:

(1) The Incubation Support Programme is part of Economic Competitiveness Support Programme package which is under the dti. As such there is no dedicated budget line item that comes from National Treasury to the dti for Incubation Support Programme. The Department of Small Business Development is focusing on the Incubation Support Programme that is under SEDA and reviewing this instrument as part of the overall review of programmes that were transferred from the dti with the purpose of improving its impact.

(2) Yes, the Minister of Small Business Development is aware that sefa is working with certain large organisations. Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) regard market constraints and the inability to sell their products and services as one of the most serious obstacles to the starting of businesses and growth beyond mere subsistence level.

The responsibility of developing steps to overcome this constraint falls upon many different stakeholder groups: individual entrepreneurs, business associations, government and the private sector in particular large corporations. It is in this context that sefa has initiated a process to establish partnerships with the private sector (ie BHP Billiton, Hulamin and Amalgamated Beverage Industries) to facilitate access to Corporate South Africa supply chains and other opportunities for SMME development.

In terms of the partnerships, sefa has introduced an initiative called a Structured Financing Solutions (SFS), aimed at tapping on the expertise and opportunities in large corporations for SMME development. The SFS partnership is geared towards providing a seamless financial and non-financial intervention to a targeted group of SMMEs based on government economic policy enshrined in the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) and the New Growth Path (NGP). Therefore, the SFS is not an Incubator Support Programme but rather a programme initiative/ partnership with large corporate to unlock opportunities for small business development in their respective value chains.

 

02 October 2015 - NW3349

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Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Finance

What was (a) the total (i) revenue collection target, (ii) actual revenue collected and (iii) variance between the revenue target and revenue collected and (b) the breakdown of the total (i) revenue collection target, (ii) actual revenue collected and (iii) variance between the revenue target and revenue collected during the period 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?

Reply:

(a) The National Treasury publishes detailed statement on actual tax revenue received into the National Revenue Fund on a monthly basis in the Government Gazette and on its website. This is done within 30 days after the end of each month, in terms of section 32(1) of the Public Finance Management Act 1 of 1999. The latest available monthly statement is for the period ending 31 July 2015, which was published as part of on 28 August 2015 (refer to Statement of the National Revenue, Expenditure and Borrowing as 31 July 2015 published by the Director-General of the Treasury, as attached). The data for the period ending August 2015 will be published by the end of September 2015.

The information below refers to the annual tax revenue targets as published in the 2015 Budget Review, and the actual collections for the year to date for this fiscal year and the previous fiscal year. The Treasury does not publish monthly revenue targets as these can be subject to great volatility. As you are aware, the Treasury does revise the annual tax revenue targets in October every year during the Medium Budget Policy Statement, and again in the annual Budget.

(i) The total (gross) tax revenue target for the 2015/16 fiscal years is R1 081 275 million. This is R94 992 million, or 9.6 per cent, higher than the actual collections of R986 283 million for the previous fiscal year.

(ii) The actual total tax revenue collections for the period April to July 2015 (the first four months of the 2015/16 fiscal year) amounted R309 742 364 million. The actual total tax revenue collections for the period April to July 2014 (the first four months of the 2014/15 fiscal year) amounted R279 047 million.

(iii) Hence the actual total tax revenue collections during the first four months of the 2015/16 fiscal year is R29 376 million, or 10.5 per cent, higher that for the same period last year.

(b) The table attached (Statement 1 as published on 28 August 2015) provides the breakdown of the aggregate (total) data provide in (a) by tax type. The table indicates that in nominal terms corporate income tax revenue, during the first four month of the 2015/16 fiscal year, were below the actual collections during the first four months of the previous fiscal year by 1.5 per cent. This may be an indication that total corporate income tax revenue for the 2015/16 fiscal is likely to be below the target for the year. It should, however, be noted that most corporate tax revenue is collected at the end of each quarter with June and December the more important months.

02 October 2015 - NW3173

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Shivambu, Mr F to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources

Whether it is the policy position of his department that senior officials, including the Director-General of his department, are allowed to have shares in mining companies, including those administered by a blind trust; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) in which mining companies does the specified person have shares and (b) what is the total value of these shares?

Reply:

(a)(b) A Framework which requires all members of the Senior Management Service (SMS) including Directors General in the Public Service to disclose their interests, is also applicable to officials within my Department. The e-Disclosure system which enables SMS members to submit their disclosures electronically, is being administered by the Department of Public Service and Administration, and information relating to contents of what is being disclosed, resides there.

