Questions and Replies

Reply:

The National Department of Health has several programmes and platforms that are being used to inform, educate and raise awareness about TB, including MDR-TB at community level.

(a)  The national and provincial TB programmes have Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation units with focal persons whose role is to, on a regular basis, disseminate information to members of the community on the importance of being screened, tested and treated for TB, including MDR-TB. Each of these units have focal persons who, sometimes with support from partner organisations, use various platforms including the media (radio, television, and print) to educate communities about TB. The units also disseminate information through posters, fliers and billboards and sometimes conduct door-to-door campaigns to engage household members on TB.

(b)  In 2010, during the advert of the FIFA World Cup hosted in South Africa, the Department and Stellenbosch University conceptualised and implemented a communications platform called “Kick TB and HIV”, which uses community activations (campaign style) to educate members of the community on TB. Over the past year, 266 activations were conducted, and 467 817 people were reached.

(c)  The Deputy President launched, on 24 March 2015, a massive TB campaign that aims to mobilise millions of South Africans to be screened, tested and treated for TB, including MDR-TB.

(d) An integrated mass media communication and education campaign that will focus on HIV/AIDS, TB (including MRD-TB), maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases, violence and injuries, has been developed and a tender is currently being evaluated to appoint a service provider to manage the campaign over the next 3 years.

END.

Reply:

(a) The department did not exist in the financial years of 2008/09 - 2009/10.

The department has not paid out the remainder of any employee’s contract since the 2010/11 financial year until date.

(aa) (i) – (iii) Not applicable

(b) SA Tourism has paid out the remainder of a contract.

(bb)

1. R1 512 781.90 (R1,080 022.90 was paid out 2011/12 and R437 759 was paid out 2012/2013)
2. Previous CEO, Ms T January-McLean 2011/12- 2012/13
3. Separation by mutual agreement with the SAT Board

Reply:

(1)(a) There are 185 641 applications for Unabridged Birth Certificates (UBC) that have been received by the department during the period 01 May 2014 to 31 May 2015.

(1)(b)(i-ii) According to available information the number of UBC applications received and processed during the period 01 May 2014 to 31 May 2015 at the department’s 9 regions / provinces and ready for collection are as follows:

Eastern Cape: 11 408

Free State: 5 589

Gauteng: 75 685

Kwazulu-Natal: 39 952

Limpopo: 4 645

Mpumalanga: 7 401

North West: 4 967

Northern Cape: 2 527

Western Cape: 33 467

 

(3)(a) The processing of UBC is dependent on the number of applications lodged on a particular day, and is a voluntary process.

(3(b) The issuance per day is dependent on the number of clients that come forth after notification was given to them, via an sms, that the UBC application is ready for collection.

(4)    6 to 8 weeks.

(5)   185 641

Reply:

(a) - Yes

The list of demands is as follows:

1. All vacant positions including all other posts beyond 12 levels in DAFF must be filled no later than Friday, 1 May 2015 to fulfil all departmental mandates (Food Security, Job creation and Economic Growth) and an end to chronic staff shortage we have at the moment.
2. Finalise the integration of the three sector branches ( Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries).
3. Union representation to ensure compliance to government legislation.
4. Improve the skills development plans of the officials in the department.
5. Prioritise the departmental visits including to remote offices and sites.
6. Equal pay for work of equal value.
7. Forensic investigation
8. Implementation of the Public Service Commission recommendation against the irregular appointment of Ms L Bouwer, Director: Human Recources Management.
9. Immediate changes in the employer’s delegation at Departmental Bargaining Chamber.
10. Immediate implementation of the sent inputs of the reviewed policies.

(b) All the grievances have been attended to.

(c) A letter dated 7 March 2015 was forwarded to the Chairperson of NEHAWU addressing the demands contined in their memorundum dated 22 April 2015. The department responded as follows in each of the demands listed below:

1. All vacant positions including all other posts beyond 12 levels in DAFF must be filling no later than Friday, 1 May 2015, to fulfil all departmental mandates (food security, job creation and economic growth) and an end to a chronic staff shortage we have at the moment.

Response from the department.

The Department has considered this demand. However, it is not possible to fill all the vacant positions on such short notice due to the recruitment and selection processes which must be complied with as well as the financial constraints as a result of the budget cuts.

2. Finalise the integration of the three sector branches (Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries).

Response from the department.

The process of integration of the three branches has commenced and Organised Labour will continuously be consulted at the DBC in this regard.

3. Union representation to ensure compliance to government legislation.

Response from the department.

The Department has management structures and any issues with labour impact will be dealt with in terms of the Labour Relations Act, No. 66 of 1995, at the DBC and through the dispute resolution processes, where the need arises.

Furthermore, you are required to take note that as NEHAWU members you are also employees of the Department. No employees participate in management structures. The legitimate forum for consultation or engagement with unions is the DBC.

4.  Improve the skills development plans of the officials in the department.

Response from the department.

The Department has a HRD Strategy and a HR Plan. In addition, every employee has a Work Plan and Personal Development Plan in terms of the Employee Performance Management System (EPMDS). All individual cases should be dealt with in terms of the relevant policy and applicable procedures. In addition, the Department has an Internal Training and Development Committee (ITDC) at which Organised Labour is represented.

5.  Prioretise the departmental visits including to remote offices and sites.

Action taken by the department.

The Employer, with Organised Labour, conducted various operational visits to outside offices under the auspices of the DBC in the previous financial year. The proposed recommendations are due to be discussed at EXCO and MANCO due to their financial implications. Feedback will be provided at the DBC.

6.  Equal pay for work of equal value.

Response from the department.

The Department acknowledges this demand and will take the necessary steps to address the issue as it is also on the agenda of the DBC. Progress in this regard will be provided at this forum.

7.  Forensic investigation

Response from the department.

It is a legal requirement that all SMS members disclose their financial interests on an annual basis. The office of the Public Service Commission as well as the Office of the Auditor-General monitors such disclosures on an annual basis. It will be appreciated if NEHAWU could indicate the basis for the allegations to enable the Department to conduct forensic investigations.

