Questions and Replies
22 March 2024 - NW598
Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
With reference to his reply to question 87 on 24 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by his department for (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
Minister |
Deputy Minister |
|
(a) |
N/A |
i) BMW ii) BMW |
(b) |
N/A |
i) X3 XDRIVE 20D ii) X3 XDRIVE 20D |
(c) |
N/A |
i) 2021 ii) 2021 |
(d) |
N/A |
(i)12/10/2021 (ii)20/12/2021 |
(e) |
N/A |
i) R761 199.40 ii) R768 666.99 |
22 March 2024 - NW357
Manyi, Mr M to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
How does his department plan to mitigate the impact of the Port of Maputo's increasing role in handling container imports into the Republic, as well as the export of coal and other minerals, on the operations and competitiveness of the Port of Durban and the Port of Richards Bay?
Reply:
According to the information received from Transnet:
The Port of Maputo serves two roles to South Africa: as an extension of the South African complementary port system and as a competitor.
In the role as an extension of the South African complementary port system, the Port of Maputo provides import and export capacity that cannot be met by Transnet Port Terminals thus assisting with maintaining fluidity in the South African freight logistics system. Transnet allocates cargo to Maputo on an equitable basis to ensure that the system doesn’t choke, i.e., Richards Bay and Durban cannot accommodate all cargo from the hinterland, therefore, the Port of Maputo provides an alternative to execute Customer demand, especially when Transnet Port Terminals are oversubscribed.
Over the past three years, the Port of Maputo recorded significant growth in bulk commodities like Chrome, Coal and Magnetite, and negligible growth in the container business. Transnet is implementing strategies to improve the availability and reliability of plant and equipment to enable the clawing-back of cargo volumes that migrated to Maputo port due to operational inefficiencies.
High-level initiatives to enable volume claw-back include, but are not limited to:
- long-term partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers to reduce response time to plant and equipment failures
- implementing a reliability-based maintenance regime
- implementing continuous improvement initiatives as identified in the turnaround plan to drive the achievement of terminals-wide performance norms
- introduction of the 4th shift operation philosophy to improve throughput, performance levels and ultimately Customer satisfaction.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved/Comments
Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
22 March 2024 - NW460
Winkler, Ms HS to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
Whether, with reference to the underwater blasting happening close to Simon's Town Naval Base, the boats involved were only from the SA Navy; if not, were there boats from foreign countries who were conducting tests in partnership with the Republic; if so, who is funding the specified tests?
Reply:
Find reply here
22 March 2024 - NW449
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)With reference to the presentation by the National Treasury to the Portfolio Committee on Finance on 14 February 2024 in which SA Airways (SAA) was reported to have traded at a loss of R761 million for the first three quarters of the 2023-24 financial year, what are the details of the sources of funds that enabled SAA to continue trading despite the losses incurred; (2) whether SAA was solvent as at the 31 December 2023; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. SAA has cash reserves with which the airline absorbs losses incurred. Moreover, several of the expenditure items that contributed to SAA losses are non-cash items and thus would not have a direct impact on SAA’s available cash reserves. Non-cash expenses (Depreciation and Amortisation) amounted to R109 million for the first three quarters of the financial year. During the same period, SAA generated a total income of R4.4 billion which helped defray operating costs and foreign exchange losses.
2. As of 31 December 2023, SAA had Total Assets of R11.309 billion, Total Liabilities of R6.025 billion resulting in a positive equity value of R5.284 billion. The airline’s assets exceeded its liabilities and therefore the indication is that it is solvent.
22 March 2024 - NW576
Powell, Ms EL to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
With reference to her reply to question 117 on 23 February 2024, on what specific legislative prescripts and/or provisions may minutes of meetings held between the President of the Republic, Mr MC Ramaphosa, and other Heads of State and officials from foreign governments be rendered classified by the Government and withheld from public view?
Reply:
Section 32 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, grants the right of access to any information held by the State and provides that national legislation must be enacted to give effect to this right.
However, the Promotion of Access to Information Act No. 2 of 2000 (PAIA) provides the grounds for refusal of requested information as contemplated in Chapter 4 of the Act. In terms of Section 41, if disclosing information prejudices the defence of the Republic, the security of the Republic and/or the international relations of the Republic, such information is then protected under PAIA.
Section 41 reads as follows:
“41. (1) The information officer of a public body may refuse a request for access to a record of the body if its disclosure—
(a) could reasonably be expected to cause prejudice ~
(i) the defence of the Republic; 25
(ii) the security of the Republic; or
(iii) subject to subsection (3), the international relations of the Republic; or
(b) would reveal information—
(i) supplied in confidence by or on behalf of another state or an international organisation;
(ii) supplied by or on behalf of the Republic to another state or an international organisation in terms of an arrangement or international agreement, contemplated in section 231 of the Constitution, with that state or organisation which requires the information to be held in confidence; or
(iii) required to be held in confidence by an international agreement or customary international law contemplated in section 231 or 232, respectively, of the Constitution.”
PAIA allows access to be refused to information supplied in confidence by, or on behalf of another State or international organisation, or that is required to be held in confidence by an international agreement or customary international law. It is on this legislative basis that the minutes of the meetings held between the President of the Republic, Mr MC Ramaphosa, and other Heads of State and officials from foreign governments, cannot be disclosed.
22 March 2024 - NW472
Chirwa-Mpungose, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1)What total number of (a) applications did the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) receive for the 2024 academic year, (b) applicants (i) qualified and (ii) did not qualify, (c) applications were (i) approved and (ii) rejected and (d) applications of the qualifying students (i) were approved, (ii) are undergoing appeals and (iii) will not be catered for by NSFAS; (2) what were the common reasons for rejection of NSFAS applications?
Reply:
1. (a) NSFAS received 1,936,330 bursary applications for the 2024 academic year (to date i.e. 07 March 2024).
(b) (i) The total number of applicants that qualified is 1 258 509.
(ii) The total number of applicants that did not qualify is 230 669.
(c)(i) Total number that was approved is 1 258 509.
(ii) Total number that was rejected is 230 669.
(d) (i) 1 258 509 of the qualifying students were approved.
(ii) 19 149 have submitted appeals.
(iii) 230 669 will not be catered for as they have been rejected.
2. The common reasons for rejection of the bursary applications at NSFAS are based on the following.
a) financial eligibility criteria where family income is above the NSFAS threshold of R350 000,
b) failure to meet academic eligibility criteria, such as the N+ rule.
22 March 2024 - NW643
Mkhwebane, Adv BJ to ask the Minister of Finance:
Whether he has found that it is consistent with the procurement policies of the Development Bank of Southern Africa to make material amendments in the requirements after a tender has been adjudicated, as it was allegedly the case with the tender process of the SA National Roads Agency Limited that was awarded to a certain company (name furnished); if not, what is his position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
It is not consistent with the procurement policies of the Development Bank of Southern Africa to make material amendments in the requirements after a tender has been adjudicated.
22 March 2024 - NW299
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether, with reference to National Treasury’s presentation to the Standing Committee on Appropriations on 14 February 2024, has Takatso Consortium provided proof of funds for the Strategic Equity Partnership transaction; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details of such proof of funds; (2) whether National Treasury conducted a review of the Strategic Equity Partnership between Takatso Consortium and SA Airways (SAA); if not, why not; if so, will (a) the partnership give rise to any future fiscal obligations for the State, (b) he furnish Mr R A Lees with a copy of the agreement and (c) on what date does he envisage doing so; (3) whether the National Treasury will obtain a fair payment for the 51% of the SAA shares to be sold to the Takatso Consortium; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) what are the relevant details of non-core assets that SAA has disposed of since entering business rescue on 5 December 2019?
Reply:
1. No correspondence has been received by the National Treasury relating to the Sale and Purchase Agreement and the proof of funds necessary for the Strategic Equity Partnership transaction.
2. National Treasury did not conduct a review of the Strategic Equity Partnership transaction as it was not subject to section 54(2) of the PFMA. Once the Sale and Purchase Agreement is received by the National Treasury, it will be reviewed to determine whether it poses risk to the fiscus through fiscal obligations.
3. No details have been received by National Treasury on the compensation to be received by government for the sale of the majority shareholding to the Takatso Consortium. The details are contained in the Sale and Purchase Agreement which National Treasury was not involved in the negotiation thereof. National Treasury currently has no details related to the sale other than what has been made publicly available by the Department of Public Enterprises.
4. SAA submitted PFMA section 54 applications for the disposal of wide-body aircraft and non-core property that formed part of the old Durban International Airport. The Minister of Finance has approved both transactions.
22 March 2024 - NW572
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) Whether, with reference to the Auditor-General’s report of 2019 which highlighted that at least 14 infrastructure projects under her department had significant challenges, she will furnish Ms H Ismail with a list of the contractors appointed to the projects; if not, why not; if so, by what date does she envisage doing so; (2) Whether any of the contractors appointed have been red flagged for future appointments; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, that are the further, relevant details?
