Defence & Military Veterans

2010-08-23

THIS FILE CONTAINS 25 REPLIES.

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QUESTION NUMBER 3563

Mr P.J. Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. (a) How many operational fighter pilots does the SA Air Force currently command, (b) what is the racial composition of this specified pilot corps, (c) how many learner fighter pilots are currently receiving training and (d) what is the racial composition of this specified group?

REPLY

1(a). 10 Gripen aircrew (8 Pilots and 2 Navigators) and 13 Hawk aircrew (13 Pilots)

(b). Gripen composition is 2 Black Male, 1 Indian Male, 1 White Female and 6 White Male and Hawk composition is 11 White Male and 2 Black Male.

(c). 21aircrew are under training on Hawk (17 Pilot's and 4 Navigators).

(d). The composition of this group is 9 Black Male, 1 Indian Male, 1 Coloured Male, 9 White Male and 1 White Female

Question 3514

Mr S J Masango (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether (a) her department and (b) any entities reporting to her department provided any financial support to the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) for the World Festival of Youth and Students to be held in Pretoria in December 2010; if not, why not; if so, (i) what amount was provided to the NYDA, (ii) from which budget were these funds drawn, (iii) who made the decision to provide these funds to the NYDA and (iv) how is this (aa) decision and (bb) amount justified;

(2) whether the NYDA made any other request to (a) her department and (b) any entities reporting to her department to provide support to the festival; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW4353E

Reply

The role of the SANDF is to participate in the World Festival of Youth and Students and we welcome the opportunity to showcase our Tattoo. Should the Department incur any additional costs, the Honourable Member will be informed.

QUESTION 3492

Mr D.J. Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

1. Whether, with reference to her statement in the National Assembly on 16 November 2010 (details furnished), she intends to table the full (a) first interim report, (b), second interim report and (c) final report of the Interim National Defence Service Commission; if not, why not; if so, when; 2. whether she intends making the full (a) first interim report, second interim report and (c) final report of the Interim National Defence Force Service Commission available to the public?: if not, why not; if so when; 3. Whether she will make a statement on the matter? NW4330E REPLY 1. During a media briefing on 25 November 2010 I stated that the Final Report was approved by Cabinet on 24 November 2010 and sent to the Speaker of the National and the Chairperson of the NCOP on 25 November 2010. Cabinet instructed that the report of the Interim National Defence Force Service Commission be tabled before the Joint Standing Committee on Defence (JSCD). The Report approved by Cabinet on 24 November 2010 deals with previous interim reports. 2. Interim reports are just that – INTERIM and I have explained this to Parliament and the Portfolio Committee on several occasions. The Honourable Member suggested that the first and second interim reports were leaked to him, so I am not sure why he requires a further copy. Cabinet instructed that the report be tabled before the Joint Standing Committee on Defence. The said Committee would have to decide on the public release of the report. 3. No

QUESTION 3466

Mr S.J. Masango (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(a) How many employees of (i) her department and (ii) any entities reporting to her department who are on level 11 salary scale and above have been suspended with full pay (aa) in the 2009-10 financial year and (bb) during the period 1 April 2010 up to the latest specified date for which information is available and (b) what is the total amount of money that was paid by her department in respect of these salaries?

REPLY

(a) (i) (aa) One

(bb) None

(ii) (aa) None

(bb) None

(b) R162 871-30

QUESTION NUMBER 3436

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether expected revenue is included in the estimates set out in the revised fiscal framework with regard to revenue expected from royalty payments in terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Royalty Act, Act 28 of 2008; if not, why not; if so (a) how much revenue from royalty payments (e) has been or should have been collected from 1 January 2010 financial year and (b) how were the royalty estimates calculated;

(2) Whether royalty income will be included in future revenue estimates; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) Whether expected revenue over the next five financial years has been projected; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW4241E

REPLY

(1) No, the Department of Defence does not "win or recover a mineral resource from within the Republic" as contemplated in section 2 of Act 28 of 2008.

(2) Not applicable.

(3) Not applicable.

QUESTION NUMBER 3435

Mr. D.J. Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1). Whether records are available of how many (a) R4 and (b) AK47 rifles were reported (i) missing or (ii) stolen from the SANDF in the past year; if not, why not, if so what are the relevant details in each case;

(2). How many investigations have been conducted into the theft of the rifles in her Department and (b) what is the outcome of these investigations in each case?

REPLY

(1). The total number of (a) R4 rifles missing is three (3) and stolen is five (5). No AK47 rifles are missing or were stolen.

(2). Services and Divisions are in terms of DOD's policy on the Management and Administration of Losses, Damages and Claims obligated to conduct an investigation regarding the circumstances surrounding the loss of each asset. The investigations have not yet been completed as a result it is not possible to submit the outcome of each investigation.

QUESTION 3395

Mr S.J. Masango (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans: (1) Whether there is any registered project in place to acquire new aircraft to transport very important persons (VIPs): if not, why not; if so, what (a) is the name of the project, (b) is the estimated cost of the project and (c) are the further relevant details.

(2) Whether she will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY

No project is registered. Strategic planning is an ongoing process to determine the future required capability of any of our services. Our VIP fleet is in need of urgent attention and we often have to charter planes when our fleet is under maintenance. Cumulative costs would make it cheaper to replenish it, especially in view of the fact that more former Heads of State require our services than in 1994. QUESTION 3392 Mr D.J. Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans: 1. Whether any (a) aircraft and (b) ships were chartered during the period 1 April 2009 up to the latest specific date for which information is available; if not, why not; if so, in each case what (i) was the purpose of the charter, (ii) was chartered, (iii) was the cost of the charter and (iv) is the breakdown of such costs. 2. What was the total cost of chartering (a) in the 2009-10 financial year and (b) from 1 April 2010 up to the latest specific date for which information is available. 3. Whether she will make a statement on the matter. REPLY 1. No ships have ever been chartered by the SANDF. Aircraft was chartered between 1 April 2009 and 22 October 2010. (i). The South African Airforce has very limited aircraft for the responsibility of securing VVIPs and VIPs and most of these are at advanced age and often requiring repairs. The bulk of planes that are chartered is therefore occasioned by the state of the Airforce's old aircraft and the additional responsibilities given to former President T M Mbeki by the African Union, which requires a great deal of travel. (ii). Aircraft (iii). 2009 - Charter 1 was R555 316.00, Charter 2 was R2 078 720.00 and Charter 3 was R997 550.18. 2010 - Charter 1 was R2 693 208.95, charter 2 was R93 502.80, charter 3 was R3 321 386.08, charter 4 was R51 171.00, charter 5 was R2 413 290.00, charter 6 was R2 462 014.28, charter 7 was R4 230 517.85 and charter 8 was R1 668 999.99. 2. (a) R3 631 586.18 (b) R16 934 090.95 3. No

QUESTION NUMBER: 3391

Mr D.J. Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether, in respect of the (a) 2008-09 and (b) 2009-10 financial years, any assets were reported stolen; if so, what is the (i) total value of the assets that were reported stolen, (ii) name of each asset and (iii) value of each asset;

(2) Whether the loss of each asset was reported and investigated; if not, why not; if so, what was the outcome of the investigation with regard to each asset;

(3) Whether the assets were recovered; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

(4) Whether she will make a statement on the matter? NW4226E

Reply

(1) Asset items reported stolen in the year 2008/09 and 2009/10 range from assets valued at under R1 to items of civilian value like:

i. Computers, printers and light projectors

ii. Vehicles and vehicle spare parts, fuel

iii. Clothes and boots

iv. Lawn mowers, edge trimmers and brush cutters

v. TVs, microwave ovens and solar panels

vi. Tools and tool boxes

vii. Office equipment, for e.g. laminating machines

(i) Total value of assets stolen for the 2008/09 financial year is R3 509 414.04 and for the 2009/10 financial year was marginally reduced to R3 153 386.15.