8.  Implementation of the Public Service Commission recommendation against the irregular appointment of Ms L Bouwer, Director: Human Recources Management.

Response from the department.

A letter dated 25 October 2014 was forwarded to Mr M Mahamba, Branch Secretary of NEHAWU responding to the allegations regarding the appointment of the Director: Human Resources Management (Ms L Bouwer) without following the normal recruitment and selection processes.

9.  Immediate changes in the employer’s delegation at Departmental Bargaining Chamber.

Response from the department.

Employer representatives have been duly appointed to serve at the DBC.

10.  Immediate implemantation of the sent inputs of the reviewed policies.

Response from the department.

All relevant inputs on policies made at multilateral meetings needs the due policy development processes. In order to fast track the policy development process, it is advised that Organised Labour provides inputs at the first consultation process.

(d)(i) All the grievances have been addressed.

(d)(ii) Not applicable.

 

Reply:

(a) The Department is an active member of the UPU and is in regular communication with the International Bureau of the UPU. I have met with the Director-General of the UPU, Ambassador Bishar Hussein of Kenya, in South Africa on the 6 August 2014, and provided an update of developments within the administration of the South African government relating to Telecommunications and Postal Services. Previously officials from the UPU had also been briefed by officials from DTPS as they interact on an ongoing basis.

(b) As the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services is the responsible Department for postal matters, including South Africa’s membership of the UPU, it follows that SAPO falls under DTPS. The UPU has been requested to update their website to record the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services, instead of the Department of Communications.

Reply:

I have been informed by the Department as follows:-

(1)(a)&(b) The development of the policy and policy directions have been delayed due to the complexity of the task and a lack of dedicated staff within the Department to carry out the extensive consultation required.

(2)(a) Analysys Mason

(2)(b) Analysys Mason was appointed through a process managed by the Government Technical Advisory Centre (GTAC) from National Treasury, who is assisting the Department with several aspects of the implementation of the National Broadband Policy (SA Connect).

(2)(c)(i) The contract price is R 3.65 million

(2)(c)(ii) The consultant has been appointed to assist the Department in developing the Rapid Deployment Policy and Policy Directions and to consult with affected stakeholders. It is expected that the Rapid Deployment Policy should have been developed by the end of the third quarter of 2015.

Reply:

I have been advised by the Department as follows:-

(a) R 21 million has been allocated for Broadband Planning; and

R 200 million has been allocated for South Africa Connect.

The department will be buying services for the 8 identified districts from a service provider.

(b) No tenders have been issued for the implementation of the programme.

(c) N/A

Reply:

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

1. The total number of people employed at Johannesburg International Mail Centre (JIMC) is 237.

(b)(i) (aa) Management 5

(bb) Permanent 211

(cc) Casuals 21

Reply:

I have been advised by USAASA as follows:-

1. The USAASA Board took a resolution to oppose the SIU Court Application. Supporting affidavits deposed by the CEO were filed by the Agency in support of its defence and to answer to the allegations involving the CEO. The Agency is therefore paying all the legal costs.

1. The CEO will not be held liable for any legal costs incurred in the event the application is unsuccessful. The reason for this is that, the CEO is not defending this matter in his personal capacity. The Board is defending the matter because it is the Board’s decision to appoint the CEO that is being challenged by the SIU. The Board’s decision to appoint Mr Zami Nkosi is what is at issue in this Court Case.

1. No steps will be taken to recover the specified legal costs if a cost order is awarded against the Agency. The Agency is defending its own decision

1. The Board, as the Accounting Authority, has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the Agency. The Board exercised its mind with due diligence when it decided to appoint Mr Zami Nkosi as its CEO and when it took a resolution to defend that decision and oppose the SIU Court application.

Reply:

I have been informed by the Department as follows:-

1. One Deputy Director-General: Still in progress

One Deputy Director-General: Disciplinary hearing has been finalised

Personal Assistant: Disciplinary hearing has been finalised

Departmental Bid Adjudicating Committee: Still in progress

Departmental Bid Evaluation Committee: Still in progress

1. 12

1. Two employees: Salary level 15

One employee: Salary level 8

Six employees: Salary level 13

One employee: Salary level 14

One employee: Salary level 11

One employee: Salary level 9

Reply:

No. The forensic report on the University of Limpopo for the 2013/14 financial year is not publically available as it contains confidential information with regards to untested allegations against individuals and in order to avoid the infringement of the fundamental rights of individuals mentioned in the report, I will not be able to release the report.

Compiler/contact persons:

Ext:

DIRECTOR – GENERAL

STATUS:

DATE:

REPLY TO QUESTION 2515 APPROVED/NOT APPROVED/AMENDED

Dr B NZIMANDE, MP

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

STATUS:

DATE:

Reply:

I have been advised by the Department as follows:-

1. Yes, External consultants were sourced to assist and provide support in the development of the Business Case.

The CSIR was chosen as a result of its access to broadband infrastructure info at a national scale.

The Department’s primary support was provided by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) which assisted with the infrastructure information used to conduct the infrastructure gap analysis.

(b) Through the assistance of the Government Technical Advisory Centre (GTAC) who facilitated a competitive procurement process for service providers, the Department was also able to source the assistance of Deloitte to provide financial and procurement advisory services. The support of Deloitte assisted the department with the development of a financial model that could cost the project as part of the development of the business case.

(c) CSIR was paid R 5,643,000 and Deloitte was paid R850, 000

Reply:

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

SAPO does not receive revenue from Universal Postal Union.

Reply:

I have been advised by Sentech as follows:

1. R1 287 609 781. 84.

(b-c) The Manufactures warranties cover equipment for maximum period of 24 months. The table below provides a span of equipment for active components of the DTT networks. There is a total of 4712 DTT assets amounting to R447 663 469 that falls outside manufacturers’ warranties (highlighted in yellow) and a total of 3206 assets amounting to R324 058 305 falling within manufacturers’ warranty period (highlighted in green).

