Questions and Replies
06 July 2015 - NW1932
Masango, Mr SJ to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) Who are the current chief financial officers of (i) her department and (ii) the entities reporting to her and (b) what is the qualification of each chief financial officer?
Reply:
(i) Departments
Department of Communications (DoC)
- The position is vacant. The recruitment process is in progress.
- The appointment will be finalised in line with the required qualifications.
Government Communications (GCIS)
- Kenneth Zwelinjani Momeka
- National Diploma: Cost and Management Accounting (TUT) and B Tech degree: Corporate Administration (UNISA).
(ii)Entities
Brand SA
(a) Ms Alice Puoane
(b) Com degree
Film and Publication Board (FPB)
(a) The position is vacant. The FPB is in the process of recruiting a Chief Financial Officer.
(b) The minimum qualification requirement for the Chief Financial Officer post is a degree in Finance or similar qualification on the same NQF level and preferably also having CA (SA) or CIMA qualifications.
Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)
(a) The CFO position at ICASA is vacant. A process is currently underway to fill the position.
(b) The minimum requirements for the position are Masters Degree in Commerce (Finance, Auditing, Accounting or related) and/or Chartered Accountant NQF level 9.
Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA)
(a) The MDDA does not have a CFO. However, the Finance Manager (Talifhani Khubana) has been appointed as Acting CFO.
(b) Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
Honours Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
Master of Business Administration
South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC)
(a) James Rogers Aguma
(a) B Com ( Accounting )
Post Graduate Diploma in Accounting
Post Graduate Certificate in Auditing
NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW1147
Shinn, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) What amount did (i) her department and (ii) state entities reporting to her spend on each newspaper subscription in each month (aa) in the (aaa) 2011-12, (bbb) 2012-13 and (ccc) 2013-14 financial years and (bb) during the period 1 April 2014 up to the latest specified date for which information is available and (b) how many copies of each newspaper were ordered on each day of the week (i) in each specified financial year and (ii) during the period 1 April 2014 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?
Reply:
(i)
- The Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) does not subscribe with any media house but follow the normal procurement process as per PFMA and PPPFA through which the prospective service providers are invited to bid for supplying and delivering of various newspapers for the period of six months. The department does not hold subscriptions with any media house. The GCIS procures newspapers for the Department of Communications.
The following amounts were spent on newspapers during the financial year, (aaa) 2011 – 2012 R671 607.39
(bbb) 2012 – 2013 R678 410.40
(ccc) 2013 – 2014 R670 473.96
(bb) 2014 – 2015 R793 916.44.
i. Financial Year 2011/2012 (R671 607.39)
Name of the newspaper |
Number of copies per day |
Quantity of newspaper procured per year |
Beeld |
10 |
4698 |
Business Day |
44 |
3079 |
Citizen |
25 |
9614 |
Daily Sun |
15 |
6003 |
TNT Media |
32 |
3872 |
Pretoria News |
35 |
12015 |
Sowetan |
45 |
15094 |
Star |
46 |
14834 |
Financial Mail |
3 |
152 |
Mail & Guardian |
45 |
2934 |
Rapport |
5 |
832 |
DIAMOND Fields Advertiser |
4 |
522 |
Cape times |
8 |
1364 |
Saturday Star |
5 |
832 |
Pretoria news Saturday |
5 |
676 |
Beeld Saturday |
5 |
676 |
Sunday Times |
10 |
156 |
Sunday World |
5 |
60 |
The Times |
7 |
522 |
City Press |
10 |
5176 |
Sunday independent |
10 |
1468 |
Sunday sun |
10 |
1222 |
Citizen Saturday |
5 |
416 |
ii. Financial Year 2012/2013 (R678 410.40)
Name of the newspaper |
Number of copies per day (Monday to Friday) |
Quantity of newspaper procured per year |
Beeld |
20 |
5260 |
Business Day |
44 |
11572 |
Citizen |
31 |
8153 |
Daily Sun |
33 |
8679 |
New Age |
37 |
9731 |
Pretoria News |
46 |
12098 |
Sowetan |
50 |
13150 |
Star |
49 |
12887 |
Financial Mail |
23 |
6049 |
Mail & Guardian |
52 |
13676 |
Rapport |
7 |
1841 |
Saturday Pretoria News |
4 |
208 |
Saturday Citizen |
4 |
208 |
Saturday Star |
5 |
260 |
Sunday Independent |
12 |
624 |
Sunday Sun |
15 |
780 |
Sunday Times |
16 |
832 |
Sunday World |
9 |
468 |
The Times |
25 |
1300 |
City Press |
12 |
624 |
Name of the newspaper |
Number of copies per day (Monday to Sunday ) |
Quantity of newspaper procured per year |
Beeld |
26 |
6 838 |
Business Day |
53 |
13 939 |
Citizen |
38 |
9994 |
Daily Sun |
50 |
13150 |
New Age |
43 |
11 309 |
Pretoria News |
57 |
14991 |
Sowetan |
61 |
16043 |
Star |
63 |
16569 |
Financial Mail |
34 |
8942 |
Mail & Guardian |
59 |
15517 |
Rapport |
16 |
4208 |
Beeld Naweek |
4 |
208 |
Saturday Pretoria News |
12 |
624 |
Saturday Citizen |
12 |
624 |
Saturday Star |
12 |
624 |
Sunday Independent |
22 |
1144 |
Sunday Sun |
18 |
936 |
Sunday Times |
27 |
1404 |
Sunday World |
19 |
988 |
The Times |
48 |
2496 |
City Press |
38 |
1976 |
iii. Financial Year 2013/2014 (R670 473.96)
iv.
ii. Financial Year 2014/2015 (R793 916.44)
Name of the newspaper |
Number of copies per day (Monday to Sunday) |
Number of copies per year |
Beeld |
18 |
4 734 |
Business Day |
42 |
11 046 |
Citizen |
30 |
7 890 |
Daily Sun |
35 |
9 206 |
New Age |
37 |
9 731 |
Pretoria News |
46 |
12 098 |
Sowetan |
48 |
12 624 |
Star |
49 |
12 887 |
Financial Mail |
24 |
6 312 |
Mail & Guardian |
52 |
13 676 |
Rapport |
7 |
1 841 |
Beeld Naweek |
3 |
156 |
Saturday Pretoria News |
4 |
208 |
Saturday Citizen |
4 |
208 |
Saturday Star |
5 |
260 |
Sunday Independent |
14 |
728 |
Sunday Sun |
8 |
416 |
Sunday Times |
16 |
832 |
Sunday World |
9 |
468 |
The Times |
25 |
1300 |
City Press |
13 |
676 |
(ii)
BrandSA
(aaa) 2011/2012: R49 195.25
(bbb) 2012/2013: R55 694.40
(ccc) 2013/14: R72 221.17
(bb) 2014/15: R23 432.00
(b) The number of copies of each newspaper that were ordered are as follows:
(i) 2011/2012: 3 copies of each newspaper were ordered on each day of the week.
2012/2013: 4 copies of each newspaper were ordered on each day of the week.
2013/2014: 6 copies of each newspaper were ordered on each day of the week.
ii)2014/2015: 2 copies of each newspaper were ordered on each day of the week.
Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)
(aaa) 2011/2012: R262 282.55
(bbb) 2012/2013: R305 856.65
(ccc) 2013/2014: R242 110.14
(bb) 2014/2015: R93 261.51
(b)The number of copies of each newspaper that were ordered are as follows:
i) 2011/2012: Daily purchase: 18 copies of the Sowetan, 40 copies of The Star, 1 copy of The Star (afternoon edition), 36 Business Day, 38 Mail and Guardian (weekly), 28 Financial Mail, 28 Citizen on Thursdays and 7 copies daily, 1 copy of the Beeld, 1 copy of the Finance Week, 4 copies of The Economist on Mondays, 3 copies of the Financial Times on Thursdays, 1 copy of the Daily Sun, 2 copies of the Saturday Star, 4 copies of the City Press, 4 copies of the Sunday Times,1 copy of the Sunday Independent, 1 copy of the Sunday Sun, 1 copy of the Sunday World.
2012/2013: 2011/2012: Daily purchase: 18 copies of the Sowetan, 40 copies of The Star, 1 copy of The Star (afternoon edition), 36 Business Day, 38 Mail and Guardian (weekly), 28 Financial Mail, 7 Citizen, 1 copy of the Beeld, 1 copy of the Finance Week, 4 copies of The Economist on Mondays, 3 copies of the Financial Times on Thursdays, 1 copy of the Daily Sun, 2 copies of the Saturday Star, 4 copies of the City Press, 4 copies of the Sunday Times,1 copy of the Sunday Independent, 1 copy of the Sunday Sun, 1 copy of the Sunday World.
2013/2014: Daily purchase: 17 copies of the Sowetan, 41 copies of The Star, 1 copy of The Star (afternoon edition), 35 Business Day, 39 Mail and Guardian (weekly), 27 Financial Mail (Thursdays), 7 Citizen, 1 copy of the Beeld, 1 copy of the Finance Week (Thursdays), 4 copies of The Economist on Mondays, 3 copies of the Financial Times on Thursdays, 1 copy of the Daily Sun, 1 copy of the Saturday Star, 3 copies of the City Press, 3 copies of the Sunday Times,1 copy of the Sunday Independent, 1 copy of the Sunday Sun, 1 copy of the Sunday World and 1 copy of the Engineering News (weekly).
ii) 2014/2015: Daily purchase: 9 copies of the Sowetan, 11 copies of The Star, 1 copy of The Star (Saturday), 12 Business Day, 8 Mail and Guardian (weekly), 3 Financial Mail (Thursdays), 1 Citizen, 1 copy of the Beeld, 3 copies of the Financial Mail on Thursdays, 1 copy of the Daily Sun, 1 copy of the Saturday Star, 1 copy of the City Press, 1 copy of the Sunday Times,1 copy of the Sunday Independent, 1 copy of the Sunday Sun, 1 copy of the Sunday World and 1 copy of Fin Week (weekly).
Film and Publication Board
(aaa) 2011/2012: R806.04
(bbb) 2012/2013: R8144.76
(ccc) 2013/2014: R6959.28
(bb) 2014/2015: R8250.46
(b)
i) Newspapers purchased for each financial year:
Sowetan: 2 copies daily and 480 per year
The Star: 2 copies daily and 480 per year
Business Day: 2 copies daily and 480 per year
City Press: 2 copies weekly and 96 copies per year
Sunday Times: 2 copies weekly and 96 copies per year
Mail & Guardian: 2 copies weekly and 96 copies per year
ii) Same as above
MDDA
(aaa) 2011/2012: R 8899.59
(bbb) 2012/2013: R 9038.88
(ccc) 2013/2014: R 7079.64
(bb) 2014/2015: R6543.12
(b)The MDDA order two copies of the following newspapers per day for the week:
i) 2011/2012: Financial Mail, Mail and Guardian, Citizen, The Star and Business Day
2012/2013: Financial Mail, Mail and Guardian, Citizen, The New Age and Business Day.
2013/2014: Publisher, Financial Mail, Mail and Guardian, The Star and The New Age.
ii)2014/2015: Financial Mail, Business Day and Sowetan
SABC
(a)
THE NEW AGE NEWSPAPER
(aaa) 2011/12: R238 356,52
(bbb) 2013/14: R337 662.80 and
(ccc) 2014/2015: R43 887.50
MEDIA 24
(aaa) 2009/2010: R229 886.11
(bbb) 2011/2012: R269 403.00 and
(ccc) 2013 R104 910.93 financial years R619 906.82
SABC procures Media 24 subscriptions through Times Media Group due to varying procurement processes
TIMES MEDIA GROUP
(aaa) 2011/2012: R1 659 736 .72
(bbb) 2013/2014: R2 120 559.82 and
(ccc) 2015: R702 899.50
MR NN MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW1112
Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the Minister of Communications
How much did (a) her department and (b) entities reporting to her spend on advertising in The New Age newspaper in the (i) 2011-12, (ii) 2012-13 and (iii) 2013-14 financial years?