(ii) It is not possible to provide the name of each asset as the total list is more than a thousand individual assets.

(iii) It is not possible to provide the value of each asset due to the large number of items, the fact that in some cases values are not provided upon reporting thereof as they were acquired a long time ago and in other cases the value of items on the logistics system is reflected as R1.00 (One Rand).

(2) Loss of each item is reported and depending on the value, an investigation is lodged. The investigations are still underway.

(3) None of the assets that were initially reported stolen have since been recovered.

(4) No

Question 3252

Mr D C Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether her department provided any houses to any military veterans in the Nelson Mandela Metropole Municipality since 1 January 2010 as part of the list of benefits and services to military veterans; if not, why not; if so, how many (a) military veterans applied for these houses, (b) military veterans qualified for these houses, (c) houses were allocated and (d) of those military veterans who qualified for these houses were members of the (i) statutory forces, (ii) non-statutory forces, (iii) former Transkei, Bophuthatswana, Venda and Ciskei (TBVC) homelands and (iv) South African Cape Corps?

Reply

The Department of Housing completed its policy on housing assistance to Military Veterans and tabled it in Parliament in 2007. The Department of Military Veterans has the responsibility to oversee the implementation of benefits to Military Veterans.

The Department of Military Veterans has not yet compiled a list of how many municipalities have adhered to the policy requirements on housing assistance to Military Veterans, tabled in Parliament in 2007. The Director-General of Military Veterans will prepare a questionnaire for all municipalities to respond to.

The Nelson Mandela Metropole Municipality has indicated an interest to delivering on the policy – a commitment that was made in 2007 when a workshop was held at the Municipality to launch the new policy.

The Honourable Member might assist us and check if Municipalities like the City of Cape Town are in adherence of the policy.

QUESTION NUMBER 3222

Mrs J F Terblanche to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

What is the (a) total cost and (b) number of copies of each (i) annual report and (ii) report on strategic plans that was produced by (aa) her department and (bb) any of its entities in the 2009 -10 financial year? NW4036E

REPLY

The production of annual reports and strategic plans are in line with provisions of the PFMA and a parliamentary requirement. It is therefore obligatory.

The total cost and number of copies of the Annual Reports and Strategic Business Plans for the Department of Defence, Armscor and Castle Control Board is reflected in the table below:

No.	Department / Entity	Total Cost of Annual Report	Number of Copies Annual Report FY 09/10	Total cost of Strategic Plans FY 09/10	Total number of copies of the Strategic Plans
1.	Department of Defence	R339,109.00	2700	R211,025.40	2800
2.	Armscor	R155 715,01	1000	N/a	N/a
3.	Castle Control Board	R7,035.00	200	N/a	N/a

QUESTION NO 3185

WRITTEN REPLY

Question

Mr L.J. Tolo (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) is on target with its programme of dealing with (a) shortages of skilled personnel and (b) budgetary under funding, particularly in the areas of maintenance and repair of facilities; if not, what is the impact of these problems on the ability of the SA Navy to achieve its objectives; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

NW3992E

Shortages of Skilled Personnel

The SA Navy is working towards meeting the target as specified in its Skills Retention Strategy of 2008 in dealing with the skills shortages. This Strategy identified key driving and restraining forces impacting on retention, and generated a number of qualitative and quantitative interventions. Specific interventions have included the recruitment of candidates to undergo tertiary as well as skills training at Universities as well as Universities of Technology respectively, in areas of critical skills shortage. It is to be noted that such tertiary training curricula require up to a minimum period of four (4) years to qualification. In addition, a challenge is posed with respect to the non-implementation of the Special Technical Dispensation in the SA Navy, as also the Ad Hoc Allowances for Submariners, Divers and Combat Officers. These had the specific intention of addressing the exit of qualified members from the SA Navy.

A further challenge faced by the SA Navy, together with other Government entities, is that once members are qualified, they are headhunted by the corporate/industrial sector. This sector is able to offer extremely lucrative compensation, with which the Government sector is unable to compete. However, it is readily apparent that such factors as, inter alia, the recent recession and the relative instability within the corporate/industrial sector, has resulted in a decrease in the exit of qualified members, with the attrition rate being lower than the previous two-year period.

The SA Navy Retention Strategy has specifically addressed areas of previously identified critical skill shortage, namely that of the Combat Officers and the Technical Officers in the lower rank groups. However, a challenge still exists within the middle to senior rank group, and as noted above, a more extended period is required for the various interventions within the Skills Retention Strategy to come to fruition.

Budgetary Underfunding: Maintenance and Repair of Facilities

The SA Navy has planned for the day-to-day repair and maintenance of facilities for this Financial Year to the amount of RM 4.3. This planned amount is RM 4.7 less than what has been determined to be the Full Cost Requirement. The SA Navy is on track with the implementation of planned activities. These activities fall predominantly in the domain of day-to-day repairs to facilities. Such repairs are being undertaken in accordance with pre-determined prioritisation of requirements.

The SA Navy has participated in the initiative being undertaken by the Logistics Division and the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research, whereby a User Asset Management Plan is being compiled, inter alia, for facility maintenance and repair. All facilities utilised by the SA Navy have been identified and a Condition Assessment on all facilities is being undertaken. The emergent data indicates that approximately RM 650 will be required for the first three-year period for the upkeep of SA Navy facilities.

QUESTION NUMBER 3005

WRITTEN REPLY

QUESTION

Mr M.H. Steele (DA) to ask the Minister of defence and Military Veterans:

1. (a) Who are the members of her department's audit committee since 1 April 2010, (b) when where these members appointed and (c) how many (i) properly constituted, (ii) quorate, (iii) invalid and (iv) non –quorate meetings has the audit committee held.

2. Whether any issues of (a) internal control or (b) risk management have been (i) identified by and (ii) reported to the accounting officer of the audit committee; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

REPLY

1 a and b. The following members were members of the Audit Committee as on 1 April 2010:

a. Dr D. Konar (Chairperson). Dr Konar was re-appointed on 20 January 2009 and signed a contract on 30 May 2008.

b. Mr K.A. Ross (external member). Mr Ross was re-appointed on 20 January 2009 and signed a contract on 26 May 2008.

c. Ms J. Kumbirai (external member). Ms Kumbirai was appointed on 6 December 2007 and a contract was signed.

d. Dr T. Gamede (internal member). Dr Gamede was appointed on 31 March 2009.