Acquisition year	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	Total
Warranty expiry date	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017
Acquisition value	R63 056 479	R91 020 130	R82 065 010	R91 433 270	R120 088 580	R30 067 142	R229 562 145	R64 429 018	R771 721 774
Total assets	328	936	1551	583	1314	1655	1077	474	7918
Warranty status	Out of warranty period	Within warranty period

Reply:

I have been advised by the Department as follows:-

(a) and (b) In the development of the Project scope; Phase 1 Business Case and Plan; the Department engaged and consulted critical stakeholders including State-Owned Companies (SOCs) of the department who provided insight into the national footprint of infrastructure as part of the effort to determine the infrastructure gap. Provincial departments also provided input on their broadband rollout plans to ensure that they align with South Africa Connect and are integrated into the common plan of the DTPS. The national Departments of Health, Basic Education, Rural Development, National Treasury through the Government Technical Advisory Centre (GTAC), South African Police Services and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) were consulted to develop the user requirement specification for the broadband services as part of the development of the business case.

Reply:

I have been informed by the Department as follows:-

1. The Office of the State Attorney instructed advocates from the Johannesburg Bar.

(b)The DG instructed the State Attorney, and the State Attorney appointed advocates.

(c)(i) Adv. M. Mooki (Initiator) - R 1100 per hour

Adv. Z. Z. Matebese (Chairperson) - R 1200 per hour

Adv. V. D. Ntsweni (Chairperson) – R 850 per hour

Adv. M. E. Mathaphuna (Chairperson) – R 750 per hour

Adv. M. A. Mavodze(Chairperson) – R 1050 per hour

Adv. M. S. Shaba (Chairperson) – R 1250 per hour

Adv. S. B. Mhlapo (Chairperson) – R 700 per hour

(c)(ii) Adv. M. Mooki (Initiator) – R 267 352.80

Adv. Z. Z. Matebese (Chairperson) – R 158 004

Adv. M. S. Shaba (Chairperson) – R 191 662.50

Adv. S. B. Mhlapo (Chairperson) – R 83 790

(iii) Yes, the payments of three chairpersons who have not yet submitted invoices.

Reply:

I have been advised by the Department and Entities as follows:-

DEPARTMENT

(a) Nil

1. (i) SAPO R 95 722.20

SITA R 241 216.61

Others Nil

(b)(ii) SAPO - R813 297.29

Others Nil.

Reply:

I have been advised by the Department as follows:-

(a) Government will rollout broadband services in Eight District Municipalities targeting schools, health facilities, police stations, post offices and other government facilities. The eight districts are:

• Dr Kenneth Kaunda

• Gert Sibande

• O.R. Tambo

• Pixley ka Seme

• Thabo Mofutsanyane

• Umgungundlovu

• Umzinyathi

• Vhembe

This rollout programme represents the first phase of the national implementation of the Digital Development strategic pillar of South Africa Connect and it is delivered parallel to the programmes initiated by Gauteng and the Western Cape Province in an effort to deliver on the targets set in the National Broadband policy. The project will deliver the connectivity services via a mix of technologies in line with the South Africa Connect Policy objectives.

(b-d) National Treasury has allocated a total of R739 million over the MTEF for the programme. For the first phase, R200 Million has been allocated. The funds have been allocated as follows:

No	Year	DTPS Request	NT Allocation
1	2015/16	R 225 402 697	R 200 000 000
2	2016/17	R 516 343 210	R 268 300 000
3	2017/18	R 719 525 698	R 271 700 000
MTEF Sub-Totals	R 1 416 024 135	R 739 000 000

Reply:

(a-c) Applications for both a computerised unabridged and a vault copy of birth certificate were captured on the system on 6 October 2014. However, due to an oversight on the part of the official who received the application, only the computerised unabridged birth certificate was processed on 10 October 2014 and printed at the office of application on 13 October 2014. The vault copy was processed on 29 June 2015.

(d) The Department has put in place mechanisms where clients can enquire about the progress on their applications through its call centre. In addition it will strengthen the current controls and monitoring of these areas.

Reply:

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

1(a)(i) (aa) February 2015 - 56 161

(bb) March 2015 - 59 138

(cc) April 2015 - 60 010

(ii) All items are subject to import duties and are processed by SAPO. South African Revenue Service (SARS) stops items for inspection in the event of any missing or required documentation or if items are deemed not to be allowed in the country.

(b) The set standard for processing items is 48 hours. However this may differ depending on the volumes received and that have to be processed.

2. The South African Police Service (SAPS) work in conjunction with SARS to stop items for inspection in the event of any missing or required documentation or if items are deemed not to be allowed in the country.

The set standard for processing items is 48 hours. However this may differ depending on the volumes received and that have to be processed.

No arrests have been made by SAPS for this period.

Reply:

1. Neither the Minister of Police (b) nor any officer from his Department authorized the use of Presidential Protection Service for the transportation of Head of State/Government and former Heads of States/Government during the African Union Summit in Johannesburg between 10 and 15 June 2015.

2. Presidential Protection Service was utilized for the purpose of transporting Heads of State/Government and Former Heads of State/Government (a) from the 10th to the 16th of June 2015 (b) from airports namely WAFB, ORTIA and Lanseria to Head Quarter Hotels and taken to Sandton ICC for the African Union Conference and back to the airports for departure.

3. Presidential Protection Service was authorized by NATJOINTS with a request from DIRCO to carry out the protection of VIP’s during the African Union Summit.

Reply:

(1) (a) I am informed that no expenditure incurred before financial year 2014/15.

(b) nil

(c) nil

(d) nil

(2) R1 2 11 224.91

Reply:

Requesting that the Honorable Member to refer to the response to NA 1305.

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Reply:

There are municipalities with outstanding invoices. However, since it is an outstanding invoice, it may still be in process to be paid by the particular municipality and payment thereof is awaited.