Reply:
GCIS procures media space and services on behalf of other departments and public entities. The total funds spent on TNA Media related service including transactions facilitated for the departments and entities as follows:
(a) Department
(i) Financial Year 2011/2012 R 7 637 809.65
(ii) Financial Year 2012/2013 R 8 348 116.90
(iii) Financial Year 2013/2014 R 9 048 481.89
(b) Entities
BrandSA
(i), (ii) & (iii) BrandSA did not spend on advertising in The New Age newspaper for financial years 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14.
Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)
(i), (ii) & (iii) The ICASA did not spend on advertising in The New Age newspaper for financial years 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14.
Film and Publication Board (fpb)
(i), (ii) & (iii) The FPB did not spend on advertising in The New Age newspaper for financial years 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14.
Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA)
(i), (ii) & (iii) The MDDA did not spend on advertising in The New Age newspaper for financial years 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14.
South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC)
- 2011-12 none
- 2012 – 2013 R175 840
- 2013 – 2014 R73 140
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2196
Lotriet, Prof A to ask the Minister of Science and Technology
Whether her department is currently involved in a work exchange and/or employment agreement with the Republic of Cuba: if so, (a) What number of Cuban nationals (i) are currently employed and (ii) are due to be employed by her department, (b) What specific work roles are envisaged for the Cuban nationals, (c) what are the specific skills sets of each of the Cuban nationals (i) currently employed and (ii) due to be employed, (d) what are the details of the process followed to ensure that the same skill set was or is not available in the country and amongst South African citizens (e) what is the total cost of the (i) employment or (ii) prospective employment of such Cuban nationals?
Reply:
- No, there are no Cuban nationals currently employed by the Department of Science and Technology. However, there are scientific exchanges in specific research and development areas facilitated through the Bilateral Scientific and Technological Cooperation Agreement signed in 2001. Important collaborations in the past have focused on biotechnology and nanotechnology, with five related flagship projects implemented from 2005 to 2014, namely:
- (a) Cholera vaccine development project, supported from 2005;
- 1(b) Human monoclonal antibodies, supported from 2006;
- (c) Pre-clinical drug development, supported from 2006;
- (d) the use of radio-labelled compounds in medical, biosciences and industrial research, with focus on radio-labelling cancer receptor targeting compounds, supported from 2007; and
- (e)development of drug delivery systems, lateral flow-point-of-care diagnostic kits and biosensors based on nanoparticles, with focus on new therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals based on monoclonal antibodies, supported from 20072.
2. For each of the above projects, there has been one principal researcher from each side, supported by teams of R&D staff in their organisations. The Cubans involved in the R&D projects are highly qualified scientists in their field of specialisation, most holding Phds in the respective science disciplines they conduct research on.
3.It should be stressed that the Cuban scientists were, however not employed in South Africa but remained based at their own institutions in Cuba.
06 July 2015 - NW2395
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of Police
(1)How many witnesses have (a) been attacked or (b) died while under witness protection (i) in the (aa) 200910, (bb) 201011, (cc) 201112, (dd) 201213, (ee) 201314 and (ff) 201415 financial years and (ii) from 1 April 2015 up to the latest date for which information is available; (2) how many of these incidences resulted in investigations (a) which are still in progress and (b) which have been completed in respect of each specified financial year or time period; (3) how many investigated cases were found to involve breaches in security committed by members of SA Police Service in respect of each specified financial year or time period? NW2760E
Reply:
The information that is required is not readily available as each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. A request is hereby made for an extension in order for us to provide quality and correct information as soon as it is received.
06 July 2015 - NW2240
Matsepe, Mr CD to ask the Minister of Police
Whether (a) his department and (b) any entities reporting to him has paid out the remainder of any employee's contract before the contractually stipulated date of termination of the contract since the 2008-09 financial year up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if so, (i) what amount has (aa) his department and (bb) entities reporting to him spent on each such payout, (ii) to whom were these payouts made and (iii) what were the reasons for the early termination of the contracts in each specified case?
Reply:
Kindly find below mentioned answers to the abovementioned question. There were no such terminations for the years 2008-2009 and 2012-2013.
2009-2010 FINANCIAL YEAR
PERSAL NO |
RANK |
SURNAME & INITIALS |
RETIREMENT DATE |
AMOUNT |
REASON FOR TERMINATION |
0400019-6 |
Major General |
Jones JA |
2009-04-30 |
R 1 054 268.21 |
Section 35 |
0472624-3 |
Major General |
Mphego NM |
2009-09-30 |
R 1 165 822.26 |
Section 35 |
2010-2011 FINANCIAL YEAR
PERSAL NO |
RANK |
SURNAME & INITIALS |
RETIREMENT DATE |
AMOUNT |
REASON FOR TERMINATION |
0058432-1 |
Major General |
Terblanche OS |
2010-08-31 |
R 1 804 775.28 |
Section 35 |
0160983-1 |
Lieutenant General |
Naidoo P |
2010-08-31 |
R 4 462 679.40 |
Section 35 |
0483197-7 |
Lieutenant General |
Hlela HM |
2010-08-31 |
R 2 008 538.48 |
Section 35 |
0062764-0 |
Major General |
Fryer MJ |
2010-09-30 |
R 1 686 082.36 |
Section 35 |
0616380-7 |
Brigadier |
Mokoena TD |
2010-09-30 |
R 042 003.71 |
Section 35 |
0173416-4 |
Major General |
Mbambo DM |
2010-10-31 |
R 1 423 127.31 |
Section 35 |
0435245-9 |
Major General |
Pienaar LJ |
2010-10-31 |
R 1 213 169.85 |
Section 35 |
0473766-1 |
Major General |
Van Der Westhuizen CC |
2010-10-31 |
R 1 364 556.79 |
Section 35 |
0535587-7 |
Lieutenant General |
Mtimkulu LTMP |
2010-11-30 |
R 1 077 881.65 |
Section 35 |
0066660-2 |
Major General |
Roos A |
2010-12-31 |
R 1 572 791.53 |
Section 35 |
0055403-1 |
Major General |
Els WJ |
2011-01-31 |
R 1 706 716.69 |
Section 35 |
0062694-5 |
Colonel |
Bester LJ |
2011-01-31 |
R1 114 572.90 |
Section 35 |
0170499-1 |
Major General |
Mokwena RJ |
2011-01-31 |
R 1 522 507.82 |
Section 35 |
0429640-1 |
Lieutenant General |
Pruis LCA |
2011-01-31 |
R 2 194 100.02 |
Section 35 |
0401284-4 |
Major General |
Meyer M |
2011-02-28 |
R 1 488 136.93 |
Section 35 |
0417501-8 |
Brigadier |
Taylor RJ |
2011-02-28 |
R 1 439 484.09 |
Section 35 |
2011-2012 FINANCIAL YEAR
PERSAL NO |
RANK |
SURNAME & INITIALS |
RETIREMENT DATE |
AMOUNT |
REASON FOR TERMINATION |
609287-0 |
Major General |
Mabasa KW |
2011-09-30 |
R 1 831 974.99 |
Section 35 |
2011-2012 FINANCIAL YEAR
PERSAL NO |
RANK |
SURNAME & INITIALS |
RETIREMENT DATE |
AMOUNT |
REASON FOR TERMINATION |
0605774-8 |
Lieutenant General |
Lebeya SG |
2014-05-31 |
R 865 295.10 |
Section 189 (Labour Relations Act) |
0608018-9 |
Lieutenant General |
Mofomme AL |
2014-05-31 |
R 1 064 595.73 |
Section 189 (Labour Relations Act) |
2014-2015 FINANCIAL YEAR
PERSAL NO |
RANK |
SURNAME & INITIALS |
RETIREMENT DATE |
AMOUNT |
REASON FOR TERMINATION |
0479543-1 |
Lieutenant General |
Dramat A |
2015-03-31 |
R 3 109 029.80 |
Section 35 |
06 July 2015 - NW2049
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)Whether there is a shortfall of funds between the amount made available by the Universal Service and Access Fund and the projected costs of the production of the set-top boxes; if so, what does this shortfall amount to; (2) whether negotiations are underway with the National Treasury in order to secure additional funding to cover the shortfall; if so, at what stage are these negotiations? NW2312E
Reply:
- The available budget allocated for the provision of free set-top-boxes to five (5) million poor television household is R2, 523,642, 000. Shortfall to be established once the costing of the STBs has been determined.
- Negotiations with National Treasury will be initiated once a shortfall figure, if any, has been identified.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2479
Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the Minister of Police
(1)What are the reasons for the Edenvale Police Station’s refusal to raid a known drug den (details furnished); (2) whether he will give an instruction for such a raid to take place; if not, why not; if so, when?
Reply:
- The house is occupied by different tenants from different counties and has been reported to EMPD that they can raid the place for overcrowding. It was raided for drugs by SAPS but nothing was found.
(2) The address has been given to EMPD for overcrowding. A joint operation between SAPS and EMPD has been arranged for execution.
06 July 2015 - NW2048
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)Have any specific criteria been developed to identify eligible households to receive a free set-top box as part of the revised Broadcasting Digital Migration Policy; if so, (a) by whom were the criteria developed, (b) on what date were the criteria published in the Government Gazette and (c) under what Government Gazette number; (2) (a) how will eligible households be (i) identified and (ii) vetted to determine the legitimacy of their receipt of a set-top box, (b) who will carry out this process, (c) what is the projected cost of this process and (d) has the process begun?
Reply:
- (a) The qualifying criteria was developed by the USAASA.
(b) The criteria was published on the 28th of October 2014 under gazette number 38134.
2. (a) According to USAASA, (i) (ii) the identification and vetting of the applicant will be done through the means test and (b) there have been business rules developed by the Agency and SAPO. The process will show the various checks and balances to ensure that the right recipients receive the boxes.
(c) R190 million is allocated for the distribution of Set-Top-Boxes.
(d) The process has not begun.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2053
Motau, Mr SC to ask the Minister of Communications
Has work commenced on developing the technical specifications for the integrated digital television sets; if so, (a) on what date did the work commence, (b) who is serving on the committee developing the specifications and (c) what is the projected completion date for the specifications?
Reply:
No.
Integrateg Digital Television (IDTV) SANS 10352 standard is yet to be finalised. According to SABS, the standard is targeted for finalisation at the end of 2015.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2050
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)How has the (a) production and (b) supply of the (i) set-top boxes and (ii) antennae for the Broadcasting Digital Migration Policy roll-out been divided between the 26 successful bidders for the project; (2) what is the value of the orders placed in each case; (3) are there any collaborations between the successful bidders, if so, between which bidders? NW2313E
Reply:
- (a) & (b) There has not been any allocations placed to any of the service providers. However, allocation will be made taking account of the different capacities which the various service providers have, expected time of delivery, pricing and other considerations.
- No orders has been placed as yet
- USAASA is not aware of any collaboration between the service providers.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2398
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of Police
How many cases of witnesses that have (a) been attacked and/or (b) died while under witness protection resulted in (i) completed investigations, (ii) pending proceedings before the courts and (iii) convictions and (c) members of SA Police Service (i) face pending proceedings before the courts and/or (ii) have been convicted as a result (aa) in the (aaa) 200910, (bbb) 201011, (ccc) 201112, (ddd) 201213, (eee) 201314 and (fff) 201415 financial years and (bb) from 1 April 2015 up to the latest date for which information is available?
Reply:
The information that is required is not readily available as each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. A request is hereby made for an extension in order for us to provide quality and correct information as soon as it is received.