02 October 2015 - NW3463

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Stander, Ms T to ask the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform

With reference to the Constitutional Court ruling on 20 August 2015 in relation to the Bakgatla Ba Kgafela communal property association’s (CPAs) right to restitution land, (a) how many similar existing court cases where tribal authorities (TAs) and CPAs are in conflict with one another over who controls the land have since been reported to his department and/or its officials, (b) where are the conflicts taking place and (c) which (i) TAs and (ii) CPAs are involved in each such conflict; (2) does his department have a policy to guide such conflicts; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) will the specified Constitutional Court ruling result in any changes to his department’s policy on land restitution; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

(1)(a) None.

(b),(c),(i),(ii) Falls away.

(2) The department of Rural Development and Land Reform established the Land Rights Management Facility which among other things mediates conflicts in Communal Property Associations.

(3) No. The option to decide on the type of legal entity that must hold land for each community has always been the sole prerogative of that community.

02 October 2015 - NW3071

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De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources

(a) How does (i) his department and (ii) entities reporting to him define red tape and (b) what (i) specific interventions and/or (ii) systems have been implemented to (aa) identify and (bb) reduce red tape in (aaa) his department and (bbb) the entities reporting to him?

Reply:

(a)(i) and (ii) Although the concept “red tape” has not been formally defined, any unnecessarily practice, system or process which does not serve any purpose but for delaying the delivery of legislative mandated services, may be regarded as red tape and should be avoided and eliminated by my Department and entities reporting to me.

(b)(i) Service delivery within the Department and entities is continuously monitored and evaluated through engagement with stakeholders and during annual planning. Where necessary policies and legislation are reviewed to reduce turnaround times and to maintain and improve on service delivery

(b)(ii)(aa) and (bb) The development and implementation of the South African Mineral Resources Administration System (“SAMRAD”) providing for online lodgment of applications in terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (“MPRDA”), and the One Environment System which has removed duplication of functions and synchronized and reduce timeframes for the processing of applications in terms of the MPRDA, are examples of such interventions.

.

02 October 2015 - NW3498

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Lovemore, Ms AT to ask the Minister of Basic Education

With reference to her reply to question 508 on 13 March 2015, (a) when does she intend to commence the administration of the Annual National Assessments (ANAs) to each teacher who teaches learners who participate in the ANAs, (b) when will she commence consultation aimed at achieving this goal, (c) why are the results of the testing of teachers anonymous and (d) why are the specified results not used as (i) a developmental tool for individual teachers or (ii) justification for disciplinary action should development not be successful?

Reply:

(a) The response to Question 508 remains unchanged, in that the testing of teachers on the ANA will be preceded by proper consultation with relevant role-players. Furthermore, the results will be used only for research purposes. National systemic evaluation is in the process of being reviewed through proper consultation and the formulation of a framework and policy in this regard.

(b) The consultation process has commenced with the relevant stakeholders. On 20 July 2015, a government gazette was published calling for written comment from stakeholders.

(c) There are no results, as no teacher has been tested on Annual National Assessment (ANA).

(d) (i) Not applicable.

(ii) Diagnostic assessments are not for punitive actions.

 

 

 

RESPONSE TO NATIONAL ASSEMBLY QUESTION 3498

Compiled by:

Mr H Mahomed

Director: CPTD

Date

Mr TE Rabotapi

Acting Chief Director: Education Human Resource Development

Date:

Mr TS Kojana

Deputy Director- General: Teacher and Professional Development

Date:

Mr HM Mweli

Director-General

Date:

QUESTION 3498 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Mr ME Surty, MP

Deputy Minister

Date:

Mrs AM Motshekga, MP

Minister

Date:

02 October 2015 - NW3464

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Steyn, Ms A to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

1. Whether his department has been involved in any projects in the Tsolwana Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape since 2009; if so, (a) on which farms, (b) what total amount has been spent on each farm, (c) what was the money spent on in each case and (d) who was the service provider in each case? NW4125E

Reply:

  1. The table below illustrate the projects that were supported by the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian reform using both CASP conditional grant and equitable share from 2009 to 2015.