(1)	(2) municipality vehicles are registered with an e-tag in respect of each municipality in Gauteng
(a) List of Municipalities	(b) Amount Owed
City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality	R351644	740
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality	R1796445 & R41938.38 (two accounts)	no information found on System using search criteria as described
Sedibeng District Municipality	R4026.45	47
Emfuleni Local Municipality	R127685	No cars registered with an e-tag
Lesedi Local Municipality	R111294	26
Midvaal Local Municipality	R3395	110

As the honourable member is aware the new etoll dispensation makes provision for all debtors to qualify for a 60% discount. Thus all the above amounts will be reduced by 60%.

Reply:

No generators were installed at any of my Department’s and Entities offices for load shedding purposes.

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Reply:

(a) In terms of the PFMA, Act of 1999, with specific reference to section 38(j), The Department annual secures written assurance from SANTACO that it implements effective, efficient and transparent financial management and internal control systems. The aforesaid is in the form a Memorandum of Agreement signed annually between the Department and SANTACO. SANTACO receives the funding through quarterly payments, and they are also required to submit quarterly reports on expenditure.

(b) (i) The management and performance of SANTACO is overseen by its National Executive Committee. The Department in its Memorandum of Agreement oversees only the financial performance of SANTACO to ensure that there is transparency and accountability of the funds transferred.

(b)(aa) Please refer to response in (b) (i) above

(b) (cc) Please refer to response in (b) (i) above

 

Reply:

The Government (GCIS) hereby confirms that the figures for advertising are as follows:

2013-2014 Daily Sun R196 286.35

Sowetan R271 732.44

 

2014-2015 Daily Sun R567 824.25

Sowetan R810 499.40

Reply:

(1) My Department through the Enforcement Unit among other units ensures that all pollution cases reported are investigated and rectification measures are taken where non-compliance is detected.

In instances whereby pollution of a water resource is precisely detected to be occurring or might be occurring, my Department institutes administrative enforcement action prescript in Sections 19 and 20 of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) (NWA) with the objective of ensuring prevention and remedying effects of pollution and control of emergency incident.

My Department may lay criminal or civil charges against responsible person for unlawfully and intentionally or negligently committing any act or omission which pollutes or likely to pollute a water resource.

My Department also actively participates in the Inter-Departmental Enforcement Task Team comprising of the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) and Department of Minerals Resources (DMR) to ensure intensified collective approach against polluters.

(2) Further details cannot be furnished as it may prejudice the outcome of some administrative action and criminal prosecution taken by the Department, which is sub judice according to the National Prosecution Authority.

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Reply:

 

Yes

LOCAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

The environment sector is mandated to ensure environmental sustainability in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act No. 108 of 1996); the National Environmental Management Act, Act 107 of 1998 (NEMA), as amended; as well as other Specific Environmental Management Acts (SEMAs). The right to a safe and healthy environment which is not dangerous to human life, which is enshrined in the Constitution, makes it imperative that there should be a balance between addressing the current development needs and protecting the natural environment. The principles set out in Chapter 1 of the Constitution lay a solid foundation on how environmental justice could be realised and participation in environmental governance ensured. The NEMA and all its SEMAs are all premised on these principles, and embedded in them are specific provisions, tools, systems and structures to ensure that the environmental right is realised and the above principles are adhered to.

In response to these legislative imperatives, the environmental sector (National and Provincial Departments of Environmental Affairs) in consultation with other stakeholders (South African Local Government Association (SALGA), Department of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and municipalities developed a five year Local Government Support Strategy for the Environment Sector, 2014-2019. In drafting the strategy, a survey was conducted to determine the level of capacity of municipalities to deal with environmental management and governance. The questionnaire specifically sought to determine the level of compliance by all 278 municipalities with NEMA and SEMAs. Questionnaires were differentiated in terms of municipal geographic location (inland/coastal) and environmental functions each municipality is expected to perform. The scores (converted into percentages) were then used to divide municipalities into three categories as follows: 0-29% = Establishment Phase, 30-59% = Consolidation Phase,
60% upwards = Sustainability Phase. The results of the survey were as follows:

• Local Municipalities (LMs): 51% establishment phase, 41% consolidation phase, 8% sustainability phase
• District Municipalities (DMs): 32% establishment phase, 48% consolidation phase, 20% sustainability phase
• Metropolitan Municipalities (Metros): 0% establishment phase, 11% consolidation phase, 89% sustainability phase

Based on these findings, the implementation plan was developed to address challenges identified. In 2014/15, specific focus was given to the establishment and formalisation of environmental governance structures within municipalities to provide a platform of engagement with all citizens on environmental governance structures. These structures were successfully established and they are now operational. The performance of these structures is monitored through the 2015/16 Implementation Plan, and reports are provided to the relevant Intergovernmental Structures. Below is an outline of specific interventions for key thematic areas i.e. Air Quality and Climate Change; Waste Management.

1. AIR QUALITY AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Prior to the advent of democracy, little was known about the quality of ambient air that the majority of the citizens of South Africa were breathing, as well as the potential health impact of that quality of air. However, since the dawn of democracy a number of measures have been put into motion to address this challenge. The use of coal and other energy sources that result in air pollution poses a major threat to citizens enjoying their full rights as set out in section 24(a) and (b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. Since the promulgation of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004) and the subsequent development of its National Framework for Air Quality Management in South Africa, the Department has facilitated, in partnership with the different spheres of government; the initiation of ambient air quality monitoring programmes.

The main objectives for monitoring are to provide information fundamental to decision-making; identifying air pollution that is non-compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS); and defining intervention strategies to evaluate the efficacy of air quality management strategies. Ambient air quality monitoring is also being used to identify areas in need of restoration and their prioritisation, such as in the national air quality priority areas of Vaal Triangle, Highveld and Waterberg-Bojanala. Currently, there are close to 85 government owned ambient air quality monitoring stations across the country. The stations monitor a range of criteria pollutants, including ozone (O3), particulate matter (both PM10 and PM2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO2), oxides of nitrogen (nitrogen dioxide NO2, and nitric acid NO), lead (Pb), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and the relevant meteorological parameters.

