Defence & Military Veteran

2012-12-31

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Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 3328

3328. Mr G R Morgan (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether the Premier of the North West Province requested the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) to assist in curbing rhino poaching in her province; if so, (a) what was the response of the SANDF and (b) what role does the SANDF currently play countrywide to curb rhino poaching?

NW4221E

REPLY

No request has ever been received from the Office Premier of North West.

(a) No response could be given as there was no such a request

(b) The South African National Defence Force is currently involved in Limpopo Province to capacitate the rangers at Kruger National Park in terms of training and surveillance of rhino poachers.

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 3054

3054 Mrs D Robinson (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether her department is currently subscribed to The New Age (TNA) newspaper; if so, (a) how many subscriptions does her department have, (b) when was each subscription initiated, (c) what has been the annual subscription fee for each specified subscription since it was initiated and (d) what is the exact purpose of each subscription;

(2) whether a discount was negotiated for any of the specified subscriptions; if so, (a) for which specified subscriptions and (b) what discount in each case;

(3) whether her department has mass-purchased the TNA on an ad hoc basis since the inception of the newspaper; if so, (a) on what dates, (b) how many copies in each case and (c) why were the papers purchased in each case;

(4) whether (a) the publishers of the TNA and (b) any other entity donated copies of the paper to (i) her department and (ii) any entity reporting to her; if so, in each case, (aa) which entity donated the papers, (bb) to which entity were they donated and (cc) how many copies were donated?

NW3876E

REPLY

(1), (2), (3), (4) and (5)

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 3047

3047 Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) With reference to her reply to question 2403 on 22 October 2012 in respect of the operational condition of ships received from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, (a) what were the maintenance costs for each specified ship, (b) what maintenance work was performed in respect of each specified ship and (c) who bears the costs in each case;

(2) whether any of the specified ships were received in operational condition from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; if not, what was the position in each case; if so, for what period was each specified ship operational;

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

NW3866E

REPLY

(1)

	Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Vessel	Maintenance Cost per Vessel (a)	Maintenance details (b)
1.	SAS Africana	R694 863-00	Servicing Propulsion Diesels, Repair and Maintenance of Emergency Electrical Generator, Main Engine Computer Monitoring System, Vessel Ballast Valves, Refrigeration and Domestic Services
2.	SAS Ellen Khuzwayo	R772 223-00	Both Propulsion Diesels Major Engine Servicing, Sewerage System and Satellite Communication
3.	SAS Sarah Baartman	R868 561-00	Both Propulsion Diesels Monitoring and Control Systems Defective, Underwater Valves and Sacrificial Anodes
4.	SAS Liliann Ngoyi	R733 024-00	Major Service on Propulsion Diesels, Fire Suppression System and Main Engine Monitoring
5.	SAS Ruth First	R189 964-00	Major Services on Propulsion Diesels, Engine Exhaust Manifold, Bridge Monitoring System and Cathodic Protection
6.	SAS Victoria Mxenge	R821 155-00	Major Services on Propulsion Diesels

(c). The cost for each vessel is borne by the South African Navy during the interim against the monthly re-imbursement of all expenses incurred by the South African Navy, in the execution of the functions this includes all maintenance and repair activities.

(2) On the 01^stApril 2012, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries fleet of vessels were transferred to the South African Navy and on the same day subjected to the provisions of the Defence Act. None of the vessels were operational in accordance with the safe sailing provisions. The South African Navy undertook the required maintenance and repair activities (this is on-going process) to ensure that the vessels are declared operational in accordance with the South African Navy Safety and Seaworthy Standards.

(3) No

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 3036

3036 Mr M A Nhanha (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether Operation Phoenix, which started in 2003 to change the names of more than 67 army regiments, has been completed; if not, why not; if so, (a) what is the outcome and (b) why has it taken 10 years to finalise;

(2) whether there has been any resistance to the process; if so, (a) from whom and (b) how does she intend proceeding with the process?

NW3823E

REPLY

(1) No the process has not been complete

(a) The outcome on the initial round where the units had to voluntary propose new names was generally not satisfactory to the Name Review Steering Committee

(b) The delay was because in terms of original Phoenix guidelines, the first priority was to create deployable sub-units that could supplement the Regulars in terms of both internal and external operations and to transform the Reserves in terms of its composition and not the name change exercise. The instruction to start with the Name Review Process was only issued in September 2011.

(2) (a) There has not been any resistance to the process

(b). The process will continue under the auspices of the Name Review Steering Committee and must be finalised in 2013. The criteria as contained in the original instruction will now be broadened and enhanced by means of road-shows to various Regions to engage in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. This should result in a new balanced and inclusive identity, reflecting the military history of South Africa as a whole, within South African Army Reserve.

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 3035

3035 Mr M A Nhanha (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) What is the academic status of the (a) courses and (b) skills development training given at the Saldanha Military Academy;

(2) whether the courses are registered with (a) any sector education and training authority and (b) the SA Qualifications Authority; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case;

(3) whether she has found that the academy is able to attract qualified (a) administrative and (b) training personnel; if not, why not; if so, what is the vacancy rate for (i) administrative and (ii) training personnel;

(4) whether the academy is experiencing any difficulty in (a) attracting and (b) appointing (i) administrative and (ii) training personnel; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case;

(5) whether she intends to (a) close and (b) relocate the Saldanha Academy; if not, why not, in each case; if so, in each case, (i) why and (ii) what are the further relevant details?

NW3822E

REPLY

(1) (a) All academic courses offered at the Military Academy are registered with the Council for Higher

Education and the Bachelor of Military Science degree is conferred by Stellenbosch University to successful graduates.

(b) The Military Skills Development is an added developmental course that provides an advantage

to students to keep them current in terms of their current environment.

(2) (a) All Bachelor's Degree programmes are registered with Council of Higher Education

(b) Yes through the Department of Higher Education

(3) (a), (b); (i) and (ii))

Yes. The vacancy rate for administrative personnel is 40% due to challenges of structural restrictions that exist to expand the administrative capability. The vacancy rate for training staff is 24% due to the low remunerative levels associated to the Department of Defence post levels, compared to their lecturing counterparts at other institutions of higher learning. As well as the need for the training personnel to first conform to the minimum requirements of Stellenbosch University lecturers and academic staff. They have to possess post graduate qualifications in the subject fields to be eligible for appointment.