The Audit Committee held meetings on the following dates:

a. 29 April 2010. This meeting was properly constituted and quorated.

b. 26 May 2010. This meeting was properly constituted and quorated and took place to review

i. the Report of the Accounting Officer for the year ended 31 March 2010;

ii. the Annual Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2010:

(1) General Defence Account

(2) Special Defence Account

iii. Disclosure notes to the Annual financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2010.

c. 29 July 2010. Although the attendance of this meeting did not constitute a quorum, it was decided to continue with the meeting. A resolution that was confirmed by the members attending the meeting was sent to the members not attending for approval. This meeting took place to review

i. the Management report on the regularity audit of the Department of Defence and Military Veterans for the year ended 31 March 2010;

ii. the Report of the Auditor-General to Parliament on the financial statements of Vote No 19: Department of Defence for the year ended 31 March 2010;

iii. the Management report on the regularity audit of the Special Defence Account for the year ended 31 March 2010; and

iv. the Report of the Auditor-General to Parliament on the financial statements of Special Defence Account for the year ended 31 March 2010.

d. 31 August 2010. This meeting was properly constituted and quorated.

2. During each scheduled audit committee meeting, an agenda consisting of the following standing items are discussed:

a. Financial Reports. The Early Warning Report, Certificate of Compliance and the Suspense account are discussed at each meeting.

b. Feedback from the Auditor-General. The Auditor-General provided feedback regarding the progress of their audit as well as the results of the audit.

c. Internal Audit Feedback. The Inspector General Department of Defence provide feedback relating to internal audit matters.

d. Quarterly Report. The Inspector General Department of Defence provide feedback regarding the audit/ inspection results from specific quarters.

e. Performance Against Plan. The Inspector General Department of Defence provide feedback regarding the performance against the approved audit plan.

f. Feedback from the Risk Manager. The Risk Manager provides feedback regarding risk issues in the Department.

Issues regarding internal control and risk management are therefore discussed at each audit committee meeting.

QUESTION 3003

Mr D.J. Maynier (da) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) (a) How many (i) incidences of HIV and AIDS in the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) were there in (aa) 2004, (bb) 2005, (cc) 2006, (dd) 2007, (ee) 2008 and (ff) 2009 and (ii) persons were treated with anti-retroviral drugs in each specified month in the 2009-10 financial year and (b) what was the total cost and (ii) breakdown of such costs of anti-retroviral drugs for each of these specified months; and

(2) whether any surveys have been conducted on HIV and AIDS in the SANDF; if not, why not; if so in each specified case, what (a) is the title and (b) are the key (i) findings and (ii) recommendations of the survey.

REPLY

(1): There are no statistics on the matter. I have consulted with the Minister of Health on this matter and he indicates that HIV and AIDS is not notifiable, therefore there is no obligation on members of the SANDF to disclose. This makes sense to me because I cannot conceive of ever asking the Honourable Member how many members of his party have HIV. The new policy on HIV and AIDS in the SANDF is one that seeks to remove all discrimination around HIV and AIDS. We do have full details of treatments we give and have information on trials we conduct and programmes we run. The disease profile of immune-compromised members represents a complex and extensive pattern that includes the treatment of all opportunistic infections and AIDS-related illnesses such as tuberculosis, sarcomas, pneumocystis Jerovicii pneumonia (PCP), cytomegalovirus infections, candida, toxoplasmosis and Giardia Lamblia, amongst others. The management of this variety of diseases thus contributes to the overall HIV and AIDS cost drivers but it is extremely difficult to estimate the cost implications due to the comprehensive nature of managing them, as well as the multidisciplinary approach to management.

The total cost for this programme includes preventative programmes, treatment with anti-retroviral drugs, as well as drugs for the treatment of opportunistic infections of HIV and AIDS. These costs are covered by the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) budget and the conditional grant provided by National Treasury and forms part of the HIV strategy and expansion of the rollout of antiretroviral therapy as prescribed by the National Department of Health. To fund this challenge, the HIV and AIDS Option Funding of R26 million was allocated in the 2006/07 financial year and this funding increased to R32.25 million in the 2009/2010 financial year. Due to the new HIV and AIDS treatment policy of the National Department of Health to commence treatment at an earlier stage, the costs of antiretroviral treatment have increased. Therefore R33.5 million has been allocated to the SAMHS for the 2010/2011 financial year and R48 million for the 2011/2012 financial year.

QUESTION NUMBER 2994

WRITTEN REPLY

Mr R.S.J. Njikelana (ANC) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

How effective has the operations of the SA National Defence Force been in establishing peace in areas of conflict on the African continent?

REPLY

South Africa is internationally acclaimed for its peace-keeping efforts on the continent. In essence, the presence of our armed forces on the Continent makes us one of the major role players in regional and continental relations and politics in peace-keeping. Our peace missions reflect our commitment to the notion of collective security though multinational bilateral agreements in our quest to advance human security and the creation of a peaceful and better Africa. Our beliefs in compassion and the values of ubuntu are intricately woven in the objectives of our peace keeping missions.

One of the highlights of our success in peace keeping has been the outcome of the Burundi peace process. Overall, our military deployments on the Continent have been critical in ensuring peaceful democratic political transitions such as in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2006. The SANDF continues to provide logistical support for electoral process throughout Southern Africa. Further, our military experts continue to provide training support as well as capacity to reform fractured military establishments. Our armed forces have saved lives, prevented humanitarian disasters and degeneration into total anarchy in some areas of deployment by restoring state authority. Peace and stability of the African Continent is in our best interest economically, politically, morally and socially. Our military deployments will continue, not only because they project our foreign policy objectives, but also because peace is the critical catalyst for enhance regional, economic and political integration.

In pursuit of peace the SANDF commuted tours of duty in Burundi, DRC, Ivory Coast, Ethiopia/Eritrea, Comoros, Sudan and Central African Republic.

On the military diplomatic front, militaries of the world continue to test their skills against those of the SANDF through joint and multinational military exercises. Recently the SANDF was involved in Exercise Good Hope, an annual joint and multinational exercise conducted between the navies and air forces of South Africa and Germany. This is the largest German exercise outside of the NATO countries. The aim of this exercise was to enhance and maintain comprehensive capabilities within the SANDF. During September 2010 the SANDF formed part of Exercise IBSAMAR- a joint and multinational exercise involving the navies of India, Brazil and South Africa. The aim of this exercise is to ensure interoperability, collective training and mutual understanding between the involved navies.

We have recently returned from Argentina after a month long Exercise ATLASUR which brings together the countries of the South, namely Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and South Africa. This brings to the fore the South – South Co-operation as envisaged by our foreign policy. These exchanges have put South African in the forefront of maritime nations of the world and in particular those of the developing world.