The observations from the ambient air quality monitoring networks have informed the development of air quality management plans (AQMPs) by all spheres of government, in accordance with the air quality management challenges faced. Municipalities, for example, are required to have these AQMPs incorporated in their Integrated Development Plans (IDPs). This requirement elevates air quality issues in the planning processes of each of the municipalities.

The Department has developed priority area AQMPs, and has allocated specific funding for the implementation of these plans. In addition, and as part of the implementation of these plans, the Department has established Implementation Task Teams (ITTs) and Multi-Stakeholder Reference Group (MSRGs). These structures, amongst other things, facilitate the participation of communities in tackling air quality challenges facing them. There has been an increase in the participation of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Community Based Organisations (CBOs) in these areas, and the Department acknowledges that awareness is key in addressing air quality issues in these areas.

The Department is also in the final stages of developing the Strategy to Address Pollution in Dense, Low Income Communities. The objectives of this strategy are:

• to establish a forum that will ensure that the interventions that address air pollution in dense low-income communities are carried out in a coordinated manner, with integration of policies and interventions from various departments/institutions;
• to facilitate, through the forum, the implementation of interventions within air pollution priority areas in order to ensure the air that is not harmful to health and wellbeing;
• to plan and co-ordinate the implementation of future interventions to address the problem; and
• to monitor and report progress annually to the Minister of Environmental Affairs.

The strategy offers a great opportunity for all the identified role players to work together and improve on the gains made thus far in tackling air quality challenges that are faced by the citizens of the Republic.

2.  WASTE MANAGEMENT

Government through Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) undertakes surveys at different intervals to establish trends in many different aspects, including provision of services. The Department works closely with Stats SA in relation to monitoring waste service in the country.

Waste services seem to be low in rural areas. However, we have discovered that this could be due to lack of understanding of the different service levels for waste services. The National Waste Collection Standards prescribe different service levels for different geographic areas. The Department is therefore currently capacitating municipalities on these collection standards. Municipalities are in turn required to educate their communities to ensure accurate reporting.

The Department also developed a number of waste management tools/measures to protect the environment and human health of all South African citizens by making sure that impact is managed appropriately.

These include:

• Waste Management and Classification Regulations; Norms and Standards for Assessment of Waste for Disposal; and Norms and Standards for Assessment of Landfill for waste disposal – which regulates the management classification of wastes in a manner that supports and implements the provisions of the Waste Act and prescribes the requirements and timeframes for management of certain wastes, among others.
• Draft Healthcare Risk Waste Management Regulations – which sets minimum requirements for management of waste from healthcare facilities, from cradle to grave.
• Licenses to ensure that facilities are operated in compliance with environmental legislation, ensuring that impacts are managed to protect the environment and human health.

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Reply:

(1) The relevant details of outstanding water use licence applications (WULAs) in respect of each Province appear on Table 1 below.

Table 1: WULAs in process at the Department

Provincial Operation	Initial Assessment	Outstanding Information	Finalizing Assessment	Awaiting decision	Total
Eastern Cape	17	50	25	0	92
Free State	39	35	20	1	95
Gauteng	43	38	12	4	97
KwaZulu-Natal	6	33	10	0	49
Limpopo	52	24	125	0	201
Mpumalanga	266	30	31	1	328
Northern Cape	29	17	27	2	75
North West	123	38	40	0	201
Western Cape	121	10	57	0	188
Head Office	24	74	11	95	204
Total	720	349	358	103	1530

(2)(a) The year on which the application was made as depicted in Table 2 below.

Table 2: Year of application of water use licences in the Department

Provincial Operation	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	Total
Eastern Cape	0	11	8	26	30	17	92
Free State	0	16	16	22	41	0	95
Gauteng	3	12	23	15	43	1	97
KwaZulu-Natal	0	16	9	9	15	0	49
Limpopo	1	16	42	67	75	0	201
Mpumalanga	0	74	102	47	77	28	328
Northern Cape	0	2	13	23	28	9	75
North West	20	38	45	49	43	6	201
Western Cape	8	4	25	49	80	22	188
Head Office	96	67	27	13	1	0	204
Total	128	256	310	320	433	83	1530

(2)(b) Reasons for delays in water use licence applications are:

• Outstanding information from applicants, mainly in a form of technical on site studies.
• Complexity of applications and volumes of supporting documents.
• Internal specialist inputs are intensive and hence the turnaround time is protracted.

(2)(c) The expected dates of completion of the water use licence application.

Table 3: Expected dates of completion of the water use licence applications per category

Category	Number of WULAs	Expected date of completion
Initial Assessment	720	30-Mar-16
Outstanding Information	349	30-Dec-15
Finalizing Assessment	358	31-Oct-15
Await decision	103	30-Sep-15
Total	1530

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Reply:

1. The Department does not have any relations with Prodiba and as such, any access of department property by Prodiba is illegal. You are therefore referred to the recent North Gauteng high Court order of the 22 April 2015, Case No. 34273/12 and the latest constitutional court judgment of the 27 May 2015.
2. The Court order stated in (1) above refers, there is no month to month contract agreement between the Department and Prodiba, Note that as from the 5th May 2015, the Driving License Card Account (DLCA), a trading entity under the Department of Transport took over all services that were previously provided by Prodiba.
3. The Department does not intend to, in the short to medium term, commercialize the use of the decryption key, especially given the provision of the POPI Act.
4. Given the response in (3) above, there is therefore no contact persons in this regard

Reply:

(a)  Okholweni: Ward 1

 

• There is no place called Okholweni, the area is called Ukwalwini/ Ntabasibahle. Ward 1 is served by two stations namely Nquthu, and SAPS Ekombe. The biggest parts of Ward 1 are policed by SAPS Ekombe.

• There are no plans to establish a satellite police station within the area.

• The reasons are as follows:

• During an Accessibility Study, consultation with the community was conducted by this office and there was no need/ request identified for the establishment of a Satellite police station in this area.