Year

Project Name

LM

Ward

Fund source

Amount spent

SERVICE PROVIDER

Ownership

Type of infrastructure

2009

Thembalethu Shearing Shed

Tsolwana

3

CASP

R 478 126.00

  1. A. Smiles builders

Communal

Shearing shed constructed

2010

Thornhill Dip Tank

Tsolwana

1

CASP

R 75 605.41

Onthandazo trading

Communal

Dipping Facility developed

2010

Thornhill Animal handling Facility

Tsolwana

1

CASP

R 181 418.47

SA & DA construction

Communal

Animal Handling Facility developed

2010

Thornhill fencing – nguni project

Tsolwana

1

CASP

R 755 727.00

Hyman master fence

Communal

Fencing grazing camps

2010

Mittford Dip Tank

Tsolwana

2

CASP

R 35 963.87

SA & DA construction

Communal

Dipping Facility renovated

2010

Mitford broiler house

Tsolwana

2

CASP

R 177 929.00

Odwa & Solie construction

Communal

Broiler poultry facility (250 birds)

2010

Malote Stock Water

Tsolwana

5

CASP

R 466 471.68

SA & DA construction

LRAD Farm

Boreholes and stock water systems developed

2010

Malote Fencing

Tsolwana

5

CASP

R 393 567.90

DDX BUILDERS

LRAD Farm

Fencing 13km errected

2012

Bambanani Youth Development

Tsolwlana

3

CASP

R 250 027.21

97 Grey str ( contractors

Communal

Irrigation system developed

2015

Thornhill

Tsolwlana

5

Equitable share

R 75 000.00

KDC trading

Communal

Dip tank renovation material supplied

2015

Baccles Farm

Tsolwlana

5

Equitable share

R 75 000.00

KDC trading

Communal

Dip tank renovation material supplied

2015

Tendergate

Tsolwlana

5

Equitable share

R 75 000.00

KDC trading

Communal

Dip tank renovation material supplied

2015

Springgrove

Tsolwlana

5

Equitable share

R 75 000.00

KDC trading

Communal

Dip tank renovation material supplied

1 (a) The province is requested to send coordinates for the farms, upon receipt, they will be made available.

02 October 2015 - NW3347

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Maynier, Mr D to ask the Minister of Finance

(1)In respect of the mandatory cost containment measures specified in the National Treasury Instruction 01 of 2013-14, by what (a) amount and (b) percentage did expenditure on (i) consultants, (ii) travel and subsistence and (iii) catering and events (aa) increase and/or (bb) decrease in each specified (aaa) department, (bbb) constitutional institution and (ccc) public entity listed in Schedule 2 and 3 of the Public Finance Management Act, Act 1 of 1999, (aaaa) in the (aaaaa) 2013-14 and (bbbbb) 2014-15 financial years and (ccccc) in the period 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; (2) What is the total amount of the specified expenditure (a) in the 2013-14 financial year and (b) during the period 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?

Reply:

  1. Table 1 provides a summary of expenditure in relation to the amounts spent and the percentage increases or decreases related to (i) consultants, (ii) travel and subsistence and (iii) catering and events in departments. The table provides expenditure information for the 2012/2013, 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 financial years.

Table 2 provides a summary of expenditure in relation to the amounts spent on (i) consultants, (ii) travel and subsistence and (iii) catering and events in departments for months of 01 April 2015 to August 2015. The aforementioned information was extracted from the National Treasury’s transversal financial management systems that are utilised by departments.

Expenditure information on consultants, travel and subsistence and catering and events is not available for constitutional institutions and public entities listed in Schedules 2 and 3 to the PFMA since these institutions utilise different entity controlled financial systems for their payments.

Table 1:

Expenditure related to consultants, travel and subsistence and catering and events for the periods 2012/2013, 2013/2014 and 2014/2015



Departmental Expenditure


Actual

2012/2013


Actual
2013/2014

Increase   

Decrease  

Stagnant

Amounts
R’ billions

Amounts
R’ billions


Consultants
 


12,517,130.00


12,825,333.00


2%


Travel and Subsistence


9,612,468.00
 


9,861,580.00


3%


Catering, entertainment and venue rental
 


1,919,882.00
 


2,277,808.00


19%

 
 
 Departmental Expenditure

 

Actual
2013/2014

Preliminary Outcome
2014/2015



%

 

Amounts
R’ billions

Amounts
R’ billions


Consultants
 

 
12,825,333.00


12,461,082.00


-3%


Travel and Subsistence
 


9,861,580.00


9,290,305.00


-6%


Catering, entertainment and venue rental
 


2,277,808.00


1,202,054.00


-47%

Table 2:

Expenditure related to consultants, travel and subsistence and catering and events for the periods 1 April 2015 to 31 August 2015.




   Departmental Expenditure


Total Expenditure for
the period April to
August 2015




April 2015




May 2015




June 2015




July 2015




Aug 2015


Consultants


1,732,426,679


297,622,187


468,593,838


276,016,927

 

295,309,972


394,883,755


Travel and Subsistence


3,257,077,554


423,396,914


599,404,614


721,937,277


776,152,420


736,186,328


Catering, entertainment  and venue rental



397,756,954



38,426,149



71,388,387



84,038,985



106,305,102



97,598,331


Total


5,387,261,187


759,445,250


1,139,386,839


1,081,993,189


1,177,767,495


1,228,668,414

 

2.The total expenditure in relation to consultants, travel and subsistence and catering and events for the 2013/2014 financial year amounts to R25 billion. Corresponding expenditure from 1 April 2015 to 31 August 2015 amounts to R5.4 billion.

