Questions & Replies: International Relations & Cooperative
2013-03-04
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Reply received: December 2013
QUESTION NO: 3139 (NW3697E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 38-2013 OF 15 NOVEMBER 2013
MR T D LEE (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether her department received any funds for the Expanded Public Works Programme in the (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) 2012-13 financial years;
(2) whether any of these funds were earmarked for (a) capital or (b) infrastructure related projects; if so, (i) what are the names of these projects, (ii) where are these projects situated, (iii) what is the value of each project and (iv) how many jobs have been created by each project
(3) In each case, what process was followed to appoint project (a) implementers and (b) consultants;
(4) in each case, were funds transferred to project implementers (a) in a lump sum or (b) through progress payment;
(5) whether any projects have been impeded due to maladministration or corruption; if so, (a) which projects have been affected and (b) what action has been taken in each case?
REPLY:
DIRCO has not received any funds for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in the period in question.
Reply received: December 2013
QUESTION NO: 3096 (NW3653E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 38-2013 OF 15 NOVEMBER 2013
MR DJ MAYNIER (DA-MP) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
1. Whether, in light of recent revelations that Britain's Government Communications Headquarters (a) placed South African political leaders and/or officials under surveillance at the 2009 G8/G20 summits and (b) hacked her department's computer network, she met with the British High Commissioner to South Africa to discuss the matter; if not, why not; if so, (i) when did the meeting take place, (ii) what was discussed at the meeting and (iii) what was the outcome of the meeting;
2. Whether she took any action to ensure that her department's computer network was safe from hacking; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
3. Whether she took any specified action with regard to this matter; if not, why not; if so, what specified action? NW3653E
REPLY:
1. No. The matter is being dealt with, followed up by the State Security Agency through their channels.
2. The Department has taken the necessary measures to ensure that its computer network is secure.
3. No. The matter is being dealt with, followed up by the State Security Agency.
Reply received: December 2013
QUESTION NO: 2991(NW3541E) AS PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 36-2013 OF 01 NOVEMBER 2013.
MR A WATSON (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
Since 9 May 2009 to which countries has the Government sent (a) notes or (b) letters of diplomatic protest and (c) what is the reason for each of these correspondence?
REPLY:
(a, b and c)
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has engaged in various forms of diplomatic communication with other states. In keeping with quite diplomacy and the diplomacy of Ubuntu, we have handled such matters bilaterally without resorting to making public announcements about such issues. Where appropriate, we have raised issues of concern sharply with a view to getting them resolved or preventing recurrence thereof.
Reply received: November 2013
QUESTION NO: 2989 (NW3539E) AS PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 36-2013 OF 01 NOVEMBER 2013
MR A WATSON (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Since 11 May 2009 how many (a) letters or (b) notes of diplomatic protest has her
Department received;
(2) from which state has each (a) letter or (b) note of diplomatic protest been received;
(3) What was the reason behind each (a) letter or (b) note of diplomatic protest?
REPLY:
(1, 2 and 3)
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has engaged in various forms of diplomatic communication with other states, including direct interaction.
In keeping with quite diplomacy and the diplomacy of Ubuntu, we have handled such matters bilaterally without resorting to making public announcements about such issues.
Reply received: December 2013
QUESTION NO: 2958(NW3509E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 35-2013 OF 25 OCTOBER 2013
MR L NGONYAMA (COPE-MP) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
Whether her Department is holding discussions with (a) European and (b) non-European countries to terminate those bilateral investment treaties (a) without automatic renewal clauses and (b) have reached their terminal dates; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? 3509
REPLY:
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has been working with the lead department, the Department of Trade and Industry, on this issue.
Yes, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation has held discussions with the following European countries (a) whose agreements are without automatic renewal clauses: the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Denmark, Switzerland and Austria; and (b) with the following European countries whose agreements have reached their termination dates: the Belgo-Luxembourg Economic Union, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy and Greece; and has given notice of termination of the Bilateral Investment Treaties with the countries listed under (a) and (b).
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has not held discussions with non-European countries on the termination of their Bilateral Investment Treaties, although some have already been engaged on the issue by the Department of Trade and Industry, the lead department, including South Korea, Argentina and Mauritius.
Reply received: November 2013
QUESTION NO: 2924 (NW3475E) AS APPEARED IN IQP NO:35-2013 OF 25 OCTOBER 2013
Mr M Swart (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) How much has (a) her department and (b) each d the entities reporting to her spent on advertisements placed on the Africa News Network 7 (ANN7) news channel;
(2) were these advertisements placed through the Government Information and Communications System?
RESPONSE:
1. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation and/or any of its entities did not spend any capital on advertising on the Africa News Network (ANN7) news channel.
2. Not applicable
Reply received: November 2013
QUESTION NO: 2891 (NW3442E) AS APPEARED IN IQP MO:35-2013 OF 25 OCTOBER 2013
Mr A C Steyn (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) What amount has (a) her department and (b) each of the entities reporting to her spent on advertising (i) in The New Age newspaper and (ii) on its website k-n 1 December 2012 and 31 August 2013;
(2) were these advertisements placed through the Government Information and Communication System?
RESPONSE:
1. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation and/or any of its entities did not spend any capital on advertising on (i) the New Age newspaper and (ii) on Its website between 1 December 2012 and 31 August 2013.
2. Not applicable.
Reply received: December 2013
PARLIAMENTARY QUESTION 2853 (NW3402E) AS PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO:35-2013 OF 25 OCTOBER 2013.
Ms D A Schaefer to ask Minister of International Relations and Co operation
1- How many hours per month in the 2012/13 financial year has her Deputy Minister, Mr Marius Fransman spent on departmental work
2- - What (a) is the staff compliment of the specified deputy minister's office and (b) are there job descriptions respectively?
REPLY
1) The Deputy Minister is appointed by the President and is on duty 24 hours a day.
In this regard for the period 2012/13 Deputy Minister Fransman fulfilled and executed all his Ministerial and departmental responsibilities as delegated by me as well as fully supporting me in the execution of the Ministerial responsibilities. The Annual Performance Report for the year 12/13 highlights our department's successful performance i.e. broadly achieving all our performance outputs and Deputy Minister fully supported me in achieving these outputs, outcomes and objectives. Some of the key areas include having taken responsibility for incoming and outgoing visits in respect of Africa and Europe as delegated to him. He played an instrumental role in supporting the President as the SADC Chair of Troika MCO for Madagascar. Secondly support to the successful BRICS summit amongst other things as well as being deployed as the South African special envoy to Madagascar and special envoy to assist with the release of Professor Karabus. DM Fransman has also assisted me in driving economic diplomacy in order to unlock economic opportunities for broad based black business in particular. Our international relations delivery speaks for itself.
2) The current staff compliment is 5 with 3 funded vacancies and in line with the Ministerial Handbook and approved organogram.
This includes:Head of Office – The job description is as prescribed for a head of office of a deputy minister – the overall management of the office
Private Secretary – The job description is the standard JD as prescribed for a private secretary to a deputy minister –including managing the Deputies Ministers Diary and private Office
Administration/ corporate services Manager – manage all demand and supply chain issues amongst others
Administration officer / PA to the Head of office- the JD is a JD as approved for secretaries of Directors
Driver / Messenger – the JD is as approved for state driver and messenger.
The vacancies include Cabinet and Parliamentary Officer
Communications and media liaison
Registry Clerk
Reply received: October 2013
QUESTION NO: 2751 (NW3251E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 33-2013 0F 18 OCTOBER 2013
Mr E H Eloff (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
Question NW3251E relates to
(1) (a) What are the reasons for the establishment of the Ubuntu Radio station and (b) how will it differ from existing radio stations in South Africa;
(2) (a) how much will the establishment of the radio station cost, (b) what is the breakdown of these costs and (c) what is the estimated cost of running the radio station per annum;
(3) against which line item on her department's budget will the money for the radio station be allocated;
(4) (a) why is the Ubuntu Radio station being operated under the auspices of her department and not under the auspices of the Department of Communications?
REPLY:
1. (a) South Africa's first government-run, 24-hour online radio station is consistent with the active and prominent role that South Africa plays in global affairs.
The idea behind its conception was a need to create a platform for exchange of views and opinions by key players who contribute to shaping South Africa's Foreign Policy. These would include government institutions, the diplomatic community, civil society, academia, media and other role-players in the field of international relations.
South Africa's Foreign Policy has been consistently in the spotlight since the country became a member of various global and strategic formations such as the UN Security Council; the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) grouping; the India, Brazil, South Africa (IBSA) initiative; and the G20.
In addition, South Africa's continuous role and engagement in the activities of the African Union (AU) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) have positioned South Africa firmly as a country with formidable contributions to make in the regional and global political scene.
