Questions and Replies
23 March 2018 - NW307
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
With reference to the reply of the Minister of Home Affairs to question 3705 on 4 December 2017, has the (a) Independent Electoral Commission and/or (b) the Department of Home Affairs approached her department with regard to increasing the number of overseas voting stations; if so, (i) on what dates did the meeting(s) take place and (ii) what was the outcome of each meeting?
Reply:
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) have met and discussed the issue of increasing the number of overseas voting stations. The said meeting took place on 21 February 2018.
I have been advised that the matter has not been finalised yet and the Honourable Member will be informed once the IEC has made a determination on whether or not to increase the number of voting stations abroad.
14 March 2018 - NW323
Brauteseth, Mr TJ to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
What amount did (a) her department and (b) each entity reporting to her spend on the promotion or celebration of the Year of O R Tambo on the (i) Africa News Network 7 channel, (ii) SA Broadcasting Corporation (aa) television channels and (bb) radio stations, (iii) national commercial radio stations and (iv) community (aa) television and (bb) radio stations since 1 January 2017?
Reply:
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund have advised me that they did not spend any funds on promoting or celebrating the Year of OR Tambo.
22 December 2017 - NW3006
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
1. What is the (a) total amount that was paid out in bonuses to the employees in her Department and (b) detailed breakdown of the bonus that was paid to each employee in each salary level in the 2016/2017 Financial year? 2. What is the (a) total estimated amount that .will be paid out in bonuses to employees in her Department and the (b) detailed breakdown of the bonus that will be paid out to each employee in each salary level in the 2017 /2018 financial year? NW3325E
Reply:
1.
(a) The total amount to be paid out in bonuses to employees is not yet determined.
(b) The detailed breakdown of the bonus will be made only after they have been determined.
2.
(a) The total amount that will be paid out in bonuses to employees in the 2017/2018 financial year will be determined during the 2018/2019 financial year.
(b) The detailed breakdown of the bonus is not yet determined but will be considered by 2018/2019 financial year.
Unquote
22 December 2017 - NW3712
Bara, Mr M R to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether she has taken measures to ensure that consequence management steps are taken against the officials who have been found guilty of flouting supply chain management processes as recommended by the Auditor-General in the audit of her department’s 2016-17 annual financial statements if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details
Reply:
Yes. I have instructed the Director-General to undertake investigations on matters raised by the Auditor-General. Where officials are found to have contravened supply chain management processes, they will be held accountable through disciplinary hearing process. The disciplinary process will determine appropriate sanctions where official/s are found guilty of flounting supply chain management processes.
Unquote
21 December 2017 - NW3810
Maimane, Mr MA to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
With reference to the reply of the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, to question 3262 on 10 November 2017, what was the (a) total cost and (b) detailed breakdown of the costs of logistical arrangements of the 10 international trips that the President undertook during the period 6 April 2016 to 10 February 2017, as indicated in the Presidency’s 2016-17 Annual Report? The proposed answer to the questions is contained in the annexure and it is recommended that the attached draft reply be approved.
Reply:
The Question is not specific as to which 10 trips are being referred to as the President undertook more than 10 international trips during the period in question
UNQUOTE
19 December 2017 - NW3611
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether (a) her department and/or (b) any entity reporting to her own land; if so, in each case, (i) where is each plot of land located, (ii) what is the size of each specified plot and (iii) what is each plot currently being used for?
Reply:
Re (a)(i), (ii) and (iii) above: The Department owns the land in the following countries:
Country |
Location |
Size |
Current Utilisation |
New Delhi, India |
Plot no 28A, Chanakyapuri |
3321 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Juba, South Sudan |
Plot 6 Block AXV(2), Juba |
11000 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
Plot 29 D, Diplomatic Quarter |
6298 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Kigali, Rwanda |
Erf 841, 2530 Boulevard de L’Umuganda, Kacyiru Sud, District of Gasabo |
6724 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Dakar, Senegal |
Lot 09, Roosevelt Prolongee, Rue Sandiniery, |
1700 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Bamako, Mali |
Plot 2289, 2288, 2290, Du Lotissement de ACI2000 Hamdallaye, Mamdallaye |
10920 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Mbabane, Swaziland |
Plot 551, 553, 554, Lukhalo Road, Dalraichbane |
8812 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Mbabane, Swaziland |
Plot 96, Corner Luvivane Street and Pine Valley Drive, Dalraich |
1 0192 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Mbabane, Swaziland |
Plot 89, Libhubezi Street, Dalraich |
4444 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Mbabane, Swaziland |
Plot 196, Corner of Smhlolo and Karl Grant Street, CBD |
2290 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Montevideo, Uruguay |
Plot 415 860, 1919 Lieja, Carrasco |
2394 sq/m |
Vacant land |
Gaborone, Botswana |
Plot 5373, Extension 11, President’s Way |
4496 sqm |
Vacant land |
Blantyre, Malawi |
Plot LK 121, Chiuta Road, Namiwawa |
1 030 Acres |
Unoccupied property |
Blantyre, Malawi |
Plot LK122, Chiuta Road, Namiwawa |
0.9989 Acres |
Unoccupied property |
Walvis Bay, Namibia |
30, 9th Street West |
906 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Walvis Bay, Namibia |
16, 6th Road West, Meersig |
1007 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Walvis Bay, Namibia |
31m 2nd Street North, Meersig |
1000 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Walvis Bay, Namibia |
54, 1 Street North, Meersig |
1000 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Windhoek, Namibia |
75 Richter Street, Pioniers Park |
1125 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Windhoek, Namibia |
13 Charles Winslow Street, Olympia |
1150 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Windhoek, Namibia |
58 Malcom Spencer Street, (20 Danie Joubert Street), Olympia |
1404 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Windhoek, Namibia |
87 Bulow Street (Van Rhyn) (Dr Frans Indongo Street) Windhoek Central |
1333 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Windhoek, Namibia |
29 Regionald Walker Street, Olympia (29 Jason Hamutenya Ndadi Street) |
1337 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Banjul, The Gambia |
AU House No 101, Brufut Gardens, Kombo North District, Western Division |
478.80 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Paris, France |
Lock up garage, No B 67, Fraction No 93, 17,19,21 and 23 Rue de Chaillot, Basement 2, Cedex |
Parking Bay |
|
Sao Paulo, Brazil |
Edificia St Andrews, Rigati, N2, 22nd Floor, Apartment 221, Block A, Santo Amaro |
641 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Bonn, Germany |
Rudiger Street, 22-24, 53179, Bonn-Mehlem, |
4876 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Bonn, Germany |
Auf de Hostert 3, 53173, Bonn-Plittersdorf |
4767 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Brasilia, Brazil |
Apartment 303, Leme Building, Setor de Habitacoes Coletivas Sul, Super Quandra 113, Building C, Asa Sul |
145.55 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Brasilia, Brazil |
Lot 2 of 4 01/08 of SHI Sul, Setor Habitacuional Individual Sul, QL-08 Conjunto 02, Lago Sul |
1312.50 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Zurich, Switzerland |
Langwisstrasse 17, Zumikon |
2602 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
Funchal, Portugal |
Sitio dos Porinais, Camino do Pico, Sao Martinho |
492 sq/m |
Unoccupied property |
UNQUOTE
19 December 2017 - NW3738
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Wether (a) her department or any entities reporting to it, procured services from Travel With Flair (Pty) Ltd? If yes (b) in each instance what was procured? (c) in each instance how much was Travel With Flair paid? 2. In cases where they provided services related to international tavel, (a) who travelled, (b) what was the travel route, and (c) how much was Travel With Flair paid? NW4230E
Reply:
1. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has not procured services from Travel With Flair (Pty) Ltd.