Reply:
1. Will the Minister furnish Ms H Ismail with a list of the contractors appointed to the projects; if not, why not; if so, by what date does she envisage doing so?
|
Project |
Implementing Agent |
1 |
EC Rock Art Tourism Phase 2 |
African Implementation Management Services Pty Ltd |
2 |
FS Building of a Guest House 1 & 2 |
Phase 1: Nambo Property & Project Manager cc t/a Nombo Mabhele Phase 2: River Ranger Management |
3 |
FS Sentinel Peal Car Access |
Hentig 2715 (Pty) Ltd |
4 |
LP Mnisi |
African Implementation Management Services Pty Ltd |
5 |
LP VhaTsonga 1 & 2 |
African Implementation Management Services Pty Ltd |
6 |
NC Kamiesburg |
Ishabi Pty Ltd |
7 |
EC Nyandeni |
Nyandeni Development Trust |
8 |
EC Mthonsi Lodge |
MBB Consulting Services |
9 |
EC Qatywa |
Makhanyeni Housing Estate (Pty) Ltd |
10 |
EC Six Day Hiking Trail |
Simply Indigenous cc |
11 |
KZN Muzi Pan |
Rich Rewards Trading 34 (PTY) Ltd | Reg No: 2003/022344/07 T / A Sigma International |
12 |
LP Sekhukhune |
Mabhucu Construction Suppliers Cc |
13 |
LP Tisane |
Baitsenape Investments cc |
14 |
NW Manyane |
Re A Aga Infrastructure (Pty) Ltd |
2. Whether any of the contractors appointed have been red flagged for future appointments; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the further, relevant details?
No contractor was red flagged; however, the matters have been reported to the police and civil litigation is being pursued through the Office of the State Attorney.
22 March 2024 - NW453
Khanyile, Ms AT to ask the Minister of Home Affairs
What total number of asylum transit visas has his department issued in terms of Section 23 of the Immigration Act, Act 13 of 2002, to asylum seekers in the (a) 2022-23 and (b) 2023-24 financial years?
Reply:
a) During the 2022/23 financial year, the Department of Home Affairs issued 30 asylum transit visas in terms of Section 23 of the Immigration Act, Act 13 of 2002.
b) In the 2023/24 financial year to date, the Border Management Authority issued 61 asylum transit visas in terms of Section 23 of the Immigration Act, Act 13 of 2002.
END.
22 March 2024 - NW358
Manyi, Mr M to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
In light of the pending tender for the Trans-Kalahari Railway Project in Namibia, what proactive steps has he taken to prevent further diversion of cargo traffic away from the Republic’s ports and safeguard the interests of Transnet against potential loss of business? NW402E
Reply:
According to the information received from Transnet:
Preliminary competitor analysis demonstrates that the Trans-Kalahari Railway project and port developments in Namibia will have a minimal impact on Transnet Port Terminal’s long term volume growth. This is chiefly due to the following reasons:
- At the time of commercial operation of the Trans-Kalahari railway project, Transnet would have stabilized its rail and terminal operations as per the approved turnaround plan thus significantly reducing Customer churn rate.
- Transnet will continue with the implementation of long-term contracting regimes with predictable commercial arrangements. This will ensure volume growth and long-term sustainability for the Iron Ore and Manganese Customers who are targeted by the Trans-Kalahari project.
- Transnet is future-proofing its operations by creating additional capacity in line with Customer validated demand to neutralize any potential volume and revenue leakage.
Transnet must anticipate competition from other ports and rail corridors and “raise the bar” in respect of both infrastructure maintenance and operational efficiency. This is now taking place under the rubric of the Transnet Recovery Plan, notwithstanding the huge financial, operational and governance damage done during the State Capture period.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved/Comments
Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
22 March 2024 - NW437
Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)What total amount in revenue has been generated through the levy on plastic bags; (2) whether, given that the levies collected were intended to be used for (a) waste management and/or (b) environmental initiatives, any amount of such levies (i) had been ring-fenced for such environmental initiatives and/or (ii) has gone into the fiscus; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (aa) total amount in each case and (bb) are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
Question 1
The total revenue collection from the plastic bag levy since its introduction in 2004 amounted to R5.3 billion. Table 1 below shows the revenue collections for the period 2004 to 2023.
Table 1: Plastic bag revenue collection (2004 to 2023)
Fiscal year |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
Revenue (R million) |
41,2 |
61,4 |
75,1 |
86,3 |
78,6 |
110,5 |
257,1 |
160,6 |
150,8 |
169,2 |
Fiscal year |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 |
2017 |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
Revenue (R million) |
174,3 |
183,3 |
231,9 |
241,3 |
300,4 |
317,9 |
579,8 |
658,2 |
679,8 |
778,4 |
Question 2
In 2004, government introduced the plastic bag levy as part of a package of measures to promote the reduction, reuse, recycling and diversion of plastic bags away from landfills. These measures included a regulation on the minimum thickness of plastic bags; disclosure and transparency of the costs of plastic shopping bags by retailers; regulation of the type and amount of ink to be used for printing on bags; awareness and market promotion for recycled materials; and prohibition of plastic bag imports.
The levy gives effect to the polluter pays principle and is aimed at internalising the negative environmental and health costs of plastic bag production, use and disposal into the retail price of plastic bags. It contributes towards government’s goal of zero waste to landfill as set out in the 2020 National Waste Management Strategy and target for 100 percent recycled materials in plastic bags by 2027.
i) The ringfencing of tax revenues is not supported. Ringfencing introduces rigidities into the budget process and breaks the link between a budget allocation and efficient spending. Such practices prevent the continuous evaluation and modification of tax and spending programmes and could result in a misallocation of public funds where there may be too much or too little spending on a particular government priority.
ii) Revenues raised from taxes flow into the National Revenue Fund and are allocated to government priorities as part of the budget process. Although the plastic levy is not ringfenced, public funds are allocated to environmental protection and waste management initiatives of the Department of Forestry Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). Details on the expenditure allocations to the Environmental and the Chemicals and Waste Management programmes are provided below.
- a) Programme 6: Environmental Programmes
The DFFE coordinates the implementation of green economy projects in the environment sector under the Expanded Public Works Programme and provides monitoring and evaluation support to the programmes. This includes the War on Waste, Working for the Coast, Working for Wetlands, People and Parks, open space management, and the Working for Water, Energy, Fire, and Forests programmes.
Table 2 below shows the spending allocations to the different subprogrammes amounting to about R11.2 billion from 2020/21 to 2023/24 and estimated allocations of R8.7 billion over the medium term up to 2026/27.
Table 2: Environmental Programmes expenditure trends and estimates by subprogramme and economic classification
Subprogramme (R million) |
2020/21 |
2021/22 |
2022/23 |
2023/24 |
2024/25 |
2025/26 |
2026/27 |
Environmental Programmes Management |
109,5 |
293,5 |
1 057,1 |
7,9 |
6,9 |
7,8 |
8,1 |
Environmental Programme Region 1 |
446,8 |
471,5 |
2 041,3 |
919,5 |
913,2 |
987,7 |
1 119,9 |
Environmental Programme Region 2 |
1 557,4 |
1 249,4 |
6,1 |
1 064,6 |
1 214,9 |
1 150,7 |
1 180,9 |
Environmental Programme Region 3 |
446,8 |
471,5 |
61,9 |
815,9 |
553,7 |
626,1 |
614,2 |
Sector Coordination and Quality Management |
56,8 |
100,4 |
|
112,2 |
104,8 |
110,5 |
117,9 |
Total |
2 617,3 |
2 586,3 |
3 166,3 |
2 920,0 |
2 793,4 |
2 882,8 |
3 041,1 |
Source: National Treasury
- b) Chemicals and Waste Management Programme
The objectives of the Chemicals and Waste Management programme are to oversee, monitor and evaluate the performance of the waste sector, ensuring that less waste is generated, and existing waste is better managed. Seven (7) subprogrammes for chemicals and waste management, including Integrated Waste Management, Hazardous Waste Management and Licensing, Chemicals and Waste Economy Programme Coordination and the Waste Bureau are implemented.
For the period 2020/21 to 2023/24, about R2 billion was allocated to the chemicals and waste programme, with R1.4 billion allocated to the Waste Bureau, accounting for about 68 per cent of the total budget, as shown in Table 3 below. The estimated allocation to the programme over the medium term from 2024/25 to 2026/27 is R2 billion.
Table 3: Chemicals and Waste Management expenditure trends and estimates by subprogramme and economic classification
Subprogramme (R million) |
2020/21 |
2021/22 |
2022/23 |
2023/24 |
2024/25 |
2025/26 |
2026/27 |
Chemicals and Waste Management |
6,1 |
5,9 |
26,3 |
7,1 |
7,6 |
7,9 |
8,2 |
Hazardous Waste Management and Licensing |
26,0 |
29,8 |
27,1 |
33,4 |
37,9 |
39,5 |
41,1 |
Integrated Waste Management |
17,3 |
46,5 |
113,0 |
47,3 |
47,9 |
49,9 |
51,1 |
Chemicals and Waste Management Policy and Specialized Monitoring Services |
14,9 |
60,9 |
27,8 |
50,4 |
52,7 |
53,8 |
57,6 |
Chemicals and Waste Economy Programme Coordination |
11,2 |
16,5 |
16,7 |
21,3 |
21,0 |
22,1 |
23,0 |
Chemicals Coordination |
20,6 |
15,8 |
– |
18,6 |
23,2 |
24,5 |
25,9 |
Waste Bureau |
300,3 |
312,6 |
406,3 |
406,1 |
468,9 |
489,9 |
512,3 |
Total |
396,3 |
488,1 |
617,3 |
584,2 |
659,2 |
687,6 |
719,2 |
Source: National Treasury
The Recycling Enterprise Support Programme was established to provide support to small and medium sized enterprises for establishing recycling businesses. Transfers to the Recycling Enterprise Support Programme over the period 2020 to 2026 are estimated at R380,5 million, as shown in Table 4 below.
Table 4: Transfers to Recycling Enterprise Support Programme
R'000 |
2020/21 |
2021/22 |
2022/23 |
2023/24 |
2024/25 |
2025/26 |
2026/27 |
Total |
Recycling Enterprise Support Programme |
2,749 |
- |
92,824 |
74,506 |
67,084 |
70,088 |
73,309 |
380,560 |
The on-budget allocations to the Environmental and the Chemicals and Waste Management programmes of the DFFE exceed the revenue collection from the plastic bag levy.