Due to South Africa's increased role and mandate in the international arena, it is important that immediate and accessible platforms are used to communicate South Africa's Foreign Policy and to promote Brand South Africa domestically and abroad. Ubuntu Radio aims to create a fair and balanced representation of the work of the Department and Government as a whole, and to clearly and consistently present the policies and decisions of the South African Government.
In essence, Ubuntu Radio is a reaffirmation of the South African Government's continuous commitment to ensuring that its work and contributions in global politics are widely understood, recognized, appreciated, and most fundamentally, located within the context of the country's Foreign Policy.
(b) In choosing an internet-based radio station over a mainstream radio station, DIRCO was inspired by the results of extensive research conducted on the effectiveness, influence and listenership of internet-based radio stations throughout the world.
Research indicates that internet-based radio has gained momentum over the past 10 years, and its benefits are visible.
In a study released on 25 September 2013, Edison Media Research indicated that over half of the American online population (53%) listened to internet radio citing "on-demand services", "availability of device" and "convenience" as reasons for utilising the medium.
South Africans are no different from the rest of the world and are also embracing digital technology to communicate in ways that could never have been imagined just a few years ago.
In February this year, the Digital Media and Marketing Association (DMMA) released its findings from a survey conducted on South Africa's internet-using population. The survey found that the majority of internet users used the platform mainly for email (95%), followed by web browsing (84%) and social networking (78%), with respondents citing their home as their preferred location to access the internet. In terms of users who access the internet via their mobile phones, three out of four said they did so every day. When users were asked the question: "Does the internet displace other media?" users responded with a resounding "Yes".
Researchers at World Wide Worx said in their Internet Access in South Africa 2012 study that broadband access in South Africa more than doubled as mobile operators slashed the cost of data and network roll-outs accelerated.
In the annual South Africa & SADC Media Facts 2013, Optimum Media Direction (OMD) CEO Josh Dovey stated that the digital platform will eventually become the portal for all media consumption and, as has always been the case with media of any kind, content is what will drive success and attract the consumer. OMD has the largest media network in Africa with 10 registered offices covering 30 markets on the African continent.
It is clear that internet radio is here to stay, bringing with it endless variety, more commercial stations, including public/government stations.
2 (a) Online broadcasting is the cheapest or most affordable format in the world. DIRCO has always had existing infrastructure for broadcast. A fully fledged and equipped studio. That means little costs were incurred in the establishment. (b) R1.2 Million was spent on upgrading the equipment and training officials in preparation to launch Ubuntu radio and go on air. (c)An estimated R1 million will be set aside annually for running costs and maintenance.
3 The budget is with Branch Public Diplomacy whose mandate is to communicate our foreign policy to domestic and international audiences. The station is a platform we have initiated to realize that objective.
4 DIRCO has a responsibility to communicate the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy. Like other departments we review our communication strategy regularly and evaluate what works and what doesn't. In the context of a changing communications landscape where social media and online platforms are gaining momentum, we thought it was a prudent step to establish this platform. The DOC has its own communications machinery to popularize its mandate and work. It does not and cannot be expected to shoulder the responsibility to communicate DIRCO's work. Ubuntu radio has signed an MoU with the SABC's Channel Africa to exchange content and broaden the reach and accessibility of our messages.
Reply received: October 2013
WRITTEN REPLY FOR QUESTION NO: 2720 (NW3198E)
PUBLISHED INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 33-2013 OF 18 OCTOBER 2013
Mr L S Ngonyama (Cope) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
Whether it is the Government's policy to deploy troops on peacekeeping missions through a variety of regional or bilateral arrangements, rather than restricting itself to United Nations' deployments; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details? NW3198E
REPLY
South Africa deploys to SADC and AU peace-keeping missions on the African Continent through the approval of the mandate by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
With regard to bilateral requests for the deployment of peacekeepers, South Africa does not deploy its troops on peacekeeping missions. South Africa engages countries bilaterally through Defence Agreements to assist with building capacity, peacebuilding and post conflict reconstruction and development programmes.
Reply received: October 2013
QUESTION NO: 2700 (NW3197E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 32-2013 OF 11 OCTOBER 2013
Mr L S Ngonyama (Cope) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) Whether the Government's foreign military and diplomatic involvement need to adapt its traditional peacekeeping methods to produce more flexible and realistic solutions to emerging threats in Africa; if not, how was the conclusion reached; if so,
(2) Whether the Government's foreign military and diplomatic involvement is in line with the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA);
(3) Whether the Government will meet with the United Nations or the African Union on revising its approach; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) NO
Having realised the complexity of peacekeeping missions on the ground as they evolve, the Government of South Africa in 2008 sanctioned a study on "Experiences and Lessons Learnt from South Africa's Participation in International Peace Missions". This was an interdepartmental project that involved all relevant stakeholders.
The study was meant to assess South Africa's participation and its impact, compile lessons learnt while highlighting best practices and challenges and make recommendations that would improve participation, policies and practices. Hence the review of the White Paper on South Africa's Participation in Peace Missions.
One more critical element that compelled South Africa to look into its policy and review were the pronouncements at United Nations level that was emulated by the AU and SADC on peacekeeping methods. The nations at UN level agreed that the traditional peacekeeping methods no longer sufficed due to the nature of contemporary conflicts, which call for Multidimensional Peace Support Operation, which comprises three pillars, Military, Police and Civilian. South Africa guided by these mandatory authorities, the UN, AU and SADC subscribe to the new approach.
The Multidimensional approach to peace support operations gave rise to the international commitment to address the root causes, consequences of conflict and the creation of a conducive environment for human security and development. At international level, these changes were informed by, amongst others, the Report of the Panel on UN Peace Operations (Brahimi Report) of 2000, Report of the UN Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace and Security, UN Panel on Threats and Challenges (2004), UN Report In Larger Freedom: Towards Development, Security and Human Rights for All (2005), the UN Peacekeeping Operations: Principles and Guidelines (2008) and the African Union's African Peace and Security Architecture.
(2) YES
South African fully supports and embraces the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), which endeavours to find African Solutions for African Problems in collaboration with Regional Economic Communities (RECs).
As members of SADC and the AU we are guided and aligned with the APSA. The AU as the mandating authority in this field guides South Africa's participation, contribution and engagement through its Constitutive Act and the Protocol relating to the AU Peace and Security Council, which are instruments that South Africa has ratified.
Through SADC we contribute to the AU Organ for Peace and Security which comprises of organs such as the African Union Peace and Security Council, the Panel of the Wise, the Early Warning System, the African Standby Force, the Military Staff Committee as well as the Peace Fund. We have contributed as members in some and as AU affiliates in some. We have contributed towards operationalisation of these organs and rendered training for some staff members of the AU Early Warning Centre. Our Foreign Policy as well as the White Paper on Peace Missions prioritizes the AU in its peace efforts.
South Africa reinforces the APSA in areas of conflict prevention, peacekeeping, peace-building and post conflict reconstruction and development.
(3) NO
At the United Nations level, South Africa participates in the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations (C34). This is the United Nations policy formulating forum on peace support operations. The Committee undertakes a comprehensive review of the whole question of peace support operations in all its aspects. On the other hand, at African Union level, South Africa participates in the African Chiefs of Defence Staff. This is the AU's policy formulating forum when it comes to matters relating to the African Peace and Security Architecture, Continental Early Warning System and the development of a multidimensional African Standby Force. At SADC level, South Africa participates in the Organ for Politics Defence and Security Cooperation which undertakes multidimensional conflict prevention, management and resolution which includes: preventive diplomacy, negotiations, conciliation, mediation, good offices, arbitration and adjudication. One of the elements of the Organ is the Inter-State Politics and Diplomacy Committee which considers issues related to politics and diplomacy in the region. The Organ is also responsible for the development of a multidimensional SADC Standby Force which is part of the Continental Multidimensional African Standby Force.
Thus, South Africa has ensured that her approach to international peace support operations is consistent with international standards and practices. South Africa further continuously monitors international and continental peace support operations and conflict developments, in terms of policy and practice and causes of conflict, to ensure that her participation in conflict resolution and peace support operations will be consistent with international practice and on the other hand ensure the development of flexible and realistic solutions to emerging threats in Africa and the world.
Reply received: October 2013
WRITTEN REPLY FOR QUESTION NO: 2698 (NW3195E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 32-2013 0F 11 OCTOBER 2013
Mr N J J van R Koornhof (Cope) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
What (a) provisions inform the Government's foreign policy with regard to countries experiencing citizen unrest directed at incumbent leaders and (b) impact has the Government's standpoint had on international relations in this regard? NW3195E
REPLY
(a). South Africa committed to the peaceful resolution of conflicts and in the constitutional change of governments. South Africa firmly believes that conflicts can be resolved through an all-inclusive dialogue whose outcome reflects the will of the people. Our foreign policy is aligned with the decisions of the African Union with respect to opposing the unconstitutional change of government.