(4) Yes. Lack of proper remuneration and accommodation

(5) No as it is still a necessity

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 3015

3015. Mr A Watson (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether the accounting officer submitted the annual financial statements for the financial year ending 31 March 2012 to her by 31 August 2012; if not, (a) why not and (b) on what date (i) were the statements submitted to her and (ii) did she submit the annual report and financial statements to Parliament?

NW3782E

REPLY

The department of Defence and Military Veterans Annual report for the financial year ending 31 March 2012 was Tabled in Parliament on the 28^th September 2012 in full compliance with the prescribed timelines of Parliament. This Annual report is inclusive of the Department of Defence Financial Statements for the same period.

Reply received: November 2012

QUESTION 2951

2951. Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) Whether the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) is in control of any (a) prisons and (b) detention centres; if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, (i) how many and (ii) where;

(2) (a) what is the annual budget for each (i) prison and (ii) centre and (b) how many staff members at each (i) prison and (ii) centre are in full-time (aa) attendance and (bb) employment;

(3) for what periods were detainees at each (a) prison and (b) centre held (i) in (aa) 2010 and (bb) 2011 and (ii) during the period 1 January 2012 until the latest specified date for which information is available;

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

NW3711E

REPLY

(1) Yes, the South African National Defence Force is in control of 6 Military Detention Barracks and 2 prisons (Military Correctional Centres), which are all operational.

The Military Detention Barracks are following placed in Thaba-Tshwane; Johannesburg; Port Elizabeth, Potchefstroom; Durban and Bloemfontein. The 2 Military Correctional Centres are situated in Bloemfontein and Cape Town.

(2) The Annual Budget ofBloemfontein Military Facilities is R246 000-00 and for Cape Town is R212 289-00. The budget for the 6 holding cells is incorporated in the unit budgets as part of general police duties. The budget for both Bloemfontein and Cape Town is used to maintain the old buildings, maintenance of post box, subsistence and travel allowance for the staff members when attending courses, to procure office supplies, cleaning material, garden implements and tools, hand tools power driven, to repair vehicles and for the transportation of inmates.

There are 40 permanent staff members and 5 on short term contract in Bloemfontein Military Correctional Facility and34members in the Cape Town Military Facility. These facilities are managed daily on 24 hour basis.

(3) The detainees and/ or offenders kept in detention in the Military Correctional Facilities for a period of 30 days to 2 years and Military Detention Barracks for the period 24 hours to 48 hours.

Centres	2010	2011	01 January 2012 to date known
MILITARY CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
Cape Town	47	49	54
Bloemfontein	21	55	25

MILITARY DETENTION BARRACKS
Thaba-Tshwane	21	35	27
Johannesburg	4	19	10
Potchefstroom	27	19	18
Bloemfontein	31	20	11
Durban	5	6	4
Port Elizabeth	Not operational	Not operational	Not operational

(4) No

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2923

2923. Mr M A Nhanha (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. Whether the R8 billion Hoefyster Project launched in 2008 has produced the intended outcomes in skills training, SMME development and military hardware sales; if not, why not; if so what are the relevant details;

2. (a) which department of the SA National Defence Force is responsible for this fund, (b) who is the specified department working with to achieve the goals designed for the fund and (c) what are the budget expenditure details of the fund since 2009;

3. whether the Military Command Council (MCC) of her department plays any role in respect of this fund; if not why not; if so, what are the latest details?

NW3605E

REPLY

The project is managed by an entity (Denel) which resides and accounts to the Department of Public Enterprises.

Reply received: December 2012

WRITTEN REPLY

QUESTION 2884

2884. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

1. (a) How many registration programmes for military veterans have been conducted since 1994, (b)(i) on what date and (ii) where was each specified registration drive conducted, (c) what was the (i) duration and (ii) total advertising cost of each specified registration drive and (d) how many veterans registered during each specified drive;

2. (a) how many registered veterans who were not vetted were included on the database and (b) for what reason in each case;

3. Whether she has found that a number of military veterans do not have force numbers; if not, how was this conclusion reached; if so, what are the relevant details;

4. whether the information that was collected during the registration drives of (a) 1 to 14 December 2011 and (b) 28 May to 13 June 2012 differed from the information that was collected on previous drives; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

5. whether the Department of Military Veterans intends to facilitate further registration drives; if not, why not; if so, what is the final cutoff date for registration of military veterans?

NW3559E

REPLY

(1) None. The DMV was activated only late in 2010/11.

(2) None according to the record of the Department of Military Veterans.

(3) Only members who have force numbers are currently registered on military veterans' database.

(4) The revised registration form seeks to capture information critical to implementation of Section 5 of the Military Veterans Act. Some of this information cannot be captured using the registration form used prior to the advent of the military veterans Bill and Act.

(5) There will not be another intense database update process, but military veterans are encouraged to continue updating their files in the database at their leisure.

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2877

2877. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether the (a) Secretary for Defence and Military Veterans, (b) director-general of the Department of Military Veterans and (c) any official of her (i) Ministry and (ii) the SA National Defence Force attended any (aa) study group and/or (bb) caucus meeting of a certain political organisation (name furnished) at Parliament since 1 April 2009; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in respect of each specified meeting, what (aaa) is the name of each person who attended the meeting and (bbb)(aaaa) was the total cost and (bbbb) is the breakdown of such cost for each person attending?

NW3551E

REPLY

Yes, officials of the department have, on invitation by Minister, accompanied Minister to the Study Group. A record of these meetings and attendance has not been kept. No official ever attended a Caucus meeting. There are no costs directly linked to the attendance of these meetings as officials attend when they are required to come to Parliament or Cape Town for other official business of the department.

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2825

2825. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether her department maintains a certified personnel register (CPR) for the (a) statutory forces of the former SA Defence Force (SADF), (b) statutory forces of the former (i) Transkei, (ii) Bophuthatswana, (iii) Venda and (iv) Ciskei, (c) Special Defence Units (SDUs) and (d) statutory forces of the SA Cape Coloured Corps (SACC); if not, why not; if so, what are the required criteria for inclusion on this CPR;

(2) whether members who left any of the former statutory forces are required to register as military veterans; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) whether her department conducted a communication and information drive to liaise with members of former statutory forces in order to update their data; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3481E

REPLY

(1) No The Certified Personnel Register (CPR) was kept only for UmkhontoWeSizwe and Azanian Peoples's Liberation Army non-statutory forces. The former South African Defence Force, Transkei, Bophuthatswana, Venda, Ciskei and SA Cape Coloured statutory forces were included in the South African National Defence Force personnel administration system during integration. The Special Defence Units were never included on the Certified Personnel Register.