06 July 2015 - NW2451
Ollis, Mr IM to ask the Minister of Police
(1)With regard to case CAS02/10/2011 lodged with the SA Police Service in Rosebank, Johannesburg, (a) was the case indeed opened, (b) which investigating officer has been assigned to the case, (c) have any investigations been carried out at the premises of the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) in Jellicoe Avenue, Rosebank, and (d) have any suspects been (i) identified or (ii) arrested; (2) (a)(i) which items have been reported as allegedly having been stolen, (ii) in whose possession were the specified items at the time of the alleged theft and (b) have any of these items been recovered; (3) are investigations in the specified case ongoing or has the case been closed; (4) are any other cases involving (a) Nedlac or (b) its premises currently under investigation; if so, in each case, (i) on what date was each of the specified cases opened, (ii) what is the relevant case number and (iii) what was the outcome of the investigations in respect of each specified case? NW2819E
Reply:
(1)(a) Yes
(1)(b) Sergeant Nkosi
(1)(c) Yes
(1)(d)(i) No
(1)(d)(ii) No
(2)(a)(i) Laptop, cellular phone and two Kruger Rands valued R60 000.
(2)(a)(ii) In the office of lawful owner, N. H. Mkhuize.
(2)(b) No
(3) Case is closed.
(4) No, there are no other cases currently investigated.
06 July 2015 - NW462
Davis, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)Whether her department spent an amount of R1,6 million on an official departmental advertisement published in a certain newspaper (name and details furnished); if not, why not; if so, (2) whether this expenditure was authorised by (a) the relevant Deputy Director-General or (b) any other official accounting officer; if not, why not; if so, by whom?
Reply:
- The Department of Communications did not spend an amount of R1.6 million for an official advertisement in the named newspaper, but rather spent R720 990.72. This cost saving was due to negotiated discounts through media bulk buying.
- The above expenditure was authorised in accordance with the GCIS/DOC supply chain management delegation 4.4 which states that "the acquisition of print media directly with the sole service providers or sole appointed agent , approval thereof rests with the Chief Director (Communication Services Agency) and the Chief Financial Officer for amounts between (R30 000.00 – R3 million)."
This expenditure was within the provision of delegation 4.4 and it was authorised by the Acting Chief Director: Communication Service Agency and Acting Director General in his capacity as the Accounting Officer due to the absence of the Chief Financial Officer at the time.
MR D LIPHOKO
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS (GCIS)
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2481
McLoughlin, Mr AR to ask the Minister of Police
(1)With regard to his reply to question 2293 on 18 June 2015, where did he get the information that Democratic Alliance (DA) members were wearing DA branded name tags; (2) whether there are any reasons and/or provisions why an open public meeting, where press are reporting, cannot be recorded; if so, what are the reasons and/or provisions; (3) why did the chairperson inform the community police forum meeting that the Member of the Executive Council had given an instruction to postpone the meeting when it was in fact Mr D Sibuyi who had given the advice that the meeting be postponed; (4) will any action be taken in this regard?
Reply:
(1) From CPF Chairperson Linda McKenzie.
(2) CPF chairperson Linda McKenzie observed a hidden video camera recorder hidden in the shoe box and asked Mr Allan Fourie why the camera is hidden in the box and his reply was that it is used to record and video. She then asked him if he had obtained permission from the executive and he replied that permission was not needed.
(3) CPF chairperson conveyed the message from the MEC office to the community at the CPF meeting.
(4) No action will be taken.
06 July 2015 - NW2054
Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) What are the dates for the dual illumination period for the transition to broadcast digital migration, (b) what is the projected cost of the dual illumination period and (c) which departmental programme will finance the illumination period?
Reply:
(a) Dual illumination already exist in South Africa. We assume that dual illumination here is referred to the performance period. The performance period will be determined by the Minister in consultation with Cabinet in due course. The consultation timeline with Cabinet will be determined in consideration of a few factors:
- Bilateral engagement with neighbouring countries regarding harmonisation of frequency spectrum interference; and
- Pending court decision against the Government by eTV.
(b)
DESCRIPTION |
2015-2016 |
2016-2017 |
2017-2018 |
Dual Illumination (Ex VAT) |
R113, 975 542 |
R120, 683, 617 |
R129, 369, 314 |
Dual Illumination (Incl. VAT) |
R129, 932, 118 |
R137, 579, 323 |
R147, 481, 018 |
(c) Sentech has in its budget funding for Dual Illumination Period for 2015/16.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2457
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1) Who in her department authorises the payment of (a) annual membership and (b) other fees to the African Union; (2) Does her department consult with the Minister of Finance or any relevant officials from the National Treasury before authorising South Africa’s annual membership payments to the African Union; if so, (a) have such taken place or (b) when will such consultations take place with regard to the country’s payment(s) for the 2015-16 financial year; (3) Have any representatives from the African Union contacted her department in the past 12 months to request additional funding, other than the country’s annual membership fees?
Reply:
1. The Director General or his delegate (Accounting Officer) approves payments for annual membership and other fees to the African Union.
2. No, it is not a requirement for her department to consult with the Minister of Finance or any relevant officials from the National Treasury before authorising South Africa’s annual membership payments to the African Union as the budget is appropriated to the department.
3. No, the department has not been contacted in the past 12 months by any representatives from the African Union to request additional funding, other than the country’s annual membership fees.
UNQUOTE
06 July 2015 - NW2386
Kohler-Barnard, Ms D to ask the Minister of Police
(1)What are the relevant details of all expenditure that was found to have been (a) irregular and (b) wasteful in his department (i) in the 2014-15 financial year and (ii) from 1 April 2015 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; (2) in respect of each such finding of (a) irregular and (b) wasteful expenditure, (i) what (aa) is the description thereof, (bb) is the value thereof and (cc) action has been taken against the persons accountable for such expenditure and (ii)(aa) what amount of such expenditure has been recovered and (bb) from whom has it been recovered?
Reply:
(1)(a)(i) and (ii) and (2)(a)(i)(aa), (bb), (cc) and (ii)(aa) and (bb).
The following details are applicable in respect of expenditure found to be irregular expenditure in the 2014/2015 financial year:
Details of irregular expenditure |
Cases |
Actions taken |
Amount recovered from employees |
2014/2015 |
Catering |
1 |
Verbal warning |
R 0.00 |
R 17 370.00 |
Food & Beverages |
1 |
Written warning |
R 0.00 |
R 25 229.58 |
Furniture |
1 |
Written warning |
R 0.00 |
R 9 102.00 |
Repairs |
1 |
Verbal warning |
R 0.00 |
R 24 453.00 |
Security Services |
1 |
Verbal warning |
R 0.00 |
R 7 085.00 |
Storage Fees |
1 |
Verbal warning |
R 0.00 |
R 3 657.50 |
Total |
6 |
R 0.00 |
R 86 897.08 |
For the period 1 April 2015 to date no irregular expenditure was found to be irregular of nature.
(1)(b)(i) and (ii) and (2)(b)(i)(aa), (bb), (cc) and (ii)(aa) and (bb).
The following details are relevant to amounts found to be fruitless and wasteful expenditure in the 2014/2015 financial year:
Details of fruitless and wasteful expenditure |
Cases |
Actions taken |
Amount recovered from employees |
2014/2015 |
Penalties on License Fees |
42 |
Liability investigation conducted to determine recoverability |
R 1 822.80 |
R 72 357.25 |
Accommodation |
8 |
Liability investigation conducted to determine recoverability |
R 46 631.00 |
|
Air/Bus Tickets |
5 |
Liability investigation conducted to determine recoverability |
R 1 765.50 |
|
Non attending of courses |
4 |
Liability investigation conducted to determine recoverability |
R 590.00 |
R 2 474.00 |
Incorrect Payment |
1 |
Liability investigation conducted to determine recoverability |
R 14 443.71 |
|
Penalty Municipal Account |
1 |
Liability investigation conducted to determine recoverability |
R 2 000.00 |
|
Telecommunications |
1 |
Liability investigation conducted to determine recoverability |
R 1 122.30 |
|
Total |
62 |
R 2 412.80 |
R 140 793.76 |
For the period 1 April 2015 to date no expenditure was found to be fruitless and wasteful expenditure.
In respect of fruitless and wasteful expenditure, the outcome of a liability investigation being conducted to determine recoverability can result in the following:
- Investigation still pending (no resolution);
- Treasury Regulation 12.7.3 resolution (claim against official must be waived in those instances where state cover is not forfeited);
- Liability cannot be determined; and
- Liability determination to recover expenditure.
If the category of irregular expenditure is considered, it reflects the incurrence of expenditures by members countrywide mainly where procurement prescripts were not technically complied with. The Department did however receive the goods or services. In each such incident reported, a due process of investigation, determination of responsibility and consideration of disciplinary steps are considered. Preventative control measures such as procurement authority, segregation of duties, and registration/rotation of suppliers regarding quotations, exception reporting and certification, limit irregular and fruitless expenditures. The formal process of assessment as indicated is via the Supply Chain Management (BAC) mechanism.
It should be noted that 2014/15 figures are still being audited by the Auditor-General as part of the year-end audit process, and could change.
06 July 2015 - NW337
Davis, Mr GR to ask the Minister of Communications
(1) Was a resolution taken by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) council to either (a) revoke or (b) enforce section 7(4) of the ICASA Act, Act 13 of 2000, in respect of the expiry of term of office of the four ICASA councillors at the end of 2014; if not, why not; if so, did the Council resolve to (i) revoke or (ii) enforce section 7(4); (2) on which authority did she rely when she wrote a letter dated 6 October 2014 notifying the ICASA councillors that section 7(4) of the ICASA Act, Act 13 of 2000, would not apply in this case; (3) were the four ICASA councillors referred to above paid for the 45-day working period that she revoked in her letter dated 6 October 2014; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Yes, the four Councillors were duly paid on 30 December 2014 for their 45 day extended period after the expiry of their term, as follows:
Councillor’s Name |
End of Office Term |
End of the extended 45 working days |
Councillor William Currie |
30 September 2014 |
02 December 2014 |
Councillor Joseph Lebooa |
30 September 2014 |
02 December 2014 |
Councillor Ntombizodwa Ndhlovu |
31 October 2014 |
08 January 2015 |
Councillor William Stucke |
31 October 2014 |
08 January 2015 |
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2055
Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of Communications
Will recipients of the free set-top boxes need valid SABC licences before digital switch on; if not, what regulatory amendments are anticipated to enable this?
Reply:
Yes, recipients of free set-top-boxes will have to present valid SABC television licence.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2393
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of Police
(1)With reference to Operation Fiela, since its inception, (a) how many operations have been conducted and (b) in which (i) cities and (ii) areas; (2) how many suspects have been (a) arrested and (b) released (i) on bail and/or (ii) due to no charges being pressed; (3) in respect of each suspect still under detention, where are the specified suspects being detained; (4) how many cases (a) are currently pending before court and/or (b) have resulted in conviction as a result of the specified operation; (5) how many (a) illegal firearms, (b) weapons and (c) illegal narcotics have been confiscated as a result of the specified operation?
