Questions & Replies: Communications

Mr. Simon Qobo, Director: International Affairs and Trade, (temporarily stationed in Geneva at the time)

Ms Adelaide Masemola, Director: Economic Policy Analysis.

2(ii) & (iii) No other persons were funded by the Department to participate.

3(a) &(b)(i) All international travel by officials are authorised through internal Departmental processes and require the approval of the Minister.

3(b)(ii) Not applicable as no other persons were funded by the Department.

4. This same question has been responded to in parliamentary question 1167, asked by the same author.

5. The substance of this question was dealt with in response to question 1167, asked by the same author.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 1167

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 17 May 2013

QUESTION PAPER NO: 16

DATE OF REPLY:

Mrs. J D Kilian (COPE) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) On what date did her department put a request to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to facilitate the participation of her department's delegation at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) conferences in Geneva during May 2013;

(2) Whether her department had adhered to all protocols for such requests; if not, what are the relevant details;

(3) Whether her department followed the protocol for international trips by departmental delegations by processing the trip through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation; if so, it is requested that she make available a copy of the formal application to Mrs J D Kilian; if not, (a) why not and (b) who will be held accountable for any irregularity that occurred during the process;

(4) Whether her department has arranged participation in international conferences through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in the past;

(5) Whether the ITU conferences that were held in Geneva in the 2012-13 financial year had been duly processed through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation as per her request?

NW1408E

REPLY:

(1) The meetings referred to include the WSIS Forum and the World Telecommunication Policy Forum which both took place in Geneva in May. The WTPF took place from the 14^th - 16^th May 2013, and the WSIS Forum that took place from the 13^th - 17^th May 2013.

The WSIS Forum is convened annually by the ITU together with other UN organizations as part of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society. It is a Multi-stakeholder platform, which allows for the sharing of best practice and expertise from different stakeholders from around the world. At this year's event the Department was invited to showcase the model that has been developed for the e-Skills Institute, which has attracted a lot of interest from the International Community.

The World Telecommunications Policy Forum is organized by the ITU to discuss key topical issues and provide opinions, which sometimes inform decisions in other bodies of the ITU and UN.

The Department did not request DIRCO to facilitate participation in these meetings, as they are technical meetings for which the DoC is responsible. However, invitations are received by DoC for international meetings through DIRCO, including with respect to the ITU. The DoC engages with DIRCO regularly about the Department's participation in International events, and about developments impacting on the country's foreign policy priorities. The DoC also participates in the International Cooperation, Trade and Security (ICTS) Cluster meetings and its sub-committees, which coordinates international activities of government in line with our foreign policy, across government departments. The DoC engaged with DIRCO with respect to these meetings.

(2) Yes. It should be noted that these are technical meetings, not formal decision making meetings or negotiations, nor did they include high level (political) delegations. South Africa through the DoC is a member of the ITU and is an elected member of the ITU Council, and as such is mandated to participate in the activities of the ITU. The DoC participates within the ambit of South Africa's Foreign Policy which is led by DIRCO.

The delegation met with South Africa's Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva and officials from the South African embassy to brief them about the meetings and to update the Embassy on the DoC's work relating to the ITU. The Ambassador also updated the delegation on the current status of South Africa's foreign policy priorities in the multilateral arena.

(3) Yes. However, as stated there was no formal application to DIRCO.

(4) Yes, on a number of occasions. The DoC works very closely with DIRCO with respect to major summits and conferences, including Treaty level conferences, in which political factors tend to come to the fore, as well as other high level meetings in which Ministerial participation is planned.

(5) The only meetings of the ITU in Geneva during this period that were attended by the Department were technical meetings.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 1117

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 17 May 2013

QUESTION PAPER NO: 16

DATE OF REPLY:

Mr. M M Swathe (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

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) what (i) amount was spent on, and (ii) is the breakdown of the expenditure for, each specified conference?

NW1350E

REPLY:

(a) (i) A total amount of R19 160 224.90 was spent on conferences by the Department of Communications.

(ii)

A. NEMISA

NEMISA did not incur any expenses for conferences.

B. SAPO

During the course of 2012/13 the South African Post Office provided funding for the following Conferences:

a. ICT Indaba 4-7 June 2012, Cape Town- R 500 000

b. Fifth BRICS Summit 27^th March 2013, Durban – R1.2 million

C. USAASA

D. SABC

(a) (ii) (aa) R147 347: 2009-10

(bb) R147 022: 2010-11

(cc) R 230 774: 2011-12

(dd) R 227 558: 2012-13

(b)

E. ICASA

(a) (ii)

NB. Conference costs were funded from normal Opex and Regulatory Projects.

F. SENTECH

(a)(ii)(aa) 2009/10 no spending on any conference

(bb) 2010-11 R26 500-00 Govtech conference

(cc) 2011-12 R35 750-00 Govtech conference

(dd) 2012/13 no spending on any conference

G. ZADNA

.ZADNA did not hold any conference during these periods.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 1085

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 17 May 2013

QUESTION PAPER NO: 16

DATE OF REPLY:

Dr W.G James (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(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, (cc) 2011-12 and (dd) 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?

NW1318E

REPLY:

1

(a) The Department spent a total amount of R58 013 227.12 on print and broadcast advertising.