2. The Department has not procured services related to international travel from the service provider in question.
(a) Not applicable
b) Not applicable
c) Not applicable
UNQUOTE
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
NONE
19 December 2017 - NW3964
Gqada, Ms T to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
(1) Whether any of the Deputy Ministers of her department accompanied the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, to meet the President of the Russian Federation, Mr Vladimir Putin, in August 2014 in Novo-Ogariovo; if so, (a) was nuclear energy discussed at the meeting and (b) was the meeting related to the intergovernmental agreement with Russia that was signed a month later? NW4510E
Reply:
1. Yes. Deputy Minister Mfeketo.
a) No, the nuclear energy issue was not discussed.
b) According to the official statement that was issued by the Presidency following the meeting, no reference was made to a specific intergovernmental agreement.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please see the attached official statement on the bilateral meeting issued by the Presidency following the said meeting of the Presidents.
UNQUOTE
Both Presidents committed themselves to working together and with each in strengthening bilateral relations of both countries and further cementing the existing warm relations between the two countries for the economic and social development of their peoples.
Enquiries: Mac Maharaj on 079 879 3203 or [email protected]
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
Statement on the Bilateral Meeting between President Zuma and President Putin, at the Novo-Ogarevo Presidential Residence, Moscow, Russia
28 August 2014
The President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Mr Jacob Zuma met with his counterpart the President of the Russian Federation, His Excellency Mr Vladimir Putin, in a bilateral meeting at Novo-Ogarevo Presidential Residence just outside Moscow in Russia.
The two presidents deliberated around a host of issues that affect the two countries, and discussed how they could further strengthen and consolidate the good bilateral relations that exist between the two countries. The two leaders also discussed ways to strengthen the existing bilateral agreements and mutual cooperation.
President Putin welcomed the visit by President Zuma to Russia, and praised the good bilateral relations and cooperation that exist between South Africa and Russia. He further encouraged both countries to work together in implementing the decisions that were taken last year during the state visit of South Africa to Russia. He emphasized the need for Russian and South African Ministers to work together in taking forward the bilateral agreements.
President Putin further commended the work that has been done by the joint Russia-South Africa Business Council which saw a rise in trade between South Africa and Russia which grew by 13 percent in 2013 which represents a significant growth in trade between the two countries. He commended this growth saying that investment from Russia to South Africa now stands at over a billion US dollars a year.
President Putin reaffirmed his commitment and that of his country to work together with South Africa on a number of issues that face the globe including participation in peace-making and peace-keeping efforts spearheaded by South Africa in the continent. He briefed President Zuma on the situation in the Ukraine and underlined his commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the crisis.
The Russian President further sought the assistance and support of South Africa when Russia takes over the leadership of BRICS next year. He further appealed for the strengthening of tourism, cultural exchanges and people to people relationships between our two countries and committed his country to further working with South Africa on educational exchanges.
The two Presidents also discussed issues around the developments in the Middle East, in particular around the resolution of the Israeli-Palestine conflict through peaceful means. Both countries committed themselves to finding a lasting peaceful solution. President Zuma, also apprised President Putin around the role of South Africa and its work around this matter through sending its two special envoys. The security situation of the African continent was also discussed and assistance sought on peaceful missions that South Africa is involved in, including request for support of the African Capacity to Respond to Immediate Crisis (ACIRIC) process.
President Zuma, also apprised President Putin around the developments in South Africa which has recently came out of elections with a clear mandate from the population of implementing programmes of job creation, eradicating poverty, unemployment and inequality, he sought support from Russia on the implementation of the new government’s priorities around the delivery of basic services like water, sanitation, energy, education, agriculture and tourism.
President Zuma also raised the matter of the repatriation of South African fallen heroes who are buried in Russia, including Ivor David Jones, J.B. Marks and Moses Kotane. He thanked the government of Russia for taking care of the heroes who are buried in Moscow and he indicated that there are discussions and arrangements that are ongoing between Russia and South Africa about how the repatriation process should be handled.
19 December 2017 - NW2845
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
“Have the eight irregularities in the procurement process of her department been investigated: if so, what is the outcome; if not, (a) why not and (b) by what date will the eight irregularities be investigated?”
Reply:
Quote:
1. The investigation has commenced and is ongoing.
a) Not applicable
b) It is anticipated that the investigation will be concluded by end of Febraury.
Unquote:
18 December 2017 - NW3711
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether any steps has been taken to ensure that officials adhere to (a) supply chain management and (b) procurement processes; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has taken the following steps to ensure officials adhere to
a) supply chain management;
i) Revised the Supply Chain Management Framework alignment with the various National Treasury SCM Instructions.
(ii) Developed Financial Misconduct Policy and Procedure.
(iii) Revised the Financial Delegation of Authorities consistent with the National Treasury approved threshold.
(iv) Established an Internal Control Unit to monitor compliance and further enhance effectiveness of the internal controls.
b) procurement process;
- Established three bid committee to facilitate procurements for threshold of above R500 000.
- Centralised procurement of above R30 000 but not exceeding R500 000 to leverage on economics of scale.
- Trained all supply chain practitioners, both at Head Office and missions abroad.
- Trained all end-user officials involved with procurement of goods and services.
- Signed a declaration of interest, including the code of conduct as well as Financial Misconduct Policy.
Unquote.