Reply:
(1)(a) 343
(1)(b)(i)
EASTERN CAPE |
East London, Humansdorp , King Williams Town, Mthatha, Port St John’s, Uitenhage |
FREE STATE |
Ladybrand, Mangaung, Phuthaditjaba, Welkom, Bethlehem, Bloemfontein, Bultfontein, Henneman |
GAUTENG |
Alexandra, Benoni, Brakpan, Carltonville, Katlehong, Boksburg, Ga-Rankuwa, Johannesburg, Krugerdorp, Mamelodi, Springs, Tembisa, Vereeniging |
KWAZULU-NATAL |
Indanda, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Kokstad, Ladysmith, Port Shepstone, Umkomaas,Umlazi |
LIMPOPO |
Bela- Bela , Giyane, Lephalale, Modimolle, Musina, Phalaborwa, Polokwane, Seshego, Thabazimbi, Thohoyandou, Tzaneen, Vaalwater |
MPUMALANGA |
Acornhoek, Elukwatini, Ermelo, KwaMhlanga, Middelburg, Nelspruit, Piet Retief, Secunda, Standerton, Witbank, Bushbuckridge |
NORTH WEST |
Brits, Klerksdorp, Rustenburg, Taung, Vryburg, Wolmaranstad, Zeerust, Haartebeespoort, Lichtenburg, Marikana, Mogwase, Pochefstroom, Stilfontein, Thlabane |
NORTHERN CAPE |
Alexandra Bay, Calvinia, De Aar, Kimberley, Kuruman, Port Nolloth, Postmasburg, Windsorton, Griekwastad, Hartswater, Jan Kempdorp, Keimoes, Springbok, Victoria West |
WESTERN CAPE |
Cape Town, George, Hermanus, Khayelitsha, Kraaifontein, Kuilsriver, Milnerton, Mitchells Plain, Nyanga, Vredenburg, Worcester, Bellville, Parrow, Oudsthoorn, Vredenburg |
(1)(b)(ii)
EASTERN CAPE |
Matatiele, Mount Road, Mdantsane, Motherwell |
FREE STATE |
Park Road, Thabong, Selosesha, Zamdela |
GAUTENG |
Alrode, Diepsloot, Johannesburg Central, Hillbrow, Moroka, Orlando, Pretoria Central, Pretoria West, Sunnyside, Temba, |
KWAZULU-NATAL |
Brighton Beach, Chatsworth, Durban Central, Jozini, Mountain Rise, Mtuzuma, |
LIMPOPO |
Lebowakgomo, Lulekani, Mahwelereng, Makhado, Masemola, Mphephu, Tubatse, Vuwani, Westerburg, |
MPUMALANGA |
Pienaar, Tonga |
NORTH WEST |
Atamelang, Boitekong, Ikageng, Mahikeng, Mmakau, Phokeng, |
NORTHERN CAPE |
Barkely West, Kagisho, Kakamas, Roodepan, Wilbosten, Galeshewe |
WESTERN CAPE |
Dunoon, Wynberg, Grassy Park, Conville, Mannenburg, Bishop Lavis, |
(2)(a) 9098
(2)(b)(i) The information that is required is not readily available as each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. A request is hereby made for an extension in order for us to provide quality and correct information as soon as it is received.
(2)(b)(ii) The information that is required is not readily available as each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. A request is hereby made for an extension in order for us to provide quality and correct information as soon as it is received.
(3) The information that is required is not readily available as each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. A request is hereby made for an extension in order for us to provide quality and correct information as soon as it is received.
(4) The information that is required is not readily available as each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. A request is hereby made for an extension in order for us to provide quality and correct information as soon as it is received.
(5)(a) 27
(5)(b) 39
(5)(c)
Dagga |
287231.068g |
Dagga Plant |
6 |
Tik |
623.5g |
Mandrax |
439 Tablets |
Cocaine |
2301g |
Crystal Meth |
12g |
Heroine |
1125 Tablets |
Whoonga |
124g |
Khat |
34g |
Nyaope |
2312.37g |
06 July 2015 - NW2051
Motau, Mr SC to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)(a) What amount has been budgeted for the marketing of the transition to Broadcast Digital Migration and (b) from which departmental programme is this budget derived; (2) has an invitation to tender been published for the work; if so, (a) on what date was the invitation published in the Government Gazette and (b) under what Government Gazette number? NW2314E
Reply:
(1)
(a) R22 Million has been identified from the DTPS 2014/15 budget. The department is liaising with DTPS and National Treasusy for the funds to be rolled-over to 2015/16 financial year and also be transferred to the DoC to fund the Public Awareness Campaign and its related activities.
(b) as per the above
(2) No tender can issued on unappropriated funds. The PFMA does not allow the Accounting Officer to spend amounts that have not been appropriated. Procurement activities in this regard can be undertaken after National Treasury has guaranteed the roll-over and function shift of the R22 million request.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW1643
Mackenzie, Mr C to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) How many queries have been received by the Film and Publication Board (FPB) since it implemented the Call Centre System in July 2014, with a toll-free number for distributors and the broader community to access the FPB, (b) has the call-logging facility enabled sufficient tracking to ensure closure of queries and (c) how many queries have been resolved thus far?
Reply:
a) 3767 is the total number of queries received in July 2014 to March 2015.
b) The process of tracking is manual, a service provider will be appointed to automate the process.
c) 2070 total queries were resolved in July 2014 to March 2015.
NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW1336
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Communications
(1)(a) How many persons are employed at the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) and (b) of these, how many are in permanent positions;
Reply:
- The MDDA has 19 employees
- (a) 11 resigned from the MDDA in the past financial year
(b) Reasons for resignation are as follows:
Number |
Reason for resignation |
2 |
Contract expired |
1 |
Took a job closer to place of residence |
1 |
Promotion |
1 |
Higher salary |
1 |
Strained relation at work |
1 |
Ill health |
3 |
Work environment not conducive for efficiency and productivity |
1 |
Mutually agreed settlement |
(3) (a) The names and
(b) contact details of employees who have resigned will not be made available to the public due to the following reasons:
(i) The International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) code of Practice on the protection of workers personal data, 1997 which is taken into account when interpreting and applying the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (Section 1(b) and section 3(c) states that:
“personal data should in principle be used for the purposes for which they were originally collected.”
It further states that “Personal data should not be communicated to third parties without the worker’s explicit consent unless the communication is: a) necessary to prevent serious and imminent threat to life or health. b) required or authorised by law. c) necessary for the conduct of employment relationship d) required for enforcement of criminal law.
Former employees of the MDDA have not consented to their personal information be made available to third parties. The MDDA will not disclose such information unless it is required by law or unless consent is given by the previous employees.
4. (a) The following senior positions are vacant:
i) Chief Executive Officer
ii) Chief Operating Officer
iii) Chief Financial Officer
iv) Programme Director
(b) i) Chief Executive Officer – since June 2014
ii) Chief Operating Officer – since July 2014
iii) Chief Financial Officer - since January 2015
iv) Programme Director – since June 2014
5. i) Chief Executive Officer: The post was advertised in the national newspapers in September 2014. The recruitment process is awaiting presentation and approval from the Board.
ii) Chief Operating Officer: The position has not been advertised as it is being reviewed.
iii) Chief Financial Officer: The position has not been advertised. According to the MDDA Board resolution of 2013, this position must be appointed by the Board.
iv) Programme Director: The post was advertised in May 2014 and interviews were held. No suitable candidate was found. The position will be readvertised.
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW1022
Chance, Mr R to ask the Minister of Communications
What amount was spent by the Independent Communications Authority of SA on (a) décor, (b) plants and (c) art work purchased (i) directly from artists and (ii) through an agent in the 2013-14 financial year in each case?
Reply:
ICASA did not purchase (a) décor (b) plants and (c) artwork (i) from artists or (ii) through an agent in the 2013/2014 financial year.
MR N MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2521
Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the Minister of Police
(1)How many criminal dockets were opened with the SA Police Service (SAPS) in each province for the offence of (a) failing to comply with environmental management plans and programmes or (b) for mining or prospecting without an approved environmental management plan (EMP) or environmental management programme (EMPR) in the (i) 2013-14 and (ii) 2014-15 financial years; (2) how many criminal dockets were handed over to the National Prosecuting Authority in each province for the offence of (a) failing to comply with the EMP and EMPR or (b) for mining or prospecting without an approved EMP or EMPR Authority in the (a) 2013-14 and (b) 2014-15 financial years?
Reply:
The information that is required is not readily available as each case must be verified before the information can be submitted. A request is hereby made for an extension in order for us to provide quality and correct information as soon as it is received.
06 July 2015 - NW2456
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
What amount (a) did the country contribute to the African Union in (i) membership and (ii) other fees in the (aa) 201213, (bb) 201314 and (cc) 201415 financial years and (b) is the country planning to contribute in the 201516 financial year?
Reply:
The country contributed the following amount:
(a)(i) membership
(aa) 2012/13 R167 044 875
(bb) 2013/14 R151 160 331
(cc) 2014/15 R195 878 000
(a)(ii) other fees
(aa) 2012/13 None
(bb) 2013/14 R21 903 933
(cc) 2014/15 R35 962 000
(b) The budget for 201516 financial year is R160 216 million for African Union membership and R38 300 million for other contributions. Payment for membership fees is based on the assessed contribution.
UNQUOTE
06 July 2015 - NW1348
America, Mr D to ask the Minister of Communications
(a) Which companies or industry groupings were involved in the revision of the Broadcast Digital Migration policy approved by Cabinet in March 2015 and (b) why were these revisions not gazetted for public comment before Cabinet approval was sought?
Reply:
(a) Various industry formations in the Broadcasting and Electronic Manufacturing; National Signal Distributor; Regulator; Public and Private institutions made inputs to the amendments process of the Broadcasting Digital Migration Policy approved by Cabinet in March 2015.
(b) Revisions were not gazetted because the process was a continuation of the amendments gazetted on the 4th of December 2013.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
06 July 2015 - NW2052
Motau, Mr SC to ask the Minister of Communications
Has her department (a) finalised and (b) gazetted the technical specifications for the manufacture of the direct-to-home set-top boxes; if not, on what date does she expect the specifications to be finalised; if so, (i) on what date was the Government Gazette published and (ii) under what Government Gazette number?
Reply:
(a) & (b) In terms of DTH SANS 1719, Section 5.2 and 6, the technical specifications for Direct-To-Home Set-Top-Boxes has be developed by Free-To-Air (FTA) Broadcasters. The technical specifications has not been developed and finalised. Timelines for the compilation and finalisation of the specification is yet to be obtained from the FTA broadcasters.
(i) As a result of the above, no gazette has been published; and
(ii) No gazette number since the specifications has not been developed.
MR NDIVHUHO MUNZHELELE
[ACTING] DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
MS AF MUTHAMBI, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
DATE:
03 July 2015 - NW2348
Van Der Walt, Ms D to ask the Minister of Finance
With reference to the presentation made to the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education on 2 June 2015 (a) what are the full details of each of the mobile schools, (b) how many learners are enrolled in each of the specified schools, (c) on what dates were each of the specified mobile schools established, (d) how many teachers are employed in each mobile school, (e) what is the reason for the establishment of the mobile schools and (f) for how long will the specified schools remain mobile schools?
Reply:
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) During a joint meeting of the Select Committee on Appropriations and the Portfolio Committee on Education on 02 June 2015, the acting Director General of Basic Education and other staff members of the Department of Basic Education made a presentation to the meeting regarding the delivery performance of the Accelerated School Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI) and the Education Infrastructure Grant. During the same meeting the National Treasury also made a presentation about the expenditure of these two programmes, and also reflected on non-financial performance within the same presentation. The National Treasury indicated that the non-financial data was sourced from the Department of Basic Education, which oversees and manages these programmes.
Following the National Treasury presentation the acting co-chairperson of the hearing, Mr C de Beer, informed members of both committees that questions regarding the actual service delivery performance of the grants or programmes should be directed to the Department of Basic Education, as this was the reason why they had been invited to the joint hearing. For this reason, and since the questions that have been asked are specifically related to the mandate of the Minister of Basic Education, please be advised that the questions have been forwarded to the Ministry of Basic Education, who will provide a reply.
03 July 2015 - NW2327
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1) Whether the law firm that has been appointed to audit Eskom has ever done any work for the Government, State organs or State institutions; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether any South African or international directors of this law firm have ever done any work for the Government, State organs or State institutions; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) The Honourable member is referred to various government departments for a response on whether the firm has done any work for government. The Law firm (Dentons) has not previously been engaged by Eskom.
(2) As the Minister of Public Enterprises I am in no position to respond on whether the law firm has or not done any other work to various Government Departments and therefore request the Honourable member to direct the question to the relevant Government Department for a response.