• The area in question is within an 18km radius from the main police station. The province is currently focussing on areas with longer distances for prioritization of establishment of satellite police stations.

• Melmoth Stock Theft Unit investigates all Stock Theft Related cases within the Ekombe policing precinct.

(b)Mfongosi: Ward 9:

• There is already an established satellite station, Mfongosi under SAPS Ekombe.

(c)Emabhuqwini: Ward 2:

• There are no plans to establish a satellite police station within the area.
• The reasons are as follows:

• During an Accessibility Study, consultation with the community was conducted by this office and there was no need/ request identified for the establishment of Satellite police stations in this area.

• The area in question is within an 18km radius from the main police station. The province is currently focussing on areas with longer distances for prioritization of establishment of satellite police stations.

• Melmoth Stock Theft Unit is investigates all Stock Theft Related cases within the Ekombe policing precinct.

Reply:

(a)  The Department has not as yet appointed any service provider to co-ordinate the implementation of the 365- days Road Safety Programs. Tender evaluations were conducted and the successful bidder’s pricing was above the allocated budget for the project, therefore no appointment was made. The co-ordination of all the 365- days Road Safety Programs is currently being done internally by the Department , Provincial Departments of Transport, Transport Entities and some of its major role-players.

(b)   (b),(c) and (d), falls away.

Reply:

 

(1)

(a)(i) Research on environmental impacts of plastic shopping bags:

The department undertook a study to determine the impact of the Plastic Regulations in 2007. The impact of plastics on the environment is well documented through various institutions and as such the department does not have to undertake additional research but will rather use the already existing information.

(a)(ii) Research on potentially banning shopping bags:

The department is currently undertaking a study to determine possible management options for plastic waste in the country as part of the finalisation of the plastics and packaging industry waste management plan which will include alternative ways of managing plastics bags. With new and emerging technologies there are other innovative ways of managing plastic with the potential to create jobs. Only when all other options have been explored would we then consider the option of banning plastic bags.

(b)(i) Investigation into environmental impacts of shopping bags:

See (a)(i) above

(b)(ii) Investigation into potentially banning the use of plastic bags:

See (a)(ii) above.

(2) The department may consider banning plastics bags as an option within the comprehensive assessment of the management of plastic waste in South Africa. It will include this option in the finalisation of the Industry Waste Management Plan (IndWMP) for Plastics, Paper and Packaging. This IndWMP will facilitate and promote the recycling sector for this waste stream including plastic bags which will also determine the most appropriate management option for this waste stream.

 

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Reply:

 

(a) The Department of Water and Sanitation had two employees whose contracts were paid out before the contractually stipulated date of termination amounting to R2 274 513.50 for the 2008-09 financial year.

(a)(ii) Payouts were made to NJ Ngele amounting to R2 251 602.00 and OO Ayaya amounting to R22 911.59.

(a)(iii) The reasons for the early terminations were: NJ Ngele - The employer paid the employee 24 months of the employee's salary as per settlement agreement; OO Ayaya - The employer discharged the employee from the Public Service. An amount of R22 911.59 in terms of leave discounting was paid to the employee.

(b) None of the entities reporting to me has paid out remainder of any employee’s contract for the 2008-09 financial year.

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Reply:

1. The Policy was approved by Cabinet on the 27 May 2015
2. The policy provides a framework in support of other public transport legislation through which learner transport must be provided
3. (i) (ii) (iii) Detailed implementation plans with timelines, milestones are developed by the provinces.(iv) budgets for implementation are allocated by provinces

Reply:

Yes, my Department is currently involved in a work employment agreement, deriving from a bilateral agreement that was reached between the Cuban and the South African Government. This agreement is part of the portfolio of cooperative agreements between the two countries. The agreement was signed on 9 September 2013 and its objective is to foster a technical development on water issues between the two countries.

(a) A total of 35 Cuban Engineers are (i) currently contracted with my Department for a period of two years, with a possibility of an extension to three years. (ii) Only one agreement has been concluded

(b) The Cuban secondment programme is meant to assist the Department of Water and Sanitation in the following mutually agreed areas:

• Hydraulic, Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering in the functional areas of the National Water Resources Infrastructure (NWRI) Operations Unit of the Department,
• The Geohydrological and Engineering Services in rural and other disadvantaged areas where such services are inadequate in areas of Regional Functions,
• The operations and maintenance of bulk raw water supply infrastructure,
• The capacity building through training and support of local staff,
• Augmenting project management capacity.

 

(c) The majority of the current employed 35 Cuban Specialists are qualified in Hydraulic Engineering, a field which is not offered in South Africa, and it emerged that this qualification is a specialty branch of Civil Engineering which focuses only on water engineering. Their field of specialization is therefore of great value to the Department in the field of Operations and maintenance. The rest of the Specialists are qualified in the fields of Mechanical, Civil, Electrical and hydro geological Engineering, and they are also adding value to the different functions within my Department.

(d) My Department proceeds to recruit local specialist to fill permanent positions as it was the case with the 13 Electrical and Mechanical engineering posts recently advertised. The Learning Academy also proceeds with the facilitation of developing local engineering skills at entry level. The table below indicates the number of posts in the Engineering field that were advertised but not filled during the 2013/2014 financial year:

 

Region/Branch	No of posts advertised per Region/ Branch	Reasons for not filling the posts
NWRI - Northern Operations	29	A very small number of applications were received per post, in some instances no applications were received per post. The applicants did not meet the minimum criteria of the posts. Applicants are only registered as Candidates and not Technicians or Professionals Head-hunting for suitable candidates also did not yield any results, as individuals are requesting higher remuneration packages that cannot be offered by the Public Service.
NWRI - Southern Operations	10
Branch: NWRI - Head Office	18
Branch: Policy and Regulation	17
KZN Region	18
Free State Region	10
Eastern Cape Region	9
Gauteng Region	3
Limpopo Region	12
Mpumalanga Region	12
Northern Cape Region	9
Western Cape Region	1
Total	148

(e)(i) The total cost of contracting is an all-inclusive package of R532 278 per Cuban Specialist per annum.