A. NEMISA

(1)(b)

B. SAPO

(1)(b)

C. USAASA

(1)(b)

D. SABC

(1) (b) (i)(aa) R1 729 995 expenditure on print in 2009/10

(bb) R2 056 878 expenditure on print in 2010/11

(cc) R5 193 155 expenditure on print in 2011/12

(dd) R4 678 568 expenditure on print in 2012/13

(ii)(aa)R2 965 494 expenditure on broadcast advertising in 2009/10

(bb)R6 736 218 expenditure on broadcast advertising in 2010/11

(cc)R4 901 040 expenditure on broadcast advertising in 2011/12

(dd)R4 249 200 expenditure on broadcast advertising in 2012/13

(2)(a)(i) The SABC does advertising on various platforms other than its own its radio stations and television channels.

(ii)The SABC uses a media agency called; 'The Media Shop' to place its advertisements in various newspapers and publications based on the individual radio, television, TV Licence or corporate marketing requirements. The SABC is therefore unable to provide the detailed breakdown per newspaper, per financial year. The cost of print advertising in summarised in (1)(b)(i) above.

The SABC Radio has also undertaken various trade exchange deals, whereby SABC airtime is traded against print media exposure on a 1:1 monetary ratio.

Below is an extract of trade exchanges with print media exposure for the 2012/13 fiscal year:

E. ICASA

(1) (b) (i)(aa) the total expenditure for print in 2009/10 is R288 732.70

(bb) the total expenditure for print in 2010/11 is R419 243.13

(cc) the total expenditure for print in 2011/12 is R41 889.30

(dd) the total expenditure for print in 2012/13 is R328 678.15

(ii)(aa) the total expenditure for broadcast advertising in 2009/10 is nil.

(bb) the total expenditure for broadcast advertising in 2010/11 is nil.

(cc) the total expenditure for broadcast advertising in 2011/12 is R10

191.50

(dd) the total expenditure for broadcast advertising in 2012/13 is R33

687.00

(2) (a)(i)The advertisements were broadcasted on the following:

(ii)The advertisements were placed in the following newspapers:

F. SENTECH

(1) (b)

(2) (i) SA Economy; Talk Radio 703; RSG; SA FM, Ukhozi FM; Lesedi FM; Motsweding FM; UhloboWenene; Business Day Report, All SABC public Broadcasters, Aspire Magazine, Beyond Magazine

(ii)Sunday Times: 2009-10

Avusa Media: 2010-11

Succeed Magazine, Brainstorm and News Desk Media: 2011-12 and

Musina FM OB: 2012-13;

G .ZaDNA

(1) (b)(i)and(ii) .ZaDNA did not undertake any print or broadcast advertising during these periods

(2) During these periods .ZaDNA only advertised a limited number of tender/RFPS in the Government tender bulletin.

K�br�](`m:solid windowtext 1.0pt;border-right:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid windowtext .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;height:6.3pt'>

Basic Payee Seminar

R7 158

Human Capital Services

SABC Policy Review & Development Workshop

R33 816

Market Intelligence

SAMRA Conference

R8 860

SABC 2

Promex Workshop- on air promotions

R10 352

SABC 3

Promex Workshop- on air promotions

R6 785

SABC Board

CBA Conference

R3 271

R227 558

E. ICASA

(a) (ii)

NB. Conference costs were funded from normal Opex and Regulatory Projects.

F. SENTECH

(a)(ii)(aa) 2009/10 no spending on any conference

(bb) 2010-11 R26 500-00 Govtech conference

(cc) 2011-12 R35 750-00 Govtech conference

(dd) 2012/13 no spending on any conference

G. ZADNA

.ZADNA did not hold any conference during these periods.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 1071
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 17 May 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 16
DATE OF REPLY:
Ms M.R. Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

With reference to her reply to question 523 on 29 April 2013, what steps will she take to recover the debt owed to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa?
NW1303
Reply

ICASA has issued letters of demand to the outstanding licensees, issued sealing orders, entered into payment plans and, where appropriate, suspended licenses.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 963

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 10 May 2013

QUESTION PAPER NO: 15

DATE OF REPLY:

Ms M.R. Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(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?

NW1186E

REPLY:

Department

(1) (a) The Department received 16 applications.

(i) Granted: 14

(ii) Refused: 2

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(2) (a) No internal appeals were received.

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27:0

(3)(a) The Department's Information Officer is Ms Rosey Sekese, the Director-General.

Tel: 012 427 8167

Fax: 012 427 8016

Private X 860

Pretoria

0001

Email: [email protected]

Entities

SAPO

(1) (a) 14 Applications were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 14

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(2) (b) 8 Appeals were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 8

(iii) Deemed refused under 27: 0

In all the matters where there had been a refusal to provide information, the requests were for information which related to Motor Vehicle Registration and this could be obtained from the Department of Transport or the relevant Municipality. The South African Post Office (SAPO) only has access to this information as a consequence of its commercial relationship with the Municipalities and the Department of Transport. The information is not South African Post Office information.

(3) (b) The information officer for the South African Post Office is Ms. M Lancaster and her contact details are:

SAPO Head Office

350 Witchazel Avenue

Eco point

Centurion

Pretoria

Tel: 012 649 7637

email: [email protected]

SENTECH

1 (b) One application was received

(i) Granted: 1

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

2 (b) No internal appeals were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: nil

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

3(b) The information officer for Sentech is Mr. Zunaid Adams and his contact details are:

Sentech SOC Ltd

Tel: 011 471 4422

Email: [email protected]

Private bag X 06

Honeydew.