03 July 2015 - NW2243
Balindlela, Ms ZB to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Whether (a) his department and (b) any entities reporting to him has paid out the remainder of any employee’s contract before the contractually stipulated date of termination of the contract since the 2008 – 09 financial year up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if so, (i) what amount has (aa) his department and (bb) entities reporting to him spent on each such payout, (ii) to whom were these payouts made and (iii) what were the reason for the early termination of the contracts in each specified case?
Reply:
(a) Yes
(b) Yes
(i) (aa) [Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries] (ii) and (iii)
SMS Members
Institution Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) |
Amount paid out |
To whom the payouts were made |
Reason |
DAFF |
R 1, 105,073.17 Amount includes leave credits that had to be paid out. |
Ms NJ Nduli (Former DG of DAFF). |
Employment contract was re-determined. |
DAFF |
R 1, 649,076.54 Amount includes leave credits that had to be paid out. |
Mr L Zita (Former DG of DAFF). |
Employment contract was re-determined. |
DAFF |
R 750, 125.25 Amount includes leave credits that had to be paid out. |
Ms B Thokoane (Former Special Adviser to the Minister). |
Employment contract was terminated. |
(i) (aa) [Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries] (ii) and (iii)
Non SMS Members
Institution Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) |
Amount paid out |
To whom the payouts were made |
Reason |
None |
|||
(i) (bb) [Entities] (ii) and (iii)
Entity |
Amount paid out |
To whom the payouts were made |
Reason |
Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) |
R 1, 195,918.28 |
Dr MM Dyasi |
Breakdown of the employment relationship. |
Agriculture Research Council (ARC) |
R 260 311.35 |
Ms SL Ginindza |
Termination of contract |
Agriculture Research Council (ARC) |
R 422 607.46 |
Ds ST Masia |
Termination of contract |
Agriculture Research Council (ARC) |
R 849 646.39 |
Mr CL Matthews |
Termination of contract |
National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) |
None |
||
Ncera Farms |
None |
||
PPECB |
None |
||
03 July 2015 - NW2217
Lekota, Mr M to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
(1) Whether the Government had completed a detailed financial analysis to put an estimate on the final cost of Medupi Power Station; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether the Government’s financial analysis corresponds with independent estimates that Medupi Power Staton will have cost the Government R300 billion rand or 10 times its cost at the signing of the contract; if so, what is the Government’s own estimate of the final cost; (3) does the Government’s final cost estimate differ with the independently estimated cost of R300 billion; if not, why not; if so, (a) by what amount below or above that mark, (b) will the Government explain what consequences will flow for all those who allowed the target to be overshot by the specified amount and (c) what measures has the Government implemented from 2009 to control the runaway costs; (4) will she make a statement on the handling and management of Medupi Power Station from its implementation up until the latest specified date for which information is available in light of the Government’s own fiduciary responsibility for Medupi Power Station? NW2574E
Reply:
(1) Yes. The cost to completion on the Medupi Project, as with other long term projects, is reviewed on an ongoing basis. The current approved cost to completion is R105bn. The Board of Eskom has not approved any further revision to the R105bn. The most recent review of the costs is currently undergoing internal Governance scrutiny. Should an increase to the current cost of completion be required, the Board will seek the necessary Shareholder approval through the PFMA process.
(2) Eskom is not familiar with the details, assumptions or factors that have been considered in the independent estimate of R300 billion, hence Eskom is not in a position to comment on the credibility of the estimate. The current approved project cost to completion on the Medupi Project is R105 billion.
(3) Eskom’s final cost estimate differs from the quoted independent estimate.
(a) Eskom’s current approved cost to completion of Medupi of R105bn is R195 billion below the above mentioned independent estimate.
(b) The Government is aware that the Medupi project might have cost overruns due to the various factors and Eskom will provide the detail of cost overruns to the Department in due course when all the Government processes have been completed.
(c) Eskom is consistently incorporating techniques to improve performance and manage costs. These ideas for improvement are derived from lessons learnt on other local and international projects. The following main cost control measures have been implemented:
• The introduction of additional supervisory resources to manage construction interfaces and the quality of on-site construction activities and off-site fabrication works.
• The strengthening of construction techniques within the project.
• Implementation of a robust claims management strategy.
• Improved Project oversight and streamlined decision making via the Eskom Board Build Program Review Committee and Eskom’s Executive Build Program Review Committee.
(4) The Minister will continue with the shareholder oversight pertaining to the progress of the Medupi Power Station project. The operational issues of the project are handled by the Eskom and quarterly progress is provided to the Department. The Department has undertaken a study to evaluate Eskom’s build programme and there has been lessons learned which are to be implemented to the build programme.
03 July 2015 - NW2417
Macpherson, Mr DW to ask the Minister of Trade and Industry
What amount did (a) his department and (b) each entity reporting to him spend on advertising in (i) Sowetan and (ii) Daily Sun in the (aa) 2012-13, (bb) 2013-14 and (cc) 2014-15 financial years?
Reply:
Response from the Department
(a) (i) (ii) (aa) (bb) (cc)
Advertising Cost: 2012/13
The annual advertising cost per newspaper per financial year is indicated in the table below:
Newspaper |
2012/13 Financial Year |
2013/14 Financial Year |
2014/15 Financial Year |
Sowetan |
R1 283 046.88 |
R1 146 164 .88 |
R511 733.97 |
Daily Sun |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Response from the Entities
Entity |
b (i)(aa) |
b (i)(bb) |
b (i)(cc) |
b(ii)(aa) |
b (ii)(bb) |
b(ii)(cc) |
Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Export Credit Insurance Corporation (ECIC) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
National Credit Regulator (NCR) |
R 237 304 |
R 244 263 |
R 209 111 |
R 149 136 |
R 496 540 |
R 109 470 |
National Consumer Tribunal (NCT) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
National Empowerment Fund (NEF) |
R 135 254.40 |
R 111 960 |
R 657 600 |
R63 354 |
R 6 960 |
R 37 040 |
National Gambling Board (NGB) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
National Lotteries Commission (NLC) |
R 56 363 |
R 461 183 |
R 438 039 |
R 78 229 |
Not Applicable |
R 112 783 |
National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
National Regulator For Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
National Consumer Commission (NCC) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Companies Tribunal (CT) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
R 77 278.65 |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
03 July 2015 - NW2297
Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1)With regard to the amount of R352,4 million which was set aside to assist the nine municipalities affected by drought in KwaZulu-Natal, (a) which municipalities have received payments and (b) what amount has each municipality received to date; (2) have funding agreements been signed with all affected municipalities; if not, (a) which municipalities have outstanding agreements and (b) what action has been taken to remedy this?
Reply:
(1)(a) Refer to table below regarding the nine municipalities affected by drought in KZN:
No. |
Name of Municipality |
Business Plan |
Funding agreement |
Amount received to date |
1 |
Umzinyathi District Municipality |
Approved |
Approved |
R1 782 836.47 |
2 |
Umkhanyakude District Municipality |
Approved |
Approved |
R6 321 734.42 |
3 |
Uthukela District Municipality |
Received and pending approval |
Received and pending approval |
None |
4 |
Ugu District Municipality |
Approved |
Approved |
None |
6 |
Zululand District Municipality |
Approved |
Approved |
None |
7 |
UguDistrict Municipality |
Approved |
Approved |
None |
8 |
IlembeDistrict Municipality |
Approved |
Approved |
None |
9 |
Harry Gwala |
Approved |
Approved |
None |
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03 July 2015 - NW2299
Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
Are there any plans in place to release water from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project to assist the Free State towns of Ficksburg, Clocolan and Marquard which have been affected by drought; if not, (a) why not and (b) what other measures have been put into place to deal with the effects of water security resultant from the drought in these communities?
Reply:
Yes, a submission has been made to the Director-General on 21 May 2015 for the release of water from the Katse Dam (Lesotho Highlands Water Project).
(a) Falls away
(b) In order to ensure the sustainability of supply within the system, pumping at the Tienfontein Pump Station (Caledon River) should be maintained. This can only be achieved by releasing water from the Lesotho Highlands Water Scheme (Katse Dam) into the Caledon River. The transfer of water from Knellpoort Dam via the Novo transfer scheme to Rustfontein Dam should also be maintained. Fast-track and intensify the implementation of water conservation and water demand management measures in all affected municipalities. Urgent implementation of the gazetted water restrictions and the monitoring of possible unlawful water use along the Modder River, upstream of Maselspoort Dam.
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03 July 2015 - NW1839
Balindlela, Ms ZB to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1)Whether she has taken any steps to implement the recommendations of the Auditor-General with regard to preventing the procurement of goods and services with a transaction value below R500 000 without obtaining the required price and quotations; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details with regard to each recommendation;
Reply:
(1) Yes, steps have been taken to implement the recommendations of the Auditor- General with regard to preventing the procurement of goods and services with a transaction value below R500 000, refer below:
- The Accounting officer invites and accepts written price quotations for requirement up to an estimated value of R500 000.00 from as many suppliers as possible, that are registered on the list of prospective suppliers.
- Where no suitable suppliers are available from the list of prospective suppliers, written price quotations may be obtained from other possible suppliers.
- If it is not possible to obtain at least three (3) written price quotations, the reason should be recorded and approved by the accounting officer/ authority or his /her delegate.
- The Supply Chain Management policy which incorporates the above and other quotation process has been approved and is currently utilized within the Water Trading Entity as a guideline for the procurement process which include other related National Treasury practices notes and related circulars issued by other authorities within the Water and Infrastructure Sector e.g. CIDB Regulations.
(2) Yes, steps have been taken to implement the recommendations of the Auditor-General with regard to preventing the procurement of goods and services with a transaction value above R500 000.00, refer below:
- Accounting officer invite competitive bids for all procurement above R500 000.00.
- Competitive bids are advertised in the Government Tender Bulleting and in other appropriate media should an accounting officer deem it necessary to ensure greater exposure to potential bidders. The responsibility for advertisement cost lies with the relevant accounting officer.
- Should it be impractical to invite competitive bids for specific procurement, such as in urgent or emergency cases or in cases of a sole supplier, the accounting officer/ authority may procure the required goods and services by other means, such as price quotations or negotiations in accordance with Treasury Regulation 16A6.4. The reasons for deviating from inviting competitive bids are recorded and approved by the accounting officer or his/ her delegate.
- The Accounting officer reports within ten (10) working days to the relevant Treasury and the Auditor-General regarding all cases where goods and services above the value of R1 Million (VAT inclusive) and providing description of the goods or services, the name/s of the suppliers/s, the amount/s involved and the reasons for deviating from the prescribed competitive bidding process.
- Goods, works or services may not deliberately be split into parts or items of lesser value merely for the sake of procuring the goods, works or service otherwise than through the prescribed procurement process. when determining transaction values, a requirement for goods , works or services consisting of different parts or items must as far as possible be treated and dealing with as a single transaction
- Accounting officers apply the prescripts of the preferential procurement policy Framework Act, 2000 (Act No. 5 of 2000) and its associated Regulations for all procurement equal to or above R30 000.00.00 (VAT included) less than
that amount if and when appropriate.
- The Supply Chain Management policy which incorporates the above and other bids processes has been approved and is currently utilized within the Water Trading Entity as a guide-line for the procurement process which include together with other related National Treasury practice notes and related circulars issued by other authorities within the Water and Infrastructure Sector e.g. CIDB Regulations.
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03 July 2015 - NW2304
Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
Whether, with regard to her department’s report to the Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation on 3 June 2015 indicating the required investment in infrastructure over the next 10 years to be at R805 billion and available funding at only R46 billion for each year, her department has a plan in place to fund the R35 billion annual shortfall; if not, how does her department plan on managing the infrastructure; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Yes, there is a plan to cater for the annual shortfall of R35 billion.