 

02 October 2015 - NW3562

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Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Finance

(1)What is the total number of voluntary withdrawals that were made from each specified pension fund falling under the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA) (a) in each specified month and (b) in the (i) 2014-15 financial year and (ii) during the period 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; (2) what was the breakdown of these figures by (a) race, (b) gender, (c) sector and (d) province; (3) whether the GPAA conducted any research into the high level of withdrawals from pension funds; if not, why not; if so, what were the main findings?

Reply:

(1) The total number of voluntary withdrawals that were processed in respect of the GEPF, being the only contributory Fund the GPAA manages is detailed below. (The other Funds: IOD, Military Pensions, Post-retirement Medical Aid and Special Pensions are non-contributory.) The Government Pensions Administration Agency's (GPAA) records indicate (a) in each specified month and (b) in the (i) 2014-15 financial year and (ii) during the period 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date that the following resignation claims were processed:

Month

2014/2015

2015/2016

April

2 830

4 334

May

2 433

4 055

June

2 701

3 240

July

3 528

3 615

August

3 456

3 092

September

3 726

-

October

3 717

-

November

4 482

-

December

3 411

-

January

3 811

-

February

4 949

-

March

4 236

-

Total

43 280

18 336

(2) The breakdown of these figures by (a) race, (b) gender, (c) sector for 2014-15 Financial year:

Race

Gender

Employer (sector)

Total

   

Education

Health

SAPS

Correctional Service

Other

 

African

Female

8 571

7 517

474

207

3 067

19 836

 

Male

5 164

2 767

1 480

635

3 249

13 295

Asian

Female

175

254

27

5

114

575

 

Male

59

132

72

13

80

356

Coloured

Female

588

1 161

155

45

437

2 386

 

Male

344

314

380

208

349

1 595

White

Female

1 047

639

238

47

519

2 490

 

Male

293

237

303

191

349

1 373

Not allocated

Female

232

205

35

9

212

693

 

Male

169

106

52

12

342

681

Total

16 642

13 332

3 216

1 372

8 718

43 280

(2) Continued: The breakdown of these figures by (a) race, (b) gender, (c) sector for 2015-16 until 31 August 2015:

Race

Gender

Employer (sector)

Total

   

Education

Health

SAPS

Correctional Service

Other

 

African

Female

3 358

2 976

255

64

1 181

7 834

 

Male

2 226

1 236

975

261

1 475

6 173

Asian

Female

89

109

9

2

34

243

 

Male

30

53

33

4

34

154

Coloured

Female

221

342

74

12

204

853

 

Male

152

115

206

76

174

723

White

Female

509

272

136

19

196

1 132

 

Male

155

92

155

54

158

614

Not allocated

Female

113

94

10

5

92

314

 

Male

85

49

18

7

137

296

Total

6 938

5 338

1 871

504

3 685

18 336

(2) Continued: The breakdown of these figures by (c) sector and (d) Province for 2014-15:

Province

Employer

Total

 

Education

Health

SAPS

Correctional Service

Other

 

Eastern Cape

1 922

1 827

 

0

1 038

4 787

Freestate

878

644

27

0

272

1 821

Gauteng

4 987

2 623

2

0

556

8 168

Kwazulu Natal

3 734

3 562

6

6

667

7 975

Limpopo

1 493

1 074

7

0

436

3 010

Mpumalanga

1 289

740

0

0

342

2 371

North West

494

696

0

0

481

1 671

Northern Cape

362

387

0

0

150

899

Western Cape

1 057

1 691

0

0

456

3 204

National departments

425

88

3 174

1 366

3 950

9 003

Unknown Province

1

0

0

0

370

371

Grand Total

16 642

13 332

3 216

1 372

8 718

43 280

(2) Continued: The breakdown of these figures by (c) sector and (d) Province for 2015-16 until 31 August 2015:

Province

Employer

Total

 

Education

Health

SAPS

Correctional Service

Other

 

Eastern Cape

676

591

 

 

294

1 561

Freestate

416

212

26

 

93

747

Gauteng

1 880

1 290

1

 

241

3 412

Kwazulu Natal

1 418

1 411

3

 

232

3 064

Limpopo

729

523

1

 