18 December 2017 - NW3575
Lotriet, Prof A to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(a) What is the total number of supplier invoices that currently remain unpaid by (i) her department and (ii) each entity reporting to her for more than (aa) 30 days, (bb) 60 days, (cc) 90 days and (dd) 120 days and (b) what is the total amount outstanding in each case?
Reply:
i) The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has 223 invoices that were not paid within 30 days. The bulk of unpaid invoices relate to unresolved contractual obligations that needed to be finalised before the payment is processed. The negotiations in ralations to unpaid invoices has been concluded and payments will be released before the end of the third quarter.
ii) An entity of the department African Rennaisance Fund (ARF) does not have any invoices older than 30 days.
(aa) 99 unpaid invoices for more than 30 days
(bb) 88 unpaid invoices for more than 60 days
(cc) 39 unpaid invoices for more than 90 days
(dd) 7 unpaid invoices for more than 120 days
b) Total amount outstanding per age analysis.
No. of days |
30 days |
60 days |
90 days |
120+ days |
Totals |
No. of outstanding invoices |
99 |
88 |
39 |
7 |
223 |
Total amount |
22 ,833,717.80 |
11,460,999. 09 |
9,875,567.16 |
544, 882.13 |
44, 715, 166.18 |
Refer to the attached annexure.
UNQUOTE
18 December 2017 - NW3995
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1)What are the terms of reference of the Oversight Committee of the Southern African (2) whether the Oversight Committee has achieved its mandate to date; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) (a) what are the terms of reference of the establishment of the multidimensional SADC standby force in Lesotho and (b) on what date is its mandate ending; (4) has the contingent mission achieved its mandate in Lesotho; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW4541E
Reply:
1. The Oversight Committee of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in the Kingdom of Lesotho Committee is appointed to:
a) Act as an overall monitoring body and early warning mechanism in the event of signs of instability.
b) Follow up and support the implementation of the recommendations of the SADC Facilitator’s Report, in particular constitutional and security reforms.
c) Follow up on the implementation of SADC decisions and the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry.
d) Liaise and work closely with the Government of Lesotho and all relevant stakeholders.
e) Examine any other matters relevant to the SADC decisions on the Political and Security situation in the Kingdom of Lesotho.
f) Propose appropriate intervention measures in consultation with the SADC Facilitator.
g) The Oversight Committee shall compile and submit, to the Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, monthly reports of its activities.
h) The Oversight Committee shall compile and submit, to the Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, a final report eight (8) days after the completion of its assignment.
REPLY:
2. Yes. The Oversight Committee has achieved its mandate.
The Oversight Committee has been on the ground in the Kingdom of Lesotho, serving as adeterrent, since 3 June 2015, after the Double Troika Summit held in Pretoria, South Africa, approved its establishmentto act as an overall monitoring body and early warning mechanism in the event of signs of instability, and intervene as appropriate in consultation with the SADC Facilitator. The Oversight Committee continuously files reports to the SADC Facilitator on developments in the country and has engaged relevant stakeholders in the Kingdom of Lesotho for the implementation of SADC decisions and its presence has proven useful to stabilise the Kingdom.
REPLY:
3 (a) The terms of reference, as approved by the Double Troika Summit of 15 September 2017, of the Contingent Mission are as follows:
- to strengthen peace and security, implement Security Sector Reforms, and implement the recommendations of the SADC Commission of Enquiry;
- monitor and ensure that the rule of law is complied with in the process of implementing the recommendations of the SADC Commission of Enquiry;
- identify immediate areas of priority that are to be implemented urgently, including the specific amendments in the Constitution, and amendments of the LDF and LMPS Acts with a view to ensuring separation of powers between the Army and Police;
- to support the Kingdom of Lesotho in undertaking re-training of its personnel especially in the area of Civil Military Relations (CIMIC);
- to monitor and assist where necessary in the investigation of the assassinations of Lt. Gen Motšomotšo and other alleged killings in Lesotho; and
- lend assistance in the implementation of Constitutional, Public and Security Sector reforms and monitor the implementation of SADC Decisions;
(b) The Preventative Mission was officially launched on 2 December 2017 and the deployment would be for a period of 6 months.
REPLY:
4. The Contingent Mission was only officially launched on 02 December 2017 for a period of 6 months and thus an evaluation of its mandate can only be done after 6 months.
UNQUOTE
18 December 2017 - NW3994
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1) Whether the former President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Mr Robert Mugabe, has submitted an application for political asylum and/or refugee status in South Africa; if so, what are the relevant details; 2) What is the official position with regard to granting political asylum and/or refugee status to former political leaders once ousted; (3) What are the details of the roles that (a) South Africa and (b) the Southern African Development Community will play in the transition period in the Republic of Zimbabwe?
Reply:
1. No application has been received from former President Mugabe seeking an application for political asylum and/or refugee status in South Africa.
(2) The Government of the Republic of South Africa has an obligation to grant protection to refugees and other persons in need of protection under a number of Conventions such as the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
(3) To date, the Republic of Zimbabwe has not requested assistance from South Africa or the SADC during this transitional period.
UNQUOTE
Additional information
However, following the developments in Zimbabwe, His Excellency President Jacob Zuma in his capacity as Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) issued a press statement on 15 November 2017, in which he noted with great concern the unfolding political situation in the Republic of Zimbabwe, and called for calm and restraint, and expressed hope that the developments would not lead to unconstitutional changes of Government as that would be contrary to both SADC and the African Union Principles.
President Zuma, in his capacity as Chair of SADC, dispatched a Special Envoy to Harare, Zimbabwe on 15 November 2017, and the Special Envoy met with President Robert Mugabe and the Army Generals on 16 November 2017.
Following these developments, a meeting of the Organ Troika Plus Chair of the SADC Ministerial Committee was convened in Gaborone, Republic of Botswana on 16 November 2017 to consider the unfolding political situation in Zimbabwe.
The Organ Troika Plus Chair of SADC Ministerial Committee Meeting reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to the African Union (AU) Constitutive Act and the SADC Democratic Principles as they relate to the unconstitutional removal of democratically elected Governments. All stakeholders were urged to ensure the observance and respect of the constitution of the Republic of Zimbabwe and the rule of law.
The Organ Troika Plus SADC Chair Summit was held in Luanda, in the Republic of Angola on 21 November 2017 to deliberate on the unfolding political situation in the Republic of Zimbabwe, and resolved that President Zuma, in his capacity as SADC Chairperson, and H.E João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Organ on Politics Defence and Security Cooperation will immediately undertake a mission to Zimbabwe on 22 November, 2017 to assess the situation.