22 March 2024 - NW281
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
Whether he will furnish Mrs N W A Mazzone with a list of the salary grades of members of each Board of Directors in each state-owned entity reporting to him since 1 January 2023; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I have been advised by the Department as follows:
The Non-Executive Directors of Boards of State-Owned Entities reporting to the Ministry of Communications and Digital Technologies do not have salary grades except for the Film and Publication Board which is categorised as Category B1 as per the National Treasury Board Remuneration Guidelines.
The salary grades for the Executive Directors of State-Owned Entities where CEOs, CFOs and/or COOs are ex-officio members of the Board are as follows:
State Owned- Entity |
Executive Director |
Salary Grade |
Additional notes |
Broadband Infraco (BBI) |
Chief Executive Officer |
Paterson Band F 2
|
The Paterson Job Evaluation System grades jobs based on decision-making complexity, ranging from Bands A to F, with Band F being the highest. Each band, except A, is subdivided into lower and upper parts, with specific subgrades |
Chief Financial Officer |
Paterson Band E 5 |
|
|
Film and Publication Board (FPB) |
Chief Executive Officer |
Paterson Band F1 |
|
National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) |
Chief Executive Officer |
Level 15 |
Department of Public Service and Administration Framework for Remuneration of public servants |
Postbank |
Chief Executive Officer |
Paterson Band F2 |
|
Chief Financial Officer |
Paterson Band E4 |
|
|
Sentech |
Chief Executive Officer |
Hay Grade Level: 25 |
Using the correlation table hay grade level 25 on the following evaluation systems is: Peromnes: 1++, Paterson: F4/F5
|
Chief Operations Officer |
Hay Grade Level: 23 |
Peromnes: 1, Paterson: F1
|
|
Chief Financial Officer |
Hay Grade Level: 23 |
Peromnes: 1, Paterson: F1
|
|
State Information Technology Agency (SITA) |
Chief Executive Officer |
Above Paterson Band F3, which is equivalent to F4/F5 |
|
Chief Financial Officer |
Paterson Band-F1 |
|
|
South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) |
Chief Executive Officer |
Paterson Band- F3 |
|
|
|||
Chief Financial Officer |
Paterson Band- F1 |
|
|
Chief Operations Officer |
Paterson Band- F1 |
|
|
South African Post Office (SAPO) |
Chief Executive Officer |
Paterson band F4/5 |
|
Chief Financial Officer |
Paterson Band F2 |
|
|
Chief Operations Officer |
N/A |
Vacant |
|
Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA) |
Chief Executive Officer |
Level 15 |
Department of Public Service and Administration Framework for Remuneration of public servants |
Authorised for submission by
MS NONKQUBELA JORDAN-DYANI
DIRECTOR-GENERAL
DATE:
Recommended/not recommended
__________________________
HON. PHILLY MAPULANE, MP
DEPUTY MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
Approved/ not approved
________________________________
HON. MONDLI GUNGUBELE, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
22 March 2024 - NW171
Faber, Mr WF to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
Whether she has ever met with Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of Sudanese Rapid Support Forces, at any time since 1 January 2023; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the full details of any military support that the Republic is providing in the Republic of Sudan?
22 March 2024 - NW266
Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether, considering that during his reply to the debate on the State of the Nation Address, the President of the Republic, Mr M C Ramaphosa, indicated that unspent funds by municipalities is something that should not be tolerated, and noting that the financial year-end of departments and municipalities do not coincide, he has found that there is a level of fiscal dumping by national departments onto local governments which gives them only three months to spend their money; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (2) whether he will consider motivating the financial year-end of all spheres of government to be the same; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. National Treasury (NT) during the many forums, intergovernmental forums and consultation processes always caution organs of state against fiscal dumping. Fiscal dumping is perceived when sector departments (transferring officers), that administrate and monitor municipal performance, transfer huge amounts of money during the last month of the national financial year (March). However, it should be noted that in terms of the division of nationally raised revenue that appropriates money through the Division of Revenue Act (DoRA), NT is of the view that the national departments are unable to ‘dump’ funding to municipalities because all transfers to municipalities are made in terms of the approved payment schedule and follow a project plan.
Municipalities also implement in-year budget adjustments changes in the last month of the national financial year, between January and March annually which is another process that may also appear to imply fiscal dumping of the funds to the local government sphere.
Additionally, NT conducts another process in terms of section 18 of the DoRA which is a mid-year process of assessing progress of municipalities in terms of their DoRA allocated funds. This process is undertaken during the middle of the municipal financial year, 31 December annually. The implication of this process is that should funds against slow moving municipalities be stopped in terms of section 18 of DoRA and be reallocated to fast moving municipalities in terms of section 19 of DoRA, the recipient municipalities would receive additional funding during the last month (March) of the national financial year, allowing a municipality three months to spend the additional amounts.
2. NT is not considering motivating the financial year-end of all spheres of government to be at the same time.
The national / provincial budget process involves managing the following simultaneously: the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), the medium-term fiscal framework, the division of revenue process, and the budget processes of national government and the nine provincial governments.
The separation of national / provincial financial years from the local government financial years allows for a proper sequencing of the national / provincial and the local government processes. The MTSF, the fiscal framework, the division of revenue and the national and provincial conditional transfers to local government are all in place and certain by mid-February which is when municipalities begin compiling their budgets. This means that municipalities can compile their budgets with accurate awareness of what resources they will be receiving from the equitable share and in the form of national and provincial conditional transfers.
From the municipal perspective, the alignment of the municipal financial year with the national and provincial financial year will:
a) place enormous pressure on municipalities already strained financial management capacity.
b) impact negatively on the quality of municipal budgets, as they will not have access to the final equitable share and conditional transfer numbers until right at the end of the process.
c) undermine the community consultation and participation processes around municipal budgets, as they would have to happen during the same period while the national and provincial budgets are being compiled and changed; and
d) undermine the scope for effective coordination of national, provincial and local government planning, as the municipalities would be required to develop and revise their integrated development plans, at the same time the national and provincial departments are still doing their own planning.
The net result would be to condense coordination of national, provincial and local government planning which would inevitably result in gaps and weaker spending outcomes, particularly in relation to conditional grants and will generally impact negatively on the move towards improved planning and execution.
A further key factor to consider is the ability of the Office of the Auditor-General to audit all national departments and their entities, all provincial departments and their entities, municipalities and their entities, within two months after the end of the financial year. The current staggering of financial years means the work is spread over a four-month period and there are sufficient auditors to meet the requirements.
22 March 2024 - NW436
Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1)With regard to the objectives and purposes of the Skills Development Act, Act 97 of 1998, what total amount has been paid by employers in skills development levies since the inception of the Skills Development Levy, National Skills Fund (NSF) and the implementation of the specified Act; (2) what (a) total amount has been raised by the NSF in reliance upon the Act, in particular section 27, and (b) is the source of the funding in reliance upon section 27(2)(a) to (f); (3) what is the (a) current value of the total amount raised and held by the NSF and (b) total monetary value of unspent skills development levies being held by (i) all the sector education and training authorities and (ii) the NSF; (4) what is the total number of accredited qualifications that have been funded by the (a) skills development levies and (b) NSF; (5) what are the reasons that the money, raised through levies on employers and other sources of funding, has not been spent on skills development?
Reply:
1. With regard to the objectives and purposes of the Skills Development Act, Act 97 of 1998, what total amount has been paid by employers in skills development levies since the inception of the Skills Development Levy, National Skills Fund (NSF) and the implementation of the specified Act;
Employers have the direct relationship through the mandatory grant process. The NSF as a catalytic funder focuses on skills development across the value chain of SA and has a direct relationship with stakeholders and/or implementing agents such as Skills Development Providers, Government Departments, PSET institutions none of which pay a levy to the NSF.
2. what (a) total amount has been raised by the NSF in reliance upon the Act, in particular section 27, and (b) is the source of the funding in reliance upon section 27(2)(a) to (f);
The pilot project underway through the Presidency called the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) is the only source of additional funding and this has been included in the MTSF (through DHET).
Background
“Section 27 (1) of the Skills Development Act (SDA) states that the National Skills Fund is hereby established and section (2) further state that the Fund must be credited with:
-
- 20 per cent of the skills development levies, interest and penalties collected in respect of every SETA, as required by sections 8 (3) (a) and 9 (a) of the Skills Development
Levies Act (SDL Act);
-
- the skills development levies, interest and penalties collected by the Commissioner from employers which do not fall within the jurisdiction of a SETA, as required by section 8 (3) (c) of the SDL Act.
- money appropriated by Parliament for the Fund;
- interest earned on investments contemplated in section 29 (3);
- donations to the Fund; and
- money received from any other source.”
2 a) The total amount has been raised by the NSF in reliance upon the Act, in particular, section 27.
With reference to the Act and the question raised, the NSF was established in 1999 in terms of section 27 of the SDA without legal persona.
From that period of its establishment to the period of 2010, the NSF was placed under the Department of Labour (DOL) as a chief directorate /Directorate and the total amount that was raised by the NSF during this period was R 8 439 078 000.
In 2010-11 NSF was transferred to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and in 2011-12 the NSF was listed as Schedule 3A Public Entity in terms of the PFMA, retrospectively effective from 1 April 2012. From the period of 2011 to 2023 the total amount that was raised by the NSF during this period was R49 464 097 000.
In summary and in total considering the period when the NSF was in DOL and the NSF in the DHET, the NSF received a total amount of R57 903 175 000.
