Question & Replies No 951 to 1000

2008-11-27

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[PMG note: Any gaps in the numbering are due to the replies not being provided yet]

QUESTION 951

DATE OF PUBLICATION: FRIDAY 06 JUNE 2008 [IQP N 16 -2008]

Question 951 for Written Reply, National Assembly: Mr M Ellis (DA) to ask the Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs:

(1) (a) What happens to horses that are used for scientific research at Onderstepoort after they are no longer useful to the researchers, (b) what studies have required horses as research subjects in the past two years and (c) how many horses have been sold at auctions in the said period; (2) whether horses are auctioned off at the conclusion of the research to persons who slaughter them; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, how can this be condoned; (3) whether there are any upcoming sales of such horses at auctions during the period from 1 June to 31 December 2008; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1643E

REPLY

(1)(a) They are disposed of in terms of the policy outlined above – more specifically, they are offered for sale to persons or entities on the Preferred Buyer list.

In the event that the animals are not suitable for re-homing or suitable homes cannot be found, they will be disposed of. This disposal may include slaughter at a registered equine abattoir under the supervision of the NSPCA or the Highveld Horse Care Unit.

(b) African Horsesickness vaccine development.

(2) In the past the horses were sold out of hand. No provision was made as to the use for which the animals were acquired. Horses were sold for various purposes, some of which may have been for slaughter.

Under the revised policy, all endeavours will be made to re-home suitable horses, with slaughter being the last resort. Some of the animals are not suitable for re-homing.

It must be borne in mind that many horses are euthanased by welfare institutions because, like many domesticated animals, the demand for good homes outstrips the supply.

It is also the experience of organizations like HHCU that many animals which are supposedly rescued or are given free to well meaning people ultimately end up in less than suitable circumstances. Horses in particular are expensive and need specialized care.

To prevent the possibility of this happening to the animals disposed of by OBP, it would be necessary for OBP to develop, manage and man a whole process which would check the credentials of potential purchasers and continue to monitor the animals on an ongoing basis. Under the revised policy the HHCU has agreed to assume this responsibility.

(3) Under the revised policy, no horses will be disposed of by auction.

QUESTION 952

952. Ms A M Dreyer (DA) to ask the Minister of Labour:

(1) Whether forensic investigation into allegations of (a) nepotism, (b) staff loans and (c) non-disclosure by the board members of the Electricity Sector Education and Training Authority (Eseta) has been completed; if not, when will it be completed; if so, when will he table the report in Parliament;

(2) whether he has taken any steps to rectify the current situation at Eseta; if not, why not; if so, (a) what steps and (b) what are the relevant timelines?

The Minister replied:

The Energy SETA Board as an accounting authority has advised me that the forensic report has been completed and information will be included in the Annual Report of the SETA as required by the PFMA. The report will be tabled as required by the 31^st August.

Further to the above, I believe that the honorable member did attend the SCOPA hearings of the 4^th June 2008 and is aware that the Energy SETA is in the throes of a turnaround strategy and that SCOPA has given them time to implement such a strategy. They will submit a progress report to SCOPA in January 2009.

I am also aware that the National Skills Authority is making arrangements to meet with the Energy SETA to also appraise itself of the situation and should they feel it is necessary to implement any further steps, I am sure they will advise me in due course.

QUESTION 953

Mr S B Farrow (DA) to ask the Minister for Public Enterprises:

(1) Whether the rail lines that previously linked Eskom Coal Fired Power Stations throughout the country are still being utilised to transport coal to those affected power stations; if not; why are they mothballed; if so, which power stations are still utilising these rail links to supply coal to them;

(2) whether these redundant rail lines will be re-used; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) why and (b) what are the further relevant details? NW1645E

Reply:

(1) No coal was transported via rail to power stations except for Majuba Power Station and low volume top-up coal for Grootvlei Power Station. The rail systems, where installed, were used mainly for material transport during the building of the power stations or for bringing in coal samples to do bulk load tests.

For coal to be delivered to any power station, tippler facilities will have to be installed.

(2) There are no rail links to Lethabo, Matla, Kriel, Matimba, Kendal, Duvha and Komati Power Stations. The rail sidings to Tutuka, Arnot, Hendrina, Grootvlei and Camden Power Stations cannot be used and require refurbishment. Most of these rail sidings cannot carry heavy haul coal, and none have tippler facilities.

Eskom, in co-operation with Transnet, is currently investigating the South African rail transport network for optimal coal transport to all relevant power stations. It will include the possible re-use, repair or upgrading of existing rail sidings, or the building of new sidings where needed, as well as the installation of loading sites and offloading facilities at power stations where needed.

QUESTION NO 954

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 6 JUNE 2008

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 16)

Mr M M Swathe (DA) to ask the Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry:

(1) Whether the dividends and rentals paid by a consortium (name furnished) to the beneficiaries of a certain trust (name furnished) are being held in trust by her department; if not, (a) why not and (b) what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the details of the dividends and rentals paid since the inception of the lease agreement up to the latest specified date for which information is available;

(2) whether the accumulated funds from both dividends and rentals will be disbursed to the beneficiary communities; if not, why not; if so, (a) when and (b) to whom will these funds be disbursed;

(3) whether there are minimum prescripts to be met by the beneficiary communities before disbursements are made; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are these prescripts;

(4) whether these prescripts have been met by (a) the beneficiaries or (b) any other institution of State such as the Land Claims Commission; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1646E

---00O00---

REPLY:

(1) No. (a) The dividends should be paid directly by the Singisi Forest Company to the Singilanga Community Trust because the trust is an equity partner of the consortium. The rentals paid by the consortium are however being held in trust by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. (b) Singisi Forest Company pays rental to the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry on an annual basis in terms of the long term lease agreement signed in 2001. The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry has collected R59 454 112.72, which include capital and interest since the inception of the lease agreement. The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry invests the rentals collected with the Corporation for Public Deposits, which is an interest bearing account.

(2) Yes, rentals will be distributed. (a) As soon as the rightful beneficiaries are identified through the land reform process. (b) Only to land beneficiaries identified by the Department of Land Affairs.

(3) Yes. In order to retain the land under a lease system, the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry negotiates and enters into a headlease agreement with the claimant community. The community is then entitled to annual rentals.

(4) (a) Yes, the communities enter into a Section 42D settlement agreement in terms of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994 (Act No 22 of 1994). (b) Yes, there is a bilateral agreement between the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry and the Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs to cooperate in terms of these settlement agreements.

QUESTION 955

952. Ms A M Dreyer (DA) to ask the Minister of Labour:

(2) whether he has taken any steps to rectify the current situation at Eseta; if not, why not; if so, (a) what steps and (b) what are the relevant timelines?

The Minister replied:

Question 956

Dr S M van Dyk (DA) to ask the Minister for Public Enterprises:

(1) What measures has Eskom introduced since the criticism from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) in order to synchronise its financial, resource and operational planning for the performance of engineering and maintenance work;

(2) Why did Eskom export more power than it was contractually committed to neighboring countries from November 2007 until the beginning of 2008? NW1648E

Reply:

(1) In the light of the capacity challenges facing Eskom, the Chief Executive Officer of Eskom had initiated structural changes to position Eskom to be more effective in dealing with the challenges that lie ahead.

These changes include the location of its Integrated Strategic Energy Planning (ISEP - long term planning) and short term planning under a single division, led by the Chief Officer Networks and Customer Services. This division is also responsible for system operations, which looks at balancing demand and supply requirements.

(2) Eskom did not export more than its contractual commitments during the period in question, with the exception of exports to Namibia. This was due to an unforeseeable situation where the river flow into their Ruacana Hydro power station was at unusually low levels and their normal levels of own generation could not be sustained. In such a situation Namibia would have had power shortages of up to 65% of their requirements which would negatively affect the stability of their system. The supply agreement between Eskom and NamPower as well as the support obligations in terms of the South African Power Pool (SAPP) provides for such circumstances. These commitments of emergency support are reciprocal.

QUESTION 957

957. Ms H Weber (DA) to ask the Minister of Labour:

(1) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) Whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) Whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

THE MINISTER OF LABOUR REPLIED:

(1) No energy audit has, to date, been conducted.

(2) The Department of Labour works in close collaboration with the Department of Public Works to reduce energy consumption. The latter offered their guidance and assistance in support of the Department's efforts to save energy. One of the first steps the Department took in this regard was to create awareness amongst its staff country-wide. A circular containing specific guidelines on how to save energy will be issued to all offices and a request will be made to staff to contribute to the Department's efforts in this regard.

(3) Since the Department of Public Works is responsible for payments of all municipal services it is therefore not possible for the Department of Labour to verify at this point in time whether any material reduction in energy, in the form of electricity, has been made since 01 January 2008.

QUESTION 958

"958. Mrs D van der Walt (DA) to ask the Minister of Arts and Culture:

(1) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

REPLY:

(1) (a) No, No formal audit was done as it was not deemed necessary in the light of the conservation measures indicated in paragraph b.

(b) Opportunities to reduce energy consumption were identified, these were:

Switching off all lights, except lights for security purposes, in the building, switching off all equipment that is usually on standby mode after hours, e.g. computer equipment.

(2) Yes. All electronic equipment and lighting except security lights are switched off after hours.

3. This Department has requested the Department of Public Works, who are the leasee of the building, to provide the Department with electrical consumption figures for the period January 2008 to date.

QUESTION NO 959

DATE REPLY SUBMITTED: MONDAY, 07 JULY 2008

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: FRIDAY, 06 JUNE 2008 (INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 15 – 2008)

Mr M M Swathe (DA) asked the Minister of Transport:

(1) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1653E

REPLY:

The Minister of Transport:

(1) (a) and (b)

Yes, an energy audit is currently being conducted by the Department of Transport (DoT) to determine the use of energy within the Department. The audit will be ready by the end of June 2008. The methodology for the said audit is as follows:-

Preparation

The company INathi, in collaboration with the DoT, will undertake the preparation. The preparation work includes, but is not necessarily limited to:-

ü DoT to organize 12 months of electricity accounts for the selected building (floors).