(b) The Government supports the AU's region-driven peace-building processes which have helped to enhance stability on the continent and to negate interference on the continent by external powers.
Reply received: December 2013
QUESTION NO: 2642 (MW3131E) AS PUBLISHED IN IQP NO: 32-2013 OF 11 OCTOBER 2013
2642. Dr L L Bosman (DA) to ask the Minster of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) Whether my performance bonuses were paid to employees In her department In the 2012-13 financial year; If so, what Is the total (a) number of employees that received bonuses and 7{b] amount paid out by her department for these bonuses;
REPLY:
(a) One hundred and seventy (179) employees have thus far been awarded performance bonuses after their performance appraisals were moderated and finalised. There are ninety-two (92) performance appraisals that are still to be moderated and finalised.
(b) An amount of R4 001 815.62 has been paid to the employees whose performance appraisals were moderated and finalised. In addition, the outstanding Performance bonuses estimated at R2 041 258.49 will be paid after the finalisation of the moderation process.
(2) what percentage of outputs were achieved by her department as measured against each target set in Its Annual Performance Plan In the 2012-15 financial year?
REPLY:
| Budget Programmes | % Targets achieved |
| Programme 1 | 87% achieved which translates into 20 out of the 23 targets achieved |
| Programme 2 | 97,5% achieved which translates into 38 out of 39 targets achieved |
| Programme 3 | 100% achieved |
UNQOUTE
Reply received: October 2013
WRITTEN REPLY FOR QUESTION NO.2577 (NW3064E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 32-2013 OF 11 OCTOBER 2013
2577. Mr D J Stubbe (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
How much has (a) her department and (b) each of the entities reporting to her spent on promotional events organised by The New Age newspaper between 1 September 2012 and 30 August 2013?
NW3064E
REPLY
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation and/or any of its entities did not spend any capital on promotional events organized by the New Age newspaper between 1 September 2012 and 30 August 2013.
Reply received: October 2013
QUESTION NO:2359 (NW2851E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO:30-2013 OF 13 SEPTEMBER 2013
Mr LS Ngonyama (Cope) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) Whether, with reference to her reply to question 1462 on 17 July 2013, the R300 million provided to the Short-term Emergency Recovery Plan (STERP) of Zimbabwe will be repaid; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW2851E
REPLY:
In support of the Short-Term Economic Recovery Programme (STERP) of the Zimbabwe Inclusive Government, the South African Government extended R300 million as a budget support grant, which does not have to be repaid. The grant was managed and governed by a Memorandum of Understanding signed in May 2009 by the Finance Ministers of the two countries.
Reply received: November 2013
QUESTION NO: 2362 NW2854E
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 30-2013 OF 13 SEPTEMBER 2013
MR LS NGONYAMA (COPE) TO ASK THE MINISTER:
Whether she has found that the Government's position with regard to Syria differs from the approach it has taken in Africa; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details.
REPLY:
(1) South Africa conducts its foreign policy against the background of an ever-changing political and economic environment. As a responsible global citizen and one of the leading voices on the continent the position we take on continental and international crisis are guided by principles derived for m our own history. We therefore remain deeply concerned about the continuing violence and deteriorating human rights situation in Syria and have persistently called on all the parties to the conflict to stop the violence and respect and protect the rights of Syrian population.
(2) Furthermore, South Africa supports the US and Russian Agreement pertaining to the collection and destruction of Syria Chemical Weapons under UN supervision and the early resumption of Geneva II negotiations that will involve all parties to the Syrian conflict.
Reply received: October 2013
QUESTION NO: 2358 (NW2850E)
PUBLISHED INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 30-2013 OF 13 SEPTEMBER 2013
Mr L S Ngonyama (Cope) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
Whether it has been found that (a) the targeted Zimbabwe sanctions should be maintained and (b) trade links between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and South Africa, in particular, should be revisited; if not, how was this conclusion reached, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case? NW2850E
REPLY:
(a) Southern African Development Community (SADC) and South Africa have consistently maintained that targeted sanctions imposed on the Republic of Zimbabwe were not assisting to resolve the political impasse, experienced by Zimbabwe since the signing and implementation of the Global Political Agreements resulting in the August 31 harmonised elections. South Africa maintains its long standing view that sanctions should be lifted to allow the country to re-engage with the broader community of nations in the interest of improving the economic and social development outlook for Zimbabwe and the region.
(b) Revisiting the trade links between South Africa and the SADC region is not on the SADC agenda. The future of our country is inextricably linked to that of the region. Therefore, economic development, industrialisation and diversification of the region as well as socio-political developments and stability are critical for each member state of SADC. Enhanced regional economic integration remains critical for the attainment of South Africa's political and economic developmental agenda aimed at eradicating the three 'evils' of poverty, inequality and underdevelopment.
Reply received: September 2013
QUESTION NO: 2248 (NW2667E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 28-2013 OF 23 AUGUST 2013 THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
What is the Government's position on the Southern African Development Community's report on the Zimbabwean election process? NW2667E
REPLY:
1. The SADC report on the Zimbabwe elections reflects the collective effort of the region in assessing the electoral process in Zimbabwe as per the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections. The report represents the observations of all member states that participated in the Election Observation Mission, including South Africa.
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 2152 (NW2574E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 27-2013 OF 16 AUGUST 2013
ADV A DE W ALBERTS (FF PLUS) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether she is planning to establish whether Zimbabwe has entered into an agreement with Iran to supply uranium to that country; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
(2) Whether the Government will take steps against Zimbabwe in respect of such agreements; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) No
(2) The Government will not take steps against Zimbabwe in respect of such an agreement as long as it conforms to international legality.
Reply received: October 2013
QUESTION NO:2134 : NW2556E AS APPEARED IN IPQ No. 27 2013 of August
MR KS MUBU, (DA) ASKED THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION, MS MAITE NKOANA-MASHABANE (MP), REGARDING THE PERFORMANCE OF REMUNERATIVE OVERTIME IN HER DEPARTMENT (QUESTION 2134).
1. Whether any staff member in her department (a) performed work in addition to the responsibilities related to his or her work, outside normal working hours, in the (i) 200849, (a) 2009-10, (iii) 2010-11, (iv) 2011-12 and (v) 2012-13 financial years and (b) has been performing such work during the period 1 April 2013 up to the latest specified date for which information is available; if not, how is it determined whether such work is being performed or not; if so, in each case, (aa) how many staff members and (bb) in what job or work categories are the specified staff members employed; and
2. Whether approval for such work was obtained in each case; if not, what are the relevant details; if so, (a) what is the policy of her department in this regard, (b) by whom are such applications considered and approved. (c) how many contraventions of this policy were brought to the attention of her department in the (i) 201 0-11, (ii) 2011-12 and (iii) 2012-13 financial years and (d) what steps have been taken against transgressors?
REPLY:
Yes.
Yes (31 July 2013).
(aa) 2008-09:
2009-1 0: 570
201 0-11 : 584
2011-12: 503
2012-13: 564
1 April 2013 - 31 July 2013: 425
(bb) Human Resources,
Supply Chain Management,
Corporate Services,
Financial Management,
Operational Security,
Drivers,
State Protocol,
Public Diplomacy,
Foreign Service Off ices,
2. Yes
(a) The Departmental Overtime Remuneration Policy requires that prior approval be obtained for employees to perform remunerative overtime. Annual deviation is sought and communicated to National Treasury to exceed the maximum overtime as prescribed by the DPSA and as underpinned in the BCEA, 1997, as amended (viz. 30% of the basic salary and/or 10 hours per week). This is communicated to National Treasury (PERSAL) for registration on the PERSAL system accordingly.
All applications for overtime is considered in the Directorate: Human Resources Administration to ensure compliance. Standing approval for a financial year should be submitted annually before 1 April to ensure that approval is granted in time. Where applications are received late, motivation for the delay is required. Applications for short terms projects are considered and approved on request and where this is submitted late, such overtime may not commence prior to approval granted.
(b) The relevant Chief Director of the Branch recommends the application to perform overtime and the Chief Director; Human Resources approves.
(c) None
(d) Not applicable
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 2101 (NW2523E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 27-2013 of 16 august 2013
Mrs S V Kalyan (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(a) Does her department prepare quarterly interim financial statements and
(b) Are these statements considered by the Audit Committee?
REPLY:
(a) Yes, the department prepares quarterly interim financial statements as per
National Treasury Framework.
(b) The department does provide the Audit Committee with the second quarter
interim financial statements as well as the fourth quarter annual financial
statements for their consideration.
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 1934 (NW2283E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 24-2013 OF 2 AUGUST 2013
MR MR A WATSON (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
Whether the Government still considers itself bound to all the bilateral treaties it has with the Arab Republic of Egypt considering the recent change of government in the Arab Republic of Egypt? (NW2283E)
REPLY:
Yes, the South African Government still considers itself bound to all the bilateral treaties it has with the Arab Republic of Egypt. The unconstitutional change of government in the Arab Republic of Egypt does not affect bilateral treaties.