2 b) The source of the funding in reliance upon section 27(2)(a) to (f)
With reference to the section 27 of the SDA and the question raised, the NSF current main revenue sources are:
- 20% of the skills development levies as contemplated in the SDL Act; and
- Interest earned on investments held at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC); and
- Money received from any other sources - uncommitted surplus from the SETAs and to certain extend interest received from the Skills Development Providers (but the amount is not material).
The NSF may also receive revenue from the following sources as per section 27 of the SDA (but this is not prevalent as NSF has not received any of the amount listed below):
- The skills development levies collected and transferred to the NSF, in terms of the SDL Act in respect of those employers or sectors for which there is no sector education and training authority (SETA)
- Money appropriated by Parliament for the NSF
- Donations to the NSF
With reference to the 20% of the skills development levies as contemplated in the Skills Development Levies Act, 1999 (Act 9 of 1999) (SDL Act) as per section 27 (2) (a), the NSF has accounted for R45 996 000 000.
With reference interest earned on investments contemplated in section 29 (3) of the SDA and as per section 27 (2) (d), the NSF has accounted for R6 789 000 000.
With reference to the funds received as a results uncommitted surplus from the SETAs that are transferred to the NSF in terms of SETA grant regulation 3(12) the NSF has accounted for R4 126 000 000.
With reference to section 27 (1) (f) “money received from other sources” / Other income the NSF has accounted for R 992 000 000 (for example transfers from DHET for special projects and
Finance income from advance payments to skills development programmes and projects)
3 a) Current value of the total amount raised.
The current value from 1 April 2023 to 31 Dec 2023 is the total of R4 152 000 000.
- 20% of the skills development levies as contemplated in the SDL Act is R 3 313 000 000 and
- Interest earned on investments held at the PIC as per section 27 (2) (d) is R838 000 000.
3b) The total monetary value of unspent skills development levies being held by NSF is R14,916 billion.
in terms of Section 29(3) of the SDA, the unexpended balance in the NSF at the end of the financial year must be carried forward to the next financial year as a credit to the NSF.
The unspent funds are currently invested investments held at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) as per section 29 (2) of the SDA that state that Any money in the Fund not required for immediate use may be invested in accordance with an investment policy approved by the Director-General that complies with the requirements of the Public Finance Management Act and may be withdrawn when required.
The total value of the unspent skills development levies being held of R14 916 000 000 is intended to be utilised for:
-
- The 200 committed skills development programme and projects that the NSF has entered contract with the cash commitment of R 11 196 000 000.
- The 204 earmarked committed skills development programme and projects that have not yet been contract of about R 10 000 000 000.
The NSF in terms of its strategic plan and annual performance plan intends to support and respond to the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP)/MTSF/WP-PSET/NP-PSET and also responding to the other projects of national priorities by funding projects that are :
-
- Identified to increase production of occupations in high demand (skills development programme and projects such Artisanal development etc)
- Link education and the workplace (skills development programme and projects - Work integrated learning /Learnerships/ Internships etc)
- Improve the level of skills in the South African workforce (skills development programme and projects such Worker education related interventions)
- Increase access to occupationally directed programmes (skills development programme and projects with the 50 TVET Colleges / 9 CET colleges / State SOCs such as NECSA etc)
- Skills development support for entrepreneurship and cooperative development (skills development programme and projects such SEDA related interventions),
- The human resource development strategy (support to the secretariate work of NSA /HRDC)
4. what is the total number of accredited qualifications that have been funded by the (a) skills development levies and (b) NSF;
The National Skills Fund has funded various programmes in relation to the Skills Development Act and National Skills Development Plan. The table below provides the reader with number of qualifications in the financial years 22/23 and 23/24.
Qualification |
22/23 |
23/34 |
Number |
Number |
|
Learnerships |
10775 |
10818 |
Apprenticeship / Artisans |
7071 |
5888 |
Bursaries (incl. Int) |
813 |
1426 |
In addition to the numbers above, as a value add included are learners trained in:
-
-
- Occupations in High Demand (OIHD),
- Persons with Disability and
- Beneficiaries coming from rural communities.
-
5. What are the reasons that the money, raised through levies on employers and other sources of funding, has not been spent on skills development
- Currently NSF has skills development programme and projects of contract values of R23 264 000 000 and cash commitments of R11 196 000 000 that still need to be disbursed based on the budget projections beyond 2024 financial year and
- The NSF also has earmarked skills development programme and projects of 204 earmarked committed skills development programme and projects that have not yet been contract of about R10 000 000 000 disbursed.
The NSF in terms of its strategic plan and annual performance plan intends to support and respond to the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP)/MTSF/WP-PSET/NP-PSET and responding to the other projects of national priorities by funding projects that are:
- Identified to increase production of occupations in high demand (skills development programme and projects such Artisanal development etc)
- Link education and the workplace (skills development programme and projects - Work integrated learning /Learnerships/ Internships etc)
- Improve the level of skills in the South African workforce (skills development programme and projects such Worker education related interventions)
- Increase access to occupationally directed programmes (skills development programme and projects with the 50 TVET Colleges / 9 CET colleges / State SOCs such as NECSA etc)
- Skills development support for entrepreneurship and cooperative development (skills development programme and projects such SEDA related interventions),
- The human resource development strategy (support to the secretariate work of NSA / HRDC)
22 March 2024 - NW463
King, Ms C to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
What total number of technical vocational education and training colleges have vacant principal positions?
Reply:
There are 14 Technical Vocational Education and Training colleges as follows:
NO |
REGION |
NAME OF COLLEGE |
Gauteng & Free State |
|
|
2. |
Western Cape & Northern Cape |
|
3. |
Mpumalanga & North West |
|
4. |
Kwa Zulu Natal |
|
5. |
Eastern Cape |
|
22 March 2024 - NW448
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)(a) What is the rationale behind the decision of the Land Bank to advertise the sale of its loan book, (b) what specific criteria were employed to determine which loans would be included in the sale and (c) which clients would be excluded; (2) what is the (a) estimated timeline for concluding the sale of the loan book and (b) anticipated total amount of proceeds expected from the specified sale; (3) whether the sale is an effort to ensure the sustainability of the Land Bank in the long run; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) (a) What is the rationale behind the decision of the Land Bank to advertise the sale of its loan book, (b) what specific criteria were employed to determine which loans would be included in the sale and (c) which clients would be excluded;
Land Bank’s Response:
At the outset, it should be noted that a write-off of non-performing loans is an accounting term and a function of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 9. In terms of IFRS 9 a debt may be written off in its entity “if an entity has no reasonable expectations of recovering the contractual cash flows on a financial asset”. When a debt is written off by the Bank, it does not mean that the Bank can no longer enforce its rights in respect of that particular loan. In addition, it does not mean forgiving the debt. The debtor still owes money to the Bank, however, the Bank has derecognized this asset from its financial statements due to the low prospects of recovery. In case the borrower resumes servicing its debt, or the exposure is sold, a recovered amount would be directly recorded as profit in the books of the Bank.
The Bank issued a tender notice for the sale of its written-off loan assets for the submissions of expressions of interest. This sale relates to accounts where the Bank does not have reasonable prospects of recovering the debt, and where the Bank has consequently written off these amounts in line with the Bank’s policies and applicable laws. The disposal of already written off accounts is a standard practice within the financial services sector and there is nothing unique about the Bank’s intention in this regard. It is also important to note that this written off assets are NOT accounted for as part of the current loan book assets due to the fact that they have been written off, as such this tender does not have any links to the current loan book asset. As stated above, when a debt is written off by the Bank, it does not mean that the Bank will not continue to recover debt owed to it using the normal legal processes within the purview of the country’s laws. In this particular instance, the proceed of the successful sale of these written-off loan assets will be synonymous with the recovery of an amount of the written off assets. The tender process is currently underway and it is expected to be completed in the next few months.
(2) what is the (a) estimated timeline for concluding the sale of the loan book and (b) anticipated total amount of proceeds expected from the specified sale;
Land Bank’s Response:
As stated above, this is a tender process and it is still at its early stage as the closing date for the submissions of expressions of interest was on 23 February 2024. We expect to complete the process in the next few months. Given that the envisaged sale is being conducted through a tender process, the anticipated total amount of the proceeds cannot be disclosed. This is about the recovery from the written off assets which no longer form part of the reported value of the current loan book. Disclosing value of written off assets which the tender aims to recover will have a negative impact on the recovery process of the written off book.
(3) whether the sale is an effort to ensure the sustainability of the Land Bank in the long run; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Land Bank’ Response:
The objective of the sale is to try and maximize the recovery on the bad debt that has already been written off. The proceeds of such a sale will contribute to the augmentation of the Bank’s liquidity position and profitability.
22 March 2024 - NW280
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
What has been the latest progress with regard to the status of the rationalisation project in his department since 1 January 2024?
Reply:
I have been informed as follows:
The process of concluding the Broadband Infraco (BBI) acquisition is at an advanced stage pending the revision of BBI’s Turnaround Plan to establish funding requirements. The necessary acquisition processes were concluded with a sale offer by the SENTECH Board that was accepted by the BBI Board. This followed a due diligence inquiry and engagements with relevant authorities such as ICASA, Takeover Regulatory Panel, Competition Commission and National Treasury. There have been ongoing discussions with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), which is a 26% shareholder of BBI, on their role post the acquisition.
To conclude the BBI acquisition by Sentech the following are recommended:
- SENTECH and BBI to revise the BBI Turnaround Plan to establish funding requirements.
- The State, as the sole shareholder of SENTECH, to provide SENTECH with funding based on the approved Turnaround Plan.
- The Minister to approve the sale of 74% of shares of BBI to SENTECH by signing the Sale of Shares Agreement (SSA) submitted by Sentech to the Minister with applicable terms and conditions. Suspensive conditions that can be fulfilled or waived must also be determined.