ü DoT to organize floor area maps.

ü Information on lease agreement in terms of duration and responsibility.

ü INathi to study all material.

ü Work planning – a meeting was held on 27 May 2008 between DoT, the building owner, the Facility Manager and iNathi where all aspects of the "walk-through-audit", the logging of electrical consumption at the floor area only or also at the building entry (meaning including the full building), as well as reporting and possible full-scale audits were discussed.

Preliminary Audit

The first phase will be a preliminary audit. INathi, together with a representative from the DoT, will identify the electricity using equipment – while this has already been done in terms of lights then the present preliminary audit will update and complete the previous identification. INathi will install data loggers to read the electricity consumption for the selected floor areas. These loggers will be installed for a minimum period of 8 days.

Based on the analysis of the meter readings, the accounts and the walk-through the obvious 80:20 (eighty percent of the electricity bill and 20 percent of the investment cost) saving options will be identified. These are typically "de-lamping"; retrofitting of light; stand-by-power-reduction; hot water; and operation hours for all or some of the equipment in the building.

Therefore, the purpose of the preliminary audit combined with the data-logging is to get a shared understanding of the "state-of-affairs" and a shared understanding of what could be good housekeeping and save costs.

The preliminary audit will also reveal if there is an economic and/or energy argument for undertaking a thorough detailed audit. This could, for example, be if there are large air conditioners placed next to un-insulated walls or (half open) windows; if blinds could seem to improve welfare and reduce cooling bills; if there are machinery that possibly could run variable speed during off-peak hours; and if timers or automatic switch-off equipment could contribute to savings with good payback periods.

INathi will prepare a practical report. This report will include:-

· A brief overview of the building – floor area occupied.

· Its energy (and water) use, as well as an immediate plan for immediate energy improvements and possible cost savings, including practical suggestions for such implementation.

· Considerations and relevance for possible detailed audit.

The report will be presented to the DoT and key decision-makers during a follow-up meeting.

(2) The DoT has put plans in place to reduce energy consumption. The plans include the following:-

· Replacement of florescent tubing with energy efficient tubes.

· Fitting of motion sensors in Boardroom areas to control light usage.

· Fitting of Energy Saving Extension Plug sets.

· Fitting of Solar Powered Perimeter lighting.

· Conducting Energy Saving Awareness Sessions for all staff members.

(3) The Department has started with energy saving processes such as the implementation of both "no cost" activities as well as "low-cost" activities. The "no-cost" activities can be the "switch-off' campaign, to have correct meter readings and to balance voltage properly. The "low-cost" activities can be the optimisation of lights, reduction of standby power, regulating of office temperature and the optimisation of operational hours.

The Department has also started with the process of educating its employees with regard to material energy reduction and the replacement of the florescent tubing, as well as replacing the old energy inefficient tubes with tubes that are more energy efficient.

QUESTION NO. 960

FOR WRITTEN REPLY

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE INTERNAL QUESTIONS PAPER: 06 /06/08

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 16 -2008)

NW1654E

Adv Paul Swart (DA) to ask the Minister for Intelligence:

(1) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) Whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) Whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details.

REPLY:

1. (a) and (b)

During February 2008, the Ministerial Executive Committee (MEMCOM)

appointed a Task Team for the Civilian Intelligence Community to formulate strategies and plans to reduce overall electricity consumption by 10%. The Task Team has formulated a strategy consisting of short and long term interventions which identified opportunities to reduce electricity consumption in the areas of geysers, lights and Introducing gas stoves.

2. The civilian intelligence community is fully committed to the national effort to eliminate the wasteful use of electrical energy and adopt more energy-efficient practices and will continue with initiatives to conserve electricity. The following strategies were formulated:

The short-term interventions:

· Lowering the temperature of geysers to 50°.

· Insulating geysers, including inlet-outlet piping.

· Replacing energy inefficient light bulbs: both in and outdoors.

· Ensuring that all new appliances bought are energy efficient.

· Launching an energy saving awareness campaign.

The long-term interventions,

· Installation of solar water heaters where feasible.

· Installation of motion detectors to control the usage of lighting in toilets, kitchens, parking areas, etc.

· Introducing gas for cooking at the Service's restaurant.

· Investigating the use of alternative energy sources such as photovoltaic cells.

· Rewiring buildings, where necessary, to allow members to control the usage of lighting in their offices.

· Ensuring that all new buildings are designed to incorporate the best energy-saving mechanism available

Yes, the services have reduced their energy consumption in the following ways:

· Thermostats on geysers at the Service's Musanda site and Ministerial building complex, Bogare (approximately 280) have been reduced to 50°C.

· All non-essential or unused geysers have been switched off.

· Where feasible, inefficient bulbs used indoors have been replaced. This task will continue until all inefficient bulbs are replaced.

· Outdoor spotlights covering the National Communication Centre's satellite antennae field now function with efficient bulbs.

· Experiments were conducted to look into the feasibility of using motion detectors to control lighting and this will continue until a practical solution is found.

· A website has been launched to inform personnel of the overall energy saving effort and encourage members to participate in the national drive to use electricity wisely and efficiently, at work and at home.

QUESTION NO. 960

FOR WRITTEN REPLY

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE INTERNAL QUESTIONS PAPER: 06 /06/08

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 16 -2008)

NW1654E

Adv Paul Swart (DA) to ask the Minister for Intelligence:

(4) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(5) Whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(6) Whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details.

REPLY:

1. (a) and (b)

During February 2008, the Ministerial Executive Committee (MEMCOM)

The short-term interventions:

· Lowering the temperature of geysers to 50°.

· Insulating geysers, including inlet-outlet piping.

· Replacing energy inefficient light bulbs: both in and outdoors.

· Ensuring that all new appliances bought are energy efficient.

· Launching an energy saving awareness campaign.

The long-term interventions,

· Installation of solar water heaters where feasible.

· Installation of motion detectors to control the usage of lighting in toilets, kitchens, parking areas, etc.

· Introducing gas for cooking at the Service's restaurant.

· Investigating the use of alternative energy sources such as photovoltaic cells.

· Rewiring buildings, where necessary, to allow members to control the usage of lighting in their offices.

· Ensuring that all new buildings are designed to incorporate the best energy-saving mechanism available

Yes, the services have reduced their energy consumption in the following ways:

· Thermostats on geysers at the Service's Musanda site and Ministerial building complex, Bogare (approximately 280) have been reduced to 50°C.

· All non-essential or unused geysers have been switched off.

· Where feasible, inefficient bulbs used indoors have been replaced. This task will continue until all inefficient bulbs are replaced.

· Outdoor spotlights covering the National Communication Centre's satellite antennae field now function with efficient bulbs.

· Experiments were conducted to look into the feasibility of using motion detectors to control lighting and this will continue until a practical solution is found.

QUESTION NO 961

Mr. A C Steyn (DA) to ask the Minister of Housing:

(1) Whether her department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) Whether her department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) Whether her department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

REPLY

(1) Yes; the department engaged the services of Electro Sense to undertake an energy audit during March 2008. The outcome of the Audit indicates that the department complies with the Department of Minerals Energy requirements as far as the fittings is concerned The report highlights that there is a need to switch off lights when not in use and that all magnetic and or cold start electronic ballasts must be retrofit to the more efficient warm electronic ballasts as well as changing inefficient incandescent lamps to compact fluorescent lamps and/ or lower wattage incandescent lamps, of which these amount to only 73 units as the other units are energy efficient.

(2) Yes. The department is implementing a plan which indicates time to switch off lights and which areas are to be lit up. Energy efficient bulbs and fittings have been fitted to the buildings. Further process of sourcing the lighting retrofit and sensor installation is currently underway.

(3) The department has made concerted efforts to comply with the energy efficiency measures as it has outlined above however, it is too soon to can proclaim a substantive reduction in energy usage.

QUESTION NO:963

NW1657E

MOULANA M R SAYEDALI-SHAH (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES:

(1) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) Whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) Whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

REPLY

1) a) National Department of Public Works as the custodian of state facilities occupied by Government Department, including the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), has embarked on a pilot project on energy saving through Shared Energy Management in selected Gauteng Correctional Centres. DCS has also established an internal Task Team to audit energy uses within the department in both our facilities and private offices utilized by the department. Alongside DPW, energy use within the department and measures are currently implemented to limit potential excessive use. Monthly, trends are analyzed and further considerations made on limiting the potential excessive use.

b) The pilot project focuses on the use of energy and reduction of energy use. The results are forwarded to the National Department of Public Works for record keeping and trends monitoring. The user client will be informed of the outcome once sufficient information has been gathered and provisional results are graphically represented on the attachment to this response.

Centres included in the pilot project are, Johannesburg, Devon, Leeuwkop, Krugersdorp, Boksburg and Modderbee. The intention is to roll out the project to other facilities if the initiative becomes successful.

Details reflecting energy cost savings are attached on a graph format. On the graph, black indicate energy cost before the implementation of the project and striped ones indicate energy cost during the project period and the difference between two indicate energy cost savings. There is also a maximum demand control system installed on site, programmed in such a way that during peak hours it shuts off other connections like stoves, geysers, etc.

2) The Department of Correctional Services in collaboration with the National Department of Public Works is involved in energy saving initiatives i.e. using energy saving light bulbs, switching off the lights at certain times, communicating energy saving tips to all personnel.

3) No department-wide records are available at this stage as the information kept is submitted to the Department of Public Works by the company / consultant (Shared Energy Management) appointed for the pilot project and that information represents a small amount of the departmental facilities.