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 1890 (NW2239E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 24-2013 OF 2 AUGUST 2013
Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
Whether the MTN Group (Pty) Ltd provided any (a) financial and/or (b) material benefits to any employees of (i) her department and/or (ii) South African embassies, (iii) high commissions or (iv) consulates in (aa) Botswana, (bb) Cameroon, (cc) Cote d'Ivoire, (dd) Nigeria, (ee) Republic of the Congo, (ff) Rwanda, (gg) Swaziland, (hh) Uganda, (ii) Zambia, (jj) Iran, (kk) Afghanistan, (ll) Benin, (mm) Cyprus, (nn) Ghana, (oo) Guinea Bissau, (pp) Guinea Republic, (qq) Liberia, (rr) Sudan, (ss) Syria, (tt) Yemen and (uu) Ethiopia; if so, in each specified case, (aaa) when was the benefit provided, (bbb) who received the benefit, (ccc) hat kind of benefit was provided and (ddd) what was the value of the benefit?
REPLY:
According to DIRCO records, no financial and/or material benefits were provided by the MTN Group (Pty) Ltd. to any employees of DIRCO listed in the Parliamentary question nr NW2239E, for the 2012/13 financial year.
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 1829 (NW2177E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 23-2013 OF 26 JULY 2013
Mr T D Lee (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) How many consultants has her department (a) contracted and (b) appointed (i) in the (aa) 2009-10, (bb) 2010-11, (cc) 2011-12 and (dd) 2012-13 financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2013;
(2) how many consultants (a) contracted and (b) appointed by her department (i) in the (aa) 2009-10, (bb) 2010-11, (cc) 2011-12 and (dd) 2012-13 and (ii) since 1 April 2013 are (aaa) former officials of her department and (bbb) former public servants? NW2177E
REPLY:
1. The following are the relevant details of consultants (a) contracted and (b) appointed in the (aa) 2009-10, (bb) 2010-11, (cc) 2011-12 and (dd) 2012-13 financial years and since 1 April 2013
(i) (aa) No consultants were appointed in the financial year 2009-10
(bb) Three (3) consultants were appointed in the financial year 2010-11
(cc) Twelve (12) consultants were appointed in the financial year 2011/12
(dd) Sixteen (16) consultants were contracted and appointed in the financial year 2012-13
(ii) One (1) consultant was (a) contracted and (b) appointed in the Department of International relations and Cooperation since 1 April 2013
2. The following are the relevant details of the number of consultants (a) contracted and (b) appointed by her department (i) in the (aa) 2009-10, (bb) 2010-11, (cc) 2011-12 and (dd) 2012-13 and (ii) since 1 April 2013 are (aaa) former officials of her department and (bbb) former public servants?
(i)(aaa) (aa) No former officials were appointed in the financial year 2009-10
(bb) No former officials were appointed in the financial year 2010-11
(cc) No former officials were appointed in the financial year 2011-12
(dd) one former official were contracted and appointed in the financial year 2012-13
(ii) (bbb) The Department is not aware of any former public servants that were contracted and appointed since 2009-2013
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 1795 (NW2142E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 23-2013 OF 26 JULY 2013
Dr LL Bosman (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
What (a) buildings under the administration of (i) her department or (ii) entities reporting to her are national key points and (b) what criteria were used to classify them as such?
REPLY:
No buildings under the control of the Minister are national key points.
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 1762 (NW2109E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 23-2013 OF 26 JULY 2013
Mr SC Motau (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
What is the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year and (d) purchase price of each vehicle that was bought for official use by (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Ministers since 1 January 2012?
REPLY:
No vehicles were bought for the Minister or Deputy Ministers in the period 1 January 2012 to date.
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 1677 (NW2024E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 23-2013 OF 26 JULY 2013
MR M S F DE FREITAS (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
With reference to the reply to question 1308 on 19 June 2013
(a) what criteria are used for issuing diplomatic passports; and
(b) for how long are diplomatic passports valid?
REPLY:
(a) Diplomatic passports are issued according to the South African Diplomatic Passport Policy. A diplomatic passport is issued to specified categories of public office bearers and Government officials to proceed abroad on Government service. The categories include specific positions in the Presidency, the national legislative and executive political office bearers, members of the judiciary and divisions as well as of the specialist courts, provincial and local government representatives, South African diplomatic personnel, public service officials on official duty abroad and eminent persons.
(b) Diplomatic passports are issued with a validity period of five years.
Reply received: September 2013
QUESTION NO: 1611 (NW1957E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 22-2013 OF 21 JUNE 2013
Mr D J Maynier (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) How many notes verbale have been received by her department from the United Nations (UN) regarding disciplinary action against SA National Defence Force (SANDF) personnel operating under the auspices of the UN since 1994;
(2) in each case, (a) when was the notes verbale(i) received and (ii) responded to, (b) who responded to the notes verbale and (c) to which UN mission did the notes verbale relate?
REPLY:
(1) Since 1994 a total of 74 notes verbale were received by DFNDIRCO from the United Nations.
(2) (a) (i) Between October 2006 and December 2012; (ii) the question should be directed to the Department of Defence (DOD) since all notes verbale have been forwarded to the DOD for follow-up.
(b) See 2 (a) (i) above
(c) See 2 (a) (ii) above
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1584 (NW1930E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 22-2013 OF 21 JUNE 2013
MR A WATSON (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
With reference to the reply of the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development to question 1210 on 11 June 2013, why has South Africa not made a declaration under Article 36(2) of the Statute of the International Court of Justice?
REPLY:
Article 36(2) of the Statute of the International Court of Justice provides that states parties to the Statute may at any time declare that they recognise the jurisdiction of the Court as compulsory in relation to any other state that has also made such a declaration accepting compulsory jurisdiction, in all legal disputes concerning
(a) the interpretation of a treaty;
(b) any question of international law;
(b) the existence of any fact which, if established, would constitute a breach of an international obligation; and
(d) the nature and extent of the reparation to be made for the breach of an international obligation.
In the absence of the acceptance of compulsory jurisdiction by one or both states to a dispute, such states must by means of an agreement between them accept the jurisdiction of the Court and then formulate the legal question(s) for the Court to deliberate on.
One of the principles of South African foreign policy is the promotion of the international rule of law. As a member state of the United Nations, South Africa is also a party to the Statute of the International Court of Justice and has always supported the work of the Court and the peaceful settlement of disputes between states. South Africa has not accepted the compulsory jurisdiction of the Court as it is of the view that states should first attempt to settle disputes with other states by means of negotiation, and only once such attempts are exhausted, should the parties to the dispute resort to judicial settlement mechanisms.
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1554 (NW1900E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 22-2013 OF 22 JUNE 2013
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether the Government requested the Government of the Republic of India to open an investigation into the Indian High Commission's involvement in the landing of a chartered commercial aircraft at Air Force Base Waterkloof; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) No. The Department summoned the High Commissioner of India accredited to South Africa to sharply raise the matter. The South African Chargė d' Affaires was also instructed to raise this matter with the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO:1544 (NW1792E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 22-2013 OF 21 JUNE 2013
MS L MAZIBUKO (DA - LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether anyone at the Indian High Commission has been declared persona non grata for involvement in the landing of a chartered commercial aircraft at Air Force Base Waterkloof; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
No. The Department summoned the High Commissioner of India accredited to South Africa to sharply raise the matter while the South African Chargé d' Affaires in India was also instructed to raise the matter with the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1543 (NW1790E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 22-2013 OF 21 JUNE 2013
MS L MAZIBUKO (DA - LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether the Indian High Commissioner was ever summoned to answer questions regarding the landing of a chartered commercial aircraft at Air Force Base Waterkloof; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) Yes, the Indian High Commissioner was summoned to the office of Ambassador JM Matjila, Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, to discuss the landing of the chartered commercial aircraft at the Waterkloof Air Force Base and to convey South Africa's position regarding the matter to the Government of the Republic of India.