- The BBI Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) be amended in line with the Sale Agreement.
- SENTECH to conclude the integration of BBI as its subsidiary.
SITA, meanwhile, is in the process of developing a roadmap for the review of its business model. The details of the review is expected to be submitted to the Department by the end of the current financial year. Once complete, the implementation of the new SITA business model and roadmap will commence in the new financial year and continue thereafter. The Department would then monitor progress through performance reports submitted by SITA.
Authorised for submission by
MS NONKQUBELA JORDAN-DYANI
DIRECTOR-GENERAL
DATE:
Recommended/not recommended
__________________________
HON. PHILLY MAPULANE, MP
DEPUTY MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
Approved/ not approved
________________________________
HON. MONDLI GUNGUBELE, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
22 March 2024 - NW611
Le Goff, Mr T to ask the Minister of Tourism
With reference to the reply of the former Minister to question 96 on 28 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by her department for (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
i) Former Minister Mmamoloko ‘Nkensani’ Kubayi, 01 June 2019- 05 August 2021, used vehicles purchased by the Department in 2013 until the purchase of new vehicles in 2020.
07 June 2020- 5 August 2021 |
07 June 2020 – 5 August 2021 |
|
a) Make |
VOLVO BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
VOLVO BASED IN PRETORIA |
b) Model |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
c) Year of manufacture |
2020 |
2020 |
d) Cost |
R700 000.00 |
R700 000.00 |
e) Purchase date |
2020/06/07 |
2020/06/07 |
01 June 2019 – 7 June 2020 |
01 June 2019 – 7 June 2020 |
|
f) Make |
Mercedes Benz BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
Mercedes Benz BASED IN PRETORIA |
g) Model |
GL 350 Blue Tech |
GL 350 Blue Tech |
h) Year of manufacture |
2013 |
2013 |
i) Cost |
R951 626.90 |
R951 626.90 |
j) Purchase date |
2013 |
2013 |
ii) Former Minister Lindiwe Nonceba Sisulu, 05 August 2021 – 06 March 2023, used the same vehicles purchased by the Department in 2020.
05 August 2021– 06 March 2023 |
05 August 2021– 06 March 2023 |
|
k) Make |
VOLVO BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
VOLVO BASED IN PRETORIA |
l) Model |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
m) Year of manufacture |
2020 |
2020 |
n) Cost |
R700 000.00 |
R700 000.00 |
o) Purchase date |
2020/06/07 |
2020/06/07 |
iii) Minister Patricia De Lille, 2023 – to date has continued to use the same vehicles purchased by the Department in 2020.
06 March 2023 to date |
06 March 2023 to date |
|
p) Make |
VOLVO BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
VOLVO BASED IN PRETORIA |
q) Model |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
r) Year of manufacture |
2020 |
2020 |
s) Cost |
R700 000.00 |
R700 000.00 |
t) Purchase date |
2020/06/07 |
2020/06/07 |
ii Deputy Minister Fish Amos Mahlalela (29 May 2019 – to date)
18 May 2021- to date |
18 May 2021- to date |
|
a) Make |
VOLVO XC D4 BASED IN CAPETOWN |
VOLVO XC D4 BASED IN PRETORIA |
b) Model |
XC40 D4-AWD G/T Momentum |
XC40 D4-AWD G/T Momentum |
c) Year of manufacture |
2021 |
2021 |
d) Cost |
R700 000.00 |
R700 000.00 |
e) Purchase date |
2021/03/18 |
2021/03/18 |
8 May 2019 – 18 May 2021 |
8 May 2019 – 18 May 2021 |
|
a) Make |
MERCEDES-BENZ BASED IN CAPETOWN |
AUDI Q7 BASED IN PRETORIA |
b) Model |
MERCEDES-BENZ E350 |
AUDI Q7 SUV |
c) Year of manufacture |
2015 |
2015 |
d) Cost |
R762 443.00 |
R878 700.00 |
e) Purchase date |
2015/03/18 |
2015/03/18 |
22 March 2024 - NW378
Mafanya, Mr WTI to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
What is the breakdown of the budgeted expenditure of about R2 billion for the deployment of the 2 900 members of the SA National Defence Force to the Democratic Republic of the Congo in terms of (a) cost of employment, (b) equipment and (c) operations?
22 March 2024 - NW601
Faber, Mr WF to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
With reference to her reply to question 184 on 21 March 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by her department for (i) her and (ii) each Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
(i) No official vehicle has been purchased for use for the Minister since 08 May 2019.
(ii) Approval was obtained for the procurement of official vehicles for both Deputy Ministers on 14 October 2021. Official orders were placed on 01 December 2021 with the approved suppliers for both vehicles:
Deputy Minister Mashego Dlamini
(a) Toyota
(b) Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 VX A/T
(c) 2022
(d) R667 333.50
(e) Vehicle delivered in June 2022
Deputy Minister Botes
(a) Audi
(b) Q5 TDI QUATTRO S TRONIC
(C) 2022
(d) R718 459.99
(e) Vehicle delivered in September 2022
22 March 2024 - NW297
Lees, Mr RA to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
With reference to his reply to question 3248 on 8 January 2024 stating that SA Airways (SAA) was issued with the International Air Services Licence in February 2020, what are the relevant details of the (i) application and (ii) documentation upon which the International Air Services Licence was issued to SAA; (2) Whether he will furnish Mr R A Lees with records of the management accounts that were used in taking into account the financial capabilities of SAA; (3) Who made the application for an International Air Services Licence on behalf of SAA?
Reply:
According to the information received from SAA:
(1)(i) The license was revised on 14 February 2020 after adding new codeshare destinations to Kenya.
(1)(ii) The basis on which the International Air Services License (IASL) was issued may best be answered by the International Air Services Council.
2. We are unable to share the Management accounts as it contains commercially sensitive information on the airline. The information will be shared once the Annual Financial Statements are audited and tabled in Parliament.
3. The Board remains the accounting authority of SAA. The application was submitted to the International Air Services Council by the Interim CEO, Prof. John Lamola.
The Department and the Board are currently in the process of reviewing all aspects of SAA in order to strengthen its capacity to implement the strategic direction which has been set for it by the shareholder.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved/Comments
Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
22 March 2024 - NW332
Bond, Mr M to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1) What are the full details of all (a) sponsorships, (b) donations and (c) financial transfers provided for lawfare and/or any other purposes to (i) her, (ii) her department and (iii) officials of her department by any (aa) Qatari, (bb) Iranian and/or (cc) Russian organ of state, organisation and/or resident since 01 January 2021 up to the latest date in 2024 for which information is available.
Reply:
Find reply here
22 March 2024 - NW642
Mkhwebane, Adv BJ to ask the Minister of Finance:
What (a) action has been taken by the National Treasury to deal with the case reported in September 2023 to the National Anti-Corruption Hotline, with reference number OBK06229092023, which is related to the alleged payment of R10 million by the Development Bank of Southern Africa to a service provider that did not meet the project deliverables and (b) are the full details of the consequence management that was meted out to the individuals implicated in the specified case?
Reply:
The investigation is still underway and will be finalised by the end of March 2024.
22 March 2024 - NW432
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
Whether an assessment of all public hospitals has been undertaken to determine if their equipment and consumable needs will be met within the budget of R848 billion allocated to his department over the Medium-term Expenditure Framework by the Minister of Finance, Mr E Godongwana; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
On 21st February 2024, the Minister of Finance announced 2024 MTEF allocation of R848 billion for the health sector which is inclusive of the following obligations:
- Payment of current employees and the impact of the wage bill agreement
- Provision of the health services in all facilities
- Medical equipment and consumables
- Maintenance and construction of new facilities
The consolidated assessment of equipment and consumables was not undertaken, however, health facilities do develop a demand plan for their equipment and consumables. Upon the budget allocation by the Provincial Treasury, Provincial Departments of health allocates the budgets and develop annual procurement plans.. The total allocated budget over the 2024 MTEF is R15,5 billion for machinery and equipment combined and R7.2 billion for consumables of which are medical supplies and laboratory services. Due to budgetary constraints, it is possible that the equipment and consumables needs will not be met based on the allocated budget.
END.
22 March 2024 - NW634
Bodlani, Ms T to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
What total amount has his department incurred on litigation to date as a result of his removal of the Board of Directors of the State Information Technology Agency?
Reply:
I have been advised by the Department as follows:-
The total counsel fees, as paid for by the Office of the State Attorney to date, is R738 875,00.
Authorised for submission by
______________________________________
MS. NONKQUBELA JORDAN-DYANI DIRECTOR-GENERAL
DATE:
Recommended/not recommended
__________________________
HON. PHILLY MAPULANE, MP
DEPUTY MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
Approved/ not approved
________________________________
HON. MONDLI GUNGUBELE, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
22 March 2024 - NW569
Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether, with regard to the implementation of Remote Work Visas, changes to the Income Tax Act, No. 58 of 1962 would be needed if applications come from a double taxation area; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what changes are envisaged; (2) what (a) steps have been taken to implement the SA Revenue Service’s announcement of an online traveller declaration system and (b) is the purpose and benefit of implementing this online traveller declaration system?
Reply:
1. No.
Employees and businesses operating in South Africa are generally subject to taxation in SA on the income derived from those SA activities. This is because the originating cause of the amount being received as income is the physical work that is undertaken to generate that income, which is located in SA (known as income from an SA source). However, most jurisdictions, including SA, also tax persons based on their being resident in those jurisdictions (known as residence-based taxation).