In addition, the SANDF operations have saved lives in Mozambique during floods. Ugandan Armed Forces were assisted by the SANDF's EODT for bomb disposal. The SANDF assisted by airlifting Tanzanian contingent that deployed in Burundi. The SANDF provided air transport to Lesotho government during elections in Lesotho.

a. BURUNDI

i. The deployment of the SANDF prevented the spill over effect of genocide from Rwanda to Burundi.

ii. Help to secure first democratic elections in the country.

iii. Assist in the final integration of Palipe-Hutu FNL combatants into Burundian Armed Forces, Intelligence and Police.

b. DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

i. The SANDF deployed staff liaison officers in the great lakes to monitor the Lusaka Peace Agreement which resulted in political and security stability in the DRC.

ii. The SANDF became the vanguard of a seventeen thousand strong United Nations Peacekeeping Force that ensured smooth deployment of the entire UN Force Peace Contingent in the DRC under operation dubbed MONUC.

iii. Further, the SANDF has been instrumental in protection of civilians and provision of assistance to the Armed Forces of DRC (FARDC). As part of the Multinational Force deployed in the DRC, SANDF helped to secure the first democratic elections in the DRC IN 2006 and on a bilateral basis it is providing peace capacity building for sustainable development in the country to date.

iv. The SANDF helped to integrate militia groups to the FARDC and renovated centres for integration.

iv. The SANDF continues to advice the FARDC regarding restructuring, reorganization and training so that the FARDC becomes a professional and credible force capable of defending and protecting the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

c. IVORY COAST

i. The SANDF deployed a contingent in Ivory Coast to support the Mediator by monitoring the peace process and observing operationalisation of the DDR.

ii. Both Chiefs of Staff of the Ivorian Armed forces and Northern Rebels were advised regarding the formation of the new integrated Ivorian Armed Force.

c. ETHIOPIA/ERITREA.

The SANDF deployed staff officers and military observers to monitor illegal activities in the border between Ethiopia and Eritrea.

e. COMOROS

i. The SANDF deployed in the Union of Comoros in support of the African Union Mission to secure elections in Comoros. Free and fair elections were held and the first democratic Union President was inaugurated.

ii. The operation of the SANDF taught the security forces of Comoros the importance of impartiality by the security forces and the role of security forces in protecting democracy as security organs of the state.

f. SUDAN

i. The SANDF deployed military observers to monitor Darfur Peace Agreement in support of the African Union (AU) efforts to bring peace in Darfur.

i. The above mentioned mission required the deployment of a contingent that protects AU peace negotiators as well as render support to the observer mission.

ii. The deployment of the SANDF contingent currently under UN/AU Hybrid Mission in Sudan brings hope to the Sudanese people that peace, security and stability is achievable.

g. CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

i. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between governments of Central African Republic and South Africa to capacitate the Armed Forces of Central African Republic (FACA) to be able to defend and protect the sovereignty and territory of the Central African Republic.

ii. Based on the signed MOU the SANDF deployed a contingent to train FACA on VIP Protection, Sub Units and Junior Leader Group.

iii. The deployment of the SANDF contingent is a beacon of hope for peace, security and stability in the Central African Republic.

Question 2969

Mr J J Mc Gluwa (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) (a) Which specified groups benefited from the ministerial directive of 22 August 2005 whereby all military veterans were requested to register on the national database in order to become eligible for benefits and (b) what benefits were allocated to each of the groups;

(2) whether any veteran groups were excluded from receiving benefits; if so, (a) what specified groups were excluded and (b) on what basis were they excluded from receiving benefits? NW3661E

Reply

I have requested the Department's Research Unit to find the relevant information and will revert to you. I shall also check with the Honourable Lekota who would have issued the said directive. He might help me understand the issue and this will help fast track the process. As soon as I have a response, I will revert to the Honourable Member.

QUESTION 2926

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) What is the name of the (a)(i) chairperson and (ii) deputy chairperson and (b) are the names of the members of the Ministerial Task Team on Military Veterans;

(2) what was the (a) total cost and (b) breakdown of such cost associated with the task team;

(3) whether the task team produced a report; if so, (a) what is the title of the report and (b) what were the key (i) findings and (ii) recommendations of the report;

(4) whether the report will be (a) tabled in Parliament and (b) made public; if not, why not; if so, when, in each case?

REPLY

1. (a) (i) Mr T. S. P. Makwetla - Deputy Minister of Defence and Military

Veterans

(ii) Deputy Chairperson: Mr T. E. Motumi

(b) Names of members of the MTTMV members;

(i) Ms S. R. Rabkin (Special Advisor to the Minister)

(ii) Lt Gen D. M. Mgwebi (Chief Human Resources)

(iii) Maj Gen E. M. Mashoala(Chief Director Human Resources Management)

(iv) Brig Gen D.P. Mosianedi (Director Military Veterans affairs)

(v) Maj Gen (Ret) K. M. Mokoape (Member)

(vi) Brig Gen (Ret) M. R. Fihla (Representative Defence Reserves)

(vii) Lt Col (Ret) G. Giles (Member)

(viii) Mr T. S. Yengeni (Member)

(ix) Dr C. T. Ndlovu (Representative Defence Reserves)

(x) Mr L. J. Buys(Former Head of Disaster Management)

(xi) Mr L. M. Maisela (Member)

(xii) Mr T. S. Makgabo (Member)

(xiii) Mr E. R. Maphatsoe (President of the SANMVA)

(xiv) Mr S. E. Dlamini ( National Administrator of the SANMVA)

(xv) Mr D. Subramoney (Director Integrated Management Systems)

(xvi) Mr E. Gelderbloem(Rep from DPSA)

(xvii) Ms M. Molosiwa (Rep from DPSA)

(xviii) Mr A. Fourie (Rep from DPSA)

2 (a) The total cost was R855 457.76

(b)

S/No	Amount	Activity/Commodity
1.	R375,711.23	Allowances paid to members from the task team.
2.	R60,377.00	Transport Costs Including Air tickets within RSA
3.	R164,598.00	Total Cost Foreign visits
4.	R178.968.90	Accommodation costs: local
5.	R21,213.00	Catering costs
7.	R54,598.63	Kilometre claims for Non-DOD Members
TOTAL	R855,457.76

3 (a) "Report of the Ministerial Task Team on Military Veterans – Policy Recommendations on support, eligibility and institutional structures for Military Veterans", as tabled in the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans on 1 September 2010.

Question 2925

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether an investigation has been carried out into the publication on the internet (details furnished) of detailed information about the flights undertaken by the President's Boeing Business Jet; if not, why not; if so,

(2) whether she has received the report on the investigation; if so, (a) what is the title of the report and (b) what were the main (i) findings and (ii) recommendations of the investigation;

(3) whether the President's safety was compromised at any time by the publication of this information on the internet; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each specified case, (a) why was his safety compromised and (b) what corrective action was taken? NW3614E

Reply

1. No

2. No

3. No

QUESTION NUMBER 2810

WRITTEN REPLY

Mr D.J. Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. How many grievances in respect of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) are (a) unresolved and (b) have been unresolved for more than (i) six months, (ii) one year and (iii) three years;

2. How many grievances in respect of the (a) SA Army, (b) SA Navy, and (c) SA Military Health Services are (i) unresolved and (ii) have been unresolved for more than (aa) six months, (bb) one year and (cc) three years;

3. Whether there are any plans in place to reduce the number of grievances; if not, why not; if so, what plans?

REPLY

The Department of Defence (DOD) has developed a "New Grievance Mechanism" in the form of Individual Grievances Regulations for both Members of the SANDF and employees falling under the Public Service Act (PSAP). These Regulations were signed by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans on 8 June 2010 and subsequently published in Government Gazette No: 33334 dated 30 June 2010. We will now submit all grievances through this process, which will be fairer and faster.