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2824

2824. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) What are the benefits currently extended to military veterans while the Military Veterans Act, Act 18 of 2011, is not yet implemented with regard to (a) medical care, (b) housing, (c) military pension, (d) special pension, (e) grants, (f) education and training, (g) transport, (h) burial support, (i) preference under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), (j) advisory and counselling services and (k) any other specified benefits;

(2) what are the current benefits extended to dependents of (a) living and (b) deceased military veterans;

(3) what are the criteria currently needed to qualify for benefits?

NW3480E

REPLY

1. The only benefits currently accessed by military veterans from its meagre resources considering that benefits funds have yet to be forwarded by National Treasury for the benefit of milvets, are healthcare, education and burial support.

· Healthcare

- In 2010, Minister declared that military veterans above 60 years of age and those with chronic diseases be enabled to access healthcare services. A list of 2000 milvets was accordingly forwarded to SAMHS. Milvets on this system have since been loaded on the SAMHS system for ready access to healthcare.

- Minister further pronounced that needy military veterans without in need of medical attention be enabled to access healthcare as and when they approach the DMV for such support. A total of 3157 have since been loaded on SAMHS for ready access to healthcare and the number increases steadily on a a monthly basis;

· Education

- In 2010 already, military veterans were already approaching the DMV for education assistance. In 2011, the DMV committed in principle to pay fees for a total of 110 military veterans and dependants at primary and high school levels, as well as those in institutions of highier learning. Approximately 90% of bursars are in tertiary institutions and the rest are in primary and high schools.

- Besides verification with the national military veterans' database, the DMV consulted with MK and APLA to confirm the appropriateness of education support to applicants. The DMV sought to pilot education support with this first group of bursars. Valuable lessons have been learnt and moving forward, improvements will strengthen DMV efficiencies in this area.

· Burial Support

- Military veterans in need who approached the DMV for burial support since 2011 were assisted with a total of R10 000 for burial support. Where deceased military veterans were also recipients of Special Pension, R7000 burial support was topped up by DMV @ R3000 to bring it up to R10000. A total of 18 people were provided burial support thus far in 2012/13.

(2) Currently, a few dependants were provided education support to pilot service delivery in this area. Besides burial support, deceased military veterans are also awarded posthumous military medals in honour of their sacrifice towards the liberation of all in South Africa.

(3) The DMV provides socio-economic support services to military veterans who are:

- Listed on the database and are

- Are without personal means to provide for themselves

Regulations for implementation of the Military Veterans Act have since been developed and they provide criteria for eligibility for support per benefit. Upon approval of Regulations by all concerned, the DMV will be obligated to comply with stipulations in the Regulations.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2804

2804. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) How many youths (a) have completed and (b) are undergoing National Youth Service training;

(2) what is the breakdown by (a) age, (b) gender and (c) race of youths who (i) have completed and (ii) are undergoing National Youth Service training;

(3) whether her department has taken any steps to ensure that the youths' political affiliation is not used as a criterium for recruitment into the National Youth Service; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(4) whether a report was produced following the pilot project in respect of National Youth Service conducted at De Brug in Bloemfontein; if not, why not; if so, (a) when was the report completed and (b) what (i) is the title, (ii) are the findings and (iii) are the recommendations of the report?

NW3457E

REPLY

1) (a) 2 500

(b) 2 200

PROGRAMME	VENUE	TARGETED NUMBERS	AGE GROUP	GENDER WITH EXACT TOTALS	RACE
Pilot Completed	De Brug, Bloemfontein	Planned 500	18 – 32 yrs	Male = 220 Female =280	African and coloured
First Completed	SAS, Saldanha	Planned 1000	18 – 32 yrs	Male = 341 Female = 573	African and coloured
Second completed	(3 SAI) Kimberley	Planned 1000	18 -32 yrs	Male = 438 Female = 452	African and coloured
Current training	(3 SAI) Kimberley	Planned 1200	18 – 32 yrs	Male = 357 Female = 600	African and coloured
Current training	SAS Saldanha	Planned 1000	18 – 32 yrs	Male = 452 Female = 470	African and coloured

3) The Department of Defence and Military Veterans did not conduct any recruitment. The recruitment was done by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform and Office of the Premier KwaZulu-Natal.

4) The report was done and completed in April 2011 with the Title: National Youth Service Programme. Yes, the recommendations were to improve future training programme.

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2796

2796. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

What is the breakdown of the current military veterans database in each province with regard to (a) total number of registered veterans and (b)(i) gender, (ii) age and (iii) formation?

NW3448E

REPLY

The following includes members who have updated their details as well as those who have not yet updated. It is sorted by Province of Residence, Former Force, Gender and age as drawn from the existing database with old information. See attached table

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2734

2734. Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) Whether a certain person (name and details furnished) has banned the wearing of traditional dress; if so, why;

(2) whether any criminal charges have been brought against him with the SA Police Service in the past, regarding which (a) he was found guilty or (b) a judgement is awaited; if so, what are the relevant details of these charges in each case;

(3) what (a) courses has the said person passed and (b) documentary proof is there in this regard;

(4) whether any members of the specified unit have resigned; if so, (a) how many members and (b) what are the reasons for these resignations;

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

NW3375E

REPLY

(1) No, the Officer (name furnished) did not ban the wearing of traditional dress.

(2) The South African Army Infantry Head Quarters is not aware of any criminal charges ever laid against the member.

(3) The Officer has necessary qualifications to be an Officer Commanding of a Reserve Force Regiment

(4) The South African Army Infantry Formation has not received any documentation with regards to resignations of members from the unit relating to the allegations

(5) No

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2733

2733. Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) Whether any progress has been made as regards the taking of disciplinary steps against a certain person (name and details furnished); if not, why not; if so, (a) when were such disciplinary steps taken and (b) what was the nature of the disciplinary steps taken;

(2) whether any recommendations arising from these disciplinary steps have been implemented; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

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

NW3373E

REPLY

(1) and (2)

The person (name furnished) has been suspended and the matter is under investigation.