This could result in double taxation for the person concerned, as income may be taxed in SA based on that income being from an SA source while also being taxed in the jurisdiction where the person is a resident. To alleviate the problem of double taxation, SA has entered into a network of 79 tax treaties (23 jurisdictions in Africa and 56 jurisdictions in the rest of the world, mostly with SA’s main trading partners). Although the treaties are based on the OECD and UN models, there are variations between them depending on their age and the outcome of the negotiations between SA and the other jurisdictions. A list of the jurisdictions with which SA has tax treaties is available on the SARS website.
Under SA domestic law, SA will have the right to tax the employment income generated from the services rendered in SA. However, one of the rules generally found in a tax treaty, which will take precedence over domestic law, is that if the remote worker is in SA working for a foreign employer for less than 183 days in a twelve-month period, the employee’s country of residence will have the sole right to tax that income. No tax will be payable in SA and the remote worker should not register with SARS for income tax purposes. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as if the remote worker’s foreign employer has a tax presence (generally, a fixed place of business known for tax purposes as a “permanent establishment”) in SA; or if a South African business carries the cost of the remote worker’s employment by means of, for example, a cost recharge or service fee. In such cases, SA will have the right to tax the remote worker from day one.
Where the remote worker is in South Africa for more than 183 days in a twelve-month period, South Africa has a right to tax the remote worker on the income derived from working in SA, even if the foreign employer has no connection to SA. The remote worker will, therefore, have to register with SARS for income tax purposes and pay tax in SA on that income. As the foreign employer will not be deducting employees’ tax, the remote worker will be required to pay provisional tax every six months. The relevant provisions for the relief from double taxation in the employee’s jurisdiction of residence, set out in the tax treaty or the legislation of the jurisdiction of residence, will then come into play.
If there is no tax treaty between SA and the remote worker’s home jurisdiction, SA will tax the remote worker on the income generated in SA from day one.
A similar but not identical analysis applies if the remote worker is not an employee but instead renders independent personal services, such as a consultant with multiple foreign clients.
2. (a) The 1st phase of the SARS Traveller Management System was implemented during November 2022. As part of the implementation plan, the Communication and Marketing strategy included extensive public and private stakeholders’ engagements with, amongst other, the Department of Tourism; Department of Sports, Arts and Culture; Inter Ministerial Consultative Committee (IMCC); Border Technical Committee; Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO); Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC); Continental and Regional structures such as Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union (AU); WesGrow; Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA); and the Southern Africa Tourism Service Association (SATSA).
Furthermore, as part of making it easy for travelers to comply with their legal obligation, SARS also embarked on education and awareness initiatives such as a Traveller management webinar, digital advertising platforms, and a Traveller management webpage. Post implementation feedback sessions were also held with public and private stakeholders as part of continuous improvement.
The system was rolled out to all airports by September 2023 followed by specific land (Beitbridge and Skilpadshek), and seaports (Cape Town harbour) as pilot implementation. We are in process of finalizing roll-out at remaining ports. In order to make compliance easier a mobile app was implemented in December 2023, and we are currently developing additional functionality such as an online payment module, temporary import permits and the registration of goods for reimportation.
At this stage completion of the electronic Traveller Declaration is voluntary, and once the necessary legal provisions have been approved, it will be enforced as mandatory during the course of 2024.
b) The online Traveller declaration system enables travellers entering or leaving the Republic to meet their legal obligation to declare goods including currency in their possession before travelling and paying applicable taxes. The online declaration system is accessible through SARS website, Mobi-App and mobile device applications. Through this approach,
- The system creates a seamless process for compliant travellers at ports of entry/exit through providing the facility for pre-arrival automated declarations supported through integrated risk management and 3rd party data systems.
- Provides for the possibility of a coordinated border or whole of government approach to strengthen controls to detect and deter illicit activities such as illicit financial flows, prohibited and restricted goods, etc.
- Create awareness and provide clarity to build a culture of voluntary compliance.
22 March 2024 - NW480
Mhlongo, Ms N to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
(1) Whether she has been informed of a Facebook post circulating depicting the logo of a certain political party (name furnished) recruiting young persons to apply to the South African Nationa! Defence Force with the home addresses (a) 4439 Mongale Street and (b) 4233 Phajane street in the Northern Cape, with of one of the Chief of Army in the Military displayed; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (i) are the reasons that applicants are called upon to apply at a private residence of a Chief of Army and (ii) urgent steps have been taken against such improper application process?
Reply:
Find reply here
22 March 2024 - NW570
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) Whether, with reference to the Auditor-General’s report of 2019 which highlighted that at least 14 infrastructure projects under her department had significant challenges and recommended a forensic investigation on them, she will furnish Ms H Ismail with a detailed list of these 14 infrastructure projects highlighted by the Auditor-General of South Africa; (2) (a) Who were the officials presiding over the infrastructure projects that were under her department during the 2019 period and (b) what were the (i) original project values per project and (ii) reasons for the variance between the fair value and expenditure incurred per project?
Reply:
1. Detailed list of the 14 infrastructure projects recommended for a forensic investigation as highlighted by the Auditor-General’s report of 2019
|
Project |
1 |
Rock Art Tourism Phase 2, Eastern cape |
2 |
Building of a Guest House 1 & 2, Free State |
3 |
Sentinel Peal Car Access, Free State |
4 |
Mnisi, Limpopo |
5 |
VhaTsonga 1 & 2, Limpopo |
6 |
Kamiesburg, Northern Cape |
7 |
Nyandeni, Eastern Cape |
8 |
Mthonsi Lodge, eastern cape |
9 |
Qatywa, Eastern cape |
10 |
Six Day Hiking Trail, Eastern Cape |
11 |
Muzi Pan, Kwazulu-Natal |
12 |
Sekhukhune, Limpopo |
13 |
Tisane, Limpopo |
14 |
Manyane Lodge, North West |
(2)(a) Who were the officials presiding over the infrastructure projects that were under her department during the 2019 period?
Ms Morongoa Ramphela - DDG
Ms Lerato Matlakala – Chief Director
Mr Jonga Kuhlane – Director
Mr Thulani Sibeko – Director
Ms Mbali Zama - Director
Mr Thulani Mhlanga – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Ms Lufuno Netangaheni – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Mr Mandisi Mququ – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Mr Brandon Canham – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Ms Sandra Mocumi – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Mr Godukile Mbolekwa – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Ms Nonkululeko Madela – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
(2)(b)(i) What were the original project values per project?
|
Project |
Budget |
1 |
EC Rock Art Tourism Phase 2 |
R 4,750,000 |
2 |
FS Building of a Guest House 1 & 2 |
R 34,234,974 |
3 |
FS Sentinel Peal Car Access |
R 11,432,622 |
4 |
LP Mnisi |
R 10,940,000 |
5 |
LP VhaTsonga 1 & 2 |
R 9,185,000 |
6 |
NC Kamiesburg |
R 5,100,000 |
7 |
EC Nyandeni |
R 7,600,000 |
8 |
EC Mthonsi Lodge |
R 28,215,000 |
9 |
EC Qatywa |
R 23,750,000 |
10 |
EC Six Day Hiking Trail |
R 9,405,000 |
11 |
KZN Muzi Pan |
R 12,447,480 |
12 |
LP Sekhukhune |
R 10,622,500 |
13 |
LP Tisane |
R 18,227,174 |
14 |
NW Manyane |
R 48,465,113 |
(2)(b)(ii) What were the reasons for the variance between the fair value and expenditure incurred per project?
The reasons as per the AGSA findings include:
- Payments made to implementer for work not fully done;
- Ineffective identification, scoping and sourcing of projects;
- Scope of work changes not evaluated and pre-approve;
- Reports on Work-in-Progress were not reliable; and
- Poor quality of work.
22 March 2024 - NW631
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
What steps has his department taken to ensure that the SA Broadcasting Corporation has sufficient funding available for the upcoming 2024 national and provincial elections until a new funding model can be developed?
Reply:
I have been informed by the SABC as follows:
The Department has facilitated a government allocated budget of R 35-million for both the editorial and technical requirements, including studio facilities and transmission costs.
The IEC is also supporting the SABC through trade exchange agreements to cater for key marketing and infrastructural elements at the Provincial and National Elections Results Operations Centres.
Authorised for submission by
______________________________________
MS. NONKQUBELA JORDAN-DYANI DIRECTOR-GENERAL
DATE:
Recommended/not recommended
__________________________
HON. PHILLY MAPULANE, MP
DEPUTY MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
Approved/ not approved
________________________________
HON. MONDLI GUNGUBELE, MP
MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
DATE:
22 March 2024 - NW356
Manyi, Mr M to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
What are the details of the measures that his department has implemented to achieve a significant reduction in cargo traffic through the (a) Port of Durban Harbour and (b) the Port of Richards Bay, particularly concerning cargo bound for Angola and Mozambique, which is now diverted to Port of Lobito?
Reply:
According to the information received from Transnet:
Multiple long-term strategies are being employed in the Ports of Richards Bay and Durban to reduce congestion in the port precincts. These include:
a) - Greater emphasis on the use of back-of-port storage facilities to minimize road congestion in the port. Durban is working on a mass container evacuation to the back-of-port facility to free up space and improve efficiencies in the terminal.
- Better traffic management in the city precincts through the truck appointment systems and cargo tracking app in the container terminals in Durban.
b) - Improving the rail transportation to and from the port thereby decreasing the reliance on road transport. Cargo owners are encouraged to take up rail contracts in Richards Bay for bulk commodities.
- Optimising terminal operations such as the implementation of a truck staging area in Richards Bay to reduce the number of trucks inside the port precinct.
- Better traffic management in the city precincts through the truck appointment systems and cargo tracking app in the container terminals in Durban.
- The root cause of inefficiencies at Richards Bay Multipurpose Terminal (MPT) and Dry Bulk Terminal (DBT) are mainly due to lack of investment in infrastructure. Competition has invested in far superior handling technology while RCB is still using technology from 40 years ago.