Question 2809

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

What is the (a) total life cycle cost and (b) breakdown of the total life cycle cost of the (i) frigates, (ii) submarines, (iii) maritime helicopters, (iv) light utility helicopters, (v) lead-in fighter trainer jet and (vi) advanced light fighter jet acquired as part of the Strategic Defence Package in (aa) 1999 rands and (bb) 2010 rands? NW3490E

Reply

The Honourable Member would be aware that the Strategic Defence Package was approved by government in 1999, eleven years ago. I have therefore requested the Department's Research Unit to find the relevant information per item and will revert to you.

QUESTION 2768

WRITTEN REPLY

MR P. J. Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) With reference to the Strategic Defence Package, what (a)(i) total amount has been spent in respect of the acquisition of arms and (ii) acquisitions remain outstanding as at the latest specified date for which information is available and (b) is the projected cost for the finalisation of the programme;

(2) whether she will make a statement on the matter? NW3444E

REPLY

1.a.(i). As the Honourable Member would know, the Strategic Defence Package was concluded in 1999. The National Treasury is responsible for the implementation of the SDP and the responsibility of the Department of Defence is to receive the acquisitions. The total amount spent in respect of acquisition of arms under the SDPs as at 14 October 2010 is R 42, 362, 053, 814 and the projected cost for the finalisation of the programme is R 47, 225, 627, 631.

1(a)(ii). In terms of expenditure, approximately 90% of the acquisitions of the SDP have been finalised. The remaining 10% as at 14 October 2010 are the following:

Meka 200A frigates: Final sea acceptance of a sub-segment of the combat suite.

Type 209 Submarines: 20% of the associated logistic support still to be delivered.

Augusta Light utility Helicopters: 4% of the final associated logistic support including the implementation of a few minor engineering changes.

SAAB Grippen Advance Fighter Aircraft: 11 single seat aircraft and 10% of the logistic support.

BAE HAWK Lead-in: 3% of the final associated logistic support including the implementations of some minor engineering changes.

2. No

QUESTION 2760

Mr P.J. Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. Whether, with reference to a reply to question 1966 on 20 August 2010 any of the ammunition in the ammunition storage magazine is suspected to be in a phase of crystallisation; if so, (a) of what calibre is the ammunition, (b) How much of this calibre is kept in the store, (c) When was it manufactured and (d) what steps will be taken to safeguard the lives of the SANDF members who must destroy this ammunition.

2. Whether the licences of any magazines have been restricted since the informal settlement at Jan Kempdorp has developed within the original danger zones; if so, (a) of how many magazine, (b) by how many kilograms was the license of each individual magazine curtailed, (c) What is the distance between the nearest informal settlement and the boundary of the ammunition storage magazine and (d) What are the further relevant details.

3. Whether all of the lightning conductors in the ammunition storage magazine are serviced annually; if not why not; if so how many stores conductors (a) have been fully serviced an (b) must still be serviced this year.

4. Whether any of the stores roofs are leaky; if so (a) how many and (b) what steps are being taken to stop the leakages.

5. Whether she will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY

1. There is a quantity of 249 250kg Air force Bombs in store at the depot with signs of crystallisation. These aircraft bombs where manufactured in 1978 and 1979, well before your and my time. A detailed investigation which included chemical analysis was done on these bombs. The ammunition is unsafe for use but remains safe for storage, handling and transportation and has no threat to any lives or infrastructure. This ammunition can thus be destroyed safely by qualified SANDF personnel.

2. Your concern is justified around the development of the informal settlement in these areas where there is risk to citizens. A total of nine (9) magazines have since been curtailed. Two (2) magazines from 200 000 Kg of explosives, down to 15000 Kg of explosives, one (1) magazine from 20 000 kg of explosives to 15 000 kg of explosives and the remaining six (6) were reduced by a 1 000 kg each. We can assure the Honourable Member though, that the nearest informal settlement is 540 meters from the magazines.

3. Previously they were not inspected annually but this has been rectified by the SANDF. During 2010 a quantity of 788 lightning conductors were inspected at the Depot and 132 were found to be of critical non-conformity. All 132 lightning conductors were repaired and issued with a conformity certificate. There are no outstanding inspections this year and the next inspection will be conducted during September 2011 as required by national legislation.

4. Nine (9) roofs are leaking and as DPW does not currently have the capability to repair these roofs, the SANDF is investigating the possibility to repair these roofs though the works regiment.

5. No

QUESTION 2699

Mr P.J. Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. With reference to her reply to question 1801 on 10 June 2010, (a) (i) what type of repairs are currently being done and (ii) what is the estimated cost of the repairs and (b) what maintenance is being done to the batteries;

2. Whether the submarine's wiring is currently damaged or has been damaged in the past; if so (a) what was the cause in each case and (b) how long will it take to repair?

3. Whether she will make a statement on the matter? NW 3267E

REPLY

1(a)(i) The Navy has commenced the process of conducting the first minor overhaul of a Type 209 submarine locally. The majority of this overhaul consists of routine maintenance and replacement of parts as opposed to repairs. Very little known repair work is required on the SAS 'MANTHATISI. It will be the first submarine to undergo this process. Many elements of this process are unknown and infrastructure and training will need to be established in order to create a submarine overhaul capability in country. It is envisaged that the process will be complete by mid to late 2012.

(ii) The Navy is currently in the process of establishing a list of maintenance to be completed during the minor overhaul. This list is termed the "Scope of Work". Once the Scope of Work has been established, the spares requirement will be known and will be the major factor in establishing the cost for the overhaul.

b. The SAS 'MANTHATISI battery is currently housed in the Submarine Battery Workshop where it is being trickle charged to ensure that the battery is maintained at operational levels. This means that the battery is being discharged and charged to ensure that the system remains operational without depreciating in Ampere Hours. In order to ensure that the SAS 'MANTHATISI will be operational for a period of at least eight years on completion of the first minor overhaul, the SA Navy will procure a new battery for the submarine. Each submarine will, in turn, be fitted with a new battery on completion of their respective minor overhauls

2(a) The submarine's wiring is not damaged but an incident did occur in 2008 during which mainly fuses were blown in a shore supply box (external of the submarine).

(b) During a switch over from shore to ship electrical supply, an incident occurred whereby an AC plug was incorrectly inserted into a DC socket. This led to a number of fuses being blown (as with trip switches) protecting electrical equipment onboard from incorrectly phased electrical supply. This incident has led to changes in design and standard operating procedures to ensure that a similar incident cannot occur again. The minor repairs that had to be affected to the outboard switchboard were completed shortly after the incident occurred, in excess of 18 months ago. There are currently no repairs required to the submarine's wiring.

3. I will arrange a special tour for the Honourable Member of the Navy dockyard in Simons Town, especially as he seem encouragingly keen on the submarines.

QUESTION 2621

Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) How long has the submarine SAS Manthatisi already been lying in the dry dock;

(2) whether she will consider sending it to Germany for repairs; if not, why not; if so, (a) why, (b) when and (c) what are the repairs in Germany expected to cost;

(3) whether she will make a statement on the matter? NW3266E

REPLY

(1) The SAS 'MANTHATISI is presently in reserve, and has been so since October 2007. The submarine is being prepared to become the first Type 209 Submarine to be overhauled in Simon's Town Naval Dockyard. The SAS 'MANTHATISI will be undergoing an overhaul in accordance with the laid down schedules for this type of submarine. The scope of work for the overhaul of SAS 'MANTHATISI is currently being determined.