On 21 November 2017, His Excellency, President Robert Gabriel Mugabe, stepped down from his position of Head of State and Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe. Following this, the mission to Zimbabwe on 22 November 2017 was cancelled. SADC is confident that Zimbabwe, as a member to both the AU and SADC, will continue upholding Democratic Principles enshrined in the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
18 December 2017 - NW3709
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether any disciplinary steps have been taken against her department’s Chief Information Officer; if not, why not; if so (a) why were the steps taken; (b) what are the details of the steps that have been taken and (c) what were the findings and sentence imposed?
Reply:
1. The investigation has been concluded and subsequent steps are being considered by the Department.
a) Subsequent steps are being considered.
b) No steps have yet to be taken;
c) Findings and sanctions will depend on the steps outlined in (a) and (b).
UNQUOTE:
15 December 2017 - NW1973
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
Whether a certain senior official in her department (name furnished), has security clearance; if not, why (a) was her security clearance denied and (b) is she still acting Consul-General?
Reply:
a) The mandate for granting or denying security clearances falls within the mandate of State Security Agency (SSA). SSA grants or denies security clearances on the basis of reasons gathered from their own investigations.
b) She has never acted as Consul-General.
Unquote
15 December 2017 - NW3164
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1) What are the details including the ranks of service providers and/or contractors from which (a) her department and (b) the entities reporting to her procured services in the past five years; (2) what (a) service was provided by each service provider and/or contractor and (b) amount was each service provider and/or contractor paid; (3) (a) how many of these service providers are black-owned entities, (b) what contract was each of the black-owned service providers awarded and (c) how much was each black-owned service provider paid? NW3488E
Reply:
The Department utilises many service providers over the a wide range of service areas. The number of service providers utilised by the Department over the past five years is average. In accordance with the kind of services the Department renders.
UNQUOTE.
13 December 2017 - NW1880
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether (a) her department and (b) each entity reporting to her appointed transaction advisors for tenders in the period 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2016; if so, (i) who were the transaction advisors that were appointed for the tenders, (ii) for which tenders were they appointed, (iii) what was the pricing for the tenders in question and (iv) what amount were the transaction advisors paid?
Reply:
The Department International Relations and Cooperation has not appointed any transaction advisors for tenders in the period 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2016.
UNQUOTE.
11 December 2017 - NW2849
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1)Wether she will provide details of a certain prisoner (name furnished) who is being held in Malaysia, and (2) At what stage are the prisoner transfer agreements?
Reply:
(1)The Department has not been authorised by the prisoner to divulge information on her case.
(2)The mandate of concluding Prisoner Transfer Agreements is vested with the Department of Correctional Services.The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is not aware of any Prisoner Transfer Agreement(and programmes) that has been concluded with any country or countries.
UNQUOTE
11 December 2017 - NW2632
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Was the flight that (a) arrived at Waterkloof Air Force Base from Harare on or about 16 August 2017 and (b) departed from Waterkloof Air Force Base to Harare on or about 20 August 2017 granted an RSA05 clearance; if so (c) who approved the clearance and (d) on what basis was the clearance done NATIONAL ASSEMBLY FOR WRITTEN REPLY QUESTION NO:2632 DATE OF QUESTION PAPER: 1 SEPTEMBER 2017 PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 31 OF 2017 REPLY: Ms S V Kalyan (DA) asked the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation the following questions regarding the Zimbabwean aircraft that visited South Africa between 16 and 20 August 2017. Was the flight that (a) arrived at Waterkloof Air Force Base from Harare on or about 16 August 2017 and (b) departed from Waterkloof Air Force Base to Harare on or about 20 August 2017 granted an RSA05 clearance; if so (c) who approved the clearance and (d) on what basis was the clearance done? Yes Yes Department of Defence The aircraft was transporting a Head of State UNQUOTE
Reply:
- Yes
- Yes
- Department of Defence
- The aircraft was transporting a Head of State
UNQUOTE
11 December 2017 - NW2848
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Mr S Mokgalapa (DA) to ask Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
1)Wether her Department has decided how it will facilitate prison exchange programmes; If not, why not; if so what are the relevant details (2)Wether she will make a statement on the details of the meeting held in Gaborone, Republic of Botswana, to discuss the specified programmes?
Reply:
(1)The mandate of concluding Prisoner Transfer Agreements is vested with the Department of Correctional Services.
(2)The Department is not aware of such a meeting. The question should be directed to the Department of Correctional Services.
UNQUOTE
11 December 2017 - NW2573
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
When are the application dates? (a) Opening and (b) Closing for the board positions of all entities and councils reporting to her?
Reply:
(a) and (b) There are no application since the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund (ARF) does not have a board. However, in terms of the ARF Act 51 of 2000, Section 5. (1) it states that “the Minister must, in consultation with the Minister of Finance, establish an Advisory Committee consisting of the following members—
(a) the Director-General or the delegate of the Director-General;
(b) three officers of the Department appointed by the Minister; and
(c) two officers of the Department of Finance appointed by the Minister of Finance”.
UNQUOTE
07 December 2017 - NW3708
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Have the recommendations of the (a) Charles Nupen report and or (b) Cheadle and Thompson report been implemented; if so, provide details; if not, why not?
Reply:
The reply to the question is as follows:
Quote:
( a) The Charles Nupen report and recommendations were implemented with the involvement of stakeholders. The Departmental Task Team under the Deparmental Bargaining Chamber endorsed the implementation thereof.
(b) The Cheadle and Thompson report and recommendations were partly implemented, whereas some of the recommedations are in the process to be finalised by Management.
Unquote:
07 December 2017 - NW2847
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
(1) Is Dr Riek Machar being hosted as a guest of the State; if so, (a) for what period will the specified person be hosted as a guest of the State and (b) what are the conditions, if any, of his stay; (2) Is the specified person’s communication with any (a) of his former advisors and/or (b) leaders of other international bodies is being monitored; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (3) whether the specified person is perceived as a threat to the national security of the specified person’s home country; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3154E
Reply:
1. Yes, Dr Riek Machar is hosted as a guest of the State.
a) At this stage the duration of Dr Riek Machar’s stay in South Africa is not known. Dr Machar came to South Africa on humanitarian grounds following consultations with the Government of the Republic of South Sudan and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
b) The conditions of Dr Machar’s stay in South Africa are that he may not engage in any activity that would contribute to the escalation of conflict in South Sudan.