- The DBT will be investing in infrastructure through partnerships for major bulk-handling equipment. The MPT is introducing business process re-engineering and contemporary materials-handling-equipment to produce desired efficiencies.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved/Comments
Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
22 March 2024 - NW320
George, Dr DT to ask the Minister of Finance
(1)Whether, in light of the statement on the Government’s official news site regarding the participation of the Republic in the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 that took place in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, from 15 to 19 January 2024, which detailed the delegation’s productive engagements, he will furnish Dr D T George with a breakdown of the total costs incurred by the delegation for the trip to the WEF 2024, with particular reference to the expenses relating to (a) accommodation, (b) air travel, (c) ground transportation, (d) entertainment and (e) any other ancillary expenses; (2) whether the National Treasury was responsible for covering the costs of the entire delegation’s expenses; if so, what are the relevant details; if not, (3) whether the costs were covered from the budget allocated for his expenditures as Minister; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW363E
Reply:
(1)
(a) Accommodation |
(b) Air Travel |
(c) Ground transportation |
(d) Entertainment |
(e) Other ancillary expenses |
R838 576,58 |
R325 238,64 |
R260 014,26 |
- |
R125 258,00 |
(2) National Treasury covered the cost of the department’s delegation only.
(3) The costs were covered from the budget of the Minister and the International and Regional Economic Policy Division.
22 March 2024 - NW621
Zondo, Mr S S to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1)In light of the decline in research funding in the Republic, what plans has he put in place to support and strengthen higher education institutions to resist potential bias in areas such as health research arising from corporate funding; (2) whether there are any ongoing and/or planned initiatives to enhance the capacity of (a) public health academics and (b) research ethics committees to identify and manage conflicts of interest in health research; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The funding of health (including medical) research is managed between the Departments of Higher Education, Science and Innovation and Health and their respective entities. To ensure public good policy goals are coherently promoted across the two systems, there is a high degree of collaboration between the two Departments and its entities. The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) is working with the National Health Research Ethics Council of the National Department of Health, the South African Medical Research Council, as well as the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) to develop guidelines for health research data management. Public funded health research is informed by the priorities that are set by the National Health Research Committee of the National Department of Health in collaboration with the Department of Science and Innovation. Researchers at the public funded Higher Education Institutes should adhere to the set priorities. Should a company want to fund research in line with the national health research priorities, the research proposal needs to be approved by the respective Institutional or provincial health research ethics committee, to ensure fairness and access.
2. The building of the capacity with regards to the research ethics committees is the responsibility of the National Health Research Ethics Council (NHREC) of the National Department of Health. The NHREC is a statutory body established under the National Health Act No 61 of 2003. The Act mandates the Minister of Health to establish the Council and it sets out NHREC’s functions, which involves giving direction on ethical issues relating to health and to develop guidelines for the conduct of research involving humans. The following are the functions of the NHREC as outlined in the Act:
- Determine guidelines for the functioning of health research ethics committees;
- Register and audit health research ethics committees;
- Set norms and standards for conducting research on humans and animals including norms and standards for conducting clinical trials;
- Adjudicate complaints about the functioning of health research ethics committees and hear any complaint by a researcher who believes that he or she has been discriminated against by a health research ethics committee.
- Refer to the relevant statutory health professional council matters involving the violation or potential violation of an ethical or professional rule by a health care provider.
- Institute such disciplinary action as may be prescribed against any person found to be in violation of any norms and standards, or guidelines, set for the conducting of research in terms of this Act; and
- Advise the national department and provincial departments on any ethical issues concerning research.
22 March 2024 - NW571
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) Whether, with reference to the Auditor-General’s report of 2019 which highlighted that at Least 14 infrastructure projects under her department had significant challenges, all variations/deviations incurred were properly authorised; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether there were any irregular activities in the management of the specified projects; ifso, what (a) are the relevant details of the irregularities, (b) consequence management measures were taken against officials who were responsible for overseeing and/or presiding over these projects and (c) are the specified measures; (3) Whether she will furnish Ms H Ismail with the basic account system payment reports on all projects from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2022; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Whether all variations/deviations incurred were properly authorized; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
I have been informed that the details are contained in the Annual Report of 2019 on the Department’s Website: https://www.tourism.gov.za/ResourceCentre/Pages/Reports.aspx
(2)(a) Whether there were any irregular activities in the management of the specified projects; if so, what are the relevant details of the irregularities?
Details of the findings are contained in the Annual Performance Report of 2018/ 2019 as well as in the Auditor General’s presentation to the Portfolio Committee on 8 October 2019.
https://www.tourism.gov.za/ResourceCentre/Pages/Reports.aspx.
(2)(b) and (2) (c) consequence management measures were taken against officials who were responsible for overseeing and/or residing over these projects and what are the specified measures;
(i) Disciplinary Process: Seven employees who were directly involved in the management of the projects were charged with gross financial misconduct and gross negligence. Two were not found guilty of the charges preferred against them. The Department has referred these cases to the Labour Court to review the ruling of the Chairperson of the disciplinary hearing. The parties, being the department represented by the State Attorney and the employees, represented by their lawyers are currently exchanging and the cases will be set down for hearing at the Labour Court in due course when pleading has closed.
(ii) Criminal Charges - The Department, following the provisions of the PFMA regarding allegations of financial misconduct, opened criminal cases with the South African Police Services (SAPS), against the implicated officials. SAPS investigations are currently underway.
(3) Will the Minister furnish Ms H Ismail with the basic account system payment reports on all projects from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2022; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
The Financial Reports and Audited Financial statements are contained in the Annual Report (s) on the department’s website.
https://www.tourism.gov.za/ResourceCentre/Pages/Reports.aspx
The Department’s Annual Performance Reports older than 2010 are available in Parliament’s Library and will be listed as the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.
20 March 2024 - NW610
Le Goff, Mr T to ask the MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE:
With reference to his reply to question 95 on 22 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by his department for (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
The details of the vehicles bought for the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture and the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019 are as detailed below: - Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture are as follows.
Vehicle |
Minister |
Deputy Minister |
(a) Make |
No vehicles purchased. |
BMW |
(b) Model |
N/a |
520d |
(c ) Year |
N/a |
2020 |
(d ) Purchase date |
N/a |
15/01/2020 |
(e ) Purchase price |
N/a |
R 649 000.00 |
THANK YOU
20 March 2024 - NW596
De Villiers, Mr MJ to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
With reference to her reply to question 85 on 24 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by her department for (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
Find here: Reply
20 March 2024 - NW622
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
What proactive measures has he put in place to safeguard against undue influence of the tobacco industry on research focusing on the impact of tobacco products on health?
Reply:
The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) Guidelines for implementation of Article 5.3 recommends that Parties monitor the activities of the tobacco industry. The Convention Secretariat assisted countries with the establishment of tobacco industry observatories in some interested Parties. One of the Observatories is based in South Africa specifically to monitor tobacco industry interference. These observatories inform policy makers and governments on Tobacco industry activities. The South Africa based observatory is called Africa Centre for Tobacco Industry Monitoring and Policy Research (ATIM).
The Department works closely with ATIM- one of their functions is to interrogate research by the industry and they have been able to identify studies and scientist that are funded by the tobacco industry. The Department has access to ATIM findings which have demonstrated how industry has manipulated, suppressed or used data incorrectly to suit the needs of the tobacco industry.
The Department also is also influenced by research and analysis conducted by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), who analyse studies conducted by the Tobacco industry, further citations from other reputable research organisations that are pro-tobacco control and pro-protection of public health are available for use.
The current and proposed laws on tobacco control warrant that the tobacco industry discloses the research conducted by a manufacturer or by a person conducting research paid for in whole or in part by a manufacturer.
END.
20 March 2024 - NW560
Weber, Ms AMM to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
(1) Whether, with regard to fears of endangered and close to extinct animals, there are breeding facilities for the (a) southern ground hornbill, (b) pangolins and (c) black-footed cat; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, how many facilities in each case per province; (2) Which endangered species have breeding facilities in each province to ensure that they do not become extinct?
Reply:
Find reply here
20 March 2024 - NW583
Bryant, Mr D W to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
1) With reference to the widespread concern regarding alleged collaboration between poaching syndicates and staff at wildlife parks in the Republic, what is the total number of staff members currently employed by the SA National Parks (SANParks) who are currently subject to (a) internal disciplinary action and (b) criminal charges relating to any involvement with poaching of animals and plants; (2) what (a) total number of internal disciplinary proceedings relating to involvement in poaching have been completed since 1 January 2019 and the lalest specified date for Which information is available, (b) were the results of the internal disciplinary proceedings and (c) successful criminal prosecutions were obtained relating to involvement in poaching that have been of SANParks staff between 2019 to date?
Reply:
Find reply here
20 March 2024 - NW600
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
With reference to her reply to question 89 on 20 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) Year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by her department for (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
1. The Department of Human Settlements purchased the following vehicles, since 8 May 2019:
(a) AUDI.
(b) Q5 40 TDI.
(c) 2022.
(d) (i) Minister, none.
(ii) the Deputy Minister, 27 July 2022 and
(e) Purchase price for:
(i) Minister, none.
(ii) the Deputy Minister, R 795 280.97.
20 March 2024 - NW623
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
What specific steps has his department taken to regulate the (a) sales and (b) marketing of unhealthy foods and/or products that make a significant contribution to death, especially in the context of inadequate regulation in the countries of the global south?
Reply:
(a) and (b)
The Minister of Health, through the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (FCD), 1972 (Act. 54 of 1972) regulates foodstuffs with the aim of promoting food safety and to prohibit the misleading advertising of foods. The regulations relating to foodstuffs are aligned to the global best practice of the joint World Health Organisation and Food and Agricultural Organisations’ Codex Alimentarius.