(2) The SA Navy is not giving consideration to sending the submarine to Germany for repairs. The requisite capabilities are being sourced and developed locally, and these capabilities will form the foundation for not only the maintenance of SAS 'MANTHATISI but also the subsequent overhaul of SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE AND SAS QUEEN MODJADJI I, as scheduled in the SA Navy Maintenance and Upkeep Plan for the Medium to Long Term Expenditure Framework

(3) No

Question 2597

Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) Whether her department, with reference to her response to question 2038 on 20 August 2010 about stolen and lost firearms in the SA National Defence Force, has (a) prosecuted or (b) taken any disciplinary steps against any person; if not, why not, in each case; if so, (i) against how many persons in each case and (ii) what steps were taken;

(2) whether she will make a statement on the matter? NW3246E

Reply

1. I am glad that the Honourable Member makes reference to my reply to question 2038, as I was most distressed to read the misinterpretations in the media to the said reply.

The Honourable Member is probably the longest serving member of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and he should therefore know that in Military language lost could mean misplaced or written-off, ie it is lost to the accounting system. Therefore, when the question was responded to, it was in response to a person who understands the military and would understand that when, for example we refer to a grenade launcher, it could only mean "written-off". As a person from a military background, the Honourable Member would know that "written-off" could mean damaged or discontinued. Therefore the erroneous use of "loss" in the media came as a complete shock to me, especially originating from somebody who I regard as having such an immense knowledge and reputation in the military.

Weapon losses can normally be ascribed to either theft, loss through accident, negligence or stock discrepancies that could not be accounted for and which are sometimes discovered later.

All weapons which were indicated in answer to Question 2038 as losses were due to discrepancies during annual stock takes for the database kept by the Financial Management Division. Subsequently, these weapons were erroneously reported in the terminology of our books as "losses." Boards of Inquiries were instituted and recommended that the weapons be placed on suspense account, in cases were liability could not be apportioned.

The write-off, recovery of the value of lost or stolen weapons and subsequent disciplinary procedures can only be affected once a complete investigation by the Board of Inquiry or Commanding Officers has been conducted. The findings and recommendations of such investigations provide directions for disciplinary processes. In at least four cases Boards of Inquiries were established, negligence was proven and disciplinary action was taken against members who were charged for loss. Lost weapons are managed from a decentralised point and further details will be made known to the Honourable Member as soon as it becomes available.

2. Yes, I am intending to make a statement in Parliament on the matter.

QUESTION 2571

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether she has received any reports from the Interim National Defence Force Service Commission (NDFSC); if not, why not; if so, in respect of each specified report, (a) what is the title of the report and (b) on what date was it received;

(2) whether she submitted the reports to Cabinet; if not, why not; if so, in each specified case, on what date was the report (a) submitted and (b) considered by Cabinet;

(3) whether the reports will be tabled in Parliament; if not, why not; if so, on what date will each specified report be tabled;

(4) what is the (a) total cost and (b) breakdown of such costs of the NDFSC? NW3213E

Reply

The matter of the interim reports of the Interim National Defence Force Service Commission was the subject of a decision by Cabinet and the Speaker of the National Assembly. I abide by those decisions. However, the Honourable Member is free to approach the Speaker for any details he might need.

QUESTION 2570

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

What was the (a) total cost and (b) breakdown of such costs for the recent work session of the Military Command Council and the Secretariat Council at Zimbali Resort and Golf Estate? NW3212E

REPLY:

I am not aware of ANY work session of the Military Command Council, the Secretariat Council or any other organ of the Department of Defence at Zimbali Resort and Golf Estate. I suggest the Honourable Member verifies his information.

QUESTION NUMBER 2458

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether the services of a certain chief executive officer (name furnished) of a certain company (name furnished) have been terminated; if so, what (a) were the terms and conditions of the termination of the service and (b) was the total cost involved in terminating the services of the said person and each component? NW3027E

REPLY

Yes, the services of Mr Thomo as the Chief Executive Officer of ARMSCOR were terminated on 7 January 2010, subsequent to a disciplinary hearing.

Mr Thomo subsequently appealed to the CCMA with regards to his perceived unfair dismissal. At the beginning of the CCMA arbitration process and based on the advice from Armscor's Legal Counsel on the possible legal cost that may be incurred to defend the matter, a settlement proposal was agreed upon whereby Armscor would pay an amount equal to fifteen (15) month's salary (calculated based on his total cost to company) to Mr. Thomo in full and final settlement of his claim. In terms of the settlement agreement Mr. Thomo waived the remaining portion of the restraint of trade payment due to him in terms of his employment contract which would have amounted to about R760 532-00.

The calculated settlement amount was R 2 703 610 (15 months) based on an annual total cost to company of R2 162 888. The final amount paid to Mr. Thomo after deduction of taxation was R1 622 166-00.

QUESTION 2456

Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) (a) What is the total (i) number and (ii) value of sponsorships received by her department since 1 April 2009 and (b) in each case, what was the (i) name of the sponsor, (ii) value of the sponsorship, (iii) date on which the sponsorship was received by her department and (iv) purpose of the sponsored event;

(2) whether her department received sponsorships from certain companies (names furnished); if so, in each case, (a) what was the (i) value of the sponsorship and (ii) date on which the sponsorship was received by her department and (b) what event was sponsored;

(3) whether she has any guidelines in place to regulate the provision of sponsorships to her department; if not, (a) why not and (b) when will such guidelines be put in place; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3024E

REPLY

1. (a) (i) 112 sponsorships were received from different companies

(ii) R767 234.27

(b) (i) See attached appendix A

(ii) See attached appendix A

(iii) See attached appendix A

(iv) See attached appendix A

2: See attached appendix A

3: Sponsorships are regulated by the PFMA, General Regulations Chapter IX, General Accepted Accounting Procedures and Log 17 Pamphlet 2.

QUESTION 2397

Mr D.C. Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether (a) her department or (b) any of its entities has signed any contractual agreements with a certain company (General Nyanda Security Advisory (GNS) or any of its affiliates (i) in the (aa) 2006-07, (bb) 2007-08, (cc) 2008-09 and (dd) 2009-10 financial years and (ii) during the period 1 April 2010 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if so, (aaa) what is the nature of each contract, (bbb) what is the monetary value of each contract, (ccc) what is the (aaaa) start and (bbbb) end date of each contract, (ddd) what are the details of the process that was followed for the signing of each contract, (eee) who else tendered for each contract that was awarded and (fff) what amount did each tender quote in each case? NW2966E

REPLY:

QUESTION NO: 2396

Mr L Selfe (DA) to ask the Minister of Correctional Services:

Whether (a) her department or (b) any of its entities has signed any contractual agreements with a certain company (name furnished) or any of its affiliates (i) in the (aa) 2006/ 07, (bb) 2007/ 08, (cc) 2008/ 09 and (dd) 2009/ 10 financial years and (ii) during the period 01 April 2010 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if so (aaa) what is the nature of each contract, (bbb) what is the monetary value of each contract, (ccc) what is the (aaaa) start and (bbb) end date of each contract, (ddd) what are the details of the process that was followed for the signing of each contract, (eee) who else tendered for each contract that was awarded and (fff) what amount did each tenderer quote in each case?