(3). NO

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2642

2642. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether the SA National Defence Force provided transport to military veterans from a specific collection point to the registration point and back during the registration drives of (a) 1 December 2011 to 14 December 2011 and (b) 28 May 2012 to 13 June 2012; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (i) how many transportation opportunities were provided in respect of each province, (ii) on which dates and (iii) at what cost?

NW3258E

REPLY

Only the Free State Province provided transportation. Below see a record on transportation, dates and cost:

TYPE	DATE	COST
60 Seat Bus Botshablelo – Bloemfontein (return)	9/12/2011	R3900
60 Seat Bus Harrismith – Bloemfontein (return)	9/12/2011	R5000
60 Seat Bus QwaQwa – Bethlehem (return)	9/12/2011	R5300
60 Seat Bus Kroonstad – Bloemfontein (return)	9/12/2011	R12000
60 Seat Bus Theunissen – Bloemfontein (return)	9/12/2011	R6000
60 Seat Bus Harrismith – Bethlehem (return)	12/12/2011	R9900
60 Seat Bus QwaQwa – Bethlehem	12/12/2011	R11000
60 Seat Bus Botshabelo – Bloemfontein	12/12/2011	R3900
60 Seat Bus Thaba Nchu – Bloemfontein	12/12/2011	R3900
60 Seat Bus Botshabelo – Bloemfontein	13/12/2011	R3900
		R64800

=EN� L sy��|p�-size:10.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:Arial'>Military veterans in need who approached the DMV for burial support since 2011 were assisted with a total of R10 000 for burial support. Where deceased military veterans were also recipients of Special Pension, R7000 burial support was topped up by DMV @ R3000 to bring it up to R10000. A total of 18 people were provided burial support thus far in 2012/13.

(3) The DMV provides socio-economic support services to military veterans who are:

- Listed on the database and are

- Are without personal means to provide for themselves

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2640

2640. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) (a) How many persons in each (i) province and (ii) formation of military veterans (aa) registered and (bb) re-registered during the recent registration drive of 28 May 2012 to 13 June 2012, (b)(i) where and (ii) when did registration take place, (c) how many staff were on duty at each registration point and (d) what were the operating hours for registration;

(2) (a) how many advertisements were placed in newspapers in respect of each province, (b) in which newspapers were these advertisements placed, (c) what were the costs of placement and (d) when were these advertisements placed;

(3) (a) how many (i) radio and (ii) television advertisements were aired in respect of each province, (b) on which (i) radio and (ii) television channels were these advertisements aired and (c) in each case (i) what were the costs of placement and (ii) when were these advertisements aired;

(4) whether any advertisements were placed in any other media; if not, why not; if so, (a) on which platforms in each case, (b) what type of media, (c) what were the total costs of placement and (d) when were these advertisements placed?

NW3256E

REPLY

PROVINCE	PHASE 1 NOV/DEC 2011 TOTAL NUMBER OF MILITARY VETERANS WHO COMPLETED FORMS	MEMBERS ON DATABASE WHO COMPLETED FORMS - PHASE 2 JUN/JUL 2012 (STATS FROM PROVINCIAL CO-ORDINATORS)	ADDITIONAL MEMBERS NOT LISTED ON THE DATABASE WHO REPORTED AND SUBMITTED DETAILS
A	B	c	d
EC	1025	263	1780
FS*	307	677	7824
GP	1206	2303	43273
KZN	687	393	433
LP	845	37	541
MP	308	102	2276
NC*	909	748	6654
NW*	312	506	3472
WP*	680	1343	18112
SUB-TOTAL	6279	6372	84365
TOTALS	*12651*		*84365*

Statistics are only available per formation for Phase 1 (Nov/Dec 2011). See Col (B) above. The

Statistics for Phase 2 (Jun/Jul 2012) will be available after 15 Dec 2012 when electronic data- capturing of all forms has been finalised in partnership with Stats SA's data centre.

Updates Per Former Force Nov/Dec 2011:

Former Force	Total updated
APLA	418
BDF	170
CDF	143
MK	1636
SADF	2888
SANDF	428
TBVC	14
TDF	539
UDF	11
VDF	32
TOTAL	6279

Reply received: November 2012

QUESTION 2637

2637. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) What are the names and ranks of the SA Air Force (SAAF) employees who (a) with reference to the reply to question 830 on 7 May 2012, borrowed an aircraft to visit a friend in Botswana and (b) went shopping in pink slippers;

(2) whether any action was taken against the SAAF employees who (a) borrowed an aircraft to visit a friend in Botswana and (b) went shopping in pink slippers; if not, why not, in each case; if so, in each case, (i) what action and (ii) what was the outcome of such action?

NW3253E

REPLY

1) (a) Lieutenant N.S.K. Bulwana

(b) Lieutenant Colonel R.T. Ndayi

2) Action was taken to the members.

- Lieutenant Bulwana was grounded and subsequently suspended from flying and a Board if Inquiry was set up to investigate the matter

- Lieutenant Colonel Ndayi was reprimanded for her action.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2633

2633. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether her department has met with representatives of the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of Fraud, Corruption, Impropriety or Irregularity into the Strategic Defence Procurement Package; if not, why not; if so, with regard to each specified meeting, (a) who represented (i) her department and (ii) the commission, (b) when did the meeting take place and (c) what was the purpose of the meeting;

(2) whether her department has handed over any documents to assist the commission in its inquiry into the arms deal; if not, why not; if so, in each specified case, (a) when were the documents handed to the commission, (b) which documents were handed to the commission and (c) how many documents were handed to the commission;

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

NW3249E

REPLY

1) The department has not met with the any representative of the Commission

2) The copies of all requested documents were handed over to the Commission on the 22^nd June 2012 by Armscor.

3) No

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2621

2621. Mr M A Nhanha (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether Individual Grievances Regulations are being applied instead of the military bargaining

council resolving the long-standing impasse with the more than 1 000 members charged with an illegal march against the administration last year; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether the recognition agreement with the SA National Defence Union (SANDU) is still in place; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW3231E

REPLY

1) The Military Bargaining Council does not exist because South African National Defence Union refused to recognise the appointment of the Chairperson. In respect to the case of 1000 members, the Court of Appeal ruled in favour of South African National Defence Force to charge the members.

2) Yes SANDU is still recognised by the South African National Defence Force and the department.