QUESTION 964

FOR WRITTEN REPLY

Date of publication on internal question paper: 6 June 2008

Internal question paper no: 14

Mrs J A Semple (DA) to ask the Minister of Social Development:

(1) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1658E

REPLY:

(1) (a) and (b) Yes, the Landlord and owner (the Human Sciences Research Council) has conducted an energy audit on the HSRC building in which DSD is accommodated.

The lighting system works on a time delay which switches of at a certain time and automatically switches back on at a certain time. This is done after-hours.

The air conditioning switches of during the lunch times and is automatically switched back on after the break.

(2) Yes, recently the HSRC have installed an upgraded Johnson Control Building Management System whereby energy demand is controlled and evaluated on a daily basis.

The Landlord is continuously upgrading and improving the lighting, air conditioning and heating system to optimise energy saving.

QUESTION: NO 965

(Internal Question Paper No – 2008)

Mr S J Masango (DA) to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation:

(1) Whether his department has conducted an energy audit to determine its

(a) use of energy and

(b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so,

what are the relevant details;

(2) whether his department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether his department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1659E

REPLY:

1) No energy audit has, to date, been conducted. The Department of Sport and Recreation works in close collaboration with the Department of Public Works to reduce energy consumption. The latter, in conjunction with consultants appointed by them, is at present busy with an audit of all government owned as well as leased accommodation and Sport and Recreation will as far as possible implement whatever recommendations emanate from the said audit.

2) The Department has already implemented a number of steps to reduce energy consumption. These include creating awareness amongst staff, involving Security Services to switch off lights and air conditioners after hours and when offices are vacant, the replacement of failed bulbs, globes and tubes with energy efficient alternatives as well as decreasing the lightning cycle of external signage. The Department is also in the process of installing timer switches on all non-essential lights, water heating devices and air-conditioners. These timer switches, once installed, will effectively switch off all non-essential lights, geysers, hydro boils and air conditioners at a specific time after hours and switch these devices on again at a specific time next morning.

The department of Public Works is responsible for payment of municipal services and it is therefore not possible for the department of Sport and Recreation to verify at this point of time whether any material reduction in energy has been made since 01 January 2008. According to the understanding of this department, is exercise forms part of the audit being performed by the department of Public Works as explained in 1 above.

QUESTION NO 966

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 6 JUNE 2008

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 16/2008)

Date reply submitted: 18 June 2008

Mr R J King (DA) to ask the Minister of Safety and Security:

(1) Whether the SA Police Service (SAPS) has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether the SAPS has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether the SAPS has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1661E

REPLY:

(1)(a) The Department of Public Works (DPW) is responsible for the payment of the water and electricity accounts of the South African Police Service, and it is, ultimately, this department's responsibility to audit these accounts.

(1)(b) Yes, the South African Police Service has introduced measures to reduce energy consumption by replacing old‑technology lighting with the new energy‑efficient lighting. National Instruction 21/1/7, Implementation of Energy Efficiency in the SAPS Buildings, dated 14 April 2008, provides guidelines for the numerous ways that users can reduce their energy consumption.

The SAPS is also using energy‑efficient technology, materials and equipment for upgrading and building new police stations.

(2) Yes, apart from the National Instruction indicated in paragraph (1)(b), the SAPS is currently compiling Energy Saving Programme documentation for implementation by all end users.

(3) In view of the response to question 1 paragraph (a), the SAPS does not have specifics to which extent the use of energy has been reduced, however, the measures that were introduced and implemented will definitely ensure a reduction in the use of energy.

QUESTION NO. 967

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 06 JUNE 2008

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO. 16)

Mrs J A Semple (DA) to ask the Minister of Health:

(1) Whether her department has conducted an energy audit to determine the (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether her department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether her department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1662E

REPLY:

(1) No, the Department did not do an energy audit as the Department of Public Works has committed to initiating such an audit.

(2) The Department has implemented the following measures to reduce energy consumption:

Officials were requested to adhere to the following provisions:

(i) Lights

· If they are to be out of the office for more than 20 minutes, they should switch off lights;

· All other lights such as those in passages etc. should be switched off, except those necessary for security reasons, when the last person leaves for home.

(ii) Air conditioners, fans and heaters

These should be used only when really necessary and switched off when not in use or when officials are out of the office. This however excluding server and PABX rooms.

(iii) Urns and kettles

These should not be kept boiling the whole day.

(iv) Computers and printers

These should be switched off when officials knock off for the day.

(iv) Lifts

Use the lifts only when necessary (stairs can surely be used for 2 or 3 floors).

(3) As the National Department of Public Works pay the municipalities directly, this Department does not see the itemised accounts that indicate the specific quantities and tariffs. It is therefore difficult for this Department to determine what the influence of the measurements was.

968. Mr I F Julies (DA) to ask the Minister for the Public Service and Administration:

(1) Whether her department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not ; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) Whether her department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) Whether her department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details NW 1663E

REPLY

(1) As outlined by the President in his State of the Nation address that the country has been thrown into a predicament regarding the supply versus demand for electricity, the issue of addressing energy efficiency in our country is a critical focus area for all South Africans including the government which is expected to play a leading role in implementing energy saving measures.

The Department of Public Service and Administration reviewed the consumption of energy within its premises over the past two years to establish the usage trend. The department can proudly report that the electricity expenditure for the 2007/08 financial year amounted to a monthly average of R213 000.00 versus that of R340 000.00 in the previous year (2006/2007) which indicates a considerable reduction of energy use by 37%.

The department went further by participating in relevant energy saving workshops conducted by the Department of Public Works so as to collectively determine opportunities in the reduction of energy usage in government buildings. These opportunities were identified in a form of short, medium and long term interventions that seek to achieve the 15% energy saving target as outlined in the National Response to South Africa's Electricity Shortage.

(2) The Department of Public Service and Administration has indeed a plan to reduce energy consumption which is in line with the instruction to reduce electricity consumption within government buildings and the plan has been implemented with effect from April 2008.

The following interventions are outlined in the departmental energy savings plan.

SHORT TERM INTERVENTIONS

The short term plan developed is focused on the immediate implementation of the Power Conservation Programme. The endeavour is to achieve the reduction of the targeted 15% within government buildings/offices. This is in line with the Additional Sectoral Interventions as per the directive issued by the Department of Pubic Works.

The following has been implemented since April 2008:

1. Switching off the following after hours and on weekends (from 20:00 – 06:00):

· Office lights, geysers, heaters and air conditioners where applicable

· All electronic equipment (computers, computer monitors, fax machines, printers and photocopiers.

· Appliance relating to hot and/or cold water dispensing.

2. Periodical use of lighting and the use of air conditioners in meeting rooms and/or vacant offices.

3. Eliminating the use of electrical appliance within offices which have central heating or air conditioning.

MEDIUM TERM INTERVENTIONS

The plan has medium term interventions which are aligned to the directives as issued by the Department of Public Works. The medium term interventions identified for implementation are outlined below:

· The development of an Energy Efficiency Policy

· Energy management devices on appliances such as geysers

· Efficient lighting Roll-out Programme: Energy efficient lighting in the office environment (Compact Fluorescent Lighting)

· HVAC Roll-out Programme: The programming of the department's Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems where applicable.

· Solar Water Heating Programme: Assessing the requirement within the department

· HVAC analysis: Identification of areas within the department where central heating and cooling facilities are not available. Develop an action plan to cater for the requirement based on both economic and energy efficiency appraisal.

LONG TERM INTERVENTIONS

The long term interventions intend to support, monitor and enhance both the short and medium term goals. The following interventions will play a vital role in achieving the common objective set within the government sphere.

· Continuously monitoring the rate of energy efficiency

· Annual assessment of the implemented programmes

· A drive to change officials attitude towards energy efficiency through creating awareness

· Appointing energy champions within the department. Aiding in the monitoring of compliance regarding the implemented programmes

· The budgeting for future energy efficiency enhancements

The short term interventions are currently being executed with the aid of various departmental officials. In addition, there is currently an assessment underway in order to address the efficient lighting roll-out programme (Compact Fluorescent Lighting) within the department.

(3) The department will be able to quantify the reduction in energy use since the implementation of the plan once we receive electricity statements from the Department of Public Works necessary to enable this department determine the extent of the saving factor.

QUESTION NO.: 971 DATE OF PUBLICATION: 6 JUNE 2008

Mr M J Ellis (DA) to ask the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development:

(1) Whether her department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether her department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether her department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1666E

REPLY

((1)(a) No, my Department has not conducted an energy audit. However, we are mindful of the pressure on the demand for electricity throughout the country and as such, my Department has issued an instruction to its employees to reduce and conserve energy throughout our buildings.

(b) My Department issued the following Departmental Codified Instruction on 17 October 2007 to all its offices throughout the country:-

"Strict economy to be exercised in the use of electricity and water.

The strictest economy possible should at all times be exercised with the use of electricity and water and this fact was impressed upon all officers and employees concerned. All lights and electrical appliances must be switched off immediately if they are no longer required especially in court rooms, typing pools, registries and other large halls or offices where a number of lights and appliances of considerable wattage consuming power are usually installed. The unauthorized connection of any electrical and other appliances other than those belonging to the State to electrical and water circuits of Government buildings without the consent of the district representative is strictly prohibited and any disregard hereof will be viewed in a serious light. Officers should realise that the connection of apparatus to electrical circuits not designed therefore can have serious consequences not only as far as the safety of the building is concerned but may also endanger the personal safety of the occupants thereof."

(3) Since invoices for municipal services are received and paid for by the Department of Public Works (DPW) on behalf of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, we are unable to confirm whether any material reduction in energy use has been made since 1 January 2008.

QUESTION NO: 972

PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 16 OF 06 JUNE 2008

MR MJ ELLIS (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS:

Whether her department has conducted an energy audit to determine (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; what are the relevant details;
Whether her department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;
Whether her department has made any material reduction in energy use sin 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details.