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1462 (NW1807E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 20-2013 OF 7 JUNE 2013
Dr CP Mulder (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Co-operation:
(1) whether South Africa has donated any funds to Zimbabwe since 2000; if so, (a) how many donations to Zimbabwe were made, (b) what was the amount in each and (c) what were the provisions attached to each donation;
(2) whether the Government took any steps against Zimbabwe because of non-compliance of the provisions attached to the donations; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
(3) whether this non-compliance with the provisions attached to the donations was taken into account when further donations to Zimbabwe were considered; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
(4) (a) to how many countries has South Africa (i) donated and (ii) loaned funds since 2000, (b) what was the total amount in each case and (c) what were the provisions attached to each donation or loan in each case;
(5) whether all such loans were repaid to South Africa; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) Yes. In 2009, for the first time since the advent of the African Renaissance Fund (ARF) in 2001, the Government of the Republic of South Africa provided financial support to assist the economic recovery of Zimbabwe through the African Renaissance Fund. The support included a contribution of R300 million to a SADC led Zimbabwe Humanitarian and Development Assistance Framework (ZHDAF). The ZHDAF was formed to manage SADC's humanitarian assistance to the people of Zimbabwe. In this regard, the SADC Troika decided, in accordance with Article 9(6)(a) of the SADC Treaty, to launch an urgent international campaign to mobilise financial and material resources for the people of Zimbabwe in order to help them overcome the challenges facing their country. This contribution was therefore utilised to purchase agricultural inputs (seeds, fertilizer and diesel) from South African suppliers. The financial reports on the expenditure indicated that the funds were spent in accordance with the intended purposes.
A second amount of R300 million was provided to finance the Short Term Emergency Recovery Plan of Zimbabwe (STERP). The Extraordinary SADC Summit in Swaziland on 30 March 2009 urged Member States to support Zimbabwe to implement the STERP, in the form of budget support, lines of credit, joint ventures and toll manufacturing. The Summit also called on the international community to support Zimbabwe and provide it with the necessary financial support for its economic recovery.
The support from the South African Government took the form of a targeted contribution to the 2009 Budget of the Zimbabwean Government. This contribution was governed by an MoU signed by the respective Ministers of Finance. As per the MoU, the funds were transferred to the Zimbabwe Ministry of Finance in three equal tranches of R100 million in May, June and August 2009. The funds were sourced from the African Renaissance Fund and used for the purposes for which they were intended, as per the MoU.
(2) As indicated above, the financial reports on the expenditure indicated that the funds were spent in accordance with the intended purposes. Therefore, there was no need for the Government of the Republic of South Africa to take any steps against Zimbabwe because of the latter's non-compliance to the provisions attached to the donations.
(3) No further donations have been provided to Zimbabwe.
(4) The African Renaissance and International Co-operation Fund Act, 2000 (Act No.51 of 2000) was promulgated on 22 January 2001 and Section 9 (1) repealed the Economic Co-operation Promotion Loan Fund Act, 1968 (Act No.68 of 1968). Since the promulgation of the ARF Act in January 2001, a number of ARF projects have been recommended by the ARF Advisory Committee and approved by the Minister of International Relations and Co-operation in consultation with the Minister of Finance. Since then, as indicated in the Annual Reports of DIRCO and the African Renaissance and International Co-operation Fund, many countries, especially in Africa, have received financial assistance from the Fund for projects that were in line with the objectives of the Fund. Details of the projects can be found in said Reports, as tabled to Parliament on an annual basis.
Section 5 (4) of the African Renaissance and International Co-operation Fund Act, 2000 stipulates that "loans or other financial assistance must be granted or rendered in accordance with an agreement entered into between the relevant parties, excluding assistance for the promotion of democracy and good governance or the prevention or resolution of conflict". Therefore, various provisions are attached to the various ARF projects using the abovementioned legal instruments.
(5) Almost all of the funds granted by the African Renaissance and International Co-operation Fund are in the form of grants. Loans that have been made have been repaid.
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1448 (NW1793E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 20-2013 OF 7 JUNE 2013
THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION (DA-) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATIONS:
Whether South Africa sent a note of diplomatic protest to the Republic of India concerning their High Commissioner's role in the landing of a chartered commercial aircraft at Air Force Base Waterkloof; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
The Department communicated with the Republic of India by various means of diplomatic communication. The Department summoned the High Commissioner of India accredited to South Africa to sharply raise this matter. The South African Chargé d' Affaires was instructed also to raise the matter with the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.
Reply received: June 2013
QUESTION NO: 1418 (NW1760E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 20-2013 OF 7 JUNE 2013
ADV LH MAX (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONALRELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
What amount did her department spend on (a) promotional items and (b) cocktail receptions on the occasion of her 2013 Budget Vote debate?
REPLY:
(a) R26599.05
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1326 (NW1656E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 19-2013 OF 31 May 2013
ADV LH MAX (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
1) Whether (a) she, (b) her deputy ministers, (c) any specified officials and (d) any other persons have been issued with a government or official credit card (i) in the (aa) 2011/12 and (bb) 2012/13 financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2013; if so, in each instance, what is the (aaa) (aaaa) name and (bbbb) job title of each person to whom a credit card was issued, (bbb) credit limit, (ccc) outstanding amount as at the latest specified date for which information is available, (ddd) monthly expenses incurred for each month since receiving the credit card. (eee) reason for such a person being issued with a credit card and (fff) uses that such a credit card is intended for;
2) whether the credit limit of any specified credit card was exceeded at any time since it was issued; if so, (a) whose credit cards are over the limit and (b) what is the reason for the credit card exceeding the limit?
REPLY:
The following are the relevant details for official credit cards issued in the Department for the period after the period covered in Parliamentary question 2227 which was answered by the Department on 15 November 2011:
:
1)
Name: Minister, Ms ME Nkoana-Mashabane
Job title: Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Credit limit: R10 000
Outstanding: Zero
Monthly expenditure:
| Monthly Expenditure | ||||||||||||
| YEAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JULY | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR |
| YEAR 1 (2011/12) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| YEAR 2 (2012/13) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| TOTAL | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Reason for card being issued: Due to Minister's official responsibilities and duties, she may from time-to-time be required to host foreign dignitaries for lunches and or dinners.
Uses intended for: Official entertainment
Name: EI Ebrahim
Job title: Deputy Minister
Credit limit: R10 000
Outstanding amount: Zero
Monthly expenditure:
| Monthly Expenditure | ||||||||||||
| YEAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JULY | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR |
| YEAR 1 (2011/12) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 144.08 | 1 441.02 | - | 5 879.00 | 659.00 |
| YEAR 2 (2012/13) | 773.50 | 662.50 | - | 573.32 | - | - | 4 507.80 | 908.04 | - | 3 532.35 | 770.00 | - |
| TOTAL | 773.50 | 662.50 | - | 573.32 | - | - | 4 507.80 | 1 052.12 | 1 441.02 | 3 532.35 | 6 649.00 | 659.00 |
Reason for card being issued: Due to Deputy Minister's official responsibilities and duties, he may from time-to-time be required to host foreign dignitaries for lunches and dinners.
Uses intended for: Official entertainment
Name: ML Fransman
Job title: Deputy Minister
Credit limit: R10 000
Outstanding amount: Zero
Monthly expenditure:
| Monthly Expenditure | ||||||||||||
| YEAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JULY | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR |
| YEAR 1 (2011/12) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 3 806.38 | 6 947.99 | 1 989.00 | 3 301.30 | - |
| YEAR 2 (2012/13) | 1 615.00 | 9 979.70 | 9 450.77 | 5 918.74 | 1 726.30 | 6 502.00 | 10 552.60 | 1 461.00 | 6 609.00 | 1 039.00 | 5 469.22 | - |
| TOTAL | 1 615.00 | 9 979.70 | 9 450.77 | 5 918.74 | 1 726.30 | 6 502.00 | 10 552.60 | 5 267.38 | 13 556.99 | 3 028.00 | 8 770.52 | - |
Reason for card being issued: Due to Deputy Minister's official responsibilities and duties, he may from time-to-time be required to host foreign dignitaries for lunches and dinners.
Uses intended for: Official entertainment
Name: Amb JM Matjila
Job title: Director-General
Credit Limit: R10 000
Outstanding amount: Zero
Monthly expenditure:
| Monthly Expenditure | ||||||||||||
| YEAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JULY | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR |
| YEAR 1 (2011/12) | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 2 944.00 | 400.00 | 3 240.00 | 6 792.41 | 1 925.00 |
| YEAR 2 (2012/13) | 9 621.55 | 9 188.48 | 1 457.90 | 4 112.98 | 3 150.64 | 764.29 | 3 757.66 | 3 151.80 | 370.00 | - | 1 538.00 | 2 251.50 |
| TOTAL | 9 621.55 | 9 188.48 | 1 457.90 | 4 112.98 | 3 150.64 | 764.29 | 3 757.66 | 6 095.80 | 770.00 | 3 240.00 | 8 330.41 | 4 176.50 |
Reason for card being issued: Due to Director-General's official responsibilities and duties, he may from time-to-time be required to host foreign dignitaries for lunches and dinners.
Uses intended for: Official entertainment
2) Not applicable
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1263 (NW1510E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNALQUESTION PAPER NO: 17-2013 OF 24 MAY 2013
MR LS NGONYAMA (COPE) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether, the proposed general elections scheduled for 29 June this year are as a result of the Southern African Development Corporation (SADC) negotiations;
(2) Whether there are any outstanding Global Political Agreement matters yet to be fulfilled before the elections;
(3) Whether SADC will facilitate the new election process;
(4) Whether SADC calls for reforms before polls; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) Yes, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) through its mandated Facilitator, President Zuma has been working closely with the Parties to the Global Political Agreement (GPA) and other relevant stakeholders regarding the implementation of the GPA. Thus, the holding of the upcoming elections is as a result of SADC's facilitation.