Reply received: November 2012

QUESTION 2620

2620. Mr M A Nhanha (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether she has found any relaxation of (a) security systems and (b) access to military bases

countrywide; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case;

(2) whether the security arrangements regarding the moving of money or cash in the hands of the military is a closely guarded activity; if not, why not; if so, what (a) are the relevant details with regard to cash handling at (i) the Limpopo base that was robbed of R500 000 and (ii) all other military bases and (b) general security measures are in place?

NW3230E

REPLY

1) (a) and (b)

There is no relaxation of security systems and access to military bases countrywide.

2) The SANDF does not have any responsibility or access of moving cash to military bases. This is done by Financial Services Providers with their own security arrangements.

(a) (i) and (ii) There is no report of any cash-in-transit robbery at any military unit in Limpopo Province as well as in any other military base.

(b) The general security measure is in place in all military bases.

Reply received: November 2012

QUESTION 2606

2606. Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) Whether the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) is (a) providing or (b) has already provided

training to any youth organisations and/or groups; if so, in each case, (i) to which organisations or groups, (ii) when is the training being provided, (iii) to how many members of each organisation is training being provided, (iv) where is the training taking place, (v) what is the full curriculum of the training, (vi) what are the costs linked to the training and (vii) who is responsible for the cost;

(2) what criteria are applied in determining which organisations or youths should receive training by the SANDF;

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

NW3215E

REPLY

(1) and (2)

The South African National Defence Force is providing National Youth Services Programmes through the South African Army (3 SAI) in Kimberley for 1200 and (SAS Saldanha) in Western Cape for 1000 to young people, who have been identified by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform since 2011.

The training curriculum consists of non-military training and the modules content are concentrated on;

· leadership or management training,

· physical training and recreational sports,

· social, psychological and spiritual empowerment

· literacy

The costs are as follows (training-by-training);

	Programme	Venue	Number of Youth	Costs
1	Pilot	Bloemfontein	500	R10 500 000-00
2	First	SAS Saldanha	1000	R32 500 000-00
3	Second	(3 SAI) Kimberley	1000	R32 178 000-16
4	Current	(3 SAI) Kimberley	1200	R32 920 000-00
5	Current	SAS Saldanha	1000	R32 790 000-00

(3). No

Reply received: November 2012

QUESTION 2571

2571. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) How was the budget allocation of R1,6 billion for military veterans' socio-economic benefits determined over the current Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period;

(2) how does this allocation compare with the findings of Alexander Forbes, as commissioned by her department?

NW3179E

REPLY

(1) and (2)

The Department of Military Veterans together with all line function departments on delivery services to military veterans worked with Alexander Forbes on costing benefits. There is no budget. The R1,6 billion was the estimated amount from the actuarial report of the team.

Reply received: November 2012

QUESTION 2570

2570. Mr S Esau (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

Whether all beneficiaries of houses allocated to military veterans are bona fide registered military veterans; if not, why not; if so, how many beneficiaries are there in each province?

NW3178E

REPLY

The Department of Military Veterans has not started with the provision of houses as it is in the process of verification of bona fide military veterans as well awaiting funds from National Treasury.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2486

2486. Mrs J F Terblanche (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) Whether (a) her Ministry, (b) her department and (c) any entity reporting to her plan to host end-of-year parties; if not, in each case, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, (i) for how many persons and (ii) at what cost;

(2) whether the cost of the specified end-of-year parties has been budgeted for in the current financial year; if not, from where will the funding be sourced; if so, (a) what amount has been budgeted and (b) from which part of the budget will it be incurred?

NW3092E

REPLY

The Department of Defence and Military Veterans and its entities has not planned or budgeted for the end-year parties.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2403

2403. Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) Whether ships and boats that have been received from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and are being managed by the SA Navy are all fully operational; if not, (a) why not and (b) what steps does she intend to take in order to render these vessels fully operational;

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

NW2996E

REPLY

(1) The following is the status report of each vessel that was received from the Department of Agriculture and are being managed by South African Navy;

Vessel	Function		Status		Steps taken
Africana	Research		Not operational		The vessel has concluded West/ South Coast Pelagic Fish surveys after the completion of maintenance and repairs that included schedule surveys and inspections. It will be fully operational by end October 2012
Ellen Khuzwayo	Research		Not operational		Maintenance and repairs which included schedule surveys and inspections of underwater valves, inlets and seals have been completed on this vessel. An operational routine has been concluded and will be ready by end of October 2012.
Sarah Baartman	Patrol		Not operational		It is undergoing maintenance and repairs for final readiness and safety checks before declared safe and seaworthy in accordance with the South African Navy Standard.
Lillian Ngoyi	Patrol		Not operational		It is undergoing maintenance period which includes servicing of engines in terms of operating hours and will be ready by end of October 2012.
Ruth First		Patrol		Not operational in its assigned responsibility		Currently used to conduct crew training and will be fully operation for its function at the end of October 2012.
Victor Mxenge		Patrol		Not operational		The vessel is undergoing its normal maintenance period which includes final readiness and safety checks before being declared safe and seaworthy in accordance with South African Navy Standards. It will be conducting East Coast fishery patrols from Port Elizabeth during the last three months of 2012.
Algoa		Research		Handed over to the Department of Environmental Affairs for Oceanographic Surveys.		The vessel was fully operational during the handover.

(2) No

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2402

WRITTEN REPLY

2402. Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) Whether any officers in the SA National Defence Force hold dual citizenship; if so, (a) how many, (b) how many officers in each specified rank and (c) of which country is the other citizenship held, in each case;

(2) whether it is the policy of her department that officers may hold dual citizenship; if not, what steps has she taken to correct this situation;

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

NW2995E

REPLY

(1), (2)

None of the South African Defence Force officers have a dual citizenship as the policy of department does not allow.

(3). No

Reply received: December 2012

Question 2370

2370. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether any back-up aircraft or helicopters have been used to accompany the (a) President, (b) Deputy President and (c) any specified Ministers in the (i) 2009-10, (ii) 2010-11, (iii) 2011-12 and (iv) 2012-13 financial years; if not; why not; if so, in respect of each specified back-up flight, (aa) what type of aircraft was used, (bb) what was the (aaa) date and (bbb) location of (aaaa) departure and (bbbb) arrival and (cc) what was the (aaaaa) total cost and (bbbbb) breakdown of such cost?