.ZADNA

(1) (b) No applications were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(2) (b) No internal appeals were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

3(b) The Information for .ZADNA is Mr. Vika Mpisane, the General Manager and his contact details are:

Tel: 011 314 0077

Cell: 082 880 0715

Email: [email protected]

ICASA

(1) (b) No applications were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(2) (b) No internal appeals were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(3)(a) The information officer for ICASA is Mr. Themba Dlamini the Chief Executive Officer and his contact details are:

Tel: 011 566 3085

Fax: 011 566 3086

Email: [email protected]

NEMISA

(1) (b) No applications were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(2) (b) No internal appeals were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(3)(b) NEMISA does not have an officially designated information officer. The Company Secretary's details are as follows:

Name: Mr. HulisaniMurovhi

Tel: 011 644 4807

Cell: 084 383 7762

Email: [email protected]

USAASA

(1) (b) No applications were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(2) (b) No internal appeals were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(3)(b) No one is appointed as an Information Officer. Applications are received through the Office of the CEO. The CEO's details are as follows:

Mr. Zami Nkosi

Tel: 011 564 1600

Fax: 011 564 1630

Email: [email protected]

P.O. Box 12601

Vorna Valley

1686

SABC

(1) (b) No applications were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(2) (b) No internal appeals were received

(i) Granted: 0

(ii) Refused: 0

(iii) Deemed refused under section 27: 0

(3)(b) The Information Officer as delegated by the SABC GCEO is Ms Mbulu Nepfumbada, Head of Legal. Her contact details are as follows:-

Tel no. 011 714 3434

Email: [email protected]

Private Bag X1, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa 2006

�(ye(`h�25.65pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt'>

Allowing for the obtainment of a preservation order in terms of Prevention of Organised Crime Act to permit police officers to seize proceeds of crime temporarily.

The resolution is yet to be implemented

A review of the International Assistance in Criminal Matters Act to define the respective roles of the South African Police Service, the National Prosecuting Authority and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development

The resolution is yet to be implemented

Department of Social Development is currently implementing the following resolutions as part of an Integrated Programme of Action (2011-2016) developed by the Inter-ministerial Committee on Combating Substance abuse:

· Review of the structure and mandate of the CDA to allow for proper coordination by government structure and oversight by an independent body

· Intensifying campaigns that seek to inform and educate people, in particular young people, about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse.

· Ensuring equal access to resources, especially for civil society and organisations from rural areas

· Implementation of a continuum of care and a public health approach that provides for prevention, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation and after care services.

· Implementation of comprehensive prevention programmes including both universal and targeted approaches. All young people need life skills and this should be taught in all schools. In addition in high risk areas this should be supplemented by more targeted approaches.

· Strengthening of after care services – including for young people (learners).

· Utilisation of multiple approaches to prevention across different disciplines and structures targeting for example families and schools. Programmes like youth development and sport development can be used as channels.

· Public advocacy and messaging which advocates for a substance abuse free South Africa.

· Increasing the provision of rehabilitation and after care and ensuring that all communities have access to these services.

· Setting an example to the public by ensuring that all public service functions are alcohol free.

Reply received: June 2013

QUESTION NO: 826
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 26 April 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 13
DATE OF REPLY:
Mrs. J D Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether, with reference to the local content development drive of the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), she can present a comprehensive breakdown of the local content investment made quarterly (a) during the 2011-12 financial year and (b) since 1 January 2013 regarding (i) sport programmes, (ii) documentaries, (iii) educational programmes, (iv) children's programmes and (v) other programmes, including (aa) soap operas and (bb) actuality programmes;

(2) What was the nature of the delays, if any, in the commissioning process?

(3) Whether any irregularities were found with the closing of the request for proposals book; if not, why not; if so, (a) what steps were taken to investigate this and (b) will charges and criminal action with regard to irregular commissioning processes follow? -

REPLY:

I have been advised by the SABC as follows:-

1 (a) During the 2011-12 financial year ending on 31 March 2012, the SABC awarded contracts to the value of R 758,086,493. The investment per genre is as follows:

l(b) Since January 2013 to date, the SABC awarded contracts to the value of R 281,538,781. The investment per genre is as follows:

R'

Sport 19 916 244
Documentaries 12 867 819
Educational 19 790 380
Children 5 628 378
Other 223 335 960
Other-Actually
281 538 781

Apr-13
R'

Breakdown of Other

Drama 142 534 588
Entertainment 46 667 448
Religion 22 599 422
Other 11 534 502
223 335 960

2. The Nov 2011 RFP book pitching sessions were delayed by 3 months because the SABC had to ensure that proposal submissions were in line with the PPPFA (Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act). As part of Industry Development, new entrants were invited to attend the pitching process – utilizing this process, new companies particularly young black companies were exposed to the broadcast pitch environment, thus empowering them with valuable knowledge of submitting for further RFP books issued by the SABC.

Other Operational factors that caused delays:

▪ There were two (2) companies that were awarded projects but it took a lengthy period of time for them to obtain renewals of tax clearance certificates with SARS.
▪ As per PPPFA, any entity that fails to provide mandatory documentation will be disqualified.
▪ As part of Industry Development, some of the briefs invited individual script writers (Independent individuals).After being awarded projects, the individuals had to form formal entities. The latter took long to finalize thus delaying the process.
▪ Some pitching sessions could not proceed as planned owing to a shortage of SABC personnel and such sessions had to be rescheduled.
▪ There are some operational inefficiencies of instances where the delays in issuing of final contract resulting from delays in reviewing the draft contracts by Commissioning Editors as well as Producers as well as delays in submission of budgets by Producers.

3. As with any RFP book, the SABC ensures its policies and procedures are followed to limit any irregular activities.
In the November 2011 RFP book,

▪ Four (4) staff members in Content Hub recused themselves in the proposal evaluation process and pitch process due to personal relationships with companies submitting proposals;
▪ Two (2) Factual Request for proposals had to be re-read by other Commissioning editors as the staff reading and evaluating were found to not have enough experience in evaluating proposals;
▪ One (1) Entertainment shortlist was recalled as too few companies were shortlisted given the number of proposals submitted. Proposals were reread and a more balanced shortlist issued.