REPLY:

1. Whether her department has conducted an energy audit to determine its:

a. Use of energy

The Department did conduct an audit and has found that it is possible for the Department to utilise energy more efficiently and to reduce energy consumption. Opportunities for the reduction of energy use has been identified and is listed in par b. below.

b. Opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details

The opportunities identified are:

· To switch off lighting at 20h00 or when offices/areas are no longer in use and to switch on lighting at 06h00 daily. Furthermore to ensure that outside lighting (security lighting) are switched on only after sun-set, depending on the season (summer/winter), and switched off at sunrise.

· All geysers to be switched off permanently since normal daily activities do not require the use of hot water.

· Kitchen equipment, excluding refrigerators, will be switched off when not in use

· Offices/areas with individually controlled light switches will be switched off when office/area is not occupied, even during day time when office/areas are not occupied/used for an extensive period of time. Similarly, loose standing electrical equipment i.e.: fans, air-con units, heaters must also be switched off when office/area is not in use, or where the offices/areas are empty for an extended period of time.

· Lighting in outside parking areas must be switched off at sunrise, and must only be switched on at sunset.

· Light bulbs are to be replaced with energy saving light bulbs.

· Lighting in offices/areas should, where possible, be reduced by removing some florescent light tubes or reducing lux levels.

· Air-conditioning systems plants are switched off at 20h00 and switched on at 06h00.

· It is also being considered whether computer equipment i.e. desk-tops and printers could be switched during week-ends.

2. Whether her department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans

Based on the identified opportunities the Department has compiled an Energy Saving Strategy and is in the process of implementing it.

3. Whether her department has made any material reduction in energy use since 1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

The Department has embarked on is Energy Saving Strategy in April 2008 and material reductions in energy use will only be determined in the future.

Question 973

Dr R Rabinowitz (IFP) to ask the Minister of Trade and Industry:

(1) Whether he will ensure that his department (a) monitors and (b) reduces its carbon footprint with immediate effect; if so, how will this be done;

(2) Whether this will include the phasing out of glossy publications from all agencies or councils reporting to him; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) (a) what is the estimated cost of all such (i) reports and (ii) publications per annum in the case of these agencies and all other working documents of his department and (b) what kinds of (i) energy are being used in the offices of his department and (ii) energy saving measures are being implemented in these offices?NW1223E

Response:

(1) (a) The Minister will ensure that the dti monitors its carbon footprint as steps have been taken to address this important issue. Attention is drawn to the publication of the Environmental Implementation Plan for the dti ("the EIP") in terms of Section 15(2)(b) of the National Environmental Management Act No 107 of 1998, which came into effect on 18 April 2008. The EIP clearly and in appropriate detail sets out the commitment of the dti to address its environmental impact in terms of its operations.

(b) The dti, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and in line with Government initiatives, is implementing its own Energy Efficiency Programme.

The dti also recognises its role in assisting and guiding industry in reducing its carbon footprint. This is being done in three ways:

i) Contributing R4,8 million per annum of operational funding and R2,5 million of project funding to the National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC) to conduct energy and other efficiency audits in companies within 3 sectors. This activity has been ongoing since 2003.

ii) Exploring options to expand the services of the NCPC to more sectors.

iii) Initiating a Nedlac FRIDGE Study to:

§ Identify energy sensitive sectors within the South African economy;

§ Identify the best available and affordable options to increase energy efficiency in sectors; and

§ Identify options for industry to access incentives to encourage investment in energy-saving technology and equipment.

(2) The dti gives preference to paper manufacturers who, during their manufacturing processes, use sugar cane as their primary source of pulp, undertake chlorine free bleaching processes and source wood fiber from sustainable and internationally certified suppliers.

It is however acknowledge by the department that some of its publications still include glossy publications that are printed to ensure a broader reach to communities that do not have access to the internet. Such publications are undertaken with strict adherence to the environmental awareness protocol (People, Planet and Prosperity).

(3) (a) The dti spent R2.5 million on publications last year.

(b) The dti has with the assistance of the PPP concessionaire conducted an investigation into its energy consumption and determined opportunities for reduction of energy use. The investigation has not yet been finalized as further refinements are necessary due to the complexity of some elements related to it. The final plan will be submitted to the department as additional expertise was brought on board by the concessionaire to help with the investigation.

Changes were effected to the building management system (BMS) to switch off lights on the dti campus from 19h00 to 06h00 every day except for emergency lighting and lighting on ground floors at security points. Initiatives related to the lights, commenced in January 2008 and technical problems that will ensure consistent application have been attended to. In the short term switches will be added to floors as part of this initiative. During the past month, regular light inspections have been carried out at night to ensure that the BMS operations are effective.

Other plans are also being put into place (over and above the design provisions that already existed) to introduce more energy efficiency. It should be noted that the campus was designed and built with environmental concerns in mind. The full scope of additional work will only be evident once the final energy saving strategy has been submitted by the concessionaire to the department. The immediate actions that could be taken, have been implemented.

These are:

· BMS settings reset for air-conditioning from original times 05h00 – 00:00 to 06h00 – 18h00

· Two basement air-extractors are manually switched off from 10h00 to 15h00 and are now connected to the BMS that switches them off from 18h00 to 06h00.

· Areas that are not presently occupied have been switched off, for example, Building E 2^nd floor and a portion of the Knowledge Centre.

· Instructions have been issued to retailers that rent premises on campus to switch off their appliances and lights that are not needed. This has started to take effect.

· All campus geysers are now connected to the BMS.

· The power factor correction was analysed and the point of billed maximum demand is excellent at 0.98.

· All unoccupied boardroom lights are switched off.

QUESTION NUMBER: 974

DATE PUBLICATION: 13 JUNE 20008

DATE REPLY SUBMITTED: 12 DECEMBER 2008

DR R RABINONOWITZ (IFP) TO ASK THE MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY:

(1) whether he will ensure that the Presidency (a) monitors and (b) reduces its carbon footprint with immediate effect; if so, how will this be done;

(2) whether this will include the phasing out of glossy publications form all agencies or councils to him; if not, what is the position in this regards; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) (a) what is the estimated cost of all such (i) reports and (ii) publications per annum in the case of these agencies and all other working documents of the Presidency and (b) what kinds of (i) energy are being used in the offices of the Presidency and (ii) energy saving measures are being implemented in these offices?

NW1224

REPLY:

(1). The Presidency (and its Agencies) have already started to monitor and reduce its carbon footprint. Steps taken include:

· Changing the procurement policy to provide for the procurement of energy efficient equipment

· Actively addressing the energy consumption of the office by obtaining the consumption figures of both electricity and liquid fuels and then instructing the facilities managers to actively manage the reduction of energy consumption.

· Reviewing the IT section in terms of capacity servers as well as air conditioning in server rooms' usage.

· Establishing fixed procedures for recycling of paper, computer equipment, glass, and plastic.

· Actively replacing electric geysers with solar water heaters where possible.

· For backup systems during power failures, solar energy with batteries and uninterruptible power supplies would be looked at for essential equipment like computers only.

(2). Glossy publications can be limited to a minimum. There are instances where The Presidency is unable to do away with publications entirely. We are bound to print some publications, as we are required to deposit printed copies to the Paper Store of Parliament and Legal Deposit Libraries.

It is agreed that glossy publications should only be allowed in those government entities where there is an active, monitored and managed recycling of paper system in place, and all officials, cleaners and management adheres to it.

Some of the initiatives to reduce the production of publications include:

· The Office plans to continue with the initiative started last year, to distribute electronic copies of publications like the Annual Report and Strategic Plan, where possible. Thus limiting the quantity of printed documents to the minimum.

· Reducing paper use by introducing an electronic filing system.

· A paper-recycling project has been introduced in the Presidency. All staff will be sensitized on the benefits of recycling to the environment.

· The Presidency will further test and procure paper for office use with the lowest possible carbon footprint.

(3). (a) (i) The approximate cost of the following publications p/a:
Annual Report Paper & Printing: R 137 000.00
Strategic Plan Paper & Printing: R 45 000.00
4 x 500 Newsletters p/a: R 24 000.00

In GCIS for the past financial year R 2 576 310.49 was spent on such publications, the following were produced:
GCIS Annual Report (2 700 copies) R 105 627.00
SA Yearbook (45 000 copies) R 2 170 626.00
Pocket Guide (20 000 copies) R 291 058.00

The IMC produces 2 glossy publications in a financial year, namely:
IMC Annual Report (1,500 copies) R 650,000.00
SA Story (320,000 copies) R2,218,205.00

It is important to note that the IMC is a marketing organization for the country, competing against other leading nations for a share of global trade, investment and tourism, and hence it is necessary to produce high quality material and collateral. Having said that however, the IMC provides marketing material on CD wherever possible in order to reduce paper and print usage.

(ii) The estimated costs in The Presidency for publications is R1 325 500 for 2008/09

The GCIS also produced two publications as part of the State of Nation and Programme of Action communications programme. These are:
Programme of Action (2 000 000) R 1 598 600.00
Imbizo Junction (1 000 000 copies) R 1 034 750.00

These publications are targeted at lower LSMs and are printed on a lesser quality paper to enable GCIS to increase the print run.

(b) (i) The Presidency uses electricity.

(b) (ii) energy saving measures:

Some of the energy saving initiatives achieve to date are as follows:

· The development of a strategy to guide the reduction of energy consumption.

· An intense staff information and training campaign with regular information distribution and training sessions. This not only focuses on the office but also guides officials on how to be energy efficient in their homes, what are the benefits, how to determine the lifecycle cost of a product, what does the energy efficiency label mean, how to drive energy efficiently, etc.

· Exterior lighting to the Union Buildings has been reduced to the minimum.

· All incandescent lights have been replaced with energy saving bulbs.

· Motion detectors have been installed in many areas.

· High electricity driving equipment like fridges and hydro-boilers has been limited.

· The installation of timers for hydro-boilers and geysers.

· Installation of occupancy sensors in offices. They have already installed in all toilets and passages for both West and East Wing.