1. As part of the development of the Water Sector Infrastructure Investment Framework in 2012, the Department developed a first order Water Financing Strategy published on 5 June 2012.
2. In addition, my department has thus far successfully negotiated major increases in the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) and the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG), the establishment of a new Municipal Water Infrastructure Grant (MWIG), as well as major increases in the Water Board’s infrastructure investment budgets. This was done in collaboration with the National Treasury as well as the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, with the aim of increasing budgeting for especially municipal infrastructure operations and maintenance (O&M), addressing aged infrastructure, rehabilitation, and infrastructure replacement.
3. Partnerships with Financial Institutions and the broader private sector are also vigorously pursued.
4. As a result of financial constraints, there will be on-going prioritization of water supply areas to identify and sequence projects that offer the best economic and social returns and are addressing the most critical security of supply challenges.
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03 July 2015 - NW2119
Baker, Ms TE to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1)What amount was spent by her department on environmental rehabilitation due to sewage spills in each province (a) in the (i) 2013-14 and (ii) 2014-15 financial years and (b) since 1 April 2015; 2) (a) what was the location, (b) cause and (c) nature of the rehabilitation for each spillage?
Reply:
- Table 1 below reflects the amount that was spent by the Department on environmental rehabilitation due to sewage spills in each province (a) in the (i) 2013-14 and (ii) 2014-15 financial years and (b) since 1 April 2015:
Table 1
(a)Province |
(a)(i) 2013-14 |
(a)(ii) 2014-15 |
(b) since 1 April 2015 |
Eastern Cape |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Free State |
R15 850 000 (ACIP) |
R42 850 000 (ACIP) |
R18 968 000 (Planned to be spent under ACIP) |
R5 000 000 (RBIG) |
R47 000 000 (RBIG) |
R90 474 000 ((Planned to be spent under RBIG) |
|
Gauteng |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
KwaZulu-Natal |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Limpopo |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Mpumalanga |
R9 000 000 (ACIP) |
R13, 7m (ACIP) |
R47m (RBIG) |
Northern Cape |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
North West |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Western Cape |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
(2)(a) Refer to the table below for the (a) location, (b) cause and (c) nature of the rehabilitation for each spillage within the Free State and Mpumalanga provinces.
FREE STATE PROVINCE
2013/14 (ACIP)
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Clocolan |
Non-functional sewer pump stations due to ageing infrastructure |
Replaced all pumps, motors & electrical infrastructure |
Setsoto LM |
Ficksburg |
Collapsed old sewer pipes |
Unblocked sewer lines and replaced defective ones |
Setsoto LM |
Kroonstad |
Collapsed 1,2 km old asbestos sewer line from Gelukwarts polluting the Vals river |
Replaced 1,2km of sewer line. |
Moqhaka LM |
Wepener |
Non-functional sewer pump station & waste water treatment works |
Refurbished all pumps, motors & electrical infrastructure. |
Naledi LM |
2013/14 (RBIG)
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Vredefort |
Non-functional sewer pump station & waste water treatment works |
Refurbished all pumps, motors & electrical infrastructure. |
Ngwathe LM |
2014/15 (ACIP)
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Theunissen |
Collapsed old asbestos line |
Replaced a length of 500 meters |
Masilonyana LM |
Brandfort |
Non-functional two sewer pump stations due to old infrastructure |
Refurbished and upgraded the two pump stations. |
Masilonyana LM |
Winburg |
Non-functional one sewer pump station due to old infrastructure |
Refurbished and upgraded the one pump station. |
Masilonyana LM |
Vrede |
Non-functional pumps & motors and electrical infrastructure |
Replaced pumps and motors and refurbished electrical infrastructure |
Phumelela LM |
Waden |
Non-functional pumps & motors and electrical infrastructure |
Replaced pumps and motors and refurbished electrical infrastructure |
Phumelela LM |
Koffiefontein |
Non-functional pumps & motors and electrical infrastructure |
Refurbished pumps and motors and refurbished electrical infrastructure |
Letsemeng LM |
2014/15 (RBIG)
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Wesselsbron |
Non-functional electrical and mechanical components at waste water treatment plant. |
Replaced all non functional electrical & mechanical components. |
Nala LM |
Kroonstad |
Collapsed asbestos sewer pipe line in Hill street Collapsed Boitumelo Marabastad asbestos sewer pipeline Non-functional sewer treatment plant |
Multi-year projects. Replacing and upgrading the Hill Street sewer pipeline. Replacing and upgrading the sewer pipeline. Upgrading of the sewer treatment plant to meet the demands |
Moqhaka LM |
Vredefort |
Non-functional sewer treatment plant and old sewer line |
Refurbished and upgraded the waste water treatment plant and replaced the sewer line |
Ngwathe LM |
2015/16 (ACIP Projects under implementation)
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Koppies |
Non-functional electrical and mechanical components at waste water treatment plant. |
Replace all non-functional electrical & mechanical components. |
Ngwathe LM |
Reitz and Lindley |
Non-functional of electrical and mechanical components in pump station |
Refurbishment of non-functional of electrical and mechanical components |
Nketoana LM |
Koffiefontein |
Non-functional electrical and mechanical components at waste water treatment plant. |
Replace all non-functional electrical & mechanical components. |
Letsemeng LM |
Odendalsrus |
Collapsed old sewer lines |
Replacement of collapsed old sewer pipeline |
Matjhabeng LM |
Mamahabane |
Oxidation ponds not lined and the sewerage seeps through the nearby environment. |
Rehabilitation of oxidation ponds |
Matjhabeng LM |
Wepenar |
Collapsed old asbestos sewer pipeline and non-functional of two sewer pump station. |
Replace the collapsed sewer line and refurbish the two sewer pump stations. |
Naledi LM |
2015/16 (RBIG Projects under implementation)
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Kroonstad |
Collapsed asbestos sewer pipe line in Hill street
Collapsed Boitumelo Marabastad asbestos sewer pipeline Non-functional sewer treatment plant |
Multi-year projects. Replacing and upgrading the Hill Street sewer pipeline. Replacing and upgrading the sewer pipeline. Upgrading of the sewer treatment plant to meet the demands |
Moqhaka LM |
Vredefort |
Non-functional of electrical and mechanical components in pump station |
Refurbishment of non-functional of electrical and mechanical components |
Nketoana LM |
MPUMALANGA PROVINCE
2013-14
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Mhlatikop and Komatipoort |
Ageing Infrastructure, operating beyond design capacities, poor operation and maintenance |
Refurbishment of the WWTW and pump stations Phase 1 |
Nkomazi |
2014-15
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Mhlatikop and Komatipoort |
Ageing Infrastructure, operating beyond design capacities, poor operation and maintenance |
Refurbishment of the WWTW and pump stations Phase 2 |
Nkomazi |
Leandra |
Refurbishment of the WWTW |
Govern Mbeki |
2015-16
Location (2) (a) |
Cause (2) (b) |
Nature of Rehabilitation (2) (c) |
Municipality |
Balfour |
Ageing Infrastructure, operating beyond design capacities, poor operation and maintenance |
Upgrade of the WWTW |
Dipaleseng |
Delmas |
Victor Khanye LM |
||
Botleng |
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03 July 2015 - NW2333
McLoughlin, Mr AR to ask the Minister of Finance
(1) (a) What is the total value of South Africa’s current gold reserves, quoted in US dollars, and (b) what proportion of South Africa’s gold reserves is (i) stored in South Africa and (ii) located offshore; (2) (a) where are the local gold reserves held and (b) when last was a stock check of the locally held gold reserves undertaken; (3) (a) where are the reserves kept which are held offshore and (b) what percentage share of the reserves is held at each respective location; (4) (a) when last (i) were the gold reserves held offshore inspected and (ii) was an accurate stock take undertaken and (b)(i) who conducted such an inspection, (ii) to whom do they report and (iii) where can a copy thereof be obtained; (5) has any portion of South Africa’s gold reserve ever been found to be missing or unaccounted for; if so, what steps have been taken to ascertain the whereabouts of said reserves?
Reply:
1 (a) The value of the official gold reserves as at 31 May 2015 was US$4.8 billion, which is approximately 4 million fine ounces.
1 (b) The SARB holds a large percentage of South Africa’s gold reserves in vaults of official sector institutions at offshore bullion centres, while a smaller amount is held locally. It is operationally efficient to store gold at offshore bullion centres should the need arise to conduct gold transactions. The exact percentage allocation is not made public.
2 (a) Gold reserves held locally are held at Rand Refinery Proprietary Limited (Rand Refinery), the South African Mint Company (RF) Proprietary Limited (SA Mint), and various branches of the SARB, including its head office.
2 (b) The SARB performs regular reconciliations on reports based on gold held at various local locations. An audit of locally held gold reserves is also conducted annually.
3 (a) Most of South Africa’s gold reserves are kept at secure offshore bullion centres, in vaults of official sector institutions.
3 (b) The exact percentage allocation is not made public.
4 (a) Senior SARB officials conduct due diligence visits to inspect gold reserves held offshore on a regular basis. The last due diligence visit was conducted during 2014.
4 (b) The report on each due diligence visit is forwarded to the executive of the SARB. As these reports contain confidential information, they are not publically available.
5 No.
03 July 2015 - NW2522
Steyn, Ms A to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
With reference to his response to oral question 153 on 10 June 2015, what amount has been budgeted for the implementation of the Agricultural Policy Action Plan in the 2015-16 financial year?
Reply:
(a) The Agricultural Policy Action Plan (APAP) is planned over a five-year period and will be updated on an annual basis. Cabinet furthermore approved APAP in March 2015, and implementation will commence in the 2015/2016 financial year. It is important to note that APAP does not act outside existing budgets such as DAFFs budgetary allocation. However it provides a comprehensive strategic approach in implementing the National Development Plan (NDP) and the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) and directs the spending on strategic interventions identified by all stakeholders.
APAP 2015/16 interventions are funded via DAFF’s grant programmes such as CASP, Ilema Letsema, and sector organisations’ contribution. The estimated total for APAP 2015/16 is R 4, 6 billion.
03 July 2015 - NW1736
Lovemore, Ms AT to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)What are the full details of the readiness of (a) her department and (b) the nine provincial education departments to implement the newly revised curriculum for schools of technology in 2016, including (i) curriculum, (ii) workshop, (iii) textbook and (iv) teacher readiness;
Reply:
- (a)(b) (i) curriculum
The development of Curriculum Assessment and Policy Statements (CAPS) for Technical subjects was completed and signed by the Minister of Basic Education on the 13 April 2015; this is in accordance with the Government Gazette No 37840 dated July 2014. Printing is currently in progress and distribution of the CAPS documents will be completed before the training of teachers in June 2015. A total of 52, 750 copies of the CAPS documents for Technical Mathematics, Technical Sciences, Civil Technology, Electrical Technology and Mechanical Technology will be printed and distributed as indicated below:
- 5 copies ( 1 for each subject) to the National office DBE
- 5 copies ( 1 for each subject ) to each provincial office
- 5 copies ( 1 for each subject ) to each district office; and
- 10 copies (2 for each subject) to each school offering a technical subject
(b) (ii) Workshop
Since the inception of the grant, the objective of training 2,749 teachers, building 118 new workshops, refurbishing 266 existing workshops and supplying equipment, machinery and tools to participating schools has been achieved. The grant was reconfigured in 2014 and it now forms part of the new Mathematics, Science and Technology Conditional Grant. The outputs of the new grant include the supply of machinery, equipment and tools and the training of teachers. Based on the total number of technical schools and the state of physical infrastructure at most schools, the schools have the capacity to implement the curriculum. Those that had challenges were recapitalised by the conditional grant.