No irregularities were found in the commissioning process of Nov 2011 RFP book.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 881
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 3 May 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 14
DATE OF REPLY:
Mr R Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(a) When will the disciplinary processes against two certain persons (names given) be concluded and

(b) What will be its total cost?
NW1100E

REPLY:

(a) The CFO - The SABC informs us that hearing began in the week of 8 September. The second phase will be held soon.

The News Editor - The SABC informs us that the disciplinary process has been abandoned and he has been paid out the remainder of his contract on 31 May 2013. Mr. He has referred the matter of his employment status and payout to the High Court.

(b) The CFO -The total costs can only be determined upon the conclusion of the matter. Please refer to the response provided on NW13-2588E for on-going costs.

The News Editor - The remainder of contract - R 2,398,925 and legal fees - R 1 861,632.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 825
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 26 April 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 14
DATE OF REPLY:
Mrs. JD Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether she will support a forensic investigation by the Auditor-General (AG) into any alleged corporate governance transgressions and possible financial irregularities committed during the term of office of the recently dissolved SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) Board; if not, why not; if so, when will the AG be requested to conduct the forensic audit;

(2) Whether the terms of reference of the forensic audit have been drafted; if not, why not; if so, what are the terms of reference;

(3) Whether a deadline has been determined by when the forensic audit should be tabled before the interim board; if not, why not; if so, what is the date?

NW1042E
Reply

The Member is requested to be specific about the corporate governance transgressions and possible financial irregularities at the SABC that she had in mind when formulating the question. I will upon receiving a response from the Member respond further.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 824
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 26 April 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 13
DATE OF REPLY:
Mrs. JD Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether, with reference to the suspension of a certain person (name furnished), there was any investigation into the irregular and unlawful appointment process followed in the appointment of the specified person; if not, why not?

(2) Whether the Interim SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) Board will be requested to investigate the paper trail regarding this matter; if not, why not?

(3) Whether the Interim Board and her department will take steps against those persons responsible for any irregular appointment processes in this regard; if not, why not?

(4) (a) what is the sum total of benefits that accrued to the specified person during his suspension period so far and (b) when will this matter be finalised;

(5) Whether a severance package and golden handshake are currently being considered; if not, why not; if so, what would it amount to?
NW1041E
REPLY:

(1) No investigation was undertaken. The SABC is not aware of any irregular or unlawful appointment process having taken place.

(2) No.

(3) Necessary disciplinary action would be taken against the person/s should evidence be obtained of any wrong-doing in the appointment process.

(4) (a) R 2 654 184 until 31 May 2013.

(b) The remaining remuneration as per his contract has been paid to the person concerned. However, he has appealed the High Court judgment (South Gauteng) to the Supreme Court of Appeal.

(5) No golden handshake or severance package has been considered.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 815
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 26 April 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 13
DATE OF REPLY:
Adv. A de W Alberts (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

Whether she will see to it that cell phone networks will further reduce their tariffs to the public; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
NW1028
REPLY:

The Department of Communications is currently undertaking a number of policy interventions with the view to contributing to further reduction in the cell phone retail tariffs. The details of the Interventions include:

▪ Cooperating with ICASA to conduct a comprehensive market review of the Impact of the Call Termination Regulation introduced in 2010 to assess the extent to which the intervention has achieved or not achieved its stated objectives.
▪ Building a system of Data Portal IT to collect, process, analyze and monitor the cell phone tariffs to understand trends and to timeously intervene to address continuous market failures.
▪ Conducting various studies for informed decision-making on innovative policy interventions that need to be implemented to stimulate greater competition among communications network services and electronic communications service providers to contribute to the reduction in the cost to communicate in South Africa.
We are also going to have a pricing policy workshop with the mobile operators and other stakeholders soon.

ICASA is also giving further consideration to this matter

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 631
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 28 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 10
DATE OF REPLY:
Dr A Lotriet (DA) asked the Minister of Communications:

(1) How many claims were instituted against her department (a) in the (i) 2007-08, (ii) 2008-09, (iii) 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 (iii) are still outstanding and (c) what amount has been paid to each plaintiff in each case that was (i) finalised in court and (ii) settled out of court?
NW790E
REPLY:

The department advises me that this question is unclear and we are therefore unable to respond at this stage.

Reply received: May 2013

QUESTION NO: 523

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 22 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 9
DATE OF REPLY: 10 April 2013
Ms MR Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(a) What legal challenges is the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) facing in respect of disputes involving the invoicing of applications for license fee renewals,
(b) how many of these challenges are there,
(c) what are the names of the disputing companies, and
(d) How much is owed in terms of each dispute?
NW680E

REPLY:

(a) I have been informed by ICASA as follows:-

(a) There are no legal challenges. Renewals are done based on requests received from operators/industry.

(b) N/A

(c) Spectrum Disputes

(d) Electronic Communication Related

Reply received: April 2013

QUESTION NO: 522
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 22 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 9
DATE OF REPLY: 04 April 2013
Ms M R Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(a) What is the type of leave that two persons (names furnished) are currently on, (b) what are the conditions of their leave and (c) what are the (i) employment benefits and (ii) amount in salary that they are receiving while on leave?
NW679E
REPLY:
(a) Ms Gugu Duda is on suspension
Mr. Phil Molefe is on special leave.

(b) Ms Gugu Duda - not applicable
Mr. Phil Molefe -full pay and benefits

(c) (i) Ms. Gugu Duda -full benefits are due until the disciplinary process is complete.