· The changing of globes is 98% complete.

· The switching off of lights in the evening was adopted as part of the Internal Security policy and non compliance is punishable and is monitored.

The general assessment is that the Union Buildings complies with Energy Efficiency requirements.

Question no. 975

QUESTION PAPER DATE: FRIDAY, 13 June 2008

975: Dr R Rabinowitz (IFP) to ask the Minister of Minerals and Energy:

(1) Whether she will ensure that her department (a) monitors and (b) reduces its carbon footprint with immediate effect; if so, how will this be done;

A) The Department has implemented energy saving and energy efficiency measures at its head office, we retrofitted the lights with energy efficient light bulbs with a centralised lighting control system to ensure that lights are switched off during the night and on weekends. There is also a daily program by security officers to switch off the lights every evening between 8pm and 6am this is closely monitored by the security officers' supervisors.

The DME is in the process of procuring a new building as the current building does not belong to us. The new building will be more energy efficient and will use renewable energy sources to provide power. This will substantially reduce the carbon footprints for the DME. The challenge with the existing building is that it will be very expensive to make it more energy efficient, and the improvements that might be made will not justify the investment in that the payback period will be very long.

(2) whether this will include the phasing out of glossy publications from all agencies or councils reporting to her; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) (a) what is the estimated cost of all such (i) reports and (ii) publications per annum in the case of these agencies and all other working documents of her department and (b) what kinds of (i) energy are being used in the offices of her department and (ii) energy saving measures are being implemented in these offices?

(b) (i) The Department uses the grid based electricity connection for power supply, which is provide through ESKOM.

(ii) The energy efficiency measures highlighted above are geared at saving energy and improving the energy use patterns of the Department.

QUESTION 976

DATE OF PUBLICATION: Friday, 30 May 2008

INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 15 of 2008

Mr L B Labuschagne (DA) to ask the Minister of Home Affairs:

(1) Whether her department has conducted an energy audit to determine its (a) use of energy and (b) opportunities for reduction of energy use; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether her department has any plans to reduce energy consumption; if not, why not; if so, what plans;

(3) whether her department has made any material reduction in energy use since
1 January 2008; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1660E

REPLY

(1)-(3 The Department has disengaged geyser installations, and has, further, requested officials

to, no longer, use portable bar heating systems. As part of the contingencies to deal with load shedding (power-cuts), the Department has installed 11 Gensets and Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) at state owned buildings. The rollout of this to all Department of Home Affairs Regional Offices is led by the Department of Public Works (DPW).

The energy savings audits, previously done by DPW, at all the offices of the Department of Home Affairs will, subsequent to its findings, issue recommendations on further energy savings methods, as well as, energy saving devices that must be installed at the various offices of the Department.

QUESTION NUMBER: 977

DATE PUBLICATION: 27 July 2008

MRS C DUDLEY (ACDP) TO ASK THE MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY: ( Redirected to the Minister of Labour )

(1) whether he has been informed of the complaints regarding poor service delivery by the Umsobomvu Youth Fund; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether he will look into the complaint of a certain consortium (details furnished); if not, why not, if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) what plan has he put in place to address deficiencies regarding the funding of programmes;

(4) whether the awareness campaign about the existence of this funding has been successful; if not, what plans are in place to rectify the situation; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1668E

Minister of Labour Replied:

(1) I have not been informed of complaints regarding poor service delivery by Umsobomvu Youth Fund.

(2) I was advised that after exchanges, a formal letter was forwarded to the organization informing them that their application was not successful and the reasons were also provided to them. I was also briefed on the UYF complaint handling system that led them to achieve an ISO 001 – 2000 ratings and the disciplinary measures that were taken against the relevant staff member who was responsible for delaying the processing of the application.

(3) UYF Funding 2001- 2008

The UYF Board through the Articles of Association, has the responsibility to oversee and

manage the allocation of Funding.

The UYF funding was allocated in accordance with the table below.

Year	2001	2007/8	2008/9*
Funding Allocation	R855m from demutualization of Old Mutual and Sanlam.	R400m	R5m

A post budget announcement submission has been made to the National Treasury to review the 2008/9 allocation with a view of bringing it in line with the Medium Term Expenditure Framework budgetary request of Umsobomvu Youth Fund which is an amount of R424m.

(4) Marketing Awareness

Over the years Umsobomvu Youth Fund has implemented several awareness campaigns to market UYF products and services including the funding programmes. Based on several researches undertaken, most of these campaigns have been successful as the awareness of UYF and its products and services has increased over the years. Campaigns implemented include:

(i) Increasing access points

UYF has increased its infrastructure of Youth Advisory Centres (YACs) by establishing 13 Full Service Youth Advisory Centres in the major towns of all provinces. These are walk-in centres where young people can go and request career and business development information; receive job preparedness training, access business consultancy services, loan finance and other entrepreneurship products and the National Youth Service Programme. These full service YACs are supported by 108 Youth Advisory Centre Points based at municipalities, Further Education and Training Colleges, Labour Centres and centres of higher learning which provide UYF information, career and business advice. These YAC points are supported by full service YACs.

(ii) Outreach

The efforts of distributing information about UYF products are enhanced through outreach programmes where fully equipped Mobile Youth Advisory Centres with internet access attend various community events throughout the country and give information on UYF products and services. The UYF outreach team also makes presentations at various events throughout the country including exhibitions. This is further enhanced by the call centre and youth portal where people can also get information. In the 2007/8 about 485 691 young people were reached through Umsobomvu Youth Fund's outreach activities.

(iii) Marketing collateral

UYF develops and distributes its brochures and newsletters throughout the country through its Youth Advisory Centres, Thusong Service Centres, Constituency offices, municipalities, community centres, churches and other access points. UYF also has a bi-monthly magazine distributed through Avusa media and the access points mentioned above.

(iv) Communication campaigns

UYF implements marketing and communications campaigns which seek to enlighten and inform young people and female entrepreneurs about the services that UYF has on offer including our funding programmes. These campaigns include advertising in mainstream and community media, public relations campaigns which include the circulation of UYF beneficiary stories to the media. UYF also seeks opportunities for free coverage in the media including from the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).

The following entrepreneurship marketing campaigns were conducted in the 2007/8 financial year:

· Business consultancy service voucher programme and funding for women over 35 years old (a UYF cross-product marketing campaign aimed at creating awareness of the extension of UYF entrepreneurial services to women of all ages and the business consultancy service voucher programme)`

· Microfinance programme and UYF access points (a UYF marketing campaign aimed at creating awareness of UYF's microfinance programme and access points)

The campaigns yielded the desired results and generated a lot of interest from young and female entrepreneurs in UYF products. There has been an increase in the number of people accessing our products through the Youth Advisory Centres, calling in to youthconnect and logging onto www.youthportal.org.za to access more information. Below are statistics on the hits on the UYF website:

Portal Statistics (www.youthportal.org.za)
Month	Monthly Hits
Apr-07	334 056
May-07	399 501
Jun-07	422 286
Jul-07	474 775
Aug-07	647 572
Sep-07	417 208
Oct-07	462 512
Nov-07	848 668
Dec-07	625 456
Jan-08	570 198
Feb-08	520 841
Mar-08	630 022
TOTAL	6 353 095

QUESTION NO 978

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 13 JUNE 2008

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 18/2008)

Date reply submitted: 30 October 2008

Ms D Kohler‑Barnard (DA) to ask the Minister of Safety and Security:

(1) Whether a vehicle (details furnished) that was allocated to a certain person (details furnished) was damaged beyond repair; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) what are the full particulars of the incident and (b) what are the further relevant details of the investigation;

(2) whether a departmental loss was registered; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) whether the Deputy National Commissioner: Supply Chain Management recently recalled certain state vehicles that were allocated to this person; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the (a) full particulars of the vehicles concerned and (b) reasons why the vehicles were recalled;

(4) whether any vehicles are allocated to this person at present; if not, why not; if so, what are the (a) particulars of the vehicles, (b) post levels of the officials using the vehicles and (c) duties for which the vehicles are being used;

(5) whether the misuse of state vehicles under the control of this person has ever been the subject of departmental investigations; if not, why not; if so, what are the full particulars of such investigations?

NW1669E

REPLY:

(1) Yes

The vehicle was a BMW 530d and not a BMW 330 series. The damages amounted to R101 449,74.

(a) & (b) A case of reckless and negligent driving was opened. Atteridgeville CAS 852/05/2007 has bearing on this matter. The case is still under investigation.

(2) Yes. Loss control number 3464288 has bearing on this matter.

(3) Yes. Two vehicles were recalled.

(a) BPN 261 B ‑ BMW X3

BPN 670 B ‑ BMW 330i

(b) The vehicles were recalled for redistribution.

(4) Yes. One vehicle was allocated to the Divisional Commissioner: Legal Services.

(a) BNP 670 B ‑ BMW 330i

(b) Divisional Commissioner

(5) The matter is under departmental investigation which has not yet been completed.

Question 979

Mr PA C Hendrickse (ANC) to ask the Minister for Public Enterprises:

(1) Whether any voluntary severance packages (VSPs) were offered to staff at the Port Elizabeth airport; if so, (a) when and (b) how many were (i) offered to and (ii) concluded with (aa) white and (bb) black staff members;

(2) what was the average number of years served by those who received VSPs;

(3) whether any of the staff who received VSPs have been used by the SAAirways or its service providers; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1696E

Reply:

(1) Yes, voluntary severance packages (VSPs) were offered to staff at the Port Elizabeth airport.

(a) November 2008, twenty five Port Elizabeth airport staff members applied for VSPs.

(b)(i) Twenty five staff members applied

(ii) Fifteen applications approved

(aa) Twelve by white applicants

(bb) Three by black applicants

(2) An average of twenty one years of service.

(3) None have since been used by SAA or its service providers. SAA cannot re-hire these employees in person as stipulated by the VSP contract; most of them have been employed by other airlines.