NW2952E

REPLY

The detail on information requested is classified.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2369

2369. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether her predecessor had advised the SA National Defence Force to suspend the process of acquiring a Boeing 777-200L aircraft; if so, (a) what are the names of the persons who were advised and (b) on what date were they advised;

(2) whether the specified persons had been advised in writing; if not, (a) why not and (b) in what way were they advised; if so, (i) what is the name of the person who sent the letter, (ii) on what date was the letter (aa) sent and (bb) received and (iii) by whom it was received?

NW2951E

REPLY

(1) and (2)

Reply received: October 2012

Question 2359

2359. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether any persons employed in her department are surplus to the needs of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) how many, (b) how many in each specified (i) service, (ii) division and (iii) other formation, (c) what is the (i) estimated cost of compensation for the specified employees and (ii) breakdown of such costs for each specified (aa) service, (bb) division and (cc) other formation for the 2012-13 financial year;

(2) whether she has formulated a plan to separate employees who have been found to be surplus to the needs of the SANDF; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2940E

REPLY

(1) No. The services and divisions of the Department of Defence and Military Veterans has 88 597 approved posts and has 71 970 as actual strength.

(2) No

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2298

2298. Mr T D Lee (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(a) What steps has she taken to give effect to the performance agreement that she signed with the President in 2010, (b) what outcomes have been measured and (c) what follow-up steps has she taken with regard to each specified outcome?

NW2881E

REPLY

Government has adopted 12 outcomes with a view to measurable performance and accountable delivery.

All Cabinet Ministers have signed performance agreements with the President, where they were requested to establish and participate in the Implementation Forums for each of the twelve outcomes.

All departments, government agencies and spheres of government that are involved in the direct delivery required to achieve an outcome, are party to the agreement.

In June 2012, government released the Mid-term Review Report which focuses on the government's progress against the delivery agreements for the 12 outcomes; I would therefore refer the Honourable Member of Parliament to this document as it provides a comprehensive account in the areas of national priorities, such as education, crime and corruption and rural development.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2284

WRITTEN REPLY

2284. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) How many (a) flights and (b) ferry flights were undertaken by her predecessor using a Gulfstream Executive Jet operated by the SA Air Force Reserve Squadrons in the (i) 2009-10, (ii) 2010-11 and (iii) 2011-12 financial years;

(2) what (a) was the (i) date and (ii) location of (aa) departure and (bb) arrival for each specified flight in each specified financial year and (b)(i) was the cost and (ii) is the breakdown of the cost in each specified case?

NW2865E

REPLY

1. (a), (b)

FINANCIAL YEAR	FLIGHTS	FERRY FLIGHTS
2009/ 10	04	08
2010/ 11	67	33
2011/ 12	63	28

2. Unfortunately the details requested will not be availed as it is classified information.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2215

2215. Mr T D Lee (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

Whether (a) the SA National Defence Force or (b) any entity reporting to her makes use of private security firms; if so, in each case, (i) which firms and (ii) what is the (aa) purpose, (bb) value and (cc) duration of each specified contract?

NW2704E

REPLY

· South African National Defence Force Not using any private security firm

· Castle Control Board Not using any private security firm

· Armscor

- Institute for Maritime Technology (a division of Armscor Defence Institute) uses ADT to monitor alarm system costs R9 978 -00 per annum (01 April 2012-31 March 2013)

- Alkantpan Test Range (Copperton) uses G4S Secure Solution (SA) PTY Ltd for 24 hour security service costs as follows on a 3 year period 01 April 2011-31 March 2014

2011/12 = R1 334 843-50 (excluding VAT)

2012/13 = R1 433 973-10 (excluding VAT)

2013/14 = R1 540 807-10 (excluding VAT)

- Gerotek Test Facilities (Pretoria West)

Appointed Raite Security Services and consulting for perimeter patrol, access control and asset protection over 3 year period 01 October 2012-30 September 2015 to cost R3 264 790-08

Year 1: R1 047 254-40

Year 2: R1 082 259-96

Year 3: R1 135 275-72

- Protechnik Laboratories (Centurion)

The following are being used;

§ ADT (Pty) Ltd for monitoring alarm system with armed response at the cost of R5 443-00 per annum (excluding VAT)

§ Protea Coin Group (Pty) Ltd for 24 hour security services around the premises for 12 months period ending 28 February 2013 at the cost of R284 521-00 per annum (excluding VAT)

Reply received: September 2012

QUESTION 2100

2100. Mr P J Groenwald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) (a) Why the submarine SAS Queen Modjadji has hit the ocean floor and (b) what is the extent of the damage to the submarine;

(2) whether any disciplinary steps have been taken against (a) the commander or (b) any member of the crew; if not, why not; if so, (i) against whom and (ii) which steps in each case;

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

NW2605E

REPLY

(1) and (2)

The submarine SAS Queen Modjadji 1 made an unplanned contact with the sea-bottom (mud and sand) on the 17th July 2012 during routine "diving safety drill" and "hydraulic oil pressure failure" exercise. The Board of Inquiry (BOI) has been convened by SA Navy to determine factors that may have caused the incident.

The outcome of the report of BOI will provide the recommendation about the responsibility and accountability of the members of the crew involved.

A technical investigation has shown that SAS Queen Modjadji 1 has suffered an indentation (approximately 1,5m by 1,5m) to the outer protective plating (7.8mm) of the bow, protecting the main ballast tank no: 5.

(3). No

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 2097

2097. Mr V B Ndlovu (IFP) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) Whether the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) has a policy in place for attracting new recruits; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(2) whether she has found that recruiting offices are easily accessible to all citizens, including those who live in rural areas; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) whether she has found the recruiting offices are equipped with (a) well-informed recruiting staff and (b) printed information; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case;

(4) whether she has found that the recruiting staff (a) interact with communities and (b) hand out the relevant information on the SANDF; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case;

(5) whether it is the policy of the SANDF to target specific communities; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2014E

REPLY

1) Yes. The department has a Human Resources Acquisition Strategy of 07 October 2005, which encompasses Human Resource acquisition Plan with 6 desired end states.

2) Yes. The recruiting offices are situated in towns next to a military facility which covers all provinces;

- Eastern Cape (Port Elizabeth)

- Free State (Bloemfontein)

- Gauteng and Mpumalanga (Pretoria)

- KwaZuluNatal (Durban)

- Limpopo (Polokwane)

- Northern Cape (Kimberley)

- North West (Potchefstroom)

- Western Cape (Cape Town)

3) Yes recruiting officers are managed by Human resources functionaries who get empowered regularly to ensure efficiency on their work.