124

1 377

Mpumalanga

418

298

 

 

233

949

North West

372

299

 

 

161

832

Northern Cape

258

157

 

 

85

500

Western Cape

377

529

 

 

237

1 143

Unknown Province

 

 

 

 

146

146

National departments

394

28

1 840

504

1 839

4 605

Grand Total

6 938

5 338

1 871

504

3 685

18 336

(3) GPAA has conducted a pilot study in 2014, and is continuing with both, the qualitative and quantitative research, to assess the high level of resignation claims received and processed in respect of the GEPF since April 2014. It is implied that personal indebtedness featured prominently as one on the reasons why government employees were cashing in on their pension, by resigning from their employment in order to exit the GEPF. Furthermore the pilot study indicates the following other reasons stemming from the interviews conducted with members:

  • A prospect of capital for a business venture;
  • The easy re-employment of the resignee by the same or other state employer to their similar position;
  • Ill-informed members about defined benefits versus defined contribution;
  • Exclusion of children from monthly pensions,
  • Concerns about spouse benefits;
  • Negative perceptions fuelled by the public sector discourse; and
  • The limitation of the Government Employee Pension Law to provide added benefits and flexibility to the Fund’s structure.

The study at the GPAA continues to explore the resignation trends.

02 October 2015 - NW3608

Profile picture: Lovemore, Ms AT

Lovemore, Ms AT to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)With reference to her reply to question 3042 on 8 September 2015, (a) what steps still have to be taken in order to finalise the 2014 National Education Evaluation and Development Unit (NEEDU) report and (b) when does she expect to receive the specified report; (2) will she release the specified report to the public; if not, why not; if so, when does she anticipate to do so; (3) will the Regulations for the Establishment of the Office of Standards and Compliance for Basic Education be gazetted for public comment; if not, why not; if so, when; (4) (a) why and (b) on what legal basis has she approved draft regulations which do not make the publication of NEEDU or other reports presented to her mandatory?

Reply:

Question 1(a)

  • In 2014, NEEDU evaluated 183 schools: 93 schools offering Grades 7-9 and 90 offering Grades 10-12, 25 districts and nine provinces. A total of 217 reports, one for every site visited, were prepared. These reports had to be collated into a national report. This entails extensive analysis of large volumes of both qualitative and quantitative data. The analysis of data took longer because, unlike in the previous evaluations, the 2014 systemic evaluations involved two phases: Senior and Further Education and Training (FET). Because NEEDU did not have the capacity to do complex statistical analysis of the quantitative data that was collected from schools, districts and provinces, a service provider was appointed to analyse data. The procurement process in appointing the service provider also added to the delays in finalising the 2014 Report. A draft report has been prepared. NEEDU is doing the final editing before it is submitted to the Department for comments.

Question 1(b)

  • NEEDU will submit the draft report to the Department for comments on 30 September 2015.

Question 2

In terms of the NEEDU protocol, each site visited (including schools, districts, provinces and the national office) is given four to six weeks to comment on the NEEDU draft report before a report is finalised. This practice, which was followed before the 2012 and 2013 NEEDU Reports were finalised, will also be followed with regard to the 2015 Report. It is only after NEEDU has carefully considered all comments made by the Department that the report is finalised and submitted to the Ministry.

Upon receipt of the NEEDU Report, in line with the provision of section 7(1)(g) of the Regulations for the Establishment of the Office of Standards and Compliance for Basic Education (OSCBE), currently known as NEEDU, “the Minister may publish the report.” This provision empowers the Minister to publish NEEDU reports at her discretion.

Question 3

In 2012 the NEEDU Bill was gazetted for public comment. Comments from the public were received and changes were incorporated in the final draft. When, in 2013, the Department of Public Service and Administration advised NEEDU to abandon the Bill route in favour of establishing NEEDU as a “government component” called OSCBE, the NEEDU Bill was packaged into “Regulations for the establishment of OSCBE” without any changes. In other words, the Regulations for the establishment of OSCBE are not different from the final draft of the NEEDU Bill. In fact, the Regulations are nothing but euphemism for the already gazetted NEEDU Bill. Thus, the Regulations will not be gazetted for public comment for the second time.

Question 4

As with any legislation, the Regulations for the Establishment of OSCBE contain both peremptory and directory provisions. Giving the Minister the authority to use her discretion whether or not to make NEEDU reports public, as contemplated in Section 7(1)(g) in the Regulations for the Establishment of OSCBE, is one of the few directory provisions contained in the Regulations. Directory provisions are used in various pieces of legislation and policies and are not unique to the Regulations for the Establishment of OSCBE.