2. Dr Machar’s communication is not monitored.
3. It has to be noted that there is conflict in South Sudan between government forces and the opposition armed rebel factions, including the armed rebel group led by Dr Machar. The African Union and the region through IGAD, are assisting the Republic of South Sudan to resolve the conflict.
UNQUOTE
06 December 2017 - NW3442
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
How many officials and/or employees in her department were granted permission to have business and/or do business dealings in the past three financial years; (2) are any of the officials and/or employees that have permission to have businesses and/or do business dealings doing business with the Government; if so, (a) what was the purpose of each business transaction, (b) when did each business transation occur and (c) what was the value of each business transaction?
Reply:
- For the period in question a total of 52 permissions were granted.
- No.
UNQUOTE
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Public Service Regulations, 2016 which came into effect in August 2016 provided that no Government employee is allowed to conduct business with an organ of state, unless it is in an official capacity.
The DPSA made certain exceptions such as lecturing, training, teaching at public educational institutions, appointment to an audit committee, activities undertaken as part of continued professional development, etc.
The DPSA sent a circular to that effect where officials that did conduct business with an organ of state had to:
By 31 January 2017, all employees who are conducting busness with an organ of state either resign as employees; or submit proof to the HOD that the employee has ceased conducting business with an organ of state; or has resigned as a director of a company that conducts business with an organ of state.
05 December 2017 - NW3710
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(a)What steps is South Africa taking to facilitate the peaceful resolution of the political impasse in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and (b)what are the terms of reference for the political dialogue regarding the Democratic Republic of Congo that was facilitated by the former President of Namibia, Mr Hifikepunye Lucas Pohamba? NW4143E
Reply:
(a)South Africa’s involvement and engagement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is guided by the Southern African Development Community (SADC). In this regard, SADC has urged all the stakeholders to refrain from actions that would undermine the political and security stability in the country. On 15th October 2017
HE President Jacob Zuma paid a working visit to the President of the DRC, HE Joseph Kabila, to emphasise the importance of ensuring the elections take place and securing peace and stability in the region.
(b) HE President Jacob Zuma, in his capacity as Chair of SADC, after consultation with outgoing Chair of SADC, in line with the decision of the SADC Summit, appointed former President of Namibia, HE Mr Hifikepunye Lucas Pohamba as the special envoy to the DRC. The special envoy is expected to meet with the DRC
National Independent Electoral Commission (CENI) and the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) at which point he is due to receive an update on preparations for the General,
Presidential, Parliamentary and Provincial Elections.
UNQUOTE
24 November 2017 - NW3304
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1) Whether the (a) chief executive officer and (b) chief financial officer of entities reporting to her are employed on a permanent basis; if not, (2) Whether the specified officers are employed on a fixed term contract; if so, (a) what are the names of each of the officers and (b) when (i) was each officer employed and (ii) will each officer’s contract end?
Reply:
1 (a) Department of International Relations and Cooperation does not have a Chief Executive Officer
(b) The Chief Financial Officer of DIRCO also serves as the Chief Financial Officer of the ARF
2. Not applicable
UNQUOTE
07 September 2017 - NW2509
Mbhele, Mr ZN to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
1) Did her department classify the 37th Southern African Development Community Ordinary Summit, hosted by South Africa from 10-20 August 2017 in Pretoria in terms of section 6(2) of the Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges Act, Act 37 of 2001; if so (a) when and (b) where was it gazetted; (2) did her department confer immunity on any person attending the specified summit in terms of section 7(2) of the specified Act; if so, in each case (a) what are the full particulars of the individual concerned and (b)(i) when and (ii) where was it gazetted?
Reply:
(1) NO
(a) N/A
(b); N/A
(2) NO
(a) N/A
(b)(i) N/A
(ii) N/A
07 September 2017 - NW2469
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
What are the exact policy and legal grounds on which she relied to grant diplomatic immunity to Mrs Grace Mugabe? NW2726E
Reply:
The Democratic Alliance instituted review proceedings in the Pretoria High Court and the Constitutional Court against the Government. The matter is therefore sub-judice.
04 September 2017 - NW881
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the MNISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
a) What amount did the event and workshop on 23 March 2017 of the Southern African Liaison Office entitled: Dialogue on Major South African Foreign Policy Trends and Issues of 2017, cost her department? b) Under which mandate was the money spent? NW947E.
Reply:
a) The Department of International Relations and Cooperation did not co-ordinate or partner with the Southern African Liaison Office to host this event and did not spend any money on the workshop entitled: Dialogue on Major South African Foreign Policy Trends and Issues of 2017
b) Not applicable.
04 September 2017 - NW2366
Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1) What is the Government’s policy regarding South African citizens who are taken hostage (a) inside the country and (b) abroad; (2) Whether the Government has to date paid any ransom directly or indirectly for the release of South African citizens; if so, (a) in which cases, (b) what was the ransom in each case and (c)(i) to whom was the payment made and (ii) who made the payment; (3) whether she has been informed of any ransom that has been paid to date by any other entity and/or persons for the release of South African citizens; if so, (a) in which cases (b) what was the ransom in each case and (c)(i) to whom was the payment made and (ii) who made the payment; 4) whether she will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
1. The position of the Government of the Republic of South Africa is that no ransom is paid for South African citizens taken hostage.
2. No, the Government has to date not paid any ransom directly or indirectly for the release of South African citizens.
3. No, the Minister has not been informed of any ransom that has been paid to date by any other entity and/or persons for the release of South African citizens.
4. The Minister will have no objection to making a statement on the matter.
04 September 2017 - NW2069
MS H O HLOPHE (EFF) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION to ask the MS H O HLOPHE (EFF) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
(1) Whether (a) her department and/or (b) any entities reporting to her are funding, including by way of discretionary funding, any institution of research and development (i) domestically and/or (ii) internationally; if so, (aa)(aaa) what are the names of the specified institutions and (bbb) what are their functions, (bb) from what date has her department or any entity reporting to her been funding them and (cc) what amount has her department contributed towards such funding?
Reply:
(a) and (b) No, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) nor the entity, the African Renaissance and International Cooperation fund (ARF) reporting to her are not funding any institution of research and development.
(i) None
(aa)(aaa) None
(bbb) Not applicable
(ii) None
(bb) None
(cc) None
28 August 2017 - NW1760
Matsepe, Mr CD to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Does (a) she, (b) her Deputy Ministers or (c) any of the heads of entities or bodies reporting to her make use of security services paid for by the State for (i) him/herself, (ii) his/her immediate family members or (iii) any of their staff members; in each case (aa) what are the reasons for it, (bb) from which department or entity’s budget is the security services being paid, and (cc) what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(a) (i) Yes.