NW2965E

REPLY

No, the Department of Correctional Services has not signed any contractual agreements with the said company.

QUESTION 2255

Mr. D.C. Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

Whether her department and/or any of its entities has purchased any 2010 Fifa World Cup Soccer tournament (a) clothing or (b) other specified paraphernalia; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, in each case, (i) what are (aa) the details and (bb) the total cost of the items purchased, (ii)(aa) how many items have been purchased and (bb) why, (iii)(aa) to whom has each of these items been allocated and (bb) why have these items been allocated to these persons and (iv)(aa) on what basis was the decision taken to purchase each of these items and (bb) on whose authority was the decision taken to make these purchases? NW2763E

REPLY

The Navy, like all members of the SANDF were deployed throughout the Soccer World Cup and did not have the opportunity, like the Honourable Member, to enjoy the most successful Soccer World Cup. The only thing the members could do was to show their support in the form of a banner, the distribution of t-shirts to under-privileged children, etc.

In the Department of Defence, the South African Navy, purchased clothing and paraphernalia to the amount of R22, 900 comprising Clothing, Lapel Pins and a Banner.

T-Shirts were purchased with the words: "The SA Navy Supports Bafana Bafana in the 2010 Soccer World Cup". One hundred and twenty five (125) T-shirts were purchased at a cost of R4, 500 and used at the Knysna festival where it was handed out to under privileged children. This effort forms part of the SA Navy's community uplifting programme and the SA Navy participated in the Knysna festival. The purchase of these items forms part of the SA Navy communication strategy to support the broader Government initiative and the purchase was authorised by the Chief of Navy Public Relations.

Other specified paraphernalia like Lapel pins and a Banner were also purchased. The Lapel pins had the National flag; the SA Navy insignia and a soccer ball etched on them and the banner displayed the details of the South African coat of Arms, the SA Navy emblem with the words "The SA Navy Supports Bafana Bafana in the 2010 Soccer World Cup". The total cost was R18, 400 and three hundred (300) pins and one (1) banner were purchased. The purpose of this purchase was to display the SA Navy's support to the FIFA Word Cup.

The pins were handed over to various internal and external stakeholders and the banner was erected on the SA Naval HQ building to display the SA Navy's support to the FIFA Word Cup. The purchase of these items form part of the SA Navy communication strategy to support the broader Government initiative and was approved by the Chief of the Navy.

QUESTION 2223

Mr D C Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) and any of its entities has (a) purchased or (b) leased any buildings for administration (i) in the (aa) 2008-09 and (bb) 2009-10 and (ii) for the 2010-11 financial years; if not, why not; if so, in each case, (aaa) what is the cost of the building, (bbb) what is the size of the building, (ccc) why was it bought or leased, (ddd) what will be its use, (eee) who will occupy it and (fff) approximately how many persons will occupy the total space of each building;

(2) whether the SANDF and any of its entities intends purchasing or leasing any buildings for administration for the (a) 2011-12, (b) 2012-13 and (c) 2013-14 financial years; if not, why not; if so, in each case, (i) what is the cost of each building, (ii) what is the size of each building, (iii) why will it be bought or leased, (iv) for what will it be used, (v) who will occupy it and (vi) approximately how many persons will occupy the total space of each building? NW2731E

REPLY

1 (a) The Department of Defence has not purchased any buildings in the (aa) 2008-09 FY; (bb) 2009-10 FY and (cc) 2010-11 FY.

1(b)(i)(aa) The DOD had no new leases for the 2008-09 FY.

1(b)(i)(bb) The DOD has leased for 2009-10 FY the following buildings:

Medical Storage for South African Medical Health Services, (aaa) Monthly rental for this lease is R471.600.90; (bbb) The size for the leased area is 9193 square metres; (ccc) This building is leased due to construction and the refurbishment that is taking place currently at SAMHS old medical base deport. Medical deport had to obtain an alternative accommodation temporarily; (ddd) This place is leased for storing medicine for SANDF; (eee) This place will be occupied by SAMHS; (fff) Only staff members of the medical deport will be accommodated and medicine will be stored in this place

Kasteelpark office accommodation for SAHMS, (aaa) Monthly rental for this lease is R288.870.07; (bbb) The size for the leased area is 4213.5 square metres; (ccc) This building is leased for surgeon general ops room and for level 2 staff offices for SAMHS; (ddd) This place is leased for office accommodation for SAMHS; (eee) This place will be occupied by SAMHS level 2 staff officers; (fff) Staff officers will be accommodated in this building and the ops room for the surgeon general, approximately 130 personnel

The above do not include lease agreements that have not yet been finalised.

2. The DOD has not yet received any requirements from its entities or end user regarding any intentions to lease or to purchase any building.

QUESTION 2123

Mr D.C. Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether she has been informed of problems at the Military Academy in Saldanha Bay which hindered this institution from providing quality training to the students enrolled there; if so, what (a) vacancies for lecturers are there at present, (b) steps will be taken to fill the vacancies, (c) are the relevant details of reports about the managerial level in this regard and (d) are there further relevant details? (NW2563E)

REPLY

The matter is being dealt with in conjunction with the Minister of Higher Education, who is responsible for the quality of higher education. As soon as we have jointly examined the concerns raised, a further response will be provided.

QUESTION NUMBER 2080

Mr D C Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether her department has undertaken to relieve the socio-economic conditions of the ex-combatants living in the Platfontein township outside Kimberley in the Northern Cape; if not, why not; if so, (i) when was such an undertaking made and (ii) what are the further relevant details;

(2) whether these ex-combatants are recognised as reserve force members; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2481E

Reply

I am not certain I understand the term "ex-combatants" in the same way the Honourable Member understands it. Could the Honourable Member confirm whether he is referring to combatants of the ANC and APLA? If that is the case, our policies on ex-combatants are not geographic specific. They apply to all ex-combatants across the country.

QUESTION 2038

Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) How many weapons of every type and calibre in the SA National Defence Force have (a) been stolen and (b) gone missing (i) in (aa) 2007, (bb) 2008 and (cc) 2009 and (ii) during the period 1 January 2010 up to the latest specified date for which information is available;

(2) what steps have been taken to combat these (a) thefts and (b) losses;

(3) whether she will make a statement on the matter? NW2432E

FIREARM LOSSES OF THE DOD

Ser no	Type and Caliber	2007	2008	2009	2010
	a	b	c	d	e
01	Pistols 9mm	16	3	5
02	Rifles 5,56mm	40		6	1
03	Rifle 7,62mm	76	4	7
04	Rifle 7,70mm	1		1
05	Rifle .22	9		6
06	Mortar 60mm			4
07	Mortar 81mm			1
08	Launcher rocket 88mm			3
09	Launcher rocket 40mm			2
10	Launcher rocket 70mm			1
TOTAL		142	7	36	1
TOTAL =186

2. All possible physical measures have been taken to secure weapons in storage. All weapons are handed back after use, counted and stored in safe keeping ensuring effective control. Weapon permits are issued for all weapons on personal issue. (i.e. military police, VIP protection) on condition that the individual complies with the laid down criteria as stipulated in policy. With regard to losses regular inspections are done as part of unit standing orders to effectively verify and control weapons. Stock verification is done on a regular basis to ensure compliance with requirements of policy and a central fire arms control register is kept and verified with the SAPS fire arms control register as a measure to control losses.