QUESTION NO.: 980 DATE OF PUBLICATION: 13 JUNE 2008

Mr J H van der Merwe (IFP) to ask the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development:

(1) (a) What are the reasons for the delay in the approval of funding and salary determination of the Legal Aid Board (LAB) for Occupational Specific Dispensation (OSD) of legal professionals since the adoption of Resolution 1 of 2007 and (b) when will the OSD be extended to LAB employees;

(2) whether it will be implemented, if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW1715E

REPLY

(1)(a) The final agreement for the sectoral OSD on legal professionals was signed by both government and the majority of trade unions on Friday, 4 April 2008.

On 6 May 2008, I received the OSD agreement from the Minister of Public Service. My department is currently formulating a Treasury Memorandum with full details pertaining to estimates for OSD funding requirements covering 01 July 2007 over the MTEF period for employees of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Legal Aid Board and National Prosecuting Authority.

(b) The OSD agreement will be extended to the LAB employees once all the funding requirements have been fully addressed and the National Treasury has approved any allocations or transfers from the existing DoJ budget allocations.

This will then provide the legal basis for the transfer of funds to the LAB which will in turn effect payments for its employees.

(2) The OSD for legal professionals will be implemented once the full funding requirements have been acquired. QUESTION NO.: 981 DATE OF PUBLICATION: 13 JUNE 2008

Mr J H van der Merwe (IFP) to ask the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development:

(1) Whether the danger pay allowance, determined for employees working with prisoners in terms of Resolution 1 of 2007, can be applied to employees of the Legal Aid Board; if not, what are the relevant details; if so,

(2) whether a determination is required as with the Occupational Specific Dispensation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1716E

REPLY

(1) No, Annexure K to the DPSA Circular 1 of 2007 provides for the employer to pay the Standard Danger Allowance to an employee who in the course of her or his employment experiences a genuine risk to her or his life and who is employed in specific occupational categories and identified areas of work, including traffic, correctional services, and educationists working with prisoners. Legal Aid Board (LAB) employees are not listed in the categories and identified areas.

The Annexure K further provides for employer to pay Special Danger Allowance to an employee who works in the Department of Correctional Services.

Should a need arise for the LAB staff to conduct interviews or otherwise deal with inmates , in this case paralegals or lawyers, they are always under the guard of and accompanied by correctional officers.

(2) No. No determination in this regard is required. The OSD for legal professionals include lawyers in the LAB, prosecutors in the NPA and other legal professionals in government departments. The OSD for legal professionals does not include categories and indentified areas of Annexure K to the DPSA Circular 1 0f 2007 as stated under (1) above.

QUESTION NO.: 982 DATE OF PUBLICATION: 13 JUNE 2008

Mr J H van der Merwe (IFP) to ask the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development:

(1) Whether the medical aid allowance determined for the Government Employees Medical Scheme can be applied to Legal Aid Board members so that proper alignment of benefits in the justice cluster can be attained; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether she will require a determination similar to the one of the Occupational Specific Dispensation in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1717E

REPLY

(1) No. The Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) only provides a medical allowance for employees of national departments, provincial administrations, provincial departments and organisational components contemplated in section 7(2) of the Public Service Act 1994 (these include STATS SA, Independent Complaints Directorate as well as Sport and Recreation South Africa).

In response to the LAB's application to be a participating employer in GEMS, the Board of Trustees of GEMS has not approved the application as the LAB is a public entity.

(2) No. The Occupational Specific Dispensation for legal professionals addresses salary progressions and career pathing and does not include additional benefits to employees.

No determination in this regard is required. The LAB has, in terms of its policies, other employee benefits such as insurance group scheme applicable only to its employees

QUESTION NO: 984

MR, J SELFE (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES:

Whether his department placed an advert in a certain newspaper (Sunday Times) on 8 June 2008; if not, what are the relevant details; if so, (a) which newspapers, (b) what was the total cost of placing the adverts and (c) what was the purpose of placing the advert?

REPLY

Yes, the Department of Corrections placed an advertorial in the Sunday Times on 8 June 2008.

(a) The advertorials were also placed in the City Press and Daily Sun

(b) The cost of placing the advertorials was as follows:

Sunday Times - R220 077

City Press - R155 520

Daily Sun - R78 000

Total - R453 597

(c) The advertorials on the respective publications are aimed at reaching the various targeted LSM groupings so that they could be informed about the achievements, challenges and interventions that the department intends embarking on so as to discharge its mandate on safe detention, rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders for a safer South Africa.

Independent survey results have shown that the Higher the Leaving Standards Measure (LSM) (7-10) the less the inclination to be involved in DCS activities as the perception is that this LSM contributes significantly to the tax base. The Lower LSM groups on the other hand have less information about Correctional Services which impacts also negatively on their participation and contribution in realizing the notion of corrections as a societal responsibility.

QUESTION NO. 985

DATE PUBLISHED: 13 June 2008

DATE SUBMITTED: 29 July 2008

Mr A J Leon (DA) to ask the President of the Republic:

(1) Whether he wrote a letter to President George W Bush regarding Zimbabwe; if so, (a) when was the letter sent, (b) what was the purpose of the letter and (c) what was the contents of the letter;

(2) whether he will release the full contents of this letter to the public; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1722E

REPLY:

Communications between the President and other world leaders are not, and should not, be the subject of public disclosure and discourse.

QUESTION 987

DATE OF PUBLICATION: FRIDAY 22 AUGUST 2008 [IQP N28 -2008]

Question 987 for Written Reply, National Assembly: Mr. M J Ellis (DA) to ask the Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs:

(1) Whether, with reference to a document commissioned by her department from the SA Veterinary Foundation (details furnished), animal rights is one of the main threats of the new millennium and one which no animal health, pharmaceutical or agricultural organisation can take lightly; if not, how was this conclusion reached; if so, how was this conclusion reached;

(2) what are the main differences between animal (a) care, (b) welfare and (c) rights?

REPLY:

1. The department of Agriculture has not commissioned a document with the South African Veterinary Foundation. The SA Veterinary Foundation offered to assist with the collection of all available information on the care and protection of animals to facilitate a process of evaluation of guidelines, codes and regulations that could be of use to South Africa .This document has never been presented to the Department thus no conclusion has been reached at all.

2. There are no substantive differences between animal care and animal welfare as both refers to the well being of animals. Animal well being is a condition where animals experience good health, are able to effectively cope with their environment.

Animal rights are different as it refers to what animals are entitled to. We can therefore only assume that the reference to animal rights refers to those pressure groups that adopt measures to ensure that animals have rights also.

HOUSE: NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

TYPE: WRITTEN QUESTION

MINISTRY: SPORT AND RECREATION SA

QUESTION: NO 985

(Internal Question Paper No 12 – 2009)

First Session – Fourth Parliament

Mr T D Lee (DA) to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation:

(1) Whether Athletics South Africa (ASA) was at any time requested to do any gender testing on a certain person (name furnished); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so,

(2) Whether the testing was done; if not, why not; if so, when was it done;

(3) Whether the test results were released to any athletics body; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(4) Whether ASA objected to the gender testing required by the

International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

REPLY:

Athletics South Africa (ASA) states that they were never requested to do any gender tests on any athletes by the IAAF. The position of ASA is constant with the IAAF gender verification policy that there will be no compulsory, standard or regular gender verification during the IAAF sanctioned championships.
There was no gender testing done on any athlete. ASA is in line with both the Constitution of the IAAF and that of the country. As far as they are concerned both Constitutions do not provide for compulsory, standard or regular gender verification tests. They do not have details as no test was undertaken by ASA.
ASA indicates that it is not possible to release results for a test that has not taken place and they do not have any details to that effect.
There was no request for gender tests by the IAAF and as such no basis for them to object.

QUESTION 988

DATE OF PUBLICATION: FRIDAY 20 JUNE 2008 [IQP N 18 -2008]

Question 988 for Written Reply, National Assembly: Mr. G R Morgan (DA) to ask the Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs:

Whether the Department of Agriculture will replace the Animals Protection Act, Act 71 of 1962, with a new piece of animal care legislation; if not, why not;

if so, (a) when the new legislation will be submitted to (i) Cabinet for approval and (ii) Parliament,

(b) what are the main reasons for the need for new legislation

(c) which stakeholders were consulted in the drafting of the (i) policy document that informs this legislation (ii) actual proposed legislation and

(d) what was the nature of the consultation in each case? NW1725E

REPLY

The proposal to replace Act 71 of 1962 with anew piece of animal care legislation is included in the draft policy for the care and protection of animals.

This replacement would depend on the policy process.

(a) The policy has not been published for consultation as it is still being subjected to internal processing.

(b) To consolidate the existing legislation in one Animal care and protection Act and to establish a pro active approach that can ensure that owners and keepers of animals are aware of their responsibilities.

(c)The policy has not been published for consultation and comments as yet.

(d)The policy has not been published for public consultation as yet.

QUESTION NO. 989

(Internal Question Paper No 18 – 2008)

Mr W P Doman (DA) to ask the Minister for Provincial and Local Government:

(1) (a) Which municipalities currently have financial managers' positions vacant, (b) how long has the posts been vacant in each municipality and (c) how many of these positions have (i) existed and (ii) been vacant in each of the past three years for which information is available;

(2) whether these vacancies have been budgeted for; if not, why not; if so, when will they be filled;

(3) whether there has been any increase in the number of these positions in the past three years; if so, (a) what are the reasons for this increase and (b) what are the further relevant details?