(2) With the recent signing and gazetting of the new constitution, the implementation of the GPA is almost complete with the exception of the implementation of necessary reforms and the roadmap towards elections.
(3) As one of the guarantors of the GPA, SADC through its mandated Facilitator, President Zuma is facilitating the process of the implementation of the GPA, a process which should lead to elections under a new constitution.
(4) SADC expects that the elections in Zimbabwe will be held after necessary reforms and the Roadmap to elections have been implemented.
Reply received: July 2013
QUESTION NO: 1262E (NW1509E)PUBLISHED IN INTENRAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 17-2013 OF 24 MAY 2013
MR LS NGONYAMA (COPE) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether the Southern African Development Corporation (SADC) put measures in place to pre-empt violence and killing of opposition leaders in the run-up to the Zimbabwe elections; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) The Southern African Development Community (SADC) as one of the guarantors of the Global Political Agreement (GPA) in Zimbabwe has remained seized with the implementation of the GPA to the extent that it appointed in November 2009 President Zuma as Facilitator of the Zimbabwe political dialogue.
The Facilitator and his Facilitation Task Team are working closely with the Zimbabwe political leadership to ensure full implementation of the GPA and the roadmap towards elections. The roadmap to elections includes among others the need to create an environment that is conducive for peaceful, credible and free and fair elections in Zimbabwe.
The Facilitator occasionally reports back to SADC Summits on the progress in the implementation of the GPA. In this regard, at some of its Summits, SADC has expressed concern about reports of violence and intimidation and has consequently resolved that there must be an immediate end of violence, intimidation, hate speech, harassment and any other form of action that contradicts the letter and spirit of the GPA.
SADC therefore believes that the political leadership in Zimbabwe will do everything possible to ensure peace and tranquillity as the country prepares for her elections.
The overall responsibility of any political process in Zimbabwe remains the responsibility of the signatories of the GPA and the broader political leadership in Zimbabwe.
Reply received: June 2013
QUESTION NO: 1229 (NW1475E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 17-2013 OF 24 MAY 2013
MRS PC DUNCAN (DA) ASKED THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
What amount has her department spent on (a) catering and (b) entertainment in the (i) 2012-13 financial year and (ii) since 1 April 2013?
UNQUOTE
REPLY:
a. The item "Catering" is used to budget for National Day receptions at South Africa's 126 missions abroad in furtherance of South Africa's foreign policy. The Department has set a specific budget limit according to the categories of missions and the expenditure is capped within the approved limits.
b. Entertainment expenditure includes expenditure incurred at the 126 missions in furtherance of South Africa's foreign policy and in line with a Mission's approved Annual Performance Plan. Entertainment tariffs are set and revised annually.
In respect of 2012/13 financial year, the following expenditure has been incurred:-
Catering R 18,7 million.
Entertainment R 12,8 million.
Reply received: August 2013
QUESTION NO: 1126 (NW1359E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 16-2013 OF 17 MAY2013
DR LL BOSMAN (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
DR LL BOSMAN (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(a) What total amount has (i) her department and (ii) each specified entity reporting to her spent on conferences in the (aa) 2009-10, (bb) 2010-11, (cc) 2011-12 and (dd) 2012-13 financial years and
(b) (b) what (i) amount was spent on, and (ii) is the breakdown of the expenditure for, each specified conference?
UNQUOTE
REPLY:
(a) The department spent a total of R 38 662 419.92 for hosting conferences between 2009/10 and 2012/13 (ii) none for entity, African Renaissance Fund.
| AFRICAN DIASPORA (2010/11) | EXPENSES |
| ADMINISTRATIVE FEES: PAYMENTS | 11 763 |
| ADVERTISING | 6 133 887 |
| COMMUNICATION | 206 846 |
| COMPUTER SERVICES | 549 760 |
| CONS/PROF:BUSINESS&ADVISORY SERV | 121 192 |
| CONTRACTORS | 304 000 |
| AGENCY&SUPRT/OUTSOURCED SERVICES | 278 400 |
| INVENTORY:FOOD & FOOD SUPPLIES | 7 352 |
| INVENTORY:MATERIALS & SUPPLIES | 2 916 |
| INVENTORY:STATIONERY & PRINTING | 94 462 |
| RENTAL & HIRING | 19 631 |
| TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE | 20 877 569 |
| VENUES AND FACILITIES | 8 398 318 |
| Total | 37 006 095 |
| GLOBAL SUSTAIN PANEL (2010/11) | EXPENSES |
| CONFERENCES | |
| ADVERTISING | 5 922.30 |
| TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE | 879 595.00 |
| VENUES AND FACILITIES | 770 807.62 |
| CONFERENCES | 1 656 324.92 |
| GLOBAL SUSTAIN PANEL(2) | 1 656 324.92 |
Reply received: May 2013
QUESTION NO: 1094 (NW1327E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 16-2013 OF 17 MAY 2013
MR S MOKGALAPA (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) What total amounts has (a) her department and (b) each specified entity reporting to her spent on (i) print and (ii) broadcast advertising in the (aa) 2009-10, (bb) 2010-11 and (cc) 2012-13 financial years
(2) In each case, (a)(i) by which radio or television station were the advertisements broadcast and (ii) in which newspapers were the advertisements published in the (aa) 2009-10, (bb) 2010-11, (cc) 2011-12 and (dd) 2012-13 financial years and (b) at what cost in each specified case?
REPLY:
1 (a)(i)(aa) R2 291 495 .58
(a)(i)(bb) R6 456 332.08
(a)(i)(cc) R5 295 301.42 (Cop17/CMP7)
(a)(i)(dd) R3 953 867.95 (Diaspora Summit/BRICS Summit)
(a)(ii)(aa) R 9 848.00
(a)(ii)(bb) R 690 979.00
(a)(ii)(cc) R6 555 756.00 (Cop17/CMP7)
(a)(ii)(dd) R7 337 399.00 (Diaspora Summit/BRICS Summit)
2 (a)(i) See below for specified platforms for radio or television
(a)(i)(aa) As attached
(a)(i)(bb) As attached
(a)(i)(cc) As attached
(a)(i)(dd) As attached
(a)(ii) See below for specified platforms for newspapers
(a)(ii)(aa) As attached
(a)(ii)(bb) As attached
(a)(ii)(cc) As attached
(a)(ii)(dd) As attached
(b) No print or broadcast advertising was done by any entity reporting to the minister.
Reply received: June 2013
QUESTION NO: 1058 (NW1288E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 16-2013 of 17 MAY 2013
MR DJ MAYNIER (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) With reference to Minister's reply to questions 1024 on 10 July 2012 and 2451 on 17 October 2012, what is the status of the investigation into a certain Ambassador (names furnished);
(2) whether a report was produced as a result of the investigation; if so, (a) what is the title of the report and (b) when was the report produced; (3) whether the said Ambassador remains employed by her department; if not why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) The Investigation was concluded;
(2) Yes;
(2)(a) Title of the report: Alleged Acts of Misconduct against a certain Ambassador
(name furnished);
(2)(b) The report was produced on 28 September 2012;
(3) The employment contract of the Ambassador expired on 31 December 2012, and he is no longer employed by DIRCO.
Reply received: June 2013
QUESTION NO: 998 (NW1221E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 15-2013 OF 10 MAY2013
MR MS DE FREITAS (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether (a) she, (b) her Deputy Ministers and (c) her Director-General had any communication concerning any aspect of the Gupta family wedding; if so, in each specified case, (i) what is the name of the person that was communicated with, (ii) on what date did the communication take place, (iii) what medium was used for the communication, (iv) what was the purpose of the communication and (v) what was the outcome of the communication?
REPLY:
(1) No, the Minister, (b) her Deputy Ministers and (c) her Director-General had no communication whatsoever concerning any aspect of any family wedding and, therefore, there is also no information that could be provided in respect of the other related questions.
Reply received: June 2013
QUESTION NO: 927 (NW 1195 E) PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUOSTION PAPER NO: 15-2013 OF 10 MAY 2013 Dr D T George (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:(1) Since 1 January 2011, how many applications under the Promotion of Access to Information Act, Act 2 of 2000, were received by (a) her department and (b) entities reporting to her, and in each case how many were (i) granted, (ii) refused and (iii) deemed refused under section 27;
(2) since 1 January 2011, how many internal appeals under the Act were received by (a) her department and (b) entities reporting to her, and in each case, how many were (i) granted, (ii) refused and (iii) deemed refused under section 77(7);
(3) who is the information officer for (a) her department and (b) each entity reporting to her, and in each case, what are the contact details of the officer?