4) Exhibitions, career booklets which are available at all services and accessibility through the website of the department provides the communities an opportunity to obtain information.

5) No

Reply received: September 2012

QUESTION 2064

2064. Mr T D Lee (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) Whether (a) she, (b) her Deputy Minister and (c) any official from an entity reporting to her will be attending or attended, the 2012 Olympic Games; if so, what is the (i)(aa) name, (bb) rank and (cc) position/designation of each specified person accompanying (aaa) her, (bbb) her Deputy Minister and (ccc) each specified person and (ii)(aa) nature and (bb) official reason for the visit;

(2) what (a) total amount will be spent or has been spent on the trip, (b) is the (i) description and (ii) detailed breakdown of the amounts that will be spent or have been spent on (aa) accommodation, (bb) travel and (cc) subsistence costs and (c) from which budget will these funds be incurred in each case?

NW2544E

REPLY

(1). & (2) No

Reply received: September 2012

QUESTION 2054

PQ 2054: Mr D.J. Maynier (DA) to ask Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) Whether a certain person (name and details furnished) was fired on the 11th June 2012; if so, why was the said person fired; if not, what is the position in this regard;

(2) Whether the said person vacated the position; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(3) Whether any officials have been suspended at a certain company (name furnished); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case (a) what is the full name of the official and (b) (i) why and (ii) when was the official suspended?

NW2534E

REPLY

(1), (2) and (3)

In the meeting with the Board of Armscor it was confirmed that the person (name an details furnished) is still the Chairperson of the Armscor Board and has not been dismissed.

The company (name furnished) has suspended two officials (names furnished) due to tender irregularities. The disciplinary process for one official (name furnished) was completed and was subsequently dismissed. The disciplinary hearing for the other official (name furnished) has been completed and the verdict is awaited in this regard.

The other two officials (names furnished); were suspended for inter alia, the unlawful distribution of certain Armscor documents and incitement of employees, in contravention of Armscor internal processes.

The respective disciplinary processes are underway and are conducted in accordance with a fair

procedure as prescribed in terms of Labour relations Act as well as relevant Armscor disciplinary practices and procedures

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 2016

2016. Mrs J D Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) How many employees in her department in the post level of deputy director to director-general who have been appointed on a (a) permanent and (b) contract basis (i) have been suspended on full salary pending investigations or disciplinary action for periods exceeding three months, (ii) have resigned before the relevant investigations or disciplinary actions were concluded and (iii)(aa) have been found guilty of gross financial misconduct or negligence and dismissed and (bb) were dismissed following due process and disciplinary hearings in the (aaa) 2009-10 and (bbb) 2010-11 financial years;

(2) what total amount was paid in salaries and benefits to the employees while they were suspended;

(3) whether her department has laid criminal charges against any persons following investigations or disciplinary hearings where fraud or corruption was found to have taken place; if not, why not; if so,

(4) whether, subsequent to the specified findings of fraud and corruption, any amounts have been recovered in terms of the relevant provisions of the Public Finance Management Act, Act 1 of 1999; if so, what amounts; if not,

(5) how does she intend to comply with national legislation which was promulgated to prevent corrupt practices and compel authorities to report corrupt practices to law enforcement agencies?

NW2492E

REPLY

1. (a) One Brigadier General on permanent basis

(b) No members on the rank levels of Colonel and General are appointed on contract basis

(i) Brigadier General (without pay) and 3 Colonels (with pay) are suspended over a period

exceeding 3 months

(ii) None

(iii)(aa), (bb); (aaa) and (bbb) None

2. R5 486 281-84

3. Yes the department has laid charges

4. Still under investigation

5. The Military Police and Counter Intelligence agencies are ensuring that corrupt activities are prevented in and around South African National Defence Force. The perpetrators, if identified are charged and prosecuted.

Reply received: October 2012

Question 1969

1969. Mr M Mnqasela (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

Whether any entity reporting to her has budgeted for (a) financial donations or (b) sponsorships in the (i) 2009-10, (ii) 2010-11 and (iii) 2011-12 and (iv) 2012-13 financial years; if not, why not; if so, in each case, what amount was (aa) budgeted and (bb) spent?

NW2358E

REPLY

The entities of the Department of Defence and Military Veterans did not budget for any sponsorship and financial donations for the periods mentioned.

The following are the units in the department that has budgeted for sponsorships;

Unit

Purpose

Cost

Defence Foreign Relations

Service foreign students on ENSP

R600 000-00

South African National war College through Joint Senior Command and Staff Programme

Accommodation, meals, internal capability visits, Subsistence and Travel allowances (for foreign study tours), air tickets, graduation certificated and badges

2009/10

-. Planned R534 104-00

for 8 leaners

-. Spent R470 104-00 on 8 learners

2010/11

-. Planned R556 464-00

for 8 leaners

-. Spent R500 646-00 on 8 learners

2011/12

-. Planned R555 304-00

for 8 leaners

-. Spent R317 065-00 on 8 learners

2012/13

-. Planned R570 786-00

for 8 leaners

-. Spent R499 437-00 on 8 learners

Reply received: September 2012

QUESTION 1950

1950. Mr G R Morgan (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) With reference to the assistance received of a helicopter from 15th squadron in the rescue of an injured fire-fighter in Winston Park, Durban, on 4 July 2012 (details furnished), at what time (a) was the request for assistance and (b) did the helicopter arrive on the scene;

(2) whether any reasons were provided by officials of 15th squadron for the length of time it took to dispatch the helicopter to the scene of the accident once the request for assistance had been received; if so, what are the relevant details; if not, why not;

(3) what is the standard response time set by the SA National Defence Force?

NW2339E

REPLY

(1) (a) 05h40B

(b) 09h20B

(2) The reasons provided were that they were awaiting;

- report of patient status

- the weather to clear before the aircraft could take off

(3) During working hours it is 1hour and after hours 2hours

Reply received: December 2012

QUESTION 1925

1925. Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) In respect of the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-related Information Act, Act 70 of 2002, (a) how much did her department pay and (b) what was the breakdown of such payments to each specified (i) postal service provider, (ii) telecommunications service and (iii) decryption key holder in the (aa) 2003-04, (bb) 2004-05, (cc) 2005-06, (dd) 2006-07, (ee) 2007-08, (ff) 2008-09, (gg) 2009-10, (hh) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12 financial years;

(2) how much did her department pay in total to each specified (a) postal service provider, (b) telecommunications service and (c) decryption key holder during the period 1 April 2003 to 31 March 2012?