ANSWER

(1) (a) According to information collected by the dplg through the Provincial Departments of Local Government, thirty-four (34) municipalities are currently without CFOs. Some of the vacancies could not be filled due to ongoing legal processes, such as misconduct hearings and investigations. The information relating to each of the affected municipalities appears below:

Province	Municipality	Period of Vacancy
Eastern Cape	O.R. Tambo District Municipality	16 months
	Gariep Local Municipality	2 years
	Mhlontlo Local Municipality	5 months
	Sakhisizwe Local Municipality	2 months
	Camdeboo Local Municipality	2 years
	Mbizana Local Municipality	8 months

Free State	Naledi Local Municipality	2 years
	Mohokare Local Municipality	7 months
	Motheo District Municipality	3 months
	Setsoto Local Municipality	1 month


KwaZulu-Natal	Ulundi Local Municipality	10 months
	Umuziwabantu Local Municipality	8 months
	Nquthu Local Municipality	4 months
	Umtshezi Local Municipality	12 Months
	Maphumulo Local Municipality	2 years

Limpopo	Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality	2 months
	Polokwane Local Municipality	2 years
	Mutale Local Municipality	3 months
	Molemole Local Municipality	7 months

North West	Maquassi Hills Local Municipality	5 months
	Mamusa Local Municipality	2 years, 6 months
	Ditsobotla Local Municipality	2 months
	Lekwa Teemane Local Municipality	4 years
	Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality	5 months

Northern Cape	Siyanda Local Municipality	1 month
	Siyancuma Local Municipality	9 months
	Tsantsabane Local Municipality	16 months
	Ga-Segonyana Local Municipality	5 months
	Ubuntu Local Municipality	11 months
	Nama-Koi Local Municipality	4 years
	Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality	5 months

Western Cape	Cape Agulhas Local Municipality	7 months
	Eden District Municipality	3 months
	Breede Valley Local Municipality	12 months
	Oudtshoorn Local Municipality	16 months

(b) In some municipalities the positions have been vacant for more than two years, while in other municipalities the positions have been vacant for a period which is between 1 and 16 months.

(c) (i) & (ii) The department has requested the Provincial Departments of Local Government to provide the required information.

(2) The analysis of the 2007/08 budgets indicates that CFO positions existed and have been budgeted for. The engagement process with the provinces will result in the production of the CFOs vacancy report for the quarter ending September 2008, which will include target dates for the filling of the vacancies per municipality.

(3) (a) & (b) The dplg has requested the provinces to provide information in this regard. The information available in the dplg relates to the latest four quarters of the municipal financial year and reflects that the vacancy rate is as follows:

During July-Sept 2007, the vacancy rate was 17%, Oct-Dec 2007, was 19%, Jan-March 2008, was 18%, and April-June 2008, was 12%. On average there has been a 6% decrease in the vacancy rate in CFO positions in municipalities.

QUESTION NO. 990

DATE PUBLISHED: 12 June 2008

DATE SUBMITTED: 12 December 2008

The Leader of the Opposition (DA) to ask the President of the Republic:

(1) Whether, with regard to recent government reports warning of possible violence in communities relating to foreigners and/or other factors, he received any such notice in the form of a verbal exchange, notice, report or briefing from (a) the Minister (i) for Intelligence, (ii) of Safety and Security and (iii) of Defence and (b) any other government representative; if not, on what basis has the Ministers for Intelligence and Safety and Security stated that they had prior warning of such possible community violence; if so, (i) what reports, notices or briefings received and (ii) what was the (aa) content and (bb) recommendations contained therein;

(2) Whether he or any representative appointed by him took any steps to act on those recommendations; if not, why not, if so, what steps?

NW 1727E

REPLY:

The President has not been able to establish whether any such notice was given to the former President.

QUESTION NO 990

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 28 AUGUST 2009

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 12 - 2009)

Date reply submitted : 14 September 2009

Ms D Kohler-Barnard (DA) to ask the Minister of Police:

Whether the SA Police Service has any special protection initiatives to protect (a) farms and (b) rural communities; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW1213E

REPLY:

(a) & (b) Yes, the South African Police Service is directing all efforts in enhancing Rural Safety through day-to-day policing in all rural areas, including farms and the broader rural community. This is being achieved through the implementation of Sector Policing and enhanced utilisation of reservists. A holistic and integrated Rural Safety Strategy was also developed by involving all role players from the rural community. Rural Safety Plans to support the implementation of the strategy at operational level, as part of an effective operational system, was also developed. Ensuring the safety of the rural community is a priority within the South African Police Service.

A Priority Committee dealing with Rural Safety was established at national level that is represented by all role players in the rural and farming community, including the South African Police Service, Farm Workers Unions, Organised Agriculture and the Departments of Labour and Land Affairs. Strategies to address security and safety issues regarding the total rural community are discussed and shared with a view to identify shortcomings and challenges in order to effectively address crime in an integrated manner. This structure is duplicated at provincial level.

Incidents of violent crime aimed against the rural communities are monitored to establish trends and new developments. This information is shared and communicated to be addressed at provincial and station level by implementing proactive measures.

Further to this, the farming community, including farmers and farm workers are also invited to participate in the Community Police Forums at station level, as well as in the Community Police Sub Forums, as part of Sector Policing. A problem solving approach to crime is adopted during the Community Police Sub Forums meetings and the farming community is invited to share security concerns at these meetings to be jointly addressed by the South African Police Service.

Rural Protection Plans are in place in all nine (9) provinces as a tool to assist police stations, in preventing crime in the rural and farming community. Stations are being instructed to conduct rural and farm visitson a regular basis to address farmers and farm workers on safety issues and to create awareness.

Crime Prevention Units at stations are expected to do the following on a daily basis:

$ Create a multi disciplinary operations model to prevent crime, involving all role players at local level;

$ Optimally combat crime by means of implementing pro active and integrated policing approaches, such as sector policing;

$ Conduct visible policing by means of patrols to eliminate the desire and opportunity to commit crime in an area;

$ Reduced levels of public fear through higher visible policing;

$ Ensure intelligence driven patrols in sectors and hot spots;

$ Obtain effective Crime Intelligence through the Crime Information Officer;

$ Distribute Crime Intelligence to patrol officials on a daily basis;

$ Conduct surveillance;

$ Trace and arrest wanted persons;

$ Determine crime tendencies;

$ Compile crime pattern analysis;

$ Conduct intelligence driven operations;

$ Conduct road blocks based on analysis and information;

$ Liaise with all role players and encourage participation in Station Crime Combating structures at police station level;

$ Enhance Public Safety Awareness; and

$ Work closely with other institutions such as SANDF, Traffic Departments, Security Companies, Local Government etc.

QUESTION NO. 991

FOR WRITTEN REPLY

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE INTERNAL QUESTIONS PAPER: 13 /06/08

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO.18 -2008)

NW1728E

Ms SJ Loe (DA) to ask the Minister for Intelligence:

(1) Whether, with regard to recent government reports warning of possible violence in communities relating to foreigners and/or other factors, he received any such notice in the form of a report or briefing; if not, on what basis has he been reported in the media as having stated that the Government had prior knowledge of such possible community violence; if so, what was the (a) content and (b) recommendations contained therein;

(2) whether he or any representative appointed by him took any steps to act on those recommendations; if not, why not; if so, what steps;

(3) whether the President was notified of this information, either in the form of a verbal exchange, notice, report or briefing; if not, why not; if so, (a) where did this take place and (b) what are the further relevant details?

REPLY:

(1) Outbreaks of the unfortunate violence we have recently witnessed are extremely difficult to predict, other than in a general sense of noting and identifying socio-economic problems. The intelligence community has been studying the issue of migration in our country in the context of border security and social stability for several years. The risks relating to border integrity, service delivery and foreign nationals were identified and covered in various intelligence reports and analysis provided. However the recent outbreak was not predicted at all, whether in terms of time, place or magnitude. I have indicated to the media that whilst some element of organisation in the attacks has been detected the violence was characterised by a high level of spontaneity. Such violence is difficult to predict as is a sudden hail-storm.

The majority of intelligence reports were of a strategic nature identifying the trends that link migration to economic pull factors making South Africa an attractive destination, and postulating an integrated analysis of the phenomenon rather than being able to provide any form of tactical warning. Whilst NIA pointed to the growing tension and the possibilities of violence, it did not ever predict in its reports that the outbreak of the attacks would occur in May 2008 or any specific time or that the phenomenon would reach the intensity that it did.

The reports contained recommendations to law enforcement agencies that the situation be monitored constantly and this was the case. Other concerns relating directly to service delivery were referred to line-functional state departments over time. Such challenges concerning migration, border security and the pressures on service delivery and law enforcement have preoccupied government at Cabinet and departmental levels over many years.

(2) The intelligence services and law enforcement agencies were consistently tasked to monitor the situation. An Inter-Ministerial Task Team was established by Cabinet in May 2008 as part of the implementation of recommendations made by Intelligence to Cabinet. The work of this team is underway and periodic reports on its progress are released to the media as and when necessary. I would like to state that the intelligence services have been instructed to assess whatever shortcomings may have been revealed and to improve their ability to forewarn if possible on the social eruptions we have witnessed particularly where organised elements might have been involved.

The member should bear in mind however, that in our democracy our intelligence services are primary geared to counter threats of espionage terrorism and subversion, threats to our constitution and to our security, and not areas of social dysfunction arising out of socio-economic problems. However, it does have to be conceded that where there might be a breakdown of social cohesion, a threat can emerge that challenges our country's peace and stability. In this respect we need to be better prepared.

(3) No, it was not possible to provide the President or Cabinet with the specific forewarning of the possible outbreak of the May violence. Since the intelligence provided was of a strategic rather than an operational nature, the violent outbreaks in specific areas could not be predicted.

QUESTION NO 992

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 13 JUNE 2008

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 18/2008)

Ms D Kohler-Barnard (DA) to ask the Minister of Safety and Security:

(1) Whether, with regard to recent government reports warning of possible violence in communities relating to foreigners and/or other factors, he received any such notice in the form of a report or briefing; if not, on what basis has he been reported in the media as having stated that the Government had prior knowledge of such possible community violence; if so, what was the (a) content and (b) recommendations contained therein;

(2) whether he or any representative appointed by him took any steps to act on those recommendations; if not, why not, why not; if so, what steps;

NW1729E

REPLY:

I have never said that I had reports or prior knowledge of possible community violence regarding foreigners.