(i) Mr. Phil Molefe - full benefits are due until the disciplinary process is complete.

(ii) Ms. Gugu Duda - (R 1 563 275 for period)
(iii) Mr. Phil Molefe - (R 2 278 607 for period)

Reply received: June 2013

QUESTION NO: 521
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 22 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 9
DATE OF REPLY: 26 APRIL 2013
Ms M R Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

What is the status of the negotiations or legal challenges surrounding the removal of (a) the head of SABC News and Current Affairs (name furnished) and the Chief Financial Officer (name furnished)?
NW678E
REPLY:
The SABC has informed me as follows:

The Group Executive: News and Current Affairs:

The application to prevent the SABC from proceeding with his disciplinary case was dismissed by the courts with costs. The disciplinary hearing is due to commence.

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO):

The disciplinary hearing of the CFO is underway.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 483
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 22 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 9
DATE OF REPLY:
Adv. A. de W Alberts to ask the Minister of Communications:

Whether she has investigated the involvement of a certain company (name provided) in allegedly influencing the Government to vote against certain resolutions of the United Nations in exchange for regulatory benefits for the said company from the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

NW599E
REPLY

The department informs me that no allegation of impropriety were made available to the previous Minister.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 478
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 15 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 8
DATE OF REPLY:
Mrs. JD Kilian (COPE) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) With reference to the commissioning of a certain company (name and details furnished) by the SABC Board, on what date did the meeting of the Board approve the terms of reference for the investigation;

(2) Whether the SABC has no internal capacity to conduct investigations of this type; if not, why not; if so, why was the investigation outsourced;

(3) Whether any competitive tendering processes were followed by the SABC during this process; if not, why not; if so, (a) what process was followed and (b) were any Board members (i) directly or (ii) indirectly involved in the process;

(4) (a) what amount was initially approved in terms of the Delegation of Authority Framework (DAF), (b) what monies were paid out to the specified company,

(c) on what date did the Board approve the final payment, (d) what was the process that was followed and (e) were any members of the Board (i) directly or (ii) indirectly involved in the process;

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

NW637E
REPLY:

(1) 10 September 2012

(2) The SABC does have an internal forensic audit unit; however, for investigations relating to executives, independent external companies are used.

(3) No competitive tendering process was followed.

(a) Not Applicable

(b) Initially the Board appointed Dr. SP Makhesha and Mr. CS Gina to undertake the exit interview with the person concerned. The outcome was reported to the Governance, Nomination & Remuneration Committee and referred to an emergency Board meeting. Feedback was provided to the Governance, Nomination & Remuneration Committee and it was recommended that the Board approve a mandate to the Deputy Chairman, Mr. TS ka Plaatjie, to deal with the matters. The Board approved the appointment and subsequent extension of the contract of SML Matsaung Attorneys

(4) (a) The initial amount was R288 000. Thereafter approvals were provided for the additional scope of work.

(b) R288 000 21/09/2012
R3 311,731 09/11/2012
R 1 313, 280 21/12/2012

(c) The last resolution was dated 30 October 2012.

(d) It was referred by the Chairperson of the Risk Committee and Governance (GNR) Committee for the appointment of an independent consultant due to the sensitive nature of the enquiry. The independent consultant then provided feedback at the GNR Sub-committee meeting held on 7 September 2012. At this meeting, further expansion of the mandate was requested. The request was recommended by the GNR Sub-committee for approval by the Board. The mandate was the approved by the Board on 10 September 2012

(e) The approvals were carried out by the Board as a whole.

(5) There is no need at this stage to do so.

Reply received: April 2013

QUESTION NO: 461
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 15 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 8
DATE OF REPLY:
Mrs J D Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether the parity process of the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has an impact on the finances of the organisation; if not why not; if so, what are the relevant details with regard to salary increases that (a) have been granted to staff members and (b) are about to be reversed;

(2) Whether she has found that the salary anomalies project was a miscalculation on the part of the broadcaster; if not why not; if so, what are the relevant details

(3) Whether the developments have aggravated the relationships between the unions and the broadcaster, if not what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
NW615E
REPLY:

I have been informed by the SABC as follows:

(1) Yes, the parity process will increase personnel costs; however, this has been budgeted for. The process is aimed at addressing parity issues that exist.

(a) 1 230 individuals impacted to varying degree.

(b) 465 queries have been received and these are being investigated.

Currently, the transactions for 174 employees have been frozen until all of the queries have been resolved. This does not affect their normal monthly salaries. This is a joint process between management and Unions. All queries are being addressed by the joint task team which was specifically created for this purpose. Through the queries process, some omissions have also been noted.

(2) The project was not a miscalculation. The project was a calculated decision to address historical disparities and salary gaps agreed upon by Management and Unions as per the collective Bargaining Agreement.

(3) The queries encountered have not aggravated the relationships with Unions. The queries are being addressed by the task team which consists of Union and Management representatives.

Reply received: May 2013

QUESTION NO: 409
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 15 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 8
DATE OF REPLY: 29 April 2013
Mrs. JD Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether, with reference to the appointment and recent dismissal of the Acting COO of The SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the post was advertised; if not, why not;

(2) (a) when was the current incumbent appointed, (b) when was the specified person appointed as Acting COO and (c) when was his acting appointment rescinded;

(3) Whether the SABC Board formally approved his appointment as Acting COO; if so, when was the appointment approved;

(4) Why was the Board's decision overruled resulting in conflicting messages in the media about the Acting COO;

(5) Whether she will reveal the reasons for the specified person's dismissal; if not, why not; if so, what are the reasons?
NW556E

REPLY
(1) It was advertised on 03 February 2013.