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Reply:

Edenvale CAS 89/05/2015. The fingerprints that were lifted are linked to the manager of the company because the vehicle that was hijacked is also the company car. The car was recovered and is at the pound. The vehicle circulation is cancelled. The suspects are unknown. Recovery statement is outstanding. The docket will be closed as undetected.

Reply:

1. The Sedibeng Regional Sanitation Scheme (SRSS) comprises construction upgrade of the following works:

• The Sebokeng Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) upgrade – construction started in August 2013, Progress for these works is at 35% complete on civil works;
• The Meyerton WWTW upgrade – construction started in March 2015 and construction work is progressing very well. Currently, progress for the civil contractor is around 8% complete; and
• The feasibility studies for the proposed 150 mega-litres Regional WWTW has started in April 2015 and expected to be completed by November 2015. The Implementation Readiness Studies and Preliminary designs are expected to be completed by April 2016.

(2)(a) The source of delays in the implementation of the entire SRSS were as a result of the change of the Implementation Agent (IA) from the Municipalities (Emfuleni and Midvaal LMs) to Rand Water and secondly, the legal process to cede the service providers from the LMs to Rand Water. However, some of the professional service providers ceding processes experienced legal changes, this involved the Supervising Engineer for the SRSS, which ended up at High Court and subsequently resolved in an out of court settlement.

 

(2)(b) All the legal processes have been completed and work is currently being undertaken as mentioned in paragraph 1 above.

(3)(a) The implementation of the SRSS will take between 5 to 7 years to complete.

(3)(b) Additional development in both Midvaal and Sebokeng will be connected to both Meyerton WWTW and Sebokeng WWTW, which are being upgraded. Outfall sewer lines are included as part of scope to connect new developments such as Savanna City.

(4) Rand Water is appointed as the IA by the Minister of Water and Sanitation.

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Reply:

Edenvale CAS 32/05/2015, the matter is still under investigation. Positive fingerprints were lifted on the scene, but he owner of the fingerprints is still not identified; meaning that the suspect is still unknown. Once identified, he/she will be traced.

Reply:

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of Eskom Ingula Pumped Storage Scheme was the responsibility of Eskom and the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) participated therein. The Department is not aware of any significant impacts on Wilge and Vaal Rivers.

The resettlement of communities was also part of the same process and thus no undue impacts are anticipated.

The Department issued Water Use Licenses for the project and will continue to monitor compliance to the license conditions.

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Reply:

1. (i) (ii) The project consists of two phases: Rehabilitation of the N11 from Nkunzi River Bridge to One tree Hill which includes the sections between Sunset Rest and Fort Mistake. This phase of the project is 14,3 km long and was completed in April 2015. The total cost of the works were R255,5 million (rounded) including VAT and CPA.

The second phase between Ladysmith and Nkuzi River Bridge is in the design phase. The honourable member has unfortunately confused the locations of the project limits.

(aa) The first phase of the project that includes Sunset Rest and Fort Mistake consisted of, inter alia, the rehabilitation of the pavement and widening the cross section to 13,4 m. Your question NW2712E also makes reference to this portion of the road.

(bb)  As stated above, the first phase is complete. Construction of phase 2 will commence subsequent to the completion of the design and all relevant legislative permissions have been obtained; It is intended that this Contract commence around November 2015.

(cc) It is envisaged that the construction period will be between 18 and 24 months.

(dd)  The cost of construction is estimated at R850m.

(ee) The advertisement date will be determined once the design and legislative requirements have been finalised.

(2) SANRAL is committed to community development and allows for use of local labour on all its projects. The general labour will be recruited from the local communities.

Reply:

1. The Department does not currently monitor Barberspan or Chrissiesmeer for cyanobacteria, as they do not form part of the National Eutrophication Monitoring Programme (focused on dams). Both Barberspan and Chrissiesmeer are viewed as wetlands and will form part of the National Wetlands Monitoring Programme, which is currently being designed and will be implemented in 2016. For the other dams, the most recently available cyanobacterial counts are listed in the table below:

Dam	Cyanobacterial count (cells/ml) (including Anabeana, Arthrospira, Cylindrospermopsis, Lyngbya, Merismopedia, Microcystis and Oscillatoria
Hartbeespoort	22 342
Vaal	33 524
Spitskop	7 851
Koppies	Not available

2. Results can be provided for all the dams since 2011 as requested, except Barberspan and Chrissiesmeer. The data information can be viewed on the Directorate’s website - https://www.dwa.gov.za/iwqs.

3. Addressing cyanobacteria in dams requires a multidisciplinary approach with its foundation in catchment management.  Nutrient loading resulting from run-off in catchment where the dam is located, is the main reason for cyanobacterial blooms.

This loading takes place as a result of, inter alia, overloaded and / or dysfunctional waste water treatment works and agricultural run-off. DWS addresses this through collaboration with and guidance to local authorities, whom is responsible for operating these waste water treatment works.  The Green Drop project is an example of this, where the efficient operation of wastewater treatment works by municipalities is audited and scored.  Based on the outcome of this evaluation, guidance is provided by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) to municipalities to assist them with adhering to the license conditions of the waste water treatment works. 

The DWS has also recently acquired the services of Cuban engineers to assist local municipalities with the improved operation of their waste water treatment works.

The Department developed a set of guidelines for eutrophication management, including best agricultural practices which, if implemented by farmers, will reduce the nutrient loading resulting from agricultural run-off.

A specific project on the Hartbeespoort Dam to address the water quality remediation, which includes the treatment of cyanobacterial blooms, is the Metsi a Me project.  This is a multidisciplinary project which addresses the remediation of dam specific water quality.

There is currently no similar scale projects on the other dams mentioned in the question, as these dams’ issues are addressed on a catchment base.