NW2314E

REPLY

(1) And (2)

The department paid R144 170-24 for telecommunications services for the financial years since 2003 to 2012.

- Postal Service Provider = Nil

- Telecommunications Service = R144 170-24

- Decryption Key Holder = Nil

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 1875

1875. Mr M A Nhanha (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

(1) Whether the current training of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is directed towards (a) peace-keeping or (b) war;

(2) whether the SANDF intends setting up a fully-fledged military academy to improve the level of military education; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW2264E

REPLY

(1) The current posture and training of the South African National Defence Force is based in the context of National Security Strategy which is focusing on creating better life and safe environment for all.

(2) The department is planning to expand on the current infrastructure, human resources and budget of the Military Academy to function effectively for career development of the members of the South African national Defence Force. The main goal is to have all officers equipped with knowledge and skills to be effective in their workplace.

Reply received: October 2012

QUESTION 1780

1780. Mrs P C Duncan (DA) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

(1) Whether (a) her department and (b) all entities reporting to her make payment to (i) suppliers and (ii) service providers within the 30 day payment period as specified by the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Act 1 of 1999; if not, in each case, (aa) how many service providers are awaiting payment, (bb) what is the monetary value of outstanding payments and (cc) how long is payment overdue;

(2) whether (a) her department and (b) all entities reporting to her are liable for any interest charged on overdue payments in any of the cases mentioned; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in each case, what is the (i) percentage and (ii) monetary value of interest charged;

(3) whether (a) her department and (b) all entities reporting to her have negotiated revised payment schedules with each of the service providers mentioned; if not, why not; if so, in each case, what are the relevant details;

(4) what are the reasons for (a) her department and (b) all entities reporting to her not making payment within 30 days as specified by the PFMA;

(5) whether (a) her department and (b) all entities reporting to her have implemented any measures to (i) ensure full compliance with the PFMA and (ii) facilitate immediate payment for overdue accounts; if not, why not; if so, in each case, what are the relevant details?

NW2171E

REPLY

(1) (a), (b) (i),(ii) (aa),(bb) and (cc)

· South African National Defence pays suppliers and service providers up to 67% in the

expected 30 days.

There are;

- 2 702 invoices from suppliers for goods and services outstanding which costs R22,8 million

- 4 937 invoices for medical services outstanding to the value of R11,8 million

These have been overdue since 16 June 2012 to 15 July 2012

· Armscor does pay invoices within 30 days after receipt of invoices

· Castle Control Board does comply with payment period as stipulated in the Public Finance Management Act1 of 1999 with exception of one company which submitted invoices late.

(2) South African National Defence Force has not been liable for any interest

Armscor not liable for any interest as they are in compliance

Castle Control Board has not been charged any interest on outstanding payments

(3) The Department is in discussions with suppliers regarding outstanding payments to address the challenges as outlined on reply4 underneath. The departmental entities have not entered into negotiations on the revised payments as none has had an overdue payment.

(4) The reasons of the delay in processing payment to suppliers by the department are as follows;

- incomplete and inaccurate payment documentation (eg invoices not matching with the delivery note or receipt voucher)

- invoices sent or delivered by suppliers to incorrect offices within the department

- suppliers not registered on the database of the department prior to awarding of a contract – these are mainly in case of emergency

- delay with the verification of details and vetting of suppliers which are not on the database of the department

- incorrect or no banking details availed by the suppliers

- verification with the department and National Treasury if there are changes with banking details of suppliers

(5) The department is addressing these challenges as follows;

- Regional Accounting Managers submit monthly reports

- Standing meetings are taking place to ensure that deviations are addressed

- Monthly reports are submitted to National Treasury

- Staff visits are conducted to address the shortcomings

- Formal and informal training are given to all personnel involved in the supply chain process

- There are on-going discussions with suppliers regarding outstanding payments to clarify challenges explain in the reply above

lt{�omX0�Ho�-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:1.0in;text-align:justify;text-indent:-.5in'>(2) (a) The most common problem being experienced when supplying uniform for each year is running out of stock when it comes to certain sizes.

(b) The problem is solved by procuring replenishment stock through the normal procurement processes.

Reply received: September 2012

QUESTION 1734

1734. Mr P J Groenewald (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:†

(1) (a)(i) What types of and (ii) how many aircrafts of each type are currently part of the SA National Army's VIP fleet, (b) how many (i) years of service and (ii) flight hours each said aircraft has completed as at the latest specified date for which information is available;

(2) whether she intends to make a statement about this matter?

NW2119E

REPLY

(1).

(a)(i)	(a)(ii)	(b)(i)	(b)(ii)
Boeing 737	1	9 years old	542.0hrs
Falcon 900	1	20 years old	9850.0hrs
Falcon 50	2	29 years old	9407.0hrs and 7800.0hrs
Cessna Citation	2	30 years old	6684.0hrs and 7421.0hrs

(2). No

Reply received: August 2012

QUESTION NO.:1569

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 8 JUNE 2012

Mr N J J van R Koornhof (Cope) to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans:

Whether she intends to conduct (a) an environmental impact study before taking a final decision to move the SA Air Force base in Langebaan to Hoedspruit and (b) a study on the impact that concomitant flying activities over the Kruger National Park and the region will have on the tourism sector; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

NW1893E

REPLY

(a) The Chief of the National Defence Force has indicated that the move from Langebaan to Hoedspruit is no longer an option. Consequently, an impact study is not deem necessary at present.

(b) The SA Air Force has adequate flying areas outside the environmental and tourism affected areas pertaining to the Kruger National Park. The Hoedspruit Air Force Base in the past, was for many years, the home base for fighter and jet trainer aircraft. The adverse effect on the environment, especially wildlife, was always a government factor. As such, strict rules, regulations and procedures regarding aircraft operations have always been in place so as to negate any detriment to the well being of the Kruger National Park. In the unlikely event of Central Flying School operations shifting to Hoedspruit Air Force Base, the SA Air Force will proactively carry out a fresh environmental survey, despite the fact that the aircraft operated by Central Flying School are far less noisy than the jets that used to operate from Hoedspruit Air Force Base in the past

2012-12-31

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