(2) (a) The position of the COO has been vacant since 31 December 2006. It has been occupied by various individuals in an acting capacity only.

(b) Ministerial approval was obtained on 18 November 2011 for him to be appointed as Acting COO.

© The Board decision to rescind the incumbent's acting was taken at a Board meeting held on 26 February 2013 and was subsequently withdrawn by the then Deputy Chairperson of the Board.

(3) Yes, the incumbent's Acting was approved at the Board meeting of 14 November 2011.

(4) The decision of the Board was never overruled on the Acting COO matter; the Minister simply required adherence to Section 19.1-2 of the Memorandum of Incorporation 2011 of the SABC in dealing with the appointment.

(5) Not applicable. The individual in question was not dismissed

Reply received: April 2013

QUESTION NO: 398

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 8 March 2013

QUESTION PAPER NO: 6

DATE OF REPLY:

Mrs J D Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether her department commissioned TV licence holders (a) SABC and (b) e.tv to develop the specifications for signal control in set-top boxes; if so, why was that process overturned;

(2) (a) what (i) process did her department follow to select the preferred service provider (name furnished) and (ii) basis and criteria were used to select the specified service provider, (b) which other companies participated in the bidding process, but were unsuccessful and (c) what amounts have so far been paid over to the specified service provider;

(3) (a) who served in the Tender Committee of his department, (b) when did they meet and (c) were records kept of the proceedings of the specified committee; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;

(4) whether she will confirm that all applicable Treasury regulations were followed; if not, (a) where did his department deviate from tender regulations and (b) why;

(5) whether she will take disciplinary steps against officials who flouted tender regulations; if not, why not?

NW551E

REPLIES:

(1) The Department of Communications did not commission TV license holders or the licensed free to air broadcasters SABC and e.tv to develop specifications for signal control in set-top boxes. However, the Department in March 2011 requested the SABC to work in co-operation with other affected licensed free-to-air broadcasters to commence a process to select a suitable STB Control vendor in order to meet the requirements as set out in the Broadcasting Digital Migration Policy. After 14 months of the DoC having requested the SABC to work in co-operation with affected free-to-air broadcasters to select the vendor, the SABC working with other broadcasters did not manage to finalise the selection of a vendor resulting in the SABC tender to lapse.

(2) (a) (i) The Department did not select any service provider/s and therefore there is no preferred service provider. The Minister having taken advice from both the Department and Sentech that a STB Control System (Conditional Access system) already exists at Sentech, which can meet the requirements set out in the policy. Sentech is the government owned agency to which the government has invested over R 2 billion for digitizing its network. This is important for Sentech to be positioned to play a central role in delivering digital signal transmission for the success of the digital migration programme. The Sentech control system is currently used for the satellite transmission network. The control system also required upgrading at minimal cost. In an attempt to move the project forward, and to also save costs for the broadcasters, an instruction was issued to Sentech to resume responsibility for the STB control system with a view to help the country to move ahead with the implementation. This decision was aimed at also ensuring that the DTT Project timelines including the international date set by the International Telecommunications Union of 17 June 2015 are met.

(ii) The SABC and other broadcasters issued a tender in order to select a STB Control System vendor in 2008, and reissued another tender in April 2011 and by May 2012 this tender had lapsed. At the time that the tender lapsed, two companies were shortlisted, namely Nagravision and NDS. However this tender was awarded by the SABC.

(b) None.

The Department did not go through a bidding process, but the SABC and other broadcasters did. The SABC tender process was never awarded.

(c) The Department did not pay any money to Sentech for the STB Control system. Sentech upgraded the STB Control system within its existing operational budget.

(3) (a), (b), (c) Nobody served on the Tender Committee for this STB Control system because the Department did not go on tender for the STB Control System. The SABC issued the tender as earlier indicated.

(4) (a), (b) It can be confirmed that there were no treasury regulations applicable on the instruction to Sentech to resume responsibility for the STB Control system. The instruction was intended for Sentech to play a central role in the transmission of signals on behalf of all concerned broadcasters in the use of the STB Control system including community broadcasters as mandated by the Broadcasting Digital Migration and the ICASA Regulations. This would also save costs for these broadcasters since the STB Control system is already in place.

(5) No. There is no need for disciplinary procedures since there were no tender irregularities applicable in this case.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 353
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 8 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 06
DATE OF REPLY:
Ms M R Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(a)(i) Who and (ii) from which government entities were they who represented South Africa at the World Conference on International Telecommunications in Dubai from 3-14 December 2012, (b) what input did they make at the conference, (c)(i) what resolutions did the delegation (aa) support and (bb) reject and (ii) why and (d)(i) what prior consultation with South African (aa) civic and (bb) ICT sector representatives took place before the conference to inform South Africa's contribution and (ii)(aa) with whom and (bb) on what dates were the consultations?
NW500E
REPLY:

(a)(i) and (ii) Representation at the World Conference on International Telecommunications

The South African delegation to the World Conference on International Telecommunications was led by the former Minister of Communications, Ms Dina Pule MP, and included officials from the following Departments and organisations:

1. Department of Communications (DoC):
Gift Buthelezi. DDG International Affairs and Trade
Themba Phiri, DDG Policy
Jabu Radebe, Acting DDG Infrastructure Development
Jim Paterson, Director: Multilateral
Simon Qobo, Director: Trade
Charles Mabuza, Director: ISAD Branch
Adelaide Masemola, Director: Policy
David Monyepao, Deputy Director: Infrastructure Development
Queen Montoedi, Assistant Director: International Affairs