(4)    Cyanobacteria, when present in high numbers in the water column, and under conducive environmental conditions, can release a toxin, microcystin, which could pose a health risk if untreated water is consumed by humans and animals.  In addition, when the algal blooms die off and decompose, it can result in unpleasant smells, impacting on recreational users.                                        

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Reply:

(a) When were the Transit Administration Agencies (TAA) established in respect of each of the integrated public transport system

The term Transit Administration Agency is the specific term used by Nelson Mandela Bay from 2007 in developing the institutional structure for overseeing Integrated Public Transport Networks in the City. Currently, this City is still studying the future feasibility of having a completely standalone Municipal Entity such as the Transit Administration Agency overseeing the IPTN. In the meantime Nelson Mandela Bay, along with other cities such as Polokwane, Tshwane, Mbombela, Rustenburg, George, etc., are currently planning and implementing IPTNS through specialist project teams that either fall under Transport Departments or Infrastructure and Engineering Services Departments.

The City of Johannesburg in 2013 established a Scheduled Services Unit to oversee Rea Vaya and IPTN operations, planning and regulation. This unit falls within the Municipality’s Transport department.

Cape Town in 2012 launched Transport for Cape Town as their specialized Transport Department that also deals with all IPTN matters.

EThekwini has set up a long standing Transport Authority which has assumed full responsibility for IPTN matters amongst other transport matters.

(b) What (i) mechanism, (ii) processes and (iii) procedures exists to monitor the TAA’s

(i) The mechanism to monitor IPTN implementation teams is through the National Department of Transport as the custodian of the 2007 Public Transport Strategy and the 2009 National Land Transport Act. The NDoT is also the Transferring Officer in terms of the Public Transport Network Grant that funds IPTNS through the Division of Revenue Act as a municipal conditional grant.

(ii) The processes are based on the Division of Revenue Act and the related Public Transport Network Grant Framework.

(iii) The procedures include monthly financial reports, quarterly reports, annual reports, quarterly bilateral meetings between municipal teams and NDoT, technical support and guidelines etc.

Reply:

(a) Coal of Africa was not granted a water licence for its operations in the Makhado Local Municipality. Their water use licence (WUL) application is still being processed by the Department of Water and Sanitation.

(b)(i) Coal of Africa was granted a WUL for its operations in the Musina Local Municipality.

(b)(ii) The water use licence for Coal of Africa in respect of its operations in the Musina Local Municipality was granted on 29 March 2011. The water use licence was granted for a period of five years on the terms stipulated in WUL, which are confidential to the applicant. Coal of Africa plans to continue with the mine, consequently they have applied for another water use licence for the same area covered by the licence granted in 2011.

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Reply:

Yes. Cabinet has recently approved the Socio Economic Impact Assessment System (SEIAS) which is effective from 1 June 2015. The SEIAS requires that government departments must, before developing any policy, regulations and legislation, ensure that they take steps to minimize the unintended consequences of such policy, regulations and legislation, including unnecessary costs of implementation and compliance. The SEIAS further requires government departments to anticipate implementation risks and develop measures to mitigate such risks.

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Reply:

(a) I am informed that the overall economic impact was positive. As a result of the additional road capacity, delays on the road network were substantially decreased, and traffic growth of more than 20% in many instances could be accommodated. Improvements in travel speeds/reduced congestion was also confirmed by independent studies (refer to reports from Congestion survey by Tom Tom). Furthermore, the development that took place in the immediate vicinity of upgraded interchanges such as Lynnwood, Atterbury, Garsfontein, John Vorster, Allandale, etc reflects the positive impact the road improvement project had on Gauteng. As was demonstrated in various economic studies, the project renders a high return on investment and a B:C ratio of 8 to 1. The Panel to investigate the social and economic impact of the GFIP made amongst others the following conclusions (the full report is available from the Gauteng Province):

The impact of the GFIP in the GCR economy;

Reduced Travel time benefits:

• 45 000 hours at morning peak
• Average speed increase of 64 km/hr (without GFIP) to 100 km/hr (with GFIP)
• Average speed increase on secondary routes from 40km/hr to 48 km/hr

Reduced vehicle operating costs (5% to 20% depending on route and distance)

• Reduced fuel consumption
• Reduced maintenance costs

Improved logistics efficiencies

Improved travel conditions

• Enhanced safety
• Rapid response emergency services and prevention of secondary accidents (1 400 / month)

(b)Sees (a) above

(c) SANRAL has various counting stations on the freeway network as well as parallel routes to the freeway network that counts traffic on an ongoing basis. The graphs below provides an indication, based on the situation in 2014, what the impact of the GFIP on traffic speeds on both the freeways and supporting road network was with and without the toll roads as well as before and after the tolling of the freeways commenced.

As can be seen from the graphs below, the conditions on the freeways and alternative roads are substantially better than what it would have been if the GFIP was not implemented, even after toll collection commenced.

Freeways & Alternatives Routes. See Annexure A

Reply:

(1) The Department of Water and Sanitation had no previous engagements with the City of Tshwane regarding health, safety or environmental risk of a dam in Midas.

(2) No complaints about the query have been received by my Department and no health and safety assessment was therefore planned.

(3) Yes, my Department has engaged with the City of Tshwane municipality regarding this issue and met incidentally with a community leader on 18 June 2015 during the site visit. According to the representative of the community, they get their services from the City of Tshwane. Madibeng Municipality will also be approached through my sector support unit to address the matter further.

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Reply:

Requesting the Honourable Member to refer to the response in NA 1128 published on 26 March 2015.

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Reply:

Numerous possible appointment dates were discussed between the Station Management and Mr Mike Waters who is the Member of Parliament. The dates of 2015-04-19, 2015-05-25 and 2015-06-01 were not suitable for both the Member of Parliament and the Station Management. The date that was agreed upon was later found to be not suitable for the Station Management as many of the senior officers could not be available. The Cluster Commander of Tembisa under which Kempton Park resort, Major General Nick Sithole, will contact Mr Mike Waters, MP, to discuss a suitable date that will suit both the Station Management and him (Mr Mike Waters).