QUESTION 993

WRITTEN REPLY

DATE OF PUBLICATION: FRIDAY, 13 JUNE 2008

INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO.: 18-2008

MOULANA M R SAYEDALI SHAH (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF DEFENCE

1. Whether, with regard to recent government reports warning of possible violence in communities relating to foreigners and or other factors, he received any such notice in form of a report or briefing; if not, on what basis has he been reported in the media as having stated that the Government had prior knowledge of such possible community violence; if so, what was tha (a) content and (b) recommendations contained therein;

2. whether he or any representative appointed by him took any steps to act on those recommendations; if not, why not; if so, what steps;

3. whether the President was notified of this information, either in the form of a verbal exchange, notice, report or briefing; if not, why not; if so, (a) where did this take place and (b) what are the further relevant details?

-------ooo0ooo------- NW1730E

REPLY

1. No. It is not the mandate of the South African National Defence Force to gather intelligence within the borders of the Republic of South Africa.

2. Not applicable.

3. Not applicable.

QUESTION 996

FOR WRITTEN REPLY

Date of publication on internal question paper: 13 June 2008

Internal question paper no: 18

996. Mr E W Trent (DA) to ask the Minister of Social Development:

(1) Whether his department has taken any steps to ensure that all the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act, Act 1 of 1999, and the Division of Revenue Act, Act 2 of 2008, have been complied with during the 2007-08 financial year in respect of the transfer of conditional grants to (a) the provinces, (b) municipalities and (c) any other entities reporting to his department; if not, in each case,

(2) whether any action has been taken in this regard; if not, why not; if so, what (a) are the relevant details and (b) amounts are involved? NW1734E

REPLY:

(1) The Department of Social Development has not administered any conditional grant programme during the 2007/08 financial year. Regarding other transfers to entities reporting to it, the Department compiled fully with the provisions of the PFMA.

(2) This question then falls away.

HOUSE: NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

TYPE: WRITTEN QUESTION

MINISTRY: SPORT AND RECREATION SA

QUESTION: NO 996

(Internal Question Paper No 12 – 2009)

First Session – Fourth Parliament

Mr T D Lee (DA) to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation:

(1) Whether any gender testing was done on any South African athletes participating at international events; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

(2) Whether any other gender testing was done on any international athletes participating at international events; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

REPLY:

No. Athletics South Africa (ASA) said they were never requested to do any gender test on athletes by the IAAF. The position of ASA is consistent with IAAF gender verification policy that there will be no compulsory, standard or regular gender verification during the IAAF sanctioned championships.

ASA indicates that they do not have any further information at their disposal that informs them about such tests having been conducted by the IAAF on any athletes. This question will be best answered by the IAAF as all international competitions fall within their jurisdiction.

QUESTION NO 997

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 13 JUNE 2008

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 18/2008)

Date reply submitted: 30 October 2008

Mr R J King (DA) to ask the Minister of Safety and Security:

(a) How many recommendations (i) have been followed, (ii) have not been followed and (iii) are still pending with regard to each of the 1334 recommendations made by the Independent Complaints Directorate to the SA Police Service for the period 1 April to 31 December 2007, with regard to (aa) deaths, (bb) criminal offences and (cc) misconduct and (b) what are the relevant details in each case?

NW1735E

REPLY:

(a) During the period 1 April 2007 ‑ 31 December 2007, a total of 1273 recommendations were made to the South African Police Service (SAPS) management. These recommendations were directed to the stations where the incidents happened and/or the member involved was stationed.

(aa) On the 204 recommendations made in respect of death:

(i) 47 recommendations have been followed;

(ii) 64 recommendations have not been followed or acted upon;

(iii) The decision on 93 recommendations are still outstanding.

(bb) On the 451 recommendations made in respect of criminal offences:

(i) 78 recommendations have been followed;

(ii) 192 recommendations were not followed;

(iii) The decision on 181 recommendations are still pending.

(cc) On the 618 recommendations made in respect of misconduct:

(i) 137 recommendations were followed;

(ii) 255 recommendations were not followed;

(iii) The decision on 266 recommendations are still outstanding.

(b) The details of the cases would be common depending on the class of the complaint ‑ in respect of deaths(Class 1), the police member involved, would be charged for their role in the death of an individual as far as his/her actions violated the discipline regulations of the South African Police Service (SAPS) or Standing Orders. The same scenario would apply in respect of criminal offences while with misconduct the police member would be charged for a direct violation of SAPS Disciplinary Code or Standing Order, which action does not flow from any criminal action.

Draft reply to question 997 approved by Minister.

EXPLANATORY NOTE TO MEMBER

The information provided in answering the question is correct. The calculation that the question was based on was incorrect. The actual total should have been 1273 and not 1334 as in the slide of the presentation that was presented in Parliament, which Question 997 was based on. So the figures are correct but the final figure of 1334 is wrong as it should have been 1273.

QUESTION NUMBER 999

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 13 jUNE 2008

Dr S M van Dyk (DA) to ask the Minister of Finance:

(1) Whether the Treasury, in light of the rising international oil price and resultant to higher local diesel price and inflation, will abolish or lower the fuel levy on diesel for agricultural purposes; if not, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether the Treasury is considering subsidies for agricultural production in order to increase local food production; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) whether the Treasury will increase import tariffs on maize and wheat so that local production may expand in order to increase the local food supply to establish lower food prices; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(4) whether the Treasury, apart from these products which have already been issued, will exempt any basic processed food products from VAT in order to stimulate the demand for them and their production; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant N1737E

REPLY:

(1) No. The price of fuel is largely driven by the international crude oil price and the rand-dollar exchange rate i.e. exogenous factors. The tax on fuel in South Africa is a specific tax that is fixed for the year and is relatively low compared to those in many developed and developing countries.

The primary sector including the agricultural, fishing and mining sectors benefit from the diesel fuel tax rebate scheme. These sectors qualify for a rebate which is equal to the entire Road Accident Fund levy and 40 per cent of the general fuel levy. This rebate amounts to 90.9 cents per litre on 80 percent of the total diesel purchases.

Furthermore, any reduction in the fuel levy may also require compensating measures to make up for the revenue lost, by increasing other taxes such as personal income tax, corporate income tax or VAT.

The world, including South Africa, is facing a daunting challenge of changing energy consumption behaviour, improving energy efficiency and addressing environmental concerns. There are long term gains to move our economy to a more fuel-efficient growth path, which fuel taxes help to achieve.

(2) No. However, in light of the current high food prices the case for subsidies is not very convincing. What is important is that we should step up our efforts to increase agriculture production and productivity.

As mentioned in the reply to question 1 the agriculture sector does benefit from the diesel fuel tax rebate scheme, an indirect subsidy. Farm feeds, fertilisers, seeds and plants are zero-rated for VAT purposes, which provide a cash flow benefit to the agricultural sector.

(3) No, this is not an appropriate intervention. It should however be noted that it is the Departments of Trade and Industry and Agriculture that would need to consider proposals in this regard.

The current high food prices do not support the case for higher import tariffs. There might actually be a case for a (temporary) reduction of such import duties.

(4) The National Treasury has considered the request to zero-rate other basic foodstuffs (including processed food products) but has not found compelling empirical evidence and equity reasons to do so.

It should be noted that nineteen basic foodstuffs are already zero-rated. Although these nineteen food items were selected to ensure that the poor benefit from such concessions, there is evidence that some of these benefits have been captured by producers and suppliers. While some of the benefits have been passed to the final consumer, the data suggests that wealthier households benefit more in absolute terms.

I addition, given the price and income elasticity of basic food products it is unlikely that the exemption or zero-rating thereof would translates into a significant increased demand for these products.

Question 1000

Dr S M van Dyk (DA) to ask the Minister for Public Enterprises:†

(1) (a) What financial losses did the SA Airways (SAA) present in the 2007-08 financial year, (b) how much cash did the SAA have in the bank on 1 June 2008,(c) what is the assets-to-debt ratio of the SAA as expressed in monetary value and other assets, (d) what is the rand value of the guarantees still at the SAA's disposal and which the Treasury has allocated as part of the its assets and (e)what (i) is the rand value and (ii) are the details of bonuses of any kind paid out to management and board of directors of the SAA in the 2007-08 financial year;

(2) (a) how many pilots were dismissed by the SAA from 31 March 2007 up to and including 4 June 2008, (b) how many more dismissals are envisaged, (c) when will they occur and (d) why? NW1738E

Reply:

(1) (a-e) South African Airways (SAA) financial results for 2007/08 will be presented to the SAA Board of Directors in mid-July, after which they will be made public.

(2) (a) SAA has not dismissed any pilots in the said period.

(b) Dismissals cannot be predicted as they occur on a case to case basis.

(c-d) Responses provided above ( part 2(b) of the question).

QUESTION NO 991

DATE OF PUBLICATION IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER: 28 AUGUST 2009

(INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 12 - 2009)

Date reply submitted : 14 September 2009

Ms D Kohler-Barnard (DA) to ask the Minister of Police:

(1) (a) How many SA Police Service stations use private security companies in each province and (b) what services do these companies provide;

(2) for each type of service provided, how many police stations per province use a private security company?

NW1214E

REPLY:

(1)(a) The following police stations in the provinces make use of private security companies:

PROVINCE	NUMBER OF ACCOUNTING STATIONS
Gauteng	35
Northern Cape	17
Eastern Cape	28
Free State	18
KwaZulu-Natal	28
Western Cape	28
Limpopo	15
Mpumalanga	15
North West	13

(1)(b) The private security companies perform guard and access control duties at the South African Police Service premises.

(2) The same service is provided by these companies to all SAPS premises that they are contracted to and the number of police stations using these services are tabulated in the aforementioned table.

2008-11-27

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