(b) (iii) Textbooks
The development process of both Technical Mathematics and Technical Sciences textbooks sponsored and co-managed by Sasol-Inzalo Foundation and DBE will be finalised by July 2015. Publishers are in the process of developing Civil Technology, Electrical Technology and Mechanical Technology textbooks due to be finalised in August 2015. Printing and distribution of all technical textbooks will be completed by 30 October 2015.
(b)(iv) Teacher readiness
The changes introduced in the revised CAPS necessitated the need for orientation of subject advisors and re-training of teachers on theory and practical teaching methodologies.
An audit of skills centres in preparation for the training of FET Technical schools subject advisors and teachers and Technology Senior Phase (Grade 7 – 9) subject advisors and teachers was conducted and finalised.
The Department issued letters to HOD’s on 16 April 2015 to inform them of the training process and to request them to ensure that notifications to all partners are issued.
A National Task Team (NTT) for the development of CAPS training guideline document for the three (3) Technical subjects specialisation; Civil technology, Electrical technology, and Mechanical technology have been developed and finalised.
A National Task Team (NTT) for the development of CAPS training guideline document for Technical Sciences and Technical Mathematics has been developed and finalised.
Subject Advisors and Teacher training on the three (3) Technical subjects has been scheduled for 29 June – 03 July and 05-09 October 2015 (School Holidays) and these dates have been communicated to all provinces. The training of Technical Mathematics and Technical Sciences has been scheduled for July 2015 and these dates have also been communicated to all provinces. The training is aimed at 70% skills transfer and 30% on the strengthening of theory of the specialisation.
The funding for this training will be sourced from the reconfigured MST Conditional Grant. The objective of the grant is to, supply machinery, supply of equipments and tools. The objective of the grant is to train subject advisors and teachers, building of new workshops, refurbishing of existing workshops and supplying equipment, machinery and tools.
- (a)(i)(aa) (a)(ii)(bb)(cc)(dd)(ee) Numbers and percentage of learners offering Technology subjects per Province from 2005, 2008, 2010 and 2012.
YEAR |
Civil Technology |
Engineering Graphics And Design (EGD) |
Electrical |
Mechanical |
||||
NUMBER WROTE |
% |
NUMBER WROTE |
% |
NUMBER WROTE |
% |
NUMBER WROTE |
% |
|
(aa) 2005 |
10283 |
2% |
20653 |
4% |
6510 |
1% |
6728 |
1% |
(bb) 2008 |
10392 |
2% |
26491 |
5% |
7526 |
1% |
7890 |
1% |
(cc) 2010 |
9359 |
2% |
26350 |
5% |
5843 |
1% |
6859 |
1% |
(dd) 2012 |
8759 |
2% |
25070 |
4% |
5010 |
1% |
5975 |
1% |
(ee) (2015) |
data is not yet available |
(b) All technology subjects are non-designated; i.e. HEIs do not recognise these subjects as requirements to university entrance.
3. The Department is aware that the National Curriculum Statements (NCS) present foundational skills to all learners and these skills create opportunities for learners to enter further and higher education. Therefore the list of critical skills according to the Government Gazette 37716 dated 3 June 2014 contains occupations that require the foundational skills, which are acquired through the basic education sector.
4. (a)The Universities do not consider these subjects as requirements for entrance into engineering courses at a university. This puts learners at a disadvantage if after three years of studying they change their minds and no longer want to become artisans but engineers, they are then not credited at HEIs.
(b)Based on the targets set by the National Development Plan (NDP), the Department is committed to contributing to the production of 30,000 artisans per year by 2030 (NDP, Chapter 9, p277), through the strengthening and refocusing of technical schools and increasing the learner enrolments from 27,000 to 57,000 in 2030. The revision of the curriculum and the recapitalisation process at technical schools will also ensure that the industry requirements in terms of technical specialisation are met and thereby increase participation in the technical education sector.
In order to further strengthen articulation between GET and FET Technology, Senior Phase Subject Advisors and Teachers will be part of the training for specialisations scheduled for June and October 2015 as mentioned above. Advocacy on the Decade of the Artisan in partnership with Department of Higher Education (DHET) is currently being rolled out in all provinces with the intention to increase participation in artisanship and engineering.
The Department and DHET have embarked on a process of aligning the curriculum for basic education with that of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges.
(c) The enrolment of learners in the technical fields has been declining since 2008 due to the changes in the National Curriculum Statement (NCS). The revision of the Nated 500 to remove areas of specialisation resulted in the overload of subject content areas and the decline in learner enrolment. The reintroduction of the specialisation by the revised Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for technical schools and the implementation of the recapitalisation programme will ensure that sector is expanded.
The following targets for the increase in learner enrolment have been set for 2014-2019:
Targets |
Mechanical Technology |
Electrical Technology |
Engineering Graphics &Design |
Computer Technology |
Technical Maths |
Technical Science |
Maths |
Physical Science |
2014 |
6,410 |
5,278 |
28,919 |
9,527 |
0 |
0 |
21,214 |
21,214 |
2015 |
6,602 |
5,436 |
30,943 |
10,003 |
0 |
0 |
22,275 |
22,275 |
2016 |
6,800 |
5,599 |
33,109 |
10,503 |
11,694 |
11,694 |
11,694 |
11,694 |
2017 |
7,004 |
5,767 |
35,427 |
11,028 |
12,279 |
12,279 |
12,279 |
12,279 |
2018 |
7,214 |
5,940 |
37,907 |
11,580 |
12,893 |
12,893 |
12,893 |
12,893 |
2019 |
7,431 |
6,118 |
40,560 |
12,159 |
13,538 |
13,538 |
13,538 |
13,538 |
Targets: National Learner Enrolment in Technical Schools (2014 – 2019)
Provincial Targets per Technology Subject:
2015 Targets |
||||||||
PROVINCE |
MT |
ET |
EGD |
CT |
Tech Maths |
Tech Science |
Maths |
Science |
EC |
507 |
418 |
2,377 |
768 |
|
|
1,711 |
1,711 |
FS |
582 |
479 |
2,727 |
882 |
|
|
1,963 |
1,963 |
GP |
1,753 |
1,443 |
8,214 |
2,655 |
|
|
5,913 |
5,913 |
KZN |
1,046 |
861 |
4,901 |
1,584 |
|
|
3,528 |
3,528 |
LP |
323 |
266 |
1,512 |
489 |
|
|
1,088 |
1,088 |
MP |
360 |
297 |
1,689 |
546 |
|
|
1,216 |
1,216 |
NC |
126 |
104 |
591 |
191 |
|
|
425 |
425 |
NW |
539 |
444 |
2,527 |
817 |
|
|
1,819 |
1,819 |
WC |
1,367 |
1,125 |
6,405 |
2,071 |
|
|
4,611 |
4,611 |
TOTAL |
6,602 |
5,436 |
30,943 |
10,003 |
|
|
22,275 |
22,275 |
2016 Targets |
||||||||
PROVINCE |
MT |
ET |
EGD |
CT |
Tech Maths |
Tech Science |
Maths |
Science |
EC |
681 |
560 |
3,314 |
1,051 |
1,170 |
1,170 |
1,170 |
1,170 |
FS |
530 |
436 |
2,581 |
819 |
912 |
912 |
912 |
912 |
GP |
1,808 |
1,489 |
8,804 |
2,793 |
3,110 |
3,110 |
3,110 |
3,110 |
KZN |
1,685 |
1,387 |
8,202 |
2,602 |
2,897 |
2,897 |
2,897 |
2,897 |
LP |
558 |
460 |
2,718 |
862 |
960 |
960 |
960 |
960 |
MP |
465 |
383 |
2,266 |
719 |
800 |
800 |
800 |
800 |
NC |
186 |
153 |
904 |
287 |
319 |
319 |
319 |
319 |
NW |
495 |
408 |
2,410 |
764 |
851 |
851 |
851 |
851 |
WC |
392 |
323 |
1,910 |
606 |
675 |
675 |
675 |
675 |
TOTAL |
6,800 |
5,599 |
33,109 |
10,503 |
11,694 |
11,694 |
11,694 |
11,694 |
2017 Targets |
||||||||
PROVINCE |
MT |
ET |
EGD |
CT |
Tech Maths |
Tech Science |
Maths |
Science |
EC |
635 |
523 |
3,211 |
999 |
1,113 |
1,113 |
1,113 |
1,113 |
FS |
584 |
481 |
2,955 |
920 |
1,024 |
1,024 |
1,024 |
1,024 |
GP |
2,063 |
1,699 |
10,436 |
3,249 |
3,617 |
3,617 |
3,617 |
3,617 |
KZN |
1,550 |
1,276 |
7,841 |
2,441 |
2,718 |
2,718 |
2,718 |
2,718 |
LP |
306 |
252 |
1,547 |
482 |
536 |
536 |
536 |
536 |
MP |
436 |
359 |
2,205 |
687 |
764 |
764 |
764 |
764 |
NC |
190 |
157 |
963 |
300 |
334 |
334 |
334 |
334 |
NW |
603 |
497 |
3,052 |
950 |
1,058 |
1,058 |
1,058 |
1,058 |
WC |
636 |
524 |
3,217 |
1,001 |
1,115 |
1,115 |
1,115 |
1,115 |
TOTAL |
7,004 |
5,767 |
35,427 |
11,028 |
12,279 |
12,279 |
12,279 |
12,279 |
2018 Targets |
||||||||
PROVINCE |
MT |
ET |
EGD |
CT |
Tech Maths |
Tech Science |
Maths |
Science |
EC |
574 |
473 |
3,018 |
922 |
1,027 |
1,027 |
1,027 |
1,027 |
FS |
487 |
401 |
2,560 |
782 |
871 |
871 |
871 |
871 |
GP |
2,059 |
1,695 |
10,818 |
3,305 |
3,679 |
3,679 |
3,679 |
3,679 |
KZN |
1,817 |
1,496 |
9,545 |
2,916 |
3,247 |
3,247 |
3,247 |
3,247 |
LP |
447 |
368 |
2,347 |
717 |
798 |
798 |
798 |
798 |
MP |
440 |
362 |
2,312 |
706 |
786 |
786 |
786 |
786 |
NC |
135 |
111 |
708 |
216 |
241 |
241 |
241 |
241 |
NW |
499 |
411 |
2,621 |
801 |
891 |
891 |
891 |
891 |
WC |
757 |
623 |
3,978 |
1,215 |
1,353 |
1,353 |
1,353 |
1,353 |
TOTAL |
7,214 |
5,940 |
37,907 |
11,580 |
12,893 |
12,893 |
12,893 |
12,893 |
2019 Targets |
||||||||
PROVINCE |
MT |
ET |
EGD |
CT |
Tech Maths |
Tech Science |
Maths |
Science |
EC |
592 |
487 |
3,230 |
968 |
1,078 |
1,078 |
1,078 |
1,078 |
FS |
502 |
413 |
2,739 |
821 |
914 |
914 |
914 |
914 |
GP |
2,121 |
1,746 |
11,575 |
3,470 |
3,864 |
3,864 |
3,864 |
3,864 |
KZN |
1,871 |
1,541 |
10,213 |
3,062 |
3,409 |
3,409 |
3,409 |
3,409 |
LP |
460 |
379 |
2,511 |
753 |
838 |
838 |
838 |
838 |
MP |
453 |
373 |
2,474 |
742 |
826 |
826 |
826 |
826 |
NC |
139 |
114 |
758 |
227 |
253 |
253 |
253 |
253 |
NW |
514 |
423 |
2,804 |
841 |
936 |
936 |
936 |
936 |
WC |
780 |
642 |
4,256 |
1,276 |
1,421 |
1,421 |
1,421 |
1,421 |
TOTAL |
7,431 |
6,118 |
40,560 |
12,159 |
13,538 |
13,538 |
13,538 |
13,538 |
(d) (i) Negotiations between the Department and Higher Education South Africa (HESA) and Umalusi are in progress for considering the designation of these technology subjects
(d)(ii)The non-designation is the only challenge that the Minister foresees.