3. No

QUESTION 2009

Mr D C Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether the SA Military Health Services contributed any funds towards staging the 2010 Fifa World Cup Soccer tournament; if not, why not; if so, (a) what is the total amount contributed, (b) towards what activities were these funds contributed and (c) on what/who's authority was the contribution made;

(2) whether the person who made the contribution had the required authority to make such a contribution; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) whether this amount was budgeted for; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2406E

REPLY

No. The SAMHS did not give any of its funding to Fifa or the Local Organising Committee to stage the 2010 Fifa World Cup Soccer Tournament.

QUESTION 2008

Mr Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. How many (a) international and (b) domestic flights did she undertake using (i) aircraft operated by the military, (ii) aircraft chartered by the military or (iii) commercial aircraft between 10 May 2009 and the latest specified date for which information is available;

2. in respect of each specified flight, (a) what was the (i) date and (ii) place of (aa) departure and (bb) arrival and (b) what was the (i) total cost and (ii) breakdown of the costs of such flights?NW2405E

REPLY:

The Honourable Member asked the same question earlier this year on 23 March 2010 and is referred to the response to Parliamentary question 810, which was tabled on 14 June 2010.

The information provided on 14 June 2010 remains the same see attachment. Flights undertaken for private purposes are undertaken through commercial flights and in terms of paragraph 9 of the Ministerial Handbook. Such information remains private in the same way that your trips remain private.

QUESTION 2007

Mr Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. How many (a) international and (b) domestic flights were undertaken by the Deputy President using (i) aircraft operated by the military, (ii) aircraft chartered by the military or (iii) commercial aircraft between 10 May 2009 and the latest specified date for which information is available;

REPLY:

(1) (a) The Deputy President undertook 5 international flights.

(1) (b) The Deputy President undertook 51 domestic flights.

(1) (b) (i) The Deputy President used 51 domestic flights operated by the Military (SA Air Force).

(1) (b) (ii) The Deputy President used 3 flights chartered by the Military (SA Air Force), in the event that appropriate capacity was not available.

(1) (b) (iii) The South African Air Force is tasked with the responsibility to secure, execute and coordinate all flight arrangements except in instances where commercial flights are used. In the latter case, The Presidency and the VIP Police coordinate.

As the Honourable Member is no doubt aware, the SA Air Force is responsible for the air transportation of the sitting President and the Deputy President. Furthermore, air transportation is provided for former Presidents Mandela and Mbeki when they conduct official duties.

The Honourable Member will also appreciate that our air transport fleet is ageing and thus chartered services are procured by the SA Air Force as and when the need arises. The Department of Defence is however considering long-term sustainable solutions to remedy this situation.

In conclusion, the Member should note that the Deputy President has also used the National Carrier to travel to Europe and we are studying the viability of this arrangement considering protocol, security as well as the convenience of the public in this regard.

2. The Honourable Member is once again advised to raise this request with the Joint Standing Committee on Defence and Military Veterans

QUESTION 2006

Mr Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. How many (a) international and (b) domestic flights were undertaken by the President using (i) aircraft operated by the military, (ii) aircraft chartered by the military or (iii) commercial aircraft between 9 May 2009 and the latest specified date for which information is available;

REPLY:

(1) (a) The President undertook 27 international flights.

(1) (b) The President undertook 133 domestic flights.

(1) (b) (i) The President used 133 domestic flights operated by the military.

(1) (b) (ii) None

(1) (b) (iii) The South African Air Force is tasked to execute military flights only.

2. The information required is classified and may not be made public. However, the Honourable Member is advised to raise this request with the Joint Standing Committee on Defence and Military Veterans

QUESTION 1966

Mr P.J. Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. What quantity of the ammunition that is in storage at Jan Kempdorp is obsolete;

2. whether this ammunition holds a threat to the residence of Jan Kempdorp; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

3. whether any steps have been taken to remove the obsolete ammunition; if not, why not; if so, (a) what action and (b) how long is it anticipated to take for the ammunition to be removed;

4. whether she will make a statement on the matter. NW2195E

REPLY:

1. All live and serviceable ammunition has been removed from the Ammunition Depot to the other DOD Ammunition Depots. The ammunition remaining at 93 Ammunition Depot, Jan Kempdorp is obsolete, unserviceable or redundant.

2. I can assure the Honourable Member that the ammunition currently in stock at the Ammunition Depot does not hold a threat to the residents of Jan Kempdorp. To ensure that there is no threat, the DOD has put the following processes in place:

a. All critical unsafe ammunition has been destroyed. This was done by means of controlled detonation on a licensed demolition area.

b. There is no ammunition in field storage at the Ammunition Depot. All the ammunition is safely stored in specifically designed and licensed ammunition storage facilities.

c. All ammunition is inspected on a regular basis by ammunition specialists to ensure that the ammunition is safe for storage, transport and handling.

d. If ammunition is deemed to become unsafe, it is destroyed immediately by specialists.

e. The ammunition storage facilities are inspected regularly and the licences of these facilities are adjusted accordingly. This has the implication that possible threats be eliminated as the quantities of ammunition to be stored in a storage facility are adjusted to adhere to the prescribed safety distances.

3. The following steps are currently in place to remove the obsolete, redundant and unserviceable ammunition:

a. Continuous demolition programs on the demolition ground of the Depot by ammunition specialists.

b. Deforming of Inert ammunition at the Depot to produce scrap metal which can be sold.

4. These processes will take approximately 20 years. The DoD is also in a planning phase to acquire additional resources as well as the upgrading of current resources to shorten the time span.

However, for the comfort of the residents of Jan Kempdorp, one of the first things we could do when the permanent National Defence Force Service Commission has been established, is to request them to conduct an inspection of the facility.

5. No

QUESTION 1915

Mr D.C. Smiles (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. Whether patients of the SA Military Health Services are provided with prescribed drug and common medicines; if not, why not; if so, what stock levels are maintained to provide the required medication adequately; 2. whether she has received any reports which indicated that patients buy medication privately because they were not being supplied by the Military Health Services; if so, 3. whether patients are reimbursed for buying this medication privately; if not, why not; if so, (a) what total amount has been spent on such reimbursements and (b) what amount was allocated in the budget to purchase medication (i) in the 2009-10 financial year and (ii) during the period 1 April 2010 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; 4. whether battlefield medicine is provided to military training institutions; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?NW2302E REPLY 1. Yes, patients are provided with prescribed drug and common medicines. Enough stocks are maintained, based on the budget. 2. No, I have not received any report that patients buy medication privately. In principle, should any patient buy medication privately, they would be reimbursed. 3. The amount allocated for pharmaceuticals in the 2009-10 financial year was R139 554 636. For the period 01 April 2010 to 03 August 2010, R61 821 959 was paid to purchase medication and claims. 4. Battlefield medicine is not a singular concept but a range of stepped-up competencies available at the different levels of care for the wounded casualty on the battlefield. Comprehensive learning opportunities are presented to ensure a combat-ready force. The knowledge and skills are included in specific training courses presented to various groups of soldiers and health care practitioners.

2010-08-23

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