(ii) No.
(iii) No.
(aa) The Ministerial handbook, Chapter 5, outlines that the South African Police Services (SAPS) is responsible for financial implications in terms of SAPS security services allocated to Executive members.
(bb) The SAPS.
(cc) see answer in aa above.
(i) Yes.
(ii) No.
(iii) No.
(aa) The Ministerial handbook, Chapter 5, outlines that the South African Police Services (SAPS) is responsible for financial implications in terms of SAPS security services allocated to Executive members.
(bb) The SAPS.
(cc) see answer in (b) aa above.
(c) . No.
(i)N/A
(ii) N/A
(iii) N/A
(aa) N/A
(bb) N/A
(cc) N/A
10 August 2017 - NW1791
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
(1)Which entities reporting to her (a) have a board in place and (b) do not have a board in place, (i) of those that have a board, (aa) when was each individual board member appointed and (bb) when is the term for each board lapsing and (ii) how many (aa) board members are there in each board and (bb) of those board members of each entity are female NW1999E
Reply:
(1) African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund (a) No, it does not have a board. In terms of the ARF ACT 51 OF 2000 6(3), the Director General is the Accounting Officer of the Fund in terms of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No.1 of 1999).
(2) with reference to entities that do not have boards in place,
(a) who is responsible for appointing the board and (b) when will a board be appointed?
REPLY:
There is no Board. In terms of the ARF Act 51 of 2000 6(3), the Director General is the Accounting Officer of the Fund in terms of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No.1 of 1999).
31 July 2017 - NW1607
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
What is the position of her department on the current genocide carried out on the people of West Papua by the Indonesian government
Reply:
The South African Government was not aware of any genocide on Indonesian territory. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation will continue to monitor developments in this regard. The issue was not on the agenda of the 34th Session of the Human Rights Council in March 2017.
31 July 2017 - NW1725
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
Whether any staff of (a) her department and (b) each entity reporting to her were awarded any contracts or agreements to conduct business with any state entity in the (i) 2014-15 (ii) 2015-16 and (iii) 2016-17 financial years; if so, what are the (aa)(aaa) names and (bbb) professional designations of the staff members and (bb)(aaa) details of the contract(s) and/or agreement(s) awarded and (bbb) amounts in each case?
Reply:
(a)(b) Yes, the Department received a list of names of officials conducting business with organs of state from the Department of Public Service and Administration. The Department is currently conducting an investigation whether the officials have disclosed their interests and whether they have resigned as a directors of the companies or ceased conducting business with the organ of state.
(aa)(aaa)Name |
(bbb)Designation |
CJ Smidt |
Ambassador |
CS Machaba |
Clerk |
ME Kobe |
Administration Officer |
FS Magubane |
Ambassador |
SG Ntanzi |
Foreign Service Officer |
TM Mogorosi |
ICT 1st Secretary |
SE Mcinziba |
Assistant-Director |
LS Ngonyama |
Ambassador |
BA Mfengwana |
Assistant-Director |
MB Dombo |
Assistant-Director |
L Mancoba |
Foreign Service Officer |
(bb) (aaa) and (bbb) The investigation is ongoing and further details are not available- will be made available as we progress following legal prescripts.
31 July 2017 - NW428
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the MINISTER OF THE DEPARTMENT INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
(1) (a) How many South Africans have travelled to Syria since January 2016 and (b) what was the stated purpose of each trip; (2) how many South Africans are still in Syria; (3) (a) how many South Africans have died in Syria in the past three years and (b) what was the cause of death in each case?
Reply:
1. (a) According to the Syrian Embassy in South Africa, during the period under discussions, 27 South Africans visited Syria;
(b) Fourteen (14) government officials, eight (8) individuals attended a wedding, two (2) visited relatives, two (2) agricultural and technical experts and one (1) normal visit.
2. According to the South African Embassy in Syria, there are 9 South Africans residing in Syria.
3. (a) From both the South African and Syrian governments, no South African’s has been reported dead.
(b) Not applicable.
UNQUOTE
28 June 2017 - NW360
Topham , Mr B to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) price and (d) date on which each vehicle was purchased for use by (i) her and (ii) her deputies (aa) in the (aaa) 2014-15 and (bbb) 2015-16 financial years and (bb) since 1 April 2016?
Reply:
i) With regard to Minister Nkoana-Mashabane, the following:
Aaa)
Make |
Model |
Price |
Date |
BMW |
740i Active Hybrid |
R998 137.99 |
May 2014 |
Bbb) None
Ccc) None
ii) With regard to Deputy Minister N Mfeketo, the following:
Aaa) None
Bbb) None
ccc)
Make |
Model |
Price |
Date |
Mercedes Benz |
E250 Avantgarde |
R771 570.99 |
2017 |
With regard to Deputy Minister L Landers, the following:
Aaa) None
Bbb)
Make |
Model |
Price |
Date |
Mercedes Benz |
C250 Avantgarde |
R506 060.58 |
2016 |
ccc) None
Unquote
28 June 2017 - NW1492
Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether (a) her department and (b) each entity reporting to her procured any services from and/or made any payments to (i) a certain company (name furnished) or (ii) any other public relations firms; if not, in each case, why not; if so, in each case, what (aa) services were procured, (bb) was the total cost, (cc) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (dd) was the total amount paid, (ee) was the purpose of the payments and (ff) is the detailed breakdown of such payments?
Reply:
a) The Department of International Relations has not procured the services of any public relations firms
b) No entities reporting to her have procured the services of any other public relations firms.
c) The Department has in house media and public relations units that include media liaison unit, an in-house internet radio station (Ubuntu Radio), and social media platforms. These platforms are utilized to communicate the messages of her Department
28 June 2017 - NW1224
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether (a) her department and (b) each entity reporting to her has (i) procured any services from and/or (ii) made any payments to the Decolonisation Fund; if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (aa) services were procured, (bb) were the total costs, (cc) is the detailed breakdown of the costs, (dd) were the total amount paid, (ee) was the purpose of the payments and (ff) is the detailed breakdown of the payments in each case?
Reply:
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has not procured any services and made no payment to:
(ii) The Decolonisation Fund, because the department did not require any service(s).
28 June 2017 - NW925
Lotriet, Prof A to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1)Whether there is any position of (a) chief executive officer, (b) chief financial officer and/or (c) chief operating officer that is currently vacant in each entity reporting to her; if so, (i) how long has each specified position been vacant and (ii) what is the reason for each vacancy; (2) have the vacancies been advertised; if so, (a) were interviews done and (b) on what date will the vacancies be filled; (3) (a) what is the total number of persons who are currently employed in the specified positions in an acting capacity, (b) for what period has each person been acting in each position and (c) has any of the specified persons applied for the positions?