03 July 2015 - NW1913
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(a) Who are the current chief financial officers of (i) her department and (ii) the entities reporting to her and (b) what is the qualification of each chief financial officer?
Reply:
Refer to the table below for the current Chief Financial Officers of the Department and the Entities:
Department/ Entity |
Full Names |
Qualifications |
Department: CFO Water Trading Entity |
Mr Mpho Mofokeng |
B Tech: Cost & Management Accounting Degree |
Department: CFO Main Account |
Ms Nthabiseng Fundakubi |
B Tech: Business Administration |
Amatola Water |
The CFO post is vacant. |
N/A |
Bloem Water |
Mr OJ Stadler |
B Comm Honours; Masters in Business Leadership (MBL) |
Lepelle Northern Water |
Mr JC Kilan |
Honours: Accounting; Masters in Business Administration |
Magalies Water |
Ms A Raphela |
B Comm Honours; Chartered Accountant |
Mhlathuze Water |
Mr B Ndaba |
(b) B Comm (Accounting) |
Overberg Water |
Ms A Cilliers |
B Compt, B Compt Honours; Chartered Accountant |
Rand Water |
Mrs SM Nyembe |
B Comm (Accounting); B Compt Honours |
Sedibeng Water |
Ms MA Shasha |
B Compt Honours |
Umgeni Water |
Mr TB Hlongwa |
B Comm (Accounting); B Comm Honours (Accounting); Chartered Accountant |
Inkomati-Usuthu CMA |
Ms Thembelihle Mjaji |
Qualified Chartered Accountant. Honours in Bachelor of Accounting Science Degree in Bachelor of Accounting Science |
Breede Gouritz CMA |
Mrs. Judith Ntombizanele Nkomombini |
Bachelor of Commerce |
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03 July 2015 - NW2523
Steyn, Ms A to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
1) With regard to the deal that was struck between South Africa and the United States of America (USA) in securing the country’s preferential market access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), has his department developed a plan to assist the country’s poulty industry with adjusting its strategic position before the anticipated influx of chicken from the USA; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) will the Government incentives under the Industrial Policy Action Plan and the Agricultural Policy Action Plan be made available to the poultry industry as a means of ensuring minimal damage to the industry’s future growth prospects; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) What action steps has his department taken since the announcement of the agreement that was reached between the SA Poultry Association and its counterpart in the USA to ensure minimal disturbance to the industry and ensure that job losses are avoided? NW2895E
Reply:
1 As the honourable member is aware the APAP has included the Poultry Value Chain as a strategic value chain for development. The development of the value chain includes supporting the reduction of input costs through increasing the supply of good quality feed (soya) and possibly maize. All 9 provinces have identified a number of poultry projects which include increasing the number of Broiler houses as well as support for small scale processing via new abattoirs to be funded via CASP. This development plan was presented to the U.S. during the AGOA negotiations and it is understood that the U.S. response was to accept a lower volume once the developmental needs and objectives were made clear. The U.S. has also offered in support to the agreement on the quota to support training and capacity building of extensions officers as well as research personnel. The South African industry is in full support of this initiative.
2 The use of incentives under IPAP and APAP was discussed with the industry as well as with representatives of Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDI) in the Poultry Sector. However we are still in discussions on how this will take place in line with the Poultry Sector Value Chain development proposal in APAP.
3 DAFF Economic Development Trade and Marketing DDG has been in constant consultation with the industry body SAPA, the DTI as well as the APAP team and together they have engaged with the planned poultry value chain development proposal for sector growth. The poultry value chain development proposal is also a key commodity intervention the government’s 9 point plan under Priority 1: Revitalisation of Agriculture and the Agroprocessing Value Chains. A DAFF/DTI team is also in the process of identifying the criteria which will be used to allocate and administer the trade quota to ensure there is minimal volatility of import volumes to reduce the potential negative impact. The quota concession will include a volume which will be for HDI's only and will most likely to taken up by existing producers who have indicated that they need it to ensure they have a resonate supply level.
03 July 2015 - NW2224
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
Whether she will consider Eskom’s request not to impose load shedding on the country’s water pumps and related infrastructure so as to ensure safe and continuous water supply and services; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
It is the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) and not the Minister of Public Enterprises that can make determinations on the exemption of infrastructure or customers’ load shedding, as the impact on other customers and the national power system needs to be considered. The National Code of Practice for emergency demand reduction (NRS048-9) addresses the manner in which critical loads are treated – including water systems (section 7).
03 July 2015 - NW2151
Hunsinger, Dr CH to ask the Minister of Finance
With reference to the reply of the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs to question 1629 on 25 May 2015, (a) on what date did the National Treasury’s forensic investigation into the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Integrated Public Transport system commence, (b) at what stage is the investigation, (c) when is the final report due to be released, (d) who is on the investigation team and (e) what (i) is the objective and (ii) are the terms of reference of this investigation?
Reply:
- National Treasury’s forensic investigation into the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality on the Integrated Public Transport system commenced on the 12th of November 2014. The Investigation is being conducted in phases as follows:
- Phase 1: Establish the total amount paid on the projects since its inception in 1 July 2004, obtain and secure all available documentation; conduct preliminary investigation to verify the reasonableness of allegations. This phase was completed in March 2015.
- Phase 2: An In-depth forensic investigation that is informed by the results of Phase 1, which commenced on 9 April 2015.
- Other Phases This will be informed by the results of Phase 2 and might include criminal, civil or disciplinary action depending on the findings of the investigation.
- The investigation is still in progress for Phase 2, which is focusing on an in-depth investigation of all the alleged implicated service providers, officials and other parties.
- The final report on Phase 2 is estimated to be completed by the 15 August 2015, but subject to cooperation by the relevant parties to provide the required information to reach an informed conclusion.
- The Investigation Team is composed of National Treasury Special Audit Services officials and its co-sourced forensic investigation firm, Deloitte & Touche.
- (i) The objective is to conduct comprehensive investigation that will assist the Municipality to implement the appropriate corrective action.
(ii) The terms of reference include, but is not limited to the following:
- Conduct a comprehensive investigation of IPTS since its inception.
03 July 2015 - NW2218
Lekota, Mr M to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether the National Treasury had (a) refinanced debt in order to keep up its rate of spending at any stage from 1 January 2009 up to the latest specified date for which information is available and (b) undertaken any exercise, with independent verification, to assess to what extent the heavier borrowings by the Government in the specified period had served a clear countercyclical purpose as is shown by economic growth taking the country out of the trough it was into a higher gradient; if not, why has the national debt risen so rapidly to its present level; if so, what (i) are the details and (ii) impact will the refinancing of debt have on the fiscus in the next four years in a market where the cost of borrowing will have risen; (2) whether, in pursuit of achieving intergenerational equity, the Government is keeping young South Africans fully informed of the repayment burden that is being shifted to them to settle?
Reply:
- (a) Government borrows money to finance the main budget balance and maturing debt. To partly mitigate refinancing risk – the risk that government will not be able to raise money to finance the budget deficit and repay debt at any scheduled point, or will have to do so at high cost – government also makes use of a bond-switch programme to ease pressure on targeted areas of the bond redemption profile by exchanging short-term for longer-term debt. Between 2008/09 and 2014/15, government switched R203 billion short-term debt (domestic bonds) for longer-term debt.
(b) (i) National Treasury estimates the impact of fiscal policy on economic growth. Internal estimates of the fiscal multiplier are in line with published South African peer-reviewed journal articles, which find that fiscal stimulus has a fairly significant short-term impact on growth.
As was the case for South Africa, many governments had estimated in 2010 that the economy would quickly recover to pre-crisis growth rates. Countercyclical stimulus was expected to reduce the time it would take for economies to return to potential levels of output. These growth projections proved to be over-optimistic; a secular decline in global growth delayed fiscal consolidation and produced rising levels of debt.
Countercyclical policy can influence short-term deviations from trend growth, but cannot be used to address structural declines in output. Many governments have grappled with the fiscal implications of a global slowdown in growth. In South Africa’s case, potential growth has been revised downwards due to lower long-term global growth projections and electricity supply constraints.
Slower potential GDP growth implies that the output gap is fairly small, with two implications for fiscal policy: first, the level of output cannot be significantly increased by running larger deficits; second, the deficit will not likely be reduced by a cyclical upturn in taxes, implying that there is a structural imbalance between revenue and expenditure. The focus of the 2015 Budget is on narrowing the structural fiscal deficit by raising taxes, slowing spending growth and putting in place measures to improve spending efficiency.
(b) (ii) Government is paying interest at an average coupon/interest rate of 10 per cent on the debt which needs to be refinanced over the next four years. It is projected that this debt will be refinanced at a lower average coupon/interest rate of 9 per cent.
2. The 2015 Budget is aimed at ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability, which is a defining feature of intergenerational equity. The budget also aims to change the composition of borrowing, in order to ensure that government debt is used to fund expenditures with a long-term impact.
Government has stated that there is a long-term (or structural) imbalance between revenue and expenditure, and is addressing this imbalance by raising taxes and reducing the rate of expenditure growth. The bulk of the slowdown in spending growth has been targeted at government consumption, with the current deficit (i.e. the gap between revenue and consumption spending) projected to close in 2015/16. Government is protecting capital expenditure, which remains the fastest growing area of non-interest spending. These three elements of the budget are likely to improve the intergenerational fairness of fiscal policy.
Government reports on the long-term implications of its fiscal choices. The 2015 Budget Review includes estimates of the debt outlook and debt repayments up to 2020/21. In addition, the main findings of the long-term fiscal model are available on the Treasury website. The long-term model’s main finding is that current social spending policies are sustainable over the next three decades.
03 July 2015 - NW2065
Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1)What is the total cost of the project to raise the wall of the Clanwilliam Dam in the Western Cape; (2) which company was appointed as supervisor of the project; (3) is the company a professional service provider (PSP) for her department; if not, why was the company appointed; if so, (a) when was the company appointed as a PSP and (b) in which category; (4) what are the project value parameters for each category of PSP as stipulated by her department?
Reply:
(1) The total cost of the Olifants-Doorn River Water Resources Project (Raising of Clanwilliam Dam wall) is estimated to be R2.2 billion. This amount excludes the relocation of the N7, the relocation of the secondary road, cost for land acquisition, construction engineering supervising costs, Project Management costs, heritage expert costs, Environmental Impact Assessment Practitioner, Environmental Control Officer, Hydro-power plant over and above the civil structure, communications, and escalation (inflation).
(2) Bigen Africa Services (Pty) Ltd was appointed for construction supervision and contract management of the project. Two more emerging companies, namely Tlou Integrated Tech cc and Batseta Engineering Services (BES Africa Engineering and Management Consulting (Pty) Ltd), from the panel were appointed for developmental and transformational purposes to work under the stewardship of Bigen Africa. This is intended to ensure that the scope is not entirely allocated to one Professional Services Provider (PSP) and that the technical expertise of a developed PSP (Bigen Africa) is used to develop emerging enterprises that are owned and managed by Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDIs).
(3) Bigen Africa Services (Pty) Ltd is part of the panel of PSPs that was created by the Department, (a) in 2013 under Contract WP0485-WTE (b) in Category five (5).
(4) The guideline project value thresholds is as follows:
Category |
Projects with a value between |
1 |
R0 up to R10,0 million |
2 |
R10.1 million up to R50 million |
3 |
R50,1 million up to R100 million |
4 |
R100.1 million up to R250 million |
5 |
R250.1 million up to R500 million |
6 |
R500.1 million - unlimited |
It should be noted that the above thresholds are only a guideline. The final Category chosen is determined based on the project’s scope and is determined, amongst others, the type of project, its complexity, its timeframes, developmental and transformational outputs to be achieved and the experience of companies in each of the categories.
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