The Department of Health is committed to the improvement of the health and nutrition of South Africans through regulating the labelling of foodstuffs sold in South Africa. This would allow South Africans to make healthy food choices without being misled through inaccurately labelled and advertised foodstuffs thereby assisting consumers to make good nutritional choices and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
In terms of the legislation “it is an offence’ to sell foodstuff that does not bear a label indicating the kinds or grades of ingredients and their proportions or amounts present in a mixed, blended or compounded foodstuff.
The Minister of Health has published the following regulations to help reduce premature death from noncommunicable diseases which is Goal 3.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals:
1. Regulations relating to Trans-Fats in foodstuffs (No.R.127 of 2011), prohibit the sale, manufacture and importation of oils and fats, including continuous phase emulsions, either alone or as part of processed foods. An increased intake of trans fat (>1% of total energy intake) is associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHDs) mortality and relevant events. South Africa is one of the global leaders in protecting the heart health of its citizens through the regulation of Trans Fats.
2. Regulations relating to the reduction of sodium in certain foodstuffs and related matters (No.R.214 of 2013) to help in reducing salt (sodium chloride) intake to less than 5g per day. Excessive salt intake is associated with high blood pressure (hypertension) which is a major risk factor for CVDs. Scientific evidence suggests that reducing sodium intake significantly reduce blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular diseases in adults particularly its contribution towards coronary artery disease and stroke. South Africa is the first country in the world to legislate salt levels to help reduce the amount of salt in processed foods.
3. Regulations relating to foodstuffs for infants and young children (No.R.991 of 2012) aims to protect and promote optimal infant and young child feeding practices and to encourage the safe and appropriate use of commercially processed foods through regulating the labelling, advertising, sale and promotion, and the provision of information and education relating to infant and young child feeding and nutrition.
4. Regulations governing general hygiene requirements for food premises, the transport of food and related matters (No.R.638 of 2018) ensures that all food products are safe for consumption by the public. The regulations apply to all food establishments, including restaurants and hotels, and cover a range of topics including hygiene, food handling, transportation, storage and food preparation. All food establishments that comply with these regulations are issued with the Certificate of Acceptability.
The Minister has also published draft regulations to improve food labelling requirements so that consumers are clear about the contents of food. (No.R.146/2010). These regulations include the following :
(i) a model to classify healthy foods
(ii) specifying criteria for health claims, and,
(iii) a mandatory Front of Pack Label in the form of a easily understood logos, to assist consumers in identifying foods that exceed the threshold of certain “negative” nutrients (added sugar, sodium, and saturated fats) that contribute to the rising obesity and non-communicable disease and death burden in South Africa.
These regulations are implemented at local government level where health inspectors would do inspections to check compliance with regulatory requirements outlined above.
The purpose of regulating the sale and marketing of foods is to inform the consumer of the risk associated to the consumption of particular foods. Evidence from several countries suggests that consumers make healthy food choices when provided with information about the food they consume.
END.
20 March 2024 - NW559
Weber, Ms AMM to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
In light of 3 tons of fish killed in February 2022 in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga, where 23 species of fish were killed, but fortunately could be found somewhere else and bred to introduce to the river through the rehabilitation process at the breeding facility in Loskop dam area where the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency have taken responsibility for it, (a) what species of fish are currently being bred to ensure the re-introduction of these 23 species into the river, (b) what progress has been made regarding the cleaning and rehabilitation of the rivers, (c) how long will the rehabilitation take until completion and (d) whether there is any other species being bred that will assist with the rehabilitation process?
Reply:
Find reply here
20 March 2024 - NW615
Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
With reference to his reply to question 101 on 24 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price of all the official vehicles purchased for (i) him and (ii) each Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
The Department purchased the following vehicles for the Ministers and Deputy Ministers since 8 May 2019:
(a) Make |
(b) Model |
(c) Year of Manufacture |
(d) Date of Purchase |
(e) Purchase Price |
(d) Official |
BMW |
X3 |
2021 |
11 October 2021 |
R799,563.97 |
Deputy Minister Magadzi (PTA) |
Audi |
Q5 |
2022 |
06 October 2022 |
R786,706.94 |
Minister Mchunu (CPT) |
Audi |
A6 |
2022 |
19 November 2022 |
R741,656.22 |
Deputy Minister Mahlobo (CPT) |
---00O00---
20 March 2024 - NW606
Ngcobo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Public Service and Administration
With reference to his reply to question 187 on 1 March 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by her department for (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
The Department of Public Service and Administration has purchased one (1) official vehicle for the Minister and two (2) official vehicles for the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019. Details of the vehicles as purchased are as follows:
(i) Minister (Seat of office - Pretoria)
- Make: BMW
- Model: X3 sDrive20i
- Year of Manufacture: 2023
- Date of Purchase: 19 January 2024
- Purchase Price: R772 808.00
(ii) Deputy Minister (Seat of office – Pretoria)
- Make: BMW
- Model: 520D
- Year of Manufacture: 2022
- Date of Purchase: 9 June 2022
- Purchase Price: R748 624.04
(iii) Deputy Minister (Seat of office – Cape Town)
- Make: Audi
- Model: Q5 45 TFSI
- Year of Manufacture: 2023
- Date of Purchase: 31 May 2023
- Purchase Price: R790 000.00
End
20 March 2024 - NW624
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
In light of the concerning revelations surrounding corporate funding of health research in academic institutions, what collaborative mechanisms does his department have in place with the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation to ensure that there is transparency and integrity in health research funding in the Republic’s institutions of higher learning?
Reply:
The National Department of Health (NDoH) collaborates with the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation through the National Health Research Committee (NHRC). NHRC is an NDoH Ministerial Advisory statutory body established in terms of National Health Act of 2003. It responsible for determining the nature, scope, as well as the co-ordination of health research. NHRC is made up of researchers and representative of various academic institutions.
It is a prerequisite that all health research proposals and protocols are reviewed and approved by the health research ethics committee which is registered with the National Health Ethics Council (NHREC) to ensure transparency and integrity of health research. The NHREC is mandated by the Health Act of 2003 to develop guidelines for institutional research ethics committees (IRECs), register and audit IRECs, advise the department of health on all research ethics matters, and adjudicate complains about health research ethics committees.
END.
20 March 2024 - NW597
De Villiers, Mr JN to ask the Minister of Health
With reference to his reply to question 86 on 22 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by his department for (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
Since 1 June 2019 the department only bought one vehicle for the current Minister: Dr. MJ Phaahla, MP, when he was the Deputy Minister as per the table below:
Members of Executive Authority |
(a) Make |
(b) Model |
(c) Year of Manufacture |
(d) Cost |
(e) Purchase date |
i) Minister: Dr MJ Phaahla, MP |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
ii) Former Minister: Dr ZL Mkhize, MP |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
iii) Deputy Minister: Dr S Dhlomo,MP |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
iv) Former Deputy Minister: Dr MJ Phaahla |
Audi |
Q5 |
2020 |
R 756,489.83 |
10/5/2020 |
END.
20 March 2024 - NW581
Bryant, Mr D W to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
a) Whether, with reference to reports from the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism regarding the re-exportation of white rhinos back to the Republic from Namibia in order to circumvent regulations for the export of rhinos to non-range states, she has been informer of any incidents of live white rhinos impoi1ed from the Republic being re-exported from Namibia; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; b) what (a) is the total number of live white rhinos that were exported trom the Republic to Namibia in each of the past five years and (b) are the current regulations controlling the import of live white rhinos from Namibia?
20 March 2024 - NW582
Bryant, Mr D W to ask the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
(1) Whether, with reference to her recent announcement that 499 rhinos were poached in the Republic in 2023, amountin9 to an increase of 51 from the previous year, the SA National Parks (SANParks) is working with provincial paits to help roll out polygraph testing for staff members in provincial parks to help reduce poaching instances in KwaZulu-Natal; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) What (a) total number of polygraph tests were carried out on SANParks staff and (b) is the job description of each person who was tested; (3) Whether any of the polygraph tests carried out on SANParks staff assisted in identifying persons who were involved in poaching; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in this regard?
Reply:
Find reply here
20 March 2024 - NW561
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Ms SJ GRAHAM: TO ASK THE MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE
(1). What is the total number of applications received from the Eastern Cape Geographical Names Committee since the start of the standardisation of the place names process, (2). Whether all the applications were approved, if not, (a) what total number was not approved, (b) what were the reasons for their rejection, and (c) which applications were not approved, (3). How many applications were successfully objected to (a) prior to gazetting, (b) post gazetting, and (c) on what grounds would an objection be successful?
Reply:
1. The total number of applications received and gazetted from the Eastern Cape Geographical Names Committee (PGNC) since the start of geographical names process in the Republic of South Africa is 312.
2. Not all the applications were approved.
(a) The total number of applications not approved is 2.
(b) The reasons for their rejection were that the one name was a duplication of an already existing suburb name and the other name required consultation with all stakeholders in the town.
(c) Applications not approved were the city name changes of East London to KuGompo (applied for in 2020) and initially the changing of the name of Grahamstown to Makhanda. Subsequent to that consultation, the name change was returned to the Minister, approved, and gazetted in the government gazette of 29 June 2018.
3. (a). No name application was successfully objected to prior gazetting.
(b). No name application was successfully objected to post gazetting.
(c). A name application would be successfully objected to, if the application process was not followed, i.e. if the name application did not follow the South African Geographical Names Council Act, (Act No 118 of 1998), the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA) 2000 (Act No 3 of 2000) (when it comes to consultation) and the Council’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
Thank you