Reply:
- No
- Not applicable
- Not applicable
Unquote
28 June 2017 - NW784
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1)Whether the use of Government letterheads by a certain official (details furnished) to source income for personal projects is an acceptable practice in her department; if so, on what statutory grounds is it an acceptable practice; if not, (2) Whether an investigation has been launched into the alleged misconduct; if not, (a) why not and (b) by what date will such an investigation be launched; if so, what were the outcomes? NW843E
Reply:
1. The practice of utilising Government letterheads to source income for personal projects is not acceptable in the Public Service,
2. The investigation is currently underway and the outcome will be provided to the relevant managers within two (2) weeks, namely by the 7th April 2017.
28 June 2017 - NW587
Dudley, Ms C to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1)Whether her department has been requested to assist 29-year old South African Emlyn Culverwell and his fiancée Iryna Nohai who were arrested in an Abu Dhabi hospital; if so, (a) what is the extent of the assistance that her department can provide in a situation like this and (b) can her department intervene in terms of ensuring that the person’s family members or employers are able to make contact with him; (2) what is her department’s policy with regard to (a) requesting the return of a South African citizen in circumstances where a particular country’s law that has been transgressed is not law in South Africa and (b) the punishment meted out for certain offences (details furnished) under the Sharia-based legal system; (3) will her department assist the couple to appoint legal representation; if so, (a) what has been done or will be done in this regard and (b) what are the further relevant details?
Reply:
1. Yes, the Department was requested to provide consular assistance to Mr Culverwell. His fiancée is not a South African citizen but a citizen of the Ukraine.
(a) In such a situation the relevant South African Diplomatic mission will endeavour to establish and maintain contact with the detainee and also undertake a consular visit at the soonest opportunity and at certain intervals thereafter. Family and friends will be kept updated on the wellbeing of the detainee as per consent of the detainee. The payment of financial assistance for the detainee to buy basic necessities in prison, as deposited by the family, will be facilitated as well as the delivery of letters written by family and friends.
(b) A diplomatic mission abroad can only request that a detainee is allowed the contact with family or an employer as provided for by the local regulations in the receiving State. Detainees in the UAE are permitted to make telephone calls to family members and an employer provided they have sufficient funds. Receiving calls are not permitted.
Visits by family members to detainees are allowed in accordance with local regulations. Mr Culverwell did not raise any complaints to the embassy as to not being allowed to call or to receive visitors.
2. (a) When entering a foreign country a South African national subjects him-/herself to all the laws and regulations of that sovereign country whether or not such laws are similar to South African law or not. The South African Government respects the sovereignity of other countries and will not request the return of a South African national based on the mere fact that the particular offence committed is not regarded as an offence in South Africa.
(b) The punishment meted out for offences in a foreign country is determined by the law and the Courts in that particular country and the South African Government cannot intervene in the Court proceedings and judicial processes in a foreign country.
3. (a) and (b). When a South African is arrested abroad the SA Embassy can provide a list of law firms in the country but the choice and appointment of a particular lawyer rests with the person arrested. The SA Government does not provide funds to cover the legal costs of South Africans arrested abroad. In the case of Mr Culverwell in the UAE, his employer appointed legal representation. Mr Culverwell and his fiancée have since been released from detention, but the case has not finalised yet. Their release is equivalent to a free bail in South African terms. The couple is currently at their place of employment and residing at staff accommodation.
28 June 2017 - NW488
Stubbe, Mr DJ to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
What amount has her department billed each government department for using the VIP (a) lounges and (b) services at each of the country’s airports (i) in the (aa) 2013-14, (bb) 2014-15 and (cc) 2015-16 financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2016?
Reply:
a) The Department of International Relations and Cooperation offers the services of the State Protocol Lounges at no cost. Therefore Government Departments were not billed for using the State Protocol Lounges.
b) The State Protocol lounges facilitate the arrivals and departures of all qualifying dignitaries on domestic and international flights.
- Not applicable
- Not applicable
UNQUOTE
Additional information:
In the previous financial years, the State Protocol Lounge facilitated the following number of dignitaries:
2013/2014
OR Tambo International Airport 15 089
Cape Town International Airport 9 525
King Shaka International Airport 3 941
Total 28 282
2014/2015
OR Tambo International Airport 14 799
Cape Town International Airport 9 628
King Shaka International Airport 3 734
Total 28 161
2015/2016
OR Tambo International Airport 12 102
Cape Town International Airport 6 747
King Shaka International Airport 2 927
Total 21 776
01 April 2016 -28 FEBRUARY 2017
OR Tambo International Airport 12 224
Cape Town International Airport 7 267
King Shaka International Airport 3 261
Total 22 752
GRAND TOTAL OVER 4 YEARS 100 971
28 June 2017 - NW456
Bucwa, Ms H to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether her department procured any services from and/or made any payments to (a) Mr Mzwanele Manyi, (b) the Progressive Professionals Forum, (c) the Decolonisation Fund and/or (d) the Black Business Council; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what (i) services were procured, (ii) was the total cost, (iii) is the detailed breakdown of such costs, (iv) was the total amount paid, (v) was the purpose of the payments and (vi) is the detailed breakdown of such payments in each case?
Reply:
The Department International Relations and Cooperation has not made any payment to:
- Mr Mzwanele Manyi,
- The Progressive Professionals Forum,
- The Decolonisation Fund, and/or
- The Black Business Council; because the department did not utilised any services provided by the above mentioned.
- Because the Department did not utilise any services provided by the above mentioned.
Unquote.
28 June 2017 - NW427
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
How many persons of South Africa’s diplomatic corps have been found guilty of committing any form of crime since her appointment as Minister of International Relations and Cooperation on 11 May 2009, (b) what are the names of the specified employees, (c) what disciplinary steps will be taken against the specified persons and (d) what measures will be implemented to ensure that persons found guilty of committing any crime will not be appointed as diplomats or officials at South Africa’s foreign missions?