REPLY:
(1) (a) Ten
(i) One
(ii) Two
(iii) One
(1) (b) None
(2) (a) One
(i) None
(ii) None
(iii) None
(2) (b) None
3 (a) The Director-General, Ambassador JM Matjila, (012) 351 0204.
3 (b) The Director-General, Ambassador JM Matjila, (012) 351 0204.
Reply received: May 2013
QUESTION NO: 827 (NW1044E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 13-2013 OF 26 APRIL 2013
MR LS NGONYAMA (COPE) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
Whether the deployment of the SA National Defence Force soldiers to the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in line with the Government's policy on (a) upholding international peace, (b) the promotion of constitutional democracy and (c) the reverence to parliamentary democracy; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details and policies that drive her department's foreign policy?
REPLY:
a) YES
South Africa's deployment in the Central African Republic (CAR) falls under the bilateral Defence Co-operation (MOU) agreement, signed on 11 February 2007 (Operation Vimbezela). The agreement was founded on the call made by the AU Peace and Security Council in 2006 that all member states should provide support for the socio-economic recovery and the consolidation of peace and stability in the CAR. Measures proposed included among others "Assistance towards the Defence and Security Sector". The bilateral agreement was renewed by South Africa and the Central African Republic in December 2012. South Africa guided by her foreign policy, which aims to help forge an African continent that is prosperous, peaceful, democratic and united and which contributes to a world that is just and equitable, went into CAR to join the efforts towards realisation of peace: peace that the AU collective through its Constitutive Act agrees that it is a prerequisite for Africa's socio-economic development.
South Africa's deployment in the DRC is a long term engagement of the SANDF under the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 1279 (1999) to establish the United Nations Organisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUC), later changed to the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) through UNSC Resolution 1925 (2010).
On 28 March 2013, United Nations Resolution 2098 was adopted to provide for an Intervention Brigade under the mandate of the current Peacekeeping Force, the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), to neutralise the threat posed by armed groups in the Eastern Provinces of the DRC and allow for stabilisation and state authority throughout the country. According to the UN Secretary General, this Intervention Brigade should perform like a professional defence force with the capabilities to intervene in threats by rebel forces and protect civilians in coordination with MONUSCO.
South Africa's participation is informed by the values and pronouncements of our government's policies, harmonized with the imperatives of the AU's collective security drawn from the UN and emulated by SADC - (Hence the DRC's planned Eastern Intervention Brigade).
b) YES
On 9 October 2007 the Joint Standing Committee on Defence approved the deployment of the South African National Defence Force to the Central African Republic and it was in accordance with the stipulations of the Constitution, Chapter 11, paragraph 201, which require the President to inform the Committee of such a deployment.
South Africa was requested by the United Nations to deploy SANDF troops to MONUC in 2001 which Parliament was informed of, and subsequent regular briefings to Parliament have taken place on the operations of MONUC and later MONUSCO.
c) YES
In all these processes Parliamentary democracy was respected and adhered to as indicated in the previous question. The modalities of the new Intervention Brigade will be communicated to Parliament upon agreement thereof by African Union member states in October 2013.
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 640 (NW 799E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTIONPAPER NO: 10-2013 OF 28 MARCH 2013Dr D T George (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
(1) How many claims were instituted against her department (a) in the (i) 2007 -08, (ii) 2008-09, (ii) 2009-10, (iv) 2010-11 and (v) 2011-12 financial years and (b) during the period 1 April 2012 up to the latest specified date for which information is available;
(2) in respect of each financial year (a) what amount was claimed, (b) how many claims were (i) finalised in court, (ii) settled out of court and (ii) are still outstanding and (c) what amount has been paid to each plaintiff in each case that each case that was (i) finalised in court and (ii) settled out of court?
REPLY:
(1) (a) (i) One
(ii) None
(iii) One
(iv) Two
(v) Two
(1) (b) None
(2)(a) 2007/2008: R8,000.000.00
2008/2009: Nil
2009/2010: R1,629,000.00
2010/2011: R2,476,229.08
2011/2012: R2,073,000.00
2012/2013: Nil
(2)(b)(i) 2007/2008: None
2008/2009: None
2009/2010: None
2010/2011: None
2011/2012: None
2012/2013: None
(ii) 2007/2008: None
2008/2009: One
2009/2010: None
2010/2011: One
2011/2012: One
2012/2013: None
(iii) 2007/2008: Two
2008/2009: One
2009/2010: Two
2010/2011: Three
2011/2012: Two
2012/2013: Two
(2)(c)(i) 2007/2008: Nil
2008/2009: Nil
2009/2010: Nil
2010/2011: Nil
2011/2012: Nil
2012/2013: Nil
(ii) 2007/2008: Nil
2008/2009: R2,312,061.34
2009/2010: Nil
2010/2011: R113,960.04
2011/2012: R1,425.000.00
2012/2013: Nil
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 577 (NW 732A)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 10-2013 OF 28 MARCH 2013
DR CP MULDER (VF PLUS) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) How many vacancies are there currently (a) in total and (b) on each rank level (i) in her Department in South Africa and (ii) in each of the 126 Missions abroad?
REPLY:
| (a) How many vacancies are there currently in total See attached table |
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 560 (NW718E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 9-2013 OF 22 MARCH 2013
DR C.P. MULDER (FF PLUS) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(a) How many (i) members of Parliament who represent a certain political organisation (name furnished), (ii) Government officials and (iii) officials of each specified Government department were invited by her department to attend the General Assembly of the United Nations in New York in December 2012 and (b) What was the reason for the presence of the said (i) member of Parliament and (ii) Government officials in her delegation?
REPLY:
No members of Parliament, Government officials or officials of specified Government departments were invited by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York in December 2012.
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 513 (NW670E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 9-2013 OF 22 MARCH 2013
MR EH ELOFF (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
Has her department formally committed to increasing the salaries of locally recruited personnel at the country's foreign missions; if so, (a) which foreign missions were included in this commitment, (b) when was this commitment made, (c) by what percentage were salaries to be increased, (d) has the salary increase been bought into effect and (e) how much in total is the cost to the fiscus?
REPLY:
Sixty one missions in foreign countries were included for salary increases for the 2012/2013 financial year, based on the realignment of posts. This was not a general cost of living adjustment. The commitment was made in the 2012/13 financial year and the percentage increase varies between 0.30% to 5%, to the total cost of R 9,463,483.00.
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 512 (NW669E)PIBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTIONPAPER NO: 9-2013 OF 22 MARCH 2013
MR E H ELOFF (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
What is government's official position towards the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF)?
REPLY:
The South African Government supports the democratic process in Ethiopia, a country with which we have close relations. The Government also supports the inclusion of all opposition parties in the political process in Ethiopia. The South African Government realises that the OLF is a political role-player as many others in Ethiopia and encourages the Ethiopian Government and the OLF to find an amicable solution to their differences for the good of the country.
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 479 (NW638E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 8-2013 OF 15 MARCH 2013
MR LS NGONYAMA (COPE) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether, her department's goals in bringing the two opposing parties in the Zimbabwe political situation together were achieved; if not, why not; if so, what outstanding matters remain unresolved;
(2) Whether the unresolved matters have any impact on the forthcoming (a) referendum and (b) general elections; if not, why not; if so,
(3) Whether she can give the assurance that the nation of Zimbabwe will go ahead with the elections without a repeat of the violence and uncertainty which marred the previous elections; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) The parties to the Global Political Agreement (GPA) agreed on the draft Constitution which was subjected to a referendum on 16 March 2013. The Zimbabwe electorate overwhelmingly voted yes to the new constitution. The holding of the Constitutional Referendum is a major milestone in the implementation of the GPA as it paves the way to the harmonised elections.
(2) We understand that all the matters that needed to be resolved before the Referendum have since been resolved. Following the successful Constitutional Referendum, the constitution will be presented before Parliament and assented to by the President after which an election can be held.
(3) It is the wish of South Africa, the SADC region and the African Union for Zimbabwe to conduct the upcoming harmonised elections in a conducive and peaceful environment. In this regard, the SADC Facilitator and his Facilitation Task Team, in their ongoing efforts, are working closely with the parties to the GPA and other relevant stakeholders outside the GPA to create an environment conducive for peaceful and credible elections.
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 410 (NW557E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 8-2013 OF 15 MARCH 2013
MRS C DUDLEY (ACDP) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether she has been informed that a certain person (name furnished) was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment, a sentence that violates respect for the fundamental freedom of religion;
(2) whether South Africa has international relations with Iran; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;
(3) whether any diplomatic intervention can be made on the said person's behalf; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
(4) whether she intends to intervene for the sake of the said person, his family and all other Christians; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) Yes. The Government of South Africa received information about the sentencing of the person (name furnished) through media and other open sources.
(2) Yes. South Africa and Iran maintain diplomatic relations.
(3) The person is not a national of South Africa and the Government has accordingly no jurisdiction to intervene in this case.
(4) The Government of South Africa has no jurisdiction to intervene in individual cases of persons who are not nationals of South Africa. However, it would continue to engage with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as it does with several other countries, on the need to promote and protect human rights, including the freedom of religion.
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 404 (NW487E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 8-2013 of 15 MARCH 2013
ADV A DE W ALBERTS, (FF-PLUS) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
1) Whether Government provides a report to the United Nations on an annual basis regarding Government's treatment of minorities on the basis of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Persons belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities and to which Government was a signatory; if not, why not; if so,
2) Whether the Government consults with these minorities about the contents of the report annually or otherwise; if not, why not; if so,
3) Whether she intends to provide such reports in future; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
1) No. The 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, which entered into force on 27 January 1980, contains rules for treaties concluded between States while the 1986 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties between States and International Organisations or between International Organisations, added rules for treaties with international organisations as parties. Both the 1969 Vienna Convention and the 1986 Vienna Convention provides that in international treaty law an instrument such as a Declaration is a non-legally binding set of principles that Governments and parties only express their intentions, without creating any obligations. Declarations, while being non-legally binding, still make up a part of international customary law. Conversely Treaties are legally binding agreements; each United Nations Treaty has a treaty body to monitor its implementation. The main functions of treaty bodies are to:
• examine State reports;
• provide concluding observations;
• examine individual communications (views or decisions); and
• issue general comments or recommendations.
Given the above mentioned, The Declaration on the Rights of Persons belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities does not have a treaty monitoring body and therefore, unlike a treaty, does not allow or provide for any State reporting, hence no reports have been submitted by Any State , including South Africa.
However it should be noted that the South African Government engages Issues of Minorities at the level of the Forum on Minority issues, held on an annual basis, and the United Nations Human Rights Council through its resolutions. South Africa is in full support of the exercise of the Bill of Rights by all in a non-discriminatory manner, as enshrined in Chapter 2 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. In all its engagement with the international human rights system, the South African Government advocates for the equality and treatment of all individuals irrespective of their race, ethnic, religious and linguistic backgrounds.
2) Kindly refer to question 1
3) Kindly refer to question 1
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 377 (NW524E)PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 6-2013 OF 8 MARCH 2013
MR IO DAVIDSON (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) On what grounds was the New Asian-African Strategic Partnership (NAASP) postponed until 2015; and
(2) What were the reasons for the postponement communicated to all summit partners, including Indonesia?
REPLY:
1) The major reason that the second New Asian-African Strategic Partnership (NAASP) Summit has not been held to date is that NAASP is the only existing African multilateral partnership that does not fall under the overall framework on multilateral cooperation with the African Union (AU). Other factors also militated against the holding of the Summit, but this was the primary concern. In this regard, the recommendations of the "Global Review of Africa's Strategic Partnership with other Parts of the World" were endorsed by the Executive Council of the AU at its 20th Session held in January 2012.
2) The Summit partners were advised that a process to integrate NAASP into the processes of the AU was being launched and this was done in full consultation with Indonesia, Co-chair with South Africa of NAASP. Indonesia represents the Asia component of NAASP.
Reply received: April 2013
QUESTION NO: 376 (NW-523E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 6-2013 OF 8 MARCH 2013
MR IO DAVIDSON (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION;
(1) Were South African medical students recently detained in Cuba; if so, on what grounds were they detained;
(2) did the South African Embassy in Havana receive a request for assistance from these students; if so, what assistance was rendered to them?
REPLY
(1) No
(2) Yes. The South African Embassy in cooperation with the South African Department of Health, as well as the Cuban authorities, facilitated negotiations with the students.
Reply received: March 2013
QUESTION NO: 245 (NW262E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 2-2013 OF 22 FEBRUARY 2013
MRS JD KILIAN (COPE) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether, with reference to the imminent elections in Zimbabwe, the Government is contemplating (a) logistical or (b) financial support to assist Zimbabwe towards free and fair elections; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;
(2) Whether (a) cash or (b) other contributions by the Government would be subject to any formal conditions in accordance with free and fair elections; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details;
(3) Whether the Government has to date been approached by the Zimbabwean Government for contributions towards covering a reported shortfall of approximately R1,73 billion required to hold a (a) referendum and (b) general elections; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
REPLY:
(1) Noting that South Africa is one of the guarantors of the Global Political Agreement (GPA) as well as being the SADC-mandated Facilitator in the Zimbabwe political dialogue, the South African Government has, if requested, an obligation to provide logistical and financial support to the upcoming referendum and elections in Zimbabwe in order to assist the country hold credible, free and fair elections.
(2) South Africa's contemplated contribution, like all other contributions, will be assisting the Government and people of Zimbabwe to create an enabling environment to conduct legitimate, credible and free and fair elections.
(3) Yes, the Multiparty Zimbabwean Negotiators, at the last meeting with the Facilitation Team, formally raised the issue of the funding challenge that the Zimbabwean Government is facing to hold both the referendum and elections. In this regard, the South African Government is considering the request.
Reply received: February 2013
QUESTION NO: 146 ( NW152E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO: 1-2013 OF 14 FEBRUARY 2013
MR S C MOTAU (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) How many legal matters were dealt with by her department (a) in the (i) 2009-10, (ii) 2010-11, (iii) 2011-12 financial years and (b) during the period 1 April 2012 up to the latest specified date for which information is available;
(2) (a) how many of the specified legal matters were dealt with by (i) the State Attorney and (ii) private attorneys during the specified periods and (b) what are the reasons why her department was not represented by the State Attorney in each specified case;
(3) what total amounts were paid by her department to (a) the State Attorney and (b) private attorneys during the specified periods?
REPLY:
(1) (a) (i) 18 litigation matters in the 2009/10 financial year;
(ii) 23 litigation matters in the 2010/11 financial year;
(iii) 26 litigation matters in the 2011/12 financial year; and
(b) 13 litigation matters in the 2012/13 financial year up to 31 January 2013.
(2) All matters were dealt with by the State Attorney.
(3) (a) R 1,207,534.35 in the 2009/10 financial year;
R 677,633.39 in the 2010/11 financial year;
R 949,042.17 in the 2011/12 financial year; and
R 629,298.66 in the 2012/13 financial year up to 31 January 2013.
Reply received: February 2013
QUESTION NO: 113 (NW119E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 1-2013 OF 14 FEBRUARY 2013
MR JRB LORIMER (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(1) Whether (a) her department and (b) any entities reporting to her paid any bonuses to senior officials in December 2012; if so, in each specified case, (i) to whom and (ii) what amount was paid;
(2) whether the specified bonuses were performance based; if not, what is the justification for each bonus; if so, in each case, from which budget were the performance bonuses paid;
(3) whether, in each case, (a) a performance agreement was signed with the official and (b) regular performance assessments were conducted; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
REPLY:
(1) Yes, performance based bonuses were paid to the following senior managers as illustrated in the table below:
| NAME | RANK | AMOUNT | CATEGORY |
| 1. Amb G.S. Kudjoe | DDG: Africa Bilateral | R54 366.60 | COMMENDABLE |
| 2. Mr C. Monyela | DDG: Public Diplomacy | R53 563.20 | COMMENDABLE |
| 3. Mr A. Moodley | DDG: Corporate Services | R55 182.50 | COMMENDABLE |
| 4. Amb M.J. Mxakato-Diseko | DDG: Americas | R108 733.20 | OUTSTANDING |
| 5. Amb A. Sooklal | DDG: Europe (Mission: Brussels) | R58 568.90 | COMMENDABLE |
| TOTAL | R330 414.40 |
(2) Yes, the bonuses paid were performance based. Payment of bonuses is budgeted for annually whereby HR requests 1.5% of the remuneration budget from Finance in order to pay for bonuses.
(3) (a)Yes, Performance Agreements were signed by both the employees and the respective supervisors.
(b) Yes, Performance assessments were conducted regularly.
Reply received: February 2013
QUESTION NO: 80 (NW86E)
PUBLISHED IN INTERNAL QUESTION PAPER NO 1-2013 OF 14 FEBRUARY 2013
MR DC SMILES (DA) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION:
(a)How many tickets did (i) her department and (ii) any other entities purchase to attend business breakfasts hosted by a certain newspaper (name furnished) (aa) in the (aaa) 2010-11 and (bbb) 2011-12 financial years and (bb) during the period 1 April 2012 up to the latest specified date for which information is available and (b) what was the total cost in each case?
REPLY
In September 2012, a certain newspaper and the SABC hosted the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation for an in-depth discussion and conversation with South Africans about South Africa's foreign policy. To support the event, the Department invited its stakeholders and hosted tables at a cost of R35 000.