2. Department of Defence (DoD):
Major General Bhembe
Brigadier General Fordred
Major Ngwenya

3. Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA):
Themba Dlamini, CEO
Albert Ntavhaedza
Eric Nkopodi
Praneel Ruplal
Phosa Mashangoane
Thenjiwe Dube
Norman Gidi
Leweng Mphahlele

4. ComSec:
Zoyisile Mshunqane

5. State Security:
Hellen Makhuvela

6. Telkom:
Nigel Naidoo
Tennyson Chimbo
Elizabeth Roussot

7. Broadband Infraco:
Ramasela Moloto
Modise Motlhabane

8. Internet Solutions:
Zandile Mbele
Siyabonga Madyibi

(b) Inputs to the Conference

The South African Delegation, led by the DOC, was Chair of the Africa group, which met on a daily basis during the Conference in order to coordinate African positions. This placed a greater responsibility than would otherwise have been the case for the delegation to work in close coordination with the Africa group on all the issues being discussed in relation to negotiations for the new International Telecommunication Regulations, and to be one of the countries to speak on behalf of the Africa group.

South Africa was also the Vice-Chair of the overall conference, and part of the conference Steering Committee, where decisions were made with respect to the overall management of the conference. South Africa also chaired two Ad-hoc groups of the Plenary, the first dealing with the compulsory nature of recommendations, and the second dealing with the Right of Access to International Telecommunication Networks.

The South African delegation also met on a daily basis to discuss South Africa's position with respect to the evolving debates taking place in the different committees. South African delegation members were also assigned to contribute to all of the working groups established within the Africa group dealing with revisions to all of the Articles of the International Telecommunication Regulations. South Africa was therefore able to contribute to the development of all of the African positions at the Conference, and was active in addressing these positions in the negotiations.

(c) (i), (aa), (bb) (ii) Resolutions of the Conference

Key issues at the conference included the text in the new International Telecommunication Regulations dealing with Security and Robustness of networks and Unsolicited Bulk Electronic Communications (SPAM). These were highly contentious issues, which were considered to be priorities by many developing countries as there is no global treaty or global multilateral organisation dealing with these issues comprehensively. The articles concerned address activities that are potentially disruptive of the networks in which developing countries are investing a lot of resources to build. A paragraph dealing with Human Rights was also included in the Preamble on the basis that this may address some of the concerns some countries had with respect to the inclusion of these articles on Security and SPAM.

The Chairperson also approved the text for a resolution dealing with Internet Governance, on the basis of the strength of the views in favour of inclusion. This was the first departure of the conference from the ITU tradition of agreement through consensus. A second departure from tradition occurred with a formal vote on the issue of including text in the Preamble concerning the right of Member States to Non Discriminatory access to International Telecommunications Networks.

It should be noted that the conference took place in a highly politicised atmosphere, with intense international lobbying by powerful countries and leading internet companies and organisations, both through the media and through high level meetings.

South Africa supported the inclusion of all the text mentioned in the preceding paragraphs, on the basis that these issues were of major concern to many developing countries. Many developing countries also argued that they are not the countries of origin for most of the world's SPAM, yet the onus remains on recipient countries to tackle the problem.

The conference also dealt with a number of other important issues, such as the avoidance of double taxation, greater transparency of international telecommunications pricing and quality of service, cooperation in border zones to prevent inadvertent roaming charges, issues relating to misuse and fraud with respect to numbering resources, calling party and origin identification, Internet Protocol interconnection, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, issues relating to market power, accessibility for persons with disabilities, energy efficiency, and special measures for landlocked developing countries and small island states.

The South African delegation supported the outcomes of the World Conference on International Telecommunications and signed the new International Telecommunication Regulations, along with the majority of ITU Member States. However a significant number of countries issued statements at the end of the conference indicating that they would either not be signing the new Regulations or that they would have to consult further before endorsing the ITRs.

(d)(aa), (aaa) and (bbb) Consultations prior to the Conference

A number of preparatory meetings were held with the ICT sector to prepare for the WClT and for the preceding World Telecommunications Standardisation Assembly (WTSA), including on the following dates: 6^th March 2012, 4^th April 2012, 7^th May 2012, 16^th - May 2012, 6^th - 7^th September 2012, 13^th November 2012. Companies from the South African Telecommunications sector participated, together with government agencies and regulatory bodies such as ICASA and the za Domain Name Authority.

South Africa also participated in the Africa group preparations for WClT and the VVTSA, and hosted one of these preparatory meetings on the 21^st – 24^th - May 2012. Participation in the Africa group meeting preceding and during WClT included Afrinic, the regional internet registry for Africa.

South Africa also received a number of submissions and held meetings with a number of delegations, countries and organisations, including regional groups (the Americas, representatives of Europe, the Asian group, Eastern European countries, Arab group), telecommunications companies, internet related businesses and organisations, and Trade Union organisations.

The ITU also published draft international Telecommunication Regulations prior to the conference and opened a public consultation via their web page to solicit public views and opinions. These opinions were published and made available to all delegations.

Reply received: September 2013

QUESTION NO: 352

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 8 March 2013

QUESTION PAPER NO: 6

DATE OF REPLY:

Ms MR Shinn (DA) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(a) On what dates has the task team of the June 2012 ICT Indaba met, (b) who sits on this team, (c) which resolutions of the ICT Indaba of June 2012 has the task team implemented or is in the process of implementing and (d) what are the details of the progress to date?