Reply:
Quote:
(a) None
Unquote
28 June 2017 - NW308
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
(1) With reference to the statement of the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob G Zuma, made during the State of the Nation Address on 9 February 2017, that South Africa will continue mediation efforts, peacekeeping operations and peace-making initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, what is the current status of South Africa’s formal involvement in the specified country? (NW327E)
Reply:
- South Africa continues to support MONUSCO (United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo) through a deployment of uniformed and other personnel in a multi-dimensional peacekeeping which involves the military, police and the civilian components. MONUSCO’s strategic priorities are to protect civilians, stemming out of violence against women and children perpetuated by armed groups. The current mandate of MONUSCO will expire on 31 March 2017. The UN will provide guidance in terms of the extension of the mandate based on a situational analysis on the ground, particularly in the Eastern DRC and the political developments as the country prepares for the elections by end of 2017.
02 June 2017 - NW172
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
a) Whether, with reference to her reply to question 318 on 31 March 2016, the Government has taken any further action to secure the release of Mr Stephen McGowan; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the relevant details of the further action the Government took in order to secure his release since her reply and (b) what are the relevant details of the action that the Government intends to take in order to secure his release; b) Whether she has any knowledge of (a) where the specified person has been held and (b) by whom; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; c)Whether the Government is working with and/or assisting any non-governmental organisations to secure the release of the specified person ; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of the (a)non-governmental organisation and (b)assistance being provided to the specified organisations?
Reply:
(a) Yes -Government is involved in a continuum of actions securing the release of Mr Stephen McGowan, involving support from any of the Government Departments when needed. Actions were taken since March 2016, including, but not limited to, considering every viable option to ensure his release. Government continued to liaise with other Governments and agencies who may contribute to effect the release of Mr McGowan. Disclosing any details of actions taken at this stage will not serve a proper purpose but the House should know that Government did not leave any stone unturned to secure the release of Mr McGowan and will continue to assign resources and sincere efforts to ensure his return to South Africa..
(b)The exact location of Mr Stephen McGowan is not known, because it is a known trend of the captors to move their captives with regular intervals, ensuring their safety and security. Different groups are publicly known to capture tourists in Mali and, although more information about the group may be sourced, providing more information on the group is not in the interest of the matter being dealt with.
(c)Government is working with many other Governments and agencies in an effort to effect the release of Mr Stephen McGowan. Providing details on each of these organisations at this stage may compromise his safety.
UNQUOTE
02 June 2017 - NW786
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether the locally recruited personnel charter of her department has been implemented yet; if not, (a) why not and (b) by what date will it be implemented; if so, what are the relevant details in this regard?
Reply:
An LRP Charter does not apply to our regulatory context , since all LRP administrative matters are regulated through domestic legislation applicable to the respective countries of accreditation. Therefore, DIRCO does not have such a charter.
a) Not applicable
b) Not applicable
02 June 2017 - NW785
Kalyan, Ms SV to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(a) What are the full details of the (i) grievances and (ii) disciplinary cases that (aa) her department and (bb) each foreign mission of South Africa dealt with in the 2015–16 financial year, (b) how many were concluded, (c) what is the nature of sanctions that were meted out in each case, (d) how many are still pending and (e) what are the reasons?
Reply:
(a) (i) Total number of grievances handled during the period 01 April 2015 to 31 March 2016 is thirty two (32), and all thirty two (32) were concluded.
Nature of grievance |
Number |
Status |
Unfair PMDS process |
2 (two) |
Finalised |
Unfair recruitment and selection process |
3 (three) |
Finalised |
Verbal abuse and intimidation |
2 (two) |
Finalised |
Failure by the department to assist officials serving abroad with medical aids |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
Disapproval of resignation |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
Unilateral decision by the CFO to discontinue education allowance |
6 (six) |
Finalised |
Failure by the department to upgrade the officials’ qualifications from FAA to MAC |
4 (four) |
Finalised |
Harrasment and victimization |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
Disapproval to undergo surgery abroad |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
Exclusion from management meetings |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
Disapproval of an application to attend MAC bridging course |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
Disapproval of transfer back to South Africa |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
Failure to upgrade post to high level |
4 (four) |
Finalised |
Disapproval to attend a course |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
False accusations |
2 (two) |
Finalised |
Non payment of COLA |
1 (one) |
Finalised |
(ii) Twelve (12) misconduct cases were handled and finalised during the period 01 April 2015 to 31 March 2016. See the table in paragraph (C)
(b) Twelve (12) grievances were from officials stationed abroad while twenty (20) were from officials at DIRCO Head Office
(bb) One (1) misconduct case was for the official stationed abroad and the remaining eleven (11) were for officials at DIRCO Head Office
(c) The nature of sanctions that were meted out in each misconduct case are as follows:
Nature of Misconduct |
Sanction |
Plagiarism |
Not Guilty |
Fraud |
Dismissal |
Insubordination |
Not Guilty |
Breach of Security |
Final Written Warning plus recovery of COLA Allowance |
Failure to disclose conflict of interest |
One month Suspension without pay plus final written warning |
Direlection of duty |
Written Warning |
Contravention of the procurement policy |
Written warning |
Gross negligence and dishonesty |
Final written warning |
Fraud |
Final written warning plus one month suspension without pay |
Misrepresentation and fraud |
Dismissal |
Irregular processes of the DBAC |
Final written warning plus counselling |
Absenteeism |
Written warning |
(d) All the cases have been finalised
(e) See the answer in (d)
Unquote.
02 June 2017 - NW132
Mokgalapa, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(1)What are the details of her department’s policy concerning the employment of foreign nationals in South Africa’s foreign missions; (2) (a) how many foreign nationals are currently employed by each foreign mission and (b) in each case, (i) in which position are each of these foreign nationals employed and (ii) what (aa) qualifications and (bb) special skills does each person possess; (3) did the mission conduct (a) background checks and (b) security clearance procedures on each specified foreign national; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) The South African Government, through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), employs country nationals, third country nationals and/or South African nationals at the various Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad, as support staff to the South African diplomats stationed in these missions abroad. Such employees are referred to as Locally Recruited Personnel (LRP).
(2) (a) 2049 LRP
(b)(i) The LRP are employed in the following positions:
- Cleaner
- Domestic Worker
- Gardener
- Watchman/Security
- Chauffeur
- Messager/Driver
- Receptionist
- Registry Clerk
- Accountant/Assistant Accounts Clerk
- Consular Clerk
- Maintenance Officer
- Secretary
- Administrative Clerk/Officer
- Information Clerk
- Translator
- Trade and Information Assistant
- Marketing Officer
(ii) (aa) Each post has minimum requirements in terms of qualifications.
(bb) Post requirements and skills are determined by the level of the post
(3) (a) Yes
(b) As part of recruitment and selection, all applicants are required to submit a police clearance certificate from the local authorities of the host country.