NW499E

REPLY:

(a) The Department has established an Inter-Branch Committee and the National SOE Forum which deals with the implementation of National ICT Programmes which includes the outcomes of the ICT Indaba and other national commitments made at other international forums. These meetings are held on a monthly and ad-hoc basis. These structures are also supported by the ICT Industry Forum which developed several proposals for the implementation of vision 2020. The New National ICT Forum will once launched take forward many of these issues contained in the Ministerial Declaration.

(b) The Inter-Branch Committee is attended by representatives from different branches in the Department who are responsible for the implementation of programmes and commitments of the Department taken from different forums which have implications for the roll out of ICT interventions at the three spheres of Government.

The National SOE Forum is attended by the Chairpersons and Chief Executive Officers of the ICT Sector as well as SOEs falling under the Department of Communications. The Department also planned to host an ICT high level panel composed of representatives from other African countries. However, due to the ongoing investigations and limited budget, the high level expert panel meeting has not been convened thus far.

c) Access to broadband communication as a basic human right.

The Department has developed a National Broadband Policy, Strategy and Plan, and is consulting further on it. It is hoped that it would be processed through Cabinet by the end of November 2013.

Closing the Skills gap in consultation with other stakeholders.

The Department has taken a decision to focus on up-scaling ICT skills production in the country through collaboration with universities and FET colleges. A process is underway to amalgamate the National Electronics and Multimedia Institute of South Africa (NEMISA), Institute of Satellite Applications and the e-Skills Institute into a single Institute that responds to ICT skills in the country including technology and multimedia studies, as well as satellite applications skills for the knowledge economy. The New Institute will focus on ICT skills development particularly for previously disadvantaged groups such as, youth, women and people with disabilities. The New Institute will also ensure a better and more holistic response to the ICT skills challenges in the country.

The Department has also partnered with the Department of Basic Education to ensure that ICTs forms part of learner curricula. The collaboration has successfully developed school connectivity programmes and a number of schools have already been connected particularly in rural areas.

Establishment of ICT Indaba Secretariat comprised of multi-stakeholder participation

The Department is currently in a process of establishing a National Secretariat comprising of representatives from all provinces. A consultative process will commence soon as part of the build-up to the hosting of a high level expert meeting to be convened in early 2014.

(d) Progress has been hampered in some areas due to lack of capacity within the Department. This challenge will be overcome by appointing staff in key positions of the organogram.

Reply received: April 2013

QUESTION NO: 340
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 8 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 8
DATE OF REPLY:
Adv. A. de W. Alberts (FF Plus) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether she aware of the standard of cell phone networks of all cell phones operators, with regard to which cell phones are cut off or blocked because of insufficient capacity, even in metropolitan areas where stronger signals ought to be available; if not why not; if so;

(2) Whether she will take any steps to address the specific poor service, including the possibility of further enforced price reductions, if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
NW485E

REPLY:

I have been advised by ICASA as follows:-

(1) Yes, ICASA conducts monitoring of cellular networks in selected areas around the country, including the metropolitan areas. Through this monitoring, ICASA is able to determine the Quality of Service (QoS) of the networks as well as engage the network operators in areas of poor quality.

(2) ICASA has published the End User Subscriber Service Charter for cellular networks (currently being updated). The Charter specifies the parameters used for monitoring and effectively forms the basis by which ICASA regulates Quality of Service to prevent poor service.

Reply received: May 2013

QUESTION NO: 327
DATE OF PUBLICATION: 8 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 6
DATE OF REPLY: 04 April 2013
Mrs J D Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) Whether, with reference to the turnaround strategy of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and the government conditions relating to its guarantee, the SABC has repaid 80% of the Nedbank loan for which a government guarantee was approved; if not, what are the relevant details; if so, on what dates were the amounts deposited into the Nedbank account;

(2) (a) what does the outstanding amount owing to the specific Nedbank loan agreement amount to and (b) when will the loan be fully repaid;

(3) What are the implications for the public broadcaster of the extension of employment contracts to freelancers working for the SABC, both in terms of head count and actual additional costs for salaries and benefits;

(4) Whether she has found that the SABC has achieved its reduction of head count which was a condition of the Nedbank loan; if so, please motivate; if not, what are the relevant details? NW403E

REPLY
I have been advised by the SABC as follows:-

(1) As at 01 March 2013, the SABC has repaid 80.6% of the Nedbank loan. A table below is for the accelerated payment dates and for easy reference:

Nedbank Loan Capital Payment Schedule

(2) (a) R 194 444 444.96
(b) On 30 September 2013, as per the accelerated payment schedule above.

(3) Should the SABC decide to offer employment contracts to freelancers, this will be done at the same or lower cost to the company. In order to not escalate headcount, approved vacancies would be used for this purpose. A task team has been established to look into the matter and make recommendations to the SABC management.

(4) In February 2010, the SABC committed to reduce its headcount numbers by 15% over a 3 year period i.e. fiscal periods 201012011,201112012 and 201212013. The headcount at that stage was 3 889 employees. The headcount as at 28 February 2013 was 3 645 employees which equals a headcount reduction of 245 (6.3%) since February 2010.

Reply received: April 2013

QUESTION NO: 326

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 8 March 2013
QUESTION PAPER NO: 6
DATE OF REPLY: 05 April 2013
Mrs. J D Kilian (Cope) to ask the Minister of Communications:

(1) With reference to industrial relations of the SA Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), which unions are recognised by the SABC management?

(2) Whether there are any other unions that have not been recognised; if not, why not; if so, what are the criteria used for the recognition of unions;

(3) Whether the processes in respect of recognition of unions have been found to be fair and in compliance with constitutional principles of freedom of association; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; if not,

(4) Whether she intends taking any steps in this regard; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
NW402E
REPLY:

(1) The SABC has recognition agreements with the following unions: