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TUESDAY, 30 OCTOBER 2007
____
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
____
The House met at 12:04.
The Speaker took the Chair and requested members to observe a moment
of silence for prayers or meditation.
ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS – see col 000.
SPRINGBOK VICTORY IN RUGBY WORLD CUP
(Draft Resolution)
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I move:
That the House -
(1)
congratulates the Springbok rugby team on winning the 2007
IRB World Cup;
(2)
expresses its appreciation to the team for its part in making
Saturday, 20 October 2007, a memorable occasion;
30 OCTOBER 2007
(3)
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acknowledges that the Springbok’s victory united the country;
and
(4)
expresses the hope that South Africa will retain the World
Cup in 2011.
Mr T D LEE: Thank you, Madam Speaker. While today is about the
Springboks, we must not forget the Cheetahs who are the Curry Cup
champions of South Africa. [Applause.]
Madam Speaker, on Saturday, 20 October, I sat with my family in Port
Elizabeth, the home town of Alistair Coetzee, watching the
Springboks play the final match in the Rugby World Cup. It was my
sister’s fiftieth birthday and what a birthday present. I will
always remember where I was that night, because that is how we as
humans commemorate great moments in our lives, with strong and
unyielding passion, with the memory of the event that never fades
away.
That was a great moment in South Africa’s history. To the
Springboks, to the support team and to you, Jake White, we will
honour you and we will miss you when are you no longer the coach of
our team. I salute you! [Applause.]
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In die DA, glo ons daaraan, dat jy op verdienste in ‘n span moet kom
en weet ons dat al hierdie spelers op verdienste in die span is.
[Applous.]
Ons
weet
dat
julle
danksy
julle
ingebore
en
later
vertroetelde
talente, sover gevorder het en ook danksy skole wat julle potensiaal
raakgesien het en julle gedruk het om dit te verwesenlik. Die span
wat na verdienste gekies is, het die belangrikste rugbytoernooi ter
wệreld gewen.
Gevolglik was daar ‘n massiewe opwelling van positiewe emosie en ‘n
gebeurtenis met min gelyke in Suid-Afrika se geskiedenis, wat almal
verenig het. Daarenteen is daar voorstaanders van kwotas wat glo dat
ras moet bepaal watter keuses Suid-Afrikaners moet maak.
(Translation of Afrikaans paragraphs follows.)
[The DA believes that a person should be included in a team on merit
and we know that all these players have earned their place in the
team. [Applause.]
We know that they got as far as they did thanks to their inborn
talents, which were developed later, thanks to the schools that
spotted their potential and pushed them to realise that potential.
The team, which was chosen on merit, won the most important rugby
tournament in the world.
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Consequently there was an enormous upsurge of positive emotions, and
an event with few equals in South Africa’s history, which united
everyone. On the other hand, there are those who favour quotas, who
believe that race should determine the choices South Africans must
make.]
Many of those people who fervently call for quotas are sitting here
today ... [Interjections.] ... basking in your glory - the very
institution they have actively fought to undermine. Jake, there is
no doubt that success has many fathers but failure is an orphan. Now
the question South Africa needs to ask in the light of this triumph
is: Do we want to limit our choices by focusing on race, as the ANC
believes we should ... [Interjections.] ... or should we strive to
be the best we can, like the Springboks?
If we want to be the best, then the government needs to support us
and provide us with opportunities so that we can make the choices
that we want to make.
Prof B TUROK: Madam Speaker, on a point of order: What the speaker
is doing is dividing the House when it should be united. [Applause.]
The SPEAKER:
Hon member that is not a point of order. The hon
member is expressing a view.
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Mnr T D LEE: Suid-Afrika se mense is die enigistes wat kan besluit
watter een van die twee opsies hulle wil hệ. ‘n Mens hoop dat die
Springbokke se oorwinning sal help om daardie keuse makliker te
maak. As ek so na die opwelling kyk, het die mense die keuse gemaak.
Julle het self gesien hoe mal die mense in die strate oor julle was
- en nou verwys ek na die Springbokke. Julle het ‘n beker en
heldestatus huis toe gebring en dit met julle optrede, onder al die
mense in hierdie ... (Translation of Afrikaans paragraph follows.)
[Mr T D LEE: The citizens of South Africa are the only people who
can decide which of the two options they prefer. One hopes that the
Springbok’s victory will help to make that choice easier. When one
considers the upsurge of emotions it is clear that the people have
made their choice. You saw for yourselves how crazy the people in
the
streets
were
about
you
–
and
now
I
am
referring
to
the
Springboks. You brought home a trophy and the status of heroes and
spread it among all the people ...]
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, is the speaker
prepared to take a question?
Mr T D LEE: At the end I will take any question, Madam Speaker.
The SPEAKER: He is left with six seconds.
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Mr T D LEE: Julle het ‘n beker en heldestatus huis toe gebring en
dit met julle optrede onder al die mense in hierdie land versprei.
Danksy julle, is almal in Suid-Afrika vandag helde. Baie dankie.
[Applous.] [You brought home a trophy and the status of heroes and
spread it among all the people in this country. Thanks to you,
everyone in South Africa is a hero today. Thank you. [Applause.]]
Mr B W DHLAMINI: Madam Speaker, thank you very much for allowing us
this special sitting in the National Assembly today, in honour of
our rugby team. It is indeed a privilege to have them in our midst.
Four years ago, Jake White announced to South Africa and the world,
as he took over the reins of the rugby team, that his dream and goal
was to lead the South African rugby team to World Cup glory in 2007.
His goal wasn’t going to be an easy one to achieve and the road
ahead was going to be a difficult one, but he never lost focus on
what he wanted to accomplish. His methodology was to nurture and
develop a bunch of highly talented young rugby players, while
drawing on the experience of the old hands in his team. He made the
Springboks a family, a collective, the proud team they are today.
[Applause.]
Throughout his four-year term as a Springbok coach, rugby also
remained the ultimate political topic, a frequent target of our
frustration with the pace of transformation. Six months before the
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World Cup, the hon Butana Komphela even threatened to withhold the
passports of the Springbok team because the squad did not reflect
transformation sufficiently. But Mr Komphela and the IFP knew very
well that transformation was not the responsibility of rugby
players, but rugby administrators.
However, every dark cloud has a silver lining. Mr Komphela is a
constant thorn in rugby’s side, but the Springboks even managed to
get Mr Komphela on their side as he was seen in Paris, wearing his
rugby T-shirt and cheering on the Amabokoboko. [Applause.]
And this is probably the most significant achievement of this World
Cup victory in France. It has shown us how powerful sport is as a
nation builder. We must take note and build on this wonderful
experience.
As South Africa lifted the Webb Ellis Cup on 20 August 2007, at
braais and gathering places across this beautiful country of ours,
we South Africans, black or white, IFP or ANC, PAC or FF Plus, rich
or poor, forgot our differences and stood as one to celebrate as a
nation. [Applause.]
As Andrew Molefe, a Sowetan reporter, so beautifully puts it:
Colour didn’t matter. We hugged, cried and kissed across racial
lines. Our collective blood was green.
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I would like to end with this special tribute to John Smit, Jake
White and the boys by repeating the words of our leader, Prince
Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who, following our dazzling World Cup victory,
said:
All South Africans are today justly proud of the Springboks. Quite
simply, they represent the best of us.
Viva, Amabokoboko, viva! You represent the best of us! [Applause.]
Mr J H VAN DER MERWE: Madam Speaker, on a point of order:
As this
Parliament makes laws, I propose that we immediately make a law that
Mr Jake White remains the coach of the Springboks. [Applause.]
The SPEAKER: Hon Van der Merwe, you are trying to sneak that one in
from behind. [Laughter.]
Mr G T MADIKIZA: Madam Speaker, hon members and our esteemed guests,
the South African national rugby team, the Springboks; the
Springboks will by now have some inkling of what their achievement
has meant for all South Africans. If they had any doubt, then the
welcome at the airport and the subsequent street parades culminating
in Cape Town yesterday would have convinced them that as a nation we
are overjoyed with their victory.
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I hope to emphasise to them that when we salute their victory it is
not merely a question of our celebrating a success, but also
celebrating the manner in which they achieved their success. We are
celebrating not just the final winning score when the whistle was
blown, but also the way in which you sang the national anthem before
the first whistle was blown. We celebrate the sportsmanship you
displayed on and off the field.
We celebrate because you have achieved a remarkable feat not only
because you are talented, but because you worked hard. The
dedication that went into preparing for the tournament and the
obvious dedication that went into every single game was a display of
a work ethic.
We need to thank the coach for delivering what he promised, for
keeping a cool head and for executing a strategy that was four years
in the making. We also need to single out the captain for his
display of quite example-driven leadership.
It is important that this team understands that we are not just
happy that they won rather, we, as a nation, are filled with a deep
sense of pride about the way they won, to know that people abroad
will think of us as a nation possessing such qualities.
It is wonderful to see our boys competing on the international stage
and showing the whole world the qualities that we, as a nation,
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aspired to - tenacity, teamwork, sportsmanship, humility and so much
more.
I want to assure this team that when South Africans hail you as
heroes it is because we realise that you are human, you get hurt and
bleed just like the rest of us. Many a South African child has been
inspired by watching the captain getting stitches and returning to
the field, or Percy strapping his knee and still kicking three vital
penalties. It is your humanity that makes us admire your achievement
so highly. Thank you. [Applause.]
Mrs P DE LILLE: Madam Speaker, on a point of order: I think Mr Jake
White must bring the cup down here so that we can touch it. I
promise you, nobody will steal it. [Interjections.] Shut up!
I also want to apologise that I never came to Paris to watch you
beat the English Roses. I also want to thank the team, the coach and
administrators. You all made us proud.
When I was a little girl growing up in Beaufort West, I always
wanted to play rugby - to also take on the boys like I’ve taken them
on in the classroom - but then I didn’t grow big enough to make it
into the Springbok team, but decided to come to Parliament and
tackle them here with my mouth.
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I had the honour of watching the rugby game with Chester Williams
and his family and I learned quite a lot that night. You should have
seen the sense of relief on Chester Williams’ face when the final
whistle blew. You have made us proud.
You are the only team that was playing there not only to win, but
also to play for a vision. The pressure on you must have been
tremendous and yet you emerged victorious.
I think over the past week that you’ve been going around the country
you must have noticed it in the eyes of the supporters how we feel
about our team. Whether rich or poor, black, white or coloured, they
understood that you are the proof that when we stand together as a
nation, we can overcome anything. [Applause.]
We face so many challenges and we must savour this great moment of
victory and take strength from the fact that the vision of a unified
nation is attainable in South Africa.
To Mr Jake White, the coach, I want to salute you for everything,
and on behalf of the ID, I want to wish you a bright future. Thank
you. [Applause.]
Rev K R J MESHOE: Madam Speaker, it is an exceptional privilege for
me to thank our national rugby team, the Springboks, for once again
putting South Africa on the international map as a winning sporting
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country. Your convincing win over England in the World Cup final
inspired our nation as a whole, and in particular the Proteas and
Bafana Bafana. There was a time when it seemed that our Proteas were
losing against the Pakistani side, but I believe it was because of
your example and inspiration that they turned their game around and
brought another trophy home.
Springboks, your preparation for the World Cup, your training, your
dedication, your willingness to give it your all, and to take the
knocks, has meant so much to us as a nation. You truly behaved and
conducted yourselves as professionals and ambassadors, and for that
we salute you.
I specifically want to congratulate the coach, Jake White, for a job
well done and for silencing his critics. Sir, the fact that you led
the Springboks to victory in spite of the criticism, ridicule and
even condemnation that was unfairly levelled against you, makes you
a very special man and one of the best rugby coaches in the world.
[Applause.] If this Assembly had the right to vote for a rugby
coach, then I believe an overwhelming majority would have retained
you. [Applause.]
Lastly, to see you all as a team, bowing before the Lord, thanking
him for the victory after your splendid performance, made you God’s
champions, and that has been the greatest blessing to me. You are
our heroes; you are our champions; you are our esteemed ambassadors.
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May the Lord continue to keep and bless you all, including your
families. Thank you. [Applause.]
Dr P W A MULDER: Agb Speaker, namens die Vryheidsfront Plus, ons
gelukwense en dank aan die Springbokspan. Ek het ‘n boodskap vir
elke Springbok, maar kan in twee minute net by enkeles uitkom.
(Translation of Afrikaans paragraph follows.)
[Dr P W A MULDER: Madam Speaker, on behalf of the FF Plus, our
congratulations and thanks to the Springbok team. I have a message
for each and every Springbok, but will only get to a few of them in
the two minutes at my disposal.]
To Jake White, the coach who put up with a lot of criticism, I wish
to quote the American President Lincoln, who also had to put up with
a lot of criticism. He said:
I do the very best I know how, the very best I can. If the end
brings me out wrong, then angels swearing I was right would make
no difference. If the end brings me out all right, what was said
against me won’t amount to anything.
Ek dink aan Percy Montgomery, wat, ek dink, die speler van die
toernooi moet wees. Toe ek sien hoe hy onder die hoë skoppe van
Jonny Wilkinson moes deurloop, het ek aan die woorde van die oudSpringbok, Basie Viviers, gedink, wat jare terug gesê het:
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Flyhalves wat baie skop, maak die fullbacks baie beroemd.
Aan Bryan Habana, rugbyspeler van die jaar, wil ek ‘n aangepaste
Vorster-storie vertel. [Applous.] Op die lughawe bestorm ‘n jong man
my en vra of ek Pieter Mulder, leier van die Vryheidsfront Plus is.
Hy sê hy het baie waardering vir wat ons in die Parlement doen en hy
vra my vir my handtekening. Toe ek klaar is, vra hy dat hy nog ses
handtekeninge wil hê! Ek is verbaas en vra hoekom. Hy sê, “Man,
miskien as ek gelukkig is, kan ek ses Mulder-handtekeninge verruil
vir een van Bryan Habana!” [Gelag.] Nou, dit sê iets van waar ons
nou trek. (Translation of Afrikaans paragraphs follows.)
[I’m thinking of Percy Montgomery, who, I think, should be the
player of the tournament. When I saw how he was peppered by the high
kicks of Johnny Wilkinson, I thought of the words of the former
Springbok, Basie Viviers, who years ago said:
Flyhalves who kick a lot, make fullbacks very famous.
I want to tell Bryan Habana, rugby player of the year, an adapted
Vorster story. [Applause.] A young man came rushing up to me at the
airport and asked me if I was Pieter Mulder, the leader of the FF
Plus. He said he had a lot of appreciation for what we are doing in
Parliament and he asked for my autograph. When I had signed he said
that he wanted six more autographs! I was surprised and asked why.
He said, “Man, if I’m lucky, I will be able to exchange six Mulder
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autographs for one Bryan Habana autograph!” [Laughter.] Now, that
says something about where we are currently.]
Sir, in this Assembly we mostly disagree with each other. At times
we have had serious disagreements with each other about rugby and
the Springboks. However, before the final match, the FF Plus
submitted a motion here, and a part of it reads thus:
... that this House conveys its support and best wishes to the
Springboks and expresses the hope that the Springboks will be
crowned the rugby world champions on Saturday.
Madam, unbelievably, no debate followed and I am happy to tell you
that the motion was accepted enthusiastically and unanimously.
[Applause.]
Die oorwinning van die Springbokspan en die reaksie daarop wys vir
my dat gewone Suid-Afrikaners ver voor baie van ons as politici is.
‘n Merietespan met Habana as held het waarskynlik meer vir goeie
verhoudinge gedoen as al die gepraat hierso. Die mense daar buite
soek goedgesindheid, hulle soek sukses en nie onnodige politiek nie.
Wat die toekoms van Suid-Afrika betref, wil ek vir die mense in die
Huis sê, as ons die regte besluite hier neem, kan ons die atmosfeer
wat tans in Suid-Afrika heers, vir altyd behou. Ek dank u en ek sê
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dankie vir die Springbokke daar bo op die gallery. (Translation of
Afrikaans paragraphs follows.)
[The Springbok team’s victory and the reaction to it show me that
ordinary South Africans are far ahead of many of us politicians. A
team selected on merit with Habana as its hero has probably done
more for good relations than all the talking here. The people out
there want goodwill, they want success and not unnecessary politics.
Concerning the future of South Africa I want to say to the people in
the House that if we take the correct decisions here, we can retain
the atmosphere currently prevailing in South Africa forever. I thank
you and I thank the Springboks up there in the gallery.]
Ms M P MENTOR: Madam Speaker, on a point of order: Of the 12 parties
here today - including my party, the ANC - eleven have fielded male
speakers. Patricia de Lille was the only female speaker. The
supporters of rugby are men and women. I wonder what message we are
sending to the female supporters who are here, especially my
daughter who is sitting over there. [Applause.]
The SPEAKER: That’s not a point of order, but it is a very serious
point, and I think this House, particularly the different political
parties, must ponder on it.
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Mr I S MFUNDISI: Madam Speaker and hon members, we in the UCDP align
ourselves with the motion to congratulate the Springbok rugby team
on their magnificent performance and good sporting conduct, on and
off the field. I tried my best to “green” myself, and I did it in my
own way, unlike the other people.
That the Springboks, after the tournament, almost swept the boards
regarding awards, speaks volumes about them as sports ambassadors of
this country. In spite of the whingeing that can still be heard
around, the Springboks represented the nation well.
We know that human beings are fastidious most of the time. That is
why even in the present day there are those who still complain or
who have reservations about the progress this country has made in
the economy. It is not surprising that those doomsayers keep on
saying it could have been done better if it was done this way or
that way. The Springboks shouldn’t tear themselves apart over that.
After all, Chihuahuas keep yelping at moving vehicles!
We, in the UCDP, say that the team, their management and all
involved have done their nation proud. As sportsmen, they all
deserve our respect, recognition and support.
The Springbok team has shown how it is done; they have succeeded in
bringing all South Africans together as a nation. We should not
allow this unity to fall away in what we say or do, hereafter.
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May the team grow from strength to strength and go to greater
heights in their green and gold.
Well done, Jake and “die manne” [the team.] Thank you. [Applause.]
Mr R B BHOOLA: Madam Speaker, I have mentioned previously that South
Africa is not just a sporting nation, but also a winning nation.
On Tuesday morning our victorious Bokke arrived at the OR Tambo
International Airport and were met by a huge number of supporters
who have evidently crossed the apartheid divide and supported the
team irrespective of the ill effects of that regime.
If anything, we congratulate and thank the Bokke for a fabulous win
and for bridging that divide. We have witnessed supporters
throughout the country reaching out in celebration. We are extremely
proud of our people who have found it in themselves to come together
and unite at this auspicious moment, with the Bokke having emerged
victorious.
The MF has immense respect for the sport of rugby. We believe that
the support it has received throughout South Africa shows that it
has the potential to bring about transformation at the highest
level.
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May the sensational win be a further affirmation of our enduring
faith in the value of inculcating a culture of sport amongst our
youth, so that one more child participating in sport is one more
kept out of court.
As a new democracy, we are striving to bridge many racial and gender
divides. Rugby, like soccer and cricket, can help us to do that. We
cherish the hope that this beautiful game of rugby will be developed
and extended to the rural and disadvantaged communities.
We applaud the rugby captain for his impeccable leadership. We also
applaud his astoundingly heroic team. Last but not least, we thank
Jake White, the South African rugby coach, who steered our team to
success. Bokke, South Africa salutes you! Keep up the good spirit!
This message comes from the hon Minister of Sport and Recreation in
KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Amichand Rajbansi. We wish you beautiful thoughts
and wonderful, great and overwhelming success for the future. Thank
you.
Mr M T LIKOTSI: Madam Speaker, the APC wishes to pay tribute to the
Springbok rugby team for winning the International Rugby Board World
Cup 2007. You have made us very proud and restored our fading
dignity in this sport, guys.
The APC wishes to thank our brilliant coach Jake White and his
technical staff for a job well done. We thank you guys who stood the
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test of time and, to the captain John Smit, we thank you for
steering this Springbok ship through troubled waters in France.
Tribute should also go to the SA Rugby Board who, under difficult
circumstances, soldiered on to where we are today, the deserving
champions.
The APC pays tribute to the nation for standing firm behind the
Springboks through hell and high water. Without you supporters, it
could have been difficult for the Springboks to withstand the
pressure from its competitors. Keep on supporting the team at all
times, win, draw or lose. We thank the President, the Deputy
President and the Minister of Sport and Recreation for boosting the
team’s morale in France. You displayed your leadership qualities
when it was least expected. Well done!
Last, but not least, we thank your spouses, partners and families
for allowing you to represent the country in a tough competition. We
know it was hard to see your loved ones being battered mercilessly
on the playing field in France. Your support is greatly appreciated.
We thank you. [Applause.]
Mr L M GREEN: Madam Speaker, the FD thanks you for calling this
special assembly to honour the Springboks at Parliament today.
Bringing home the Web Ellis Trophy is, first of all, a victory for
sport and South Africa, combining discipline, focus, talent,
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management skill and opportunity to produce a winning team. The
formula for success is found in doing the basics right and to follow
through with endurance, perseverance and a belief in oneself, the
team and a sound set of noble virtues and values.
The victorious Springbok team has shown that they possess these
qualities to be crowned worthy champions of the 2007 Rugby World
Cup. The victorious Springboks also lifted the Web Ellis trophy as a
symbol representing a nation that believes in itself.
The 2007 Rugby World Cup victory captured the imagination of a
nation, reminding us of our collective success in changing a hostile
political system into an open democratic system through peaceful
means. The victory took us back to the historic elections in 1994,
with Madiba personifying the first truly great democratic President
of this land. We were also reminded of how the new South Africa
inspired the Springboks’ first Rugby World Cup win in 1995, which
was followed by Bafana Bafana winning the Africa Cup of Nations in
1996.
The Springboks also won the highest accolades at the World Cup. Well
done, John Smit, for being voted the best captain. Well done, Bryan
Habana, with your eight tries, for being voted the best player, and
well done, Jake White, for being voted the best coach at this
tournament. [Applause.]
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We congratulate the Springboks on having won the Rugby World Cup. Go
on and use your experience to mentor others. Well done, Springboks!
Well done! Amandla! [Applause.]
Mnr S SIMMONS: Speaker, ek kon gister nie help om ’n knop in my keel
te kry toe ek die toejuiging van Kapenaars van alle rasse meegemaak
het in die middestad nie.
Ek wil aan die Bokke en hul afrigtingspan sê julle het meer vir
nasiebou gedoen as menige politici. Ek wil dus die agb Hoofsweep van
die ANC se resolusie beaam waar hy erkenning gee aan die Bokspan se
bydrae tot nasiebou. (Translation of Afrikaans paragraphs follows.)
[Mr S SIMMONS: Madam Speaker, yesterday I couldn’t help but get a
lump in my throat when I experienced the acclamation of Capetonians
of all races in the city centre.
I would like to say to the Bokke and their coaching team that they
have done more for nation-building than most politicians. I would,
therefore, like to associate myself with the ANC Chief Whip’s
resolution in which he acknowledges the Bok team’s contribution to
nation-building.]
Madam Speaker, many commentators have correctly pointed out that the
World Cup victory gave nation-building in South Africa massive
momentum. This momentum is being seriously threatened by constant
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ill-considered statements regarding transformation by the
Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the portfolio committee on
sport. If we are able to capitalise on this momentum, the Whippery
of the ANC should give serious consideration to replacing the hon
Khompela and hon Frolick as Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of
the Portfolio Committee on Sport and Recreation. [Interjections.]
There are more than enough members within the ANC with much more
appropriate credentials and, therefore, with a better insight into
rugby and sports in general than these gentlemen.
Mr T M MASUTHA: On a point of order: Is it parliamentary for the hon
member to cast aspersions on a fellow member without going the way
of a substantive motion?
The SPEAKER: Hon member, there is nothing unparliamentary in what
the member has said so far. Please finish up, hon member.
Mr S SIMMONS: Thank you, Madam Chair.
To Mr Hoskins and his council: Please ensure a nonracial rugby
fraternity, one that is neither white nor black, but one that
provides all the opportunities to share in the joy and pleasure of
the game. Consider your colleague and Bok team manager Mr Yeye’s
recent statement that our national team should not be customised for
any specific race group, but that it should always reflect the best
talents South Africa has to offer. [Applause.]
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The NA rejects representivity as a racial concept. I thank you.
[Applause.]
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Madam Speaker, I would first
of all like to acknowledge and call upon these people whose names I
am going to read out to stand up so that this House will see them,
since this is an auspicious moment.
I call upon Mr Oregan Hoskins, who is the President of SA Rugby.
[Applause.] The second one is Mr Zola Yeye, who is the manager.
[Applause.] I also call on Jake White, the coach, to stand up.
[Applause.] I know there are many I could have called but I am just
going to call the last two, who are Percy Montgomery ... [Applause]
... and I am also going to call Bryan Habana. [Applause.]
This is a memorable moment in the history of our country. Our people
are united in rejoicing at the victory of the Springbok team. Whilst
we celebrate the Springbok victory, I just want to give a little
history so that these great guys, the sporting team, and everybody
in South Africa should know where we come from. [Interjections.]
I want to say, as we go on, we must build such that any victory
becomes the victory of the people with their hearts and minds.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 25 of 104
The SPEAKER: Order! Can I stop that activity over in that corner?
Please proceed, hon Chief Whip.
The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: When we get this type of
moment of victory, it must be a true victory from our hearts, souls,
cities, townships and rural areas. In this we shall be saying all of
you are welcome to become Springboks. We are saying to you who have
won today that tomorrow you will be coaches of the future, but don’t
forget other people. If we don’t do that, we will have serious
problems like we had in the past.
In boxing, we had two champions, a black and a white champion. We
had Vicky Toweel who was a white bantamweight champion, and we had
Slumber Gogotya a black bantamweight champion in the past. Vicky
Toweel went on to win the world championship. David Gogotya was not
allowed to fight then. One day it was arranged that these two
champions would do some sparring in a corner in a gym. Funnily
enough, they sparred and Gogotya dropped the world champion. There
was silence and the government said that this fact must not be
published.
We also had Jacob Ntuli, who left South Africa, who was a good
flyweight champion. He left South Africa because he could not see
his way forward. He went to Britain and won the British Empire
Championship. That man could not come back to South Africa to fight
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 26 of 104
in our midst. He was kept in England because apartheid could not
accommodate him.
Let us take the case of tennis. Tennis is dead in South Africa
nowadays. We no longer speak of Ferreira and others. It is dead and
it can only survive if all our people, all of us, are prepared to
develop everybody in South Africa in our sporting activities.
[Applause.]
This is to the Springboks: This is not a political speech, but to
make you think, so that you are better sportsmen of tomorrow and
tell the true history and you can say not that way, but this way.
Whilst we celebrate we must also not forget that, last week, Bafana
Bafana won the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations Cup,
too. [Applause.] To the Springboks, we say: Halala halala [well
done], to you. We also say carry this with pride, but remembering
that South Africa needs you not only as a particular Springbok, but
as all the Springboks in South Africa. I thank you. [Applause.]
The SPEAKER: That concludes the debate and I take it that there are
no objections to the motion and it is, therefore, agreed to. I will
now suspend the proceedings until 14:00 when the Minister of Finance
will deliver the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement.
Debate concluded.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 27 of 104
Motion agreed to.
Business suspended at 12:45 and resumed at 14:07.
MEDIUM-TERM BUDGET POLICY STATEMENT
ADJUSTMENTS APPROPRIATION BILL
(Introduction)
The MINISTER OF FINANCE: Madam Speaker, hon members, our dear
friends in the House and at home, in tabling the 2007 Medium-Term
Budget Policy Statement, we can affirm that economic growth and
investment in public services are steadily bringing a better life to
millions of our people.
We can look back with pride on the course we chose in implementing
our Reconstruction and Development Programme, because we can see the
fruit of the new constitutional order we built; of the
transformation of policy and service delivery we undertook; of the
tough decisions we made and the dedicated efforts of South Africans
from all walks of life who have contributed to our social progress
and economic renewal. Today is better than yesterday, and tomorrow
will be even better than today. [Applause.]
We can assert this confidently because our progress is recorded and
measured, and the facts speak louder than any rhetorical flourishes.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 28 of 104
Yet the message of today’s Budget Statement is not that we have
reached our destination or that victory can already be claimed; it
is that we have advanced to new challenges and another phase in our
transformation journey still lies ahead.
The 2007 Community Survey released by Statistics SA last week tells
a story of steady progress in public service delivery. In 1996 just
over half our people did not have water in their homes. Today, over
88% of our people have access to piped water. In 1996, only 64% of
our people lived in formal houses. Today, over 70% enjoy this right.
In almost every area of public service delivery, from access to
schooling and health care to refuse removal; from electrification to
access to computers; from roads and streetlights to sports
facilities; from telecommunication services to public transport, we
can point to steady progress in living standards. Development is
also about access to jobs. It’s about security of income and
redressing past inequalities. We can show measured quantitative
progress on these fronts, although we clearly still have more work
to do in these dimensions of reconstruction and development.
So, in tabling the 2007 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement, we also
reaffirm our commitment to building a stronger economy, faster job
creation,
social
and
broadening
participation
and
economic
opportunities
for
deepening
all.
South
the
quality
Africa
is
of
now
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 29 of 104
entering its 9th year of the longest economic upswing since the
national accounts have been recorded in this country.
National
income
has
risen
by
22%
per
person
since
1999,
with
increases across all income groups. Employment is rising faster than
at any point since the 1960s. Fixed investment has increased sharply
since 2002, by over 10% a year. These are, indeed, substantial steps
towards our medium-term economic goals - growth of 6% a year or
more, an unemployment rate of below 14% by 2014 and an aggregate
poverty rate half that recorded in 2004. Our commitment is not just
an aspiration towards these targets. We intend to measure progress,
step by step, in sharing the democratic dividend among all of our
people.
We need to understand that the present buoyancy in our economic
growth
is
partly
a
consequence
of
favourable
global
economic
conditions. High commodity prices, low interest rates and strong
international demand have contributed to the momentum of our income
growth and to financing investment through capital inflows.
We need to welcome and take advantage of the opportunities of global
growth, but we then also need to distinguish temporary prosperity
from structural progress. We need to ensure that windfall gains are
wisely invested and surplus resources are set aside for when markets
turn against us in times ahead.
30 OCTOBER 2007
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On the domestic front, our economy remains strong, buoyed by rising
investment in productive capacity, higher employment and incomes,
strong consumer demand and healthy foreign capital inflows. Last
week’s announcement of a R37 billion investment by the Industrial
and Commercial Bank of China in one of our leading banks indicates
that international confidence in our economy is high, and perhaps
also signals a new place for Africa in the changing patterns of
trade and finance flows in the 21st century.
So the healthy economic outlook that we are able to table today is
of interest not just to our own people, but also in our region and
the wider world. We expect the South African economy to grow by 4,9%
this year and 4,5% in 2008, before returning to about 5% in the year
2009
and
2010.
The
outlook
is
somewhat
less
positive
than
it
appeared in February.
Financial crises in developed markets, global imbalances, high food
and oil prices internationally and slowing growth in the USA and
other developed countries do cloud the sky. The advent of the subprime
mortgage
crisis
in
the
US
is
further
evidence
of
the
interconnectedness of our world, and also a reminder of the fact
that we must build up our cushion against global volatility.
Our approach to international finance and monetary management has
meant an accumulation of over US$30 billion in foreign reserves with
the South African Reserve Bank, which in itself is a considerable
30 OCTOBER 2007
strength
and
Page 31 of 104
also
a
contribution
to
greater
exchange
rate
and
interest rate stability. In the fiscal stance outlined today we
indicate how public finances are also contributing to the resilience
of the economy in the context of both international uncertainty and
the future investment requirements of our own economy.
In regard to inflation and capacity utilisation we are mindful that
more rapid economic progress has itself brought new dimensions to
the
struggle.
globally,
and
In
the
I
want
context
to
of
increasing
emphasise
that
oil
these
and
are
food
prices
global
price
increases, rising inflation has re-emerged as a policy concern.
Our expanding investment spending has run well ahead of our ability
to save, contributing to an increased current account deficit on the
balance
of
payments.
productivity
further
and
This
highlights
industrial
acceleration
in
the
importance
competitiveness
growth
and
as
employment
a
of
improved
condition
creation
over
for
the
decade ahead.
The recent increase in CPIX inflation to 6,7% has necessitated steps
to curb inflation and the Reserve Bank, on the recommendations of
the monetary policy committee, has implemented those steps.
Global price trends present an inflation challenge for all economies
at this time. Food and commodity prices have increased sharply in
recent years. More recently, the depreciation of the US dollar and
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 32 of 104
continued market pressures have increased oil prices to over US$90
per barrel, an increase of 23% in just the last two months.
We must pause and consider the impact of that on an economy like
ours, where so many of our people live far from where they work and
where the bulk of South Africans are dependent on hydrocarbon fuels
to get around. A 23% increase in the global price clearly has a very
profound impact. The global trends have interacted with our own
rapid
economic
growth,
agricultural
supply
conditions,
broader
supply pressures and skills deficits to push the CPIX above the
inflation target this year.
The rate of capacity utilisation in the economy is very high and in
some sectors demand pressures are generating higher prices. These
price pressures will not abate quickly, yet addressing them and
returning to within the inflation target range is important for our
long-term
growth.
Higher
inflation
reduces
our
competitiveness,
undermines the real income of rich and poor households alike and
creates greater uncertainty for the investment decisions of firms.
The task of bringing down inflation cannot just be left to the
Reserve Bank. Robust investment in capacity is underway and this
will reduce some of the price pressures over time. All actors in the
economy have a role to play. In particular, an improvement in the
fiscal balance will help to moderate inflation and create space for
stronger private sector economic activity.
30 OCTOBER 2007
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Because we are so determined to make tomorrow better than today, we
must carefully analyse our present pattern of growth. For the next
two
years
offset
somewhat
by
investment
domestic
slower
rising
has
growth
private
not
production
been
or
and
household
public
matched
in
in
by
savings.
spending
investment.
a
Our
commensurate
Rising
will
increased
increase
inflation
be
and
a
in
high
current account deficit are both signs of robust economic growth and
that we run the risk of not being able to finance that growth in the
future.
In
order
to
address
these
imbalances,
we
need
to
sharpen
our
microeconomic policy instruments through lowering the costs of doing
business, stepping up our efforts in skills development, increasing
trade
competitiveness
and
investing
in
infrastructure
that
will
support our economic expansion.
To grow rapidly and to sustain that growth, we must increase exports
for they are the source over time of the revenue that must pay for
our imports. The prices of gold, platinum and other commodities have
risen sharply in recent years and this has helped us, but we need to
take
further
and
more
aggressive
steps
to
diversify
our
trade
capacity.
Because of its impact on productivity and innovation, trade policy
has a central place in promoting competitiveness. Our approach needs
to ensure that competition is fostered through tariff simplification
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 34 of 104
and reform and that incentives for investment and for research and
development are appropriately targeted and effectively administered.
Public
accountability
is
critical
to
the
success
of
such
initiatives, so we will seek to publish appropriate reviews and
assessments of our progress. In addition, both industrial and labour
market policies must focus on raising the labour intensity of the
economy so that we can create jobs at an even faster pace. Greater
progress in channelling young people into jobs has to be central to
the
policy
objectives
over
the
coming
years.
In
all
of
these
matters, we face intense international competition.
A recent survey of 600 chief executives of multinational companies
said a shortage of qualified staff ranked as their biggest concern.
No,
this
survey
was
not
conducted
in
South
Africa.
The
skills
shortage complained about is in Asia. Yes, a region with almost half
the world’s population is experiencing severe skills constraints.
China is battling with severe shortages of lawyers – Gerda, there’s
an
opportunity.
Major
Indian
companies
are
complaining
about
a
shortage of IT professionals contrary to common wisdom about the IT
epicentre of the world being in India. Everywhere companies are
experiencing
difficulty
managerial expertise.
in
finding
industrial,
commercial
and
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 35 of 104
Last week, the European Union announced its intention to recruit
20 million skilled foreigners over the next two decades. I believe
that this kind of parasitic conduct of nations is wrong. [Applause.]
The point we need to debate about South Africa’s skills shortages is
not
whether
they
exist
or
not,
but
how
we
should
confront
the
challenge and deal with it, recognising that everywhere else in the
world they are focused on the same thing.
We will continue to place education and skills development at the
top of our budget priority list. Building a learning society is
partly about improving the quality and content of what goes on in
the classroom, but it is also about investment by businesses and
their
employees,
about
communities
taking
ownership
and
responsibility for their schools and about how families communicate
values and capabilities to their children.
I
am
aware
that
the
negotiations
with
educator
unions
on
the
occupation-specific dispensation have encountered some difficulties.
We all know that a better career progression system is needed to
retain good teachers and so efforts to unblock these difficulties
must enjoy our full support. I think it is appropriate in this
context that this House pledges support for Minister Pandor in this
endeavour.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 36 of 104
The area of skills development is clearly one in which we will make
more progress if we address the institutional and financial barriers
that stand in the way of aligning resources with needs.
I share with the Minister of Labour a disappointment that financial
management has been poor in several of our sector education and
training authorities. At the end of last year, our Setas held over
R3,7 billion
in
cash
reserves
–
effectively
levy
income
that
employers had not utilised to reimburse training expenses or skills
development projects that had not yet been implemented.
Other parts of our higher and further education system that are
ready to expand enrolment and step up their contribution to human
investment do not have the financial resources to do so. This surely
cannot be correct, and so we have to explore options for improving
the integration of our education and training financing arrangements
and we must do this together.
For the past five years, public spending has increased by an annual
average of 9,4% in real terms. That is 9,4% above inflation. If a
comparison is made with expenditure in 1995, it shows that public
spending has doubled in real terms since then. Higher spending has
been financed by falling debt service costs and rising tax revenues.
We must take into account that some of the growth in our revenue is
cyclical, related to high commodity prices and the consumption boom.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 37 of 104
It is incumbent upon us to manage these cyclical revenues
differently.
In
this
Medium-Term
Budget
Policy
Statement,
we
introduce
the
concept of a structural budget balance. This scares Minister Thoko
Didiza,
who
thinks
that
the
word
``structure’’
does
not
belong
there. So, sometimes it is also referred to as a cyclically adjusted
budget balance.
The structural balance attempts to calculate the effect of cyclical
revenues on our budget balance. It is not about structural
adjustment, if that is what you want us to say and agree to. This
addition to our box of tools allows us to ensure that public
spending is protected, even if conditions worsen.
Revenue that is cyclical must be treated differently. To do
otherwise, we admit, would be reckless. Some of the cyclical revenue
should be spent on things that raise our ability to grow faster in
the long term - things such as infrastructure, education and
institutional capacity. It also makes sense to use some of that
cyclical revenue to pay off debt or to save for future needs.
With this in mind, government is proposing to budget for a surplus
of about 0,6% of the GDP for the next three years, so that when
economic conditions deteriorate we have the resources to cushion the
economy. When cyclical revenues are removed from our calculations,
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 38 of 104
the structural budget balance indicates a deficit that will rise to
about 1% of the GDP in the fiscal year ending on 31 March 2011.
The tax burden on the economy has risen since 2004, mainly due to
the cyclical windfalls accrued as a result of higher consumption and
commodity prices. Rising employment and higher salary increases have
also led to a rise in tax revenue. This year, we project to collect
about R8,5 billion more than what we budgeted in February, mainly
due to higher inflation and related salary increases.
I just want to remind this House that in previous years we have
always collected substantially more. This year we are in the R8,5
billion
zone.
We
expect
that
over
the
medium
term,
main
budget
revenue will be about 27,5% of GDP.
We reaffirm the principle that cyclical revenues should not be used
to
provide
permanent
tax
relief.
However,
proceeds
from
better
administration and tax compliance and the broadening of the tax base
may be used to lower the tax burden, as we have done in the past.
Apart from the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement we are also going
to table an Adjustments Appropriation Bill today. We have tabled two
adjustments appropriations this year. The special adjustments budget
tabled in September 2007 dealt with urgent transfers for the
following items: The sum of R1,9 billion brought forward from 200809 to finance the construction of stadiums for 2010; R2,5 billion
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 39 of 104
for the pebble bed modular reactor project; R700 million for the
Land Bank; R222 million for Denel; R45 million for Alexkor; R500
million to Sentech for wireless broadband infrastructure.
In the Adjustments Appropriation Bill that we table today, we
include details of amounts rolled over from last year’s budget as
well as unforeseen and unavoidable expenditure. These include an
amount of R654 million for expenditure resulting from fires, floods
and other adverse weather conditions – I think we all recall what
happened to grazing land and forests a few months ago - R400 million
for the prevention and treatment of multi-drug-resistant
tuberculosis; R744 million to support the restructuring of SAA;
R1,9 billion to accommodate the higher-than-budgeted costs of the
2007 salary agreement.
Taking into account about R5 billion in underspending, total
spending amounts to R542 billion - about 15,4% more than expenditure
in the past fiscal year. The revised estimate for the budget surplus
is R10,8 billion, which is marginally higher than the R10,7 billion
projected in February.
The proposed budget framework for the next three years makes
provision for about R81 billion of additional allocations, allowing
for spending on services to rise by 6,4% a year in real terms over
the next three years. Of this amount, about R15 billion goes towards
funding the higher cost of the 2007 Public Service salary agreement.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 40 of 104
A further R2 billion goes towards the occupation-specific
dispensations proposed for educators and the envisaged dispensation
for social workers. In 2006, the budget provided R4,6 billion for
occupation-specific adjustments in the health sector.
About R4,3 billion over the MTEF period will go towards compensating
pension and social grant beneficiaries for rising food prices and
other cost-of-living increases, so that we can maintain the value of
social grants.
Of the remaining amounts, municipalities receive about R12,6 billion
to accelerate the pace of delivery of water, sanitation and
electricity connections. These resources also cover the additional
costs of providing poor households with free basic services. Over
the next three years, infrastructure transfers to municipalities
total R57 billion, reflecting a firm commitment to sharing the
fruits of economic development. This includes a further R2 billion
for public transport infrastructure and systems.
Provinces receive about R36 billion, mainly for targeted
interventions to improve the quality of schooling, health care and
welfare services. The proposed budget framework provides for growth
in the provincial equitable share of 11,9% a year over the next
three years. The new estimates of provincial population numbers are
taken into account in the allocation of these funds.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 41 of 104
Several conditional grant allocations are revised upwards. A further
R2,1 billion goes towards funding the comprehensive HIV and Aids
programme. Early learning opportunities and the expansion of Grade R
are
also
prioritised,
because
these
are
programmes
that
improve
outcomes in later years. Provision will be made for more places for
learners with disabilities, who therefore have particular needs, in
our
schooling
system.
The
School
Nutrition
Programme
receives
a
further addition to take higher food prices into account and to feed
more children for the full school year.
Earlier this year, the Minister of Education released a report
detailing the state of school facilities. It illustrates
considerable progress over the past decade, but also signals that
more needs to be done. Whereas in 1996, 51% of schools were
overcrowded, this figure has now dropped to 24%. The number of
schools without electricity has decreased from nearly 14 000 to
4 300. [Applause.] Schools without adequate water have declined from
8 800 to 3 150. The number of schools with access to computers has
increased significantly, but there are still 17 000 without them.
With these challenges in mind, a further R2,7 billion is proposed
for
school
building
and
maintenance
over
the
MTEF
period.
[Applause.] National departments receive about R33 billion of the
proposed additional expenditure. Much of this will go to economic
infrastructure and services, including a substantial rise in funding
for industrial development incentives.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 42 of 104
We will also increase spending on fighting crime, improving service
delivery in the Department of Home Affairs and expanding labourbased
employment
programmes.
Higher
education
will
benefit
from
additional allocations in recognition of rising student numbers and
the need to boost financial assistance to students.
The 2008 budget framework favours programmes that induce efficiency
savings
in
other
areas
of
spending
-
for
example,
removing
nonroadworthy vehicles, reducing road accidents and taking pressure
off
our
emergency
services
and
trauma
health
care
services.
Increasing the number of agricultural extension workers enhances the
prospects of successful land reform projects.
Allocating resources to the right areas is only half the battle. The
2008 budget framework raises the bar in the quest to improve value
for money. In line with the Presidency’s Monitoring and Evaluation
Framework, the Treasury has issued guidelines for the development of
performance measures related to each programme. The intention is to
assist Parliament and the public to hold departments to account for
the delivery of key outputs. Therefore, let us look beyond how much
there is to what that money buys.
As part of finalising the 2008 MTEF, national departments are asked
to make R2,3 billion worth of savings as part of an efficiency
programme. National departments are asked to improve their
management of expenditure on travel, entertainment, marketing,
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 43 of 104
catering, events and consultants. [Applause.] It is anticipated that
provincial treasuries will adopt a similar approach in the
finalisation of their budgets. These savings will be reprioritised
towards frontline services.
Madam Speaker, I pause for applause at this stage. [Applause]. Thank
you, it is welcomed; it was so spontaneous, it is really beautiful!
This
Budget
Framework
and
the
related
economic
policy
proposals
provide a clear platform for investment in the infrastructure and
services that are likely to raise our growth path towards 6%. About
R20 billion of the additional amounts go towards capital formation,
signalling a continuation of the drive towards broadening access to
basic services and increasing economic efficiency.
Allocations for targeted salary increases are related to performance
systems presently being implemented in the Public Service. For fear
of being very unpopular, let me say that this excludes Members of
Parliament.
On the basis of sound fiscal and economic policies, we have made
significant progress in improving the quality of life of all South
Africans,
policies
particularly
in
place
implementation
and
capacity
those
living
through
and
in
steady
monitoring
poverty.
With
improvements
service
the
in
delivery,
right
building
we
can
accelerate progress in transforming the lives of all South Africans.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 44 of 104
Madam Speaker, ten years ago this month, the South African Revenue
Service Act was promulgated to give effect to a key element of our
public finance reforms – the creation of an administratively
independent, efficient and effective revenue and customs authority
that would be able to fund our spending objectives in a sustainable
way. Since those chaotic days, the Revenue Service has evolved into
an organisation respected and admired across the world. [Applause.]
The SA Revenue Service has been at the centre of a series of tax
administrative and organisational reforms that have completely
changed our relationship with taxpayers. A key element of the social
contract between government and citizens is that paying one’s fair
share of taxes is essential to all of our futures and that revenue
collection is as much about a better service to the public as it is
about enforcement.
It is this virtuous circle which lies at the heart of our fiscal
policy and at the centre of Sars’ unyielding drive to promote
compliance by providing ever higher service levels, greater
simplicity and ease of access to honest taxpayers.
Madam Speaker, none of us needs reminding of the unrelenting vigour,
dedication and passion of Commissioner Pravin Gordhan and the 15 000
men
and
women
who
work
for
the
SA
Revenue
Service.
[Applause.]
Today, as we congratulate the management and staff of Sars for ten
years
of
dedicated
service,
we
must
also
thank
South
African
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 45 of 104
taxpayers – individuals and companies – for their contributions to
our nation’s development. The Commissioner has asked me to mention
that tomorrow is the deadline for tax returns. [Laughter.]
Madam Speaker, we are close to the highpoint of our year as the host
of the G20. In just three weeks, we host the Finance Ministers and
Central Bank Governors from the 19 systemically most significant
economies and the European Union as the 20th party just outside of
Cape Town. This meeting follows a series of consultations dealing
with fiscal space, the impact of commodity prices and reform to the
World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. We have also used
our chairmanship of the G20 to bring African finance ministries into
a dialogue with more developed countries on issues of development.
I
would
like
to
thank
colleagues
in
Cabinet,
and
in
particular
members of the Ministers’ Committee on the Budget, for their role in
crafting this policy statement. I would also like to say thank you
to the staff of Statistics South Africa, the Ministry of Finance and
the National Treasury.
Madam Speaker, I hereby table the 2007-08 Adjustments Appropriation
Bill,
the
Adjusted
Estimates
of
National
Revenue,
2007
and
the
Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement for consideration by Parliament.
I thank you. [Applause.]
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 46 of 104
The SPEAKER: The Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement will be
referred to the Joint Budget Committee and the Portfolio Committee
on Finance for consideration in accordance with their respective
mandates. The Adjustment Appropriation Bill, together with related
papers, will be referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for
consideration and report.
REVENUE LAWS AMENDMENT BILL
SECURITIES TRANSFER TAX BILL
(Introduction)
The MINISTER OF FINANCE: Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure
to introduce the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill and the Securities
Transfer Tax Bill for this year. These Bills contain the second
instalment of tax announcements contained in the annual February
2007 Budget address to the nation.
Given the complex nature of the South African economy, these Bills
cover an expansive range of tax topics. However, despite these
disparate topics, government’s goals for the tax system remain clear
and consistent – to achieve equity, certainty, efficiency and
simplicity. These all call for a broadening of the tax base and,
where possible, a reduction in the complexity of the tax code.
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However, it must be stressed that unintended loopholes exploited by
some taxpayers and their highly sophisticated advisers will not be
tolerated. The additional revenue stemming from closing these
loopholes will provide scope for further tax reforms or funds
available for critical expenditure priorities and lower tax rates
where deemed appropriate.
In terms of business taxation the main focus of the Bills is the
Secondary Tax on Companies - STC. The STC rate will be reduced from
12,5% to 10%. The rate reduction comes with the closing of
significant loopholes that have emerged in the market place. A small
group of taxpayers have sought to disguise otherwise taxable sales
and taxable dividends through a variety of means.
Many of these schemes seek to artificially classify both sets of
transactions as a tax-free return of capital or a set tax-free intra
group dividends. While many of these schemes are remote to all but a
very elite set of tax experts, the costs of these schemes should not
be ignored.
We understand that some private equity fund managers are very active
in this regard and there is an international outcry, because in the
UK they found that private equity fund managers pay less tax than
domestic workers, for instance.
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This drive to close loopholes should, however, not be perceived as
an anti-business attitude on the part of government. The set of
Bills presented today contain a range of measures designed to
support the growth of business. Shares held by taxpayers for at
least three years will now automatically receive beneficial capital
gains tax rates.
For individuals with savings held directly in the form of shares,
this change will mean that there will be certainty that the tax from
growth from these shares will be limited to a 10% capital gains
rate. Other provisions in the Bills presented today seek to minimise
the tax impact of mergers and acquisitions, many of which are
important for our country’s goal of transformation.
Finally, in order to encourage infrastructure development, the Bills
contain depreciation tax relief for new and used rolling stock,
railways port infrastructure, environmental equipment and commercial
buildings.
There are also a few special situations. As strange as it may seem
to some our tax system does have a sympathetic heart. Beyond the
broad-based relief in income tax rates granted earlier this year,
certain situations call for special assistance. Of particular note
is the taxation of sporting bodies.
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Our national and provincial sports organisations contain both
professional and amateur sports divisions. Our children in amateur
sports today need support so that they can become our future stars
in rugby, soccer and cricket, or at least so that they can enjoy
themselves along the way.
Under the proposed amendments, professional sports organisations can
now obtain tax deductions for funding amateur sports development
directly. [Applause.] Since most funding for amateur sports today is
derived this way, the deduction should play a very significant role.
On a different note, certain workers face the risk of physical
injury or even death in their jobs. In order to compensate them for
this danger of doing such work, government presently provides taxfree compensation in terms of the Compensation for Occupational
Injuries and Diseases Act of 1993. However, some employers provide
additional death and injury benefits that are currently subject to
tax.
The proposed amendments allow for tax-free treatment for up to R300
000 for these additional benefits. Our policemen and women who face
a daily risk in protecting our society will be major beneficiaries
in these proposals as well. [Applause.]
Lastly, many of our poorer citizens lack ready access to banking
facilities, especially in the rural areas. Earlier this year, the
National Treasury introduced the Co-operative Banks Bill so that
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communities can form their own associations for everyday savings and
loans.
We are proposing an amendment that complements this effort by
providing small business tax relief for co-operative banks. This
relief spares these co-operative banks from a flat 29% tax charge.
Co-operative banks will now be eligible for tax exemption for up to
R43 000 of their annual net income, a 10% charge for income up to
R300 000 and 29% only thereafter. [Applause.]
The second set of Bills deals with securities transfer taxes on
shares. It is important to note that Securities Transfers Tax Bills
do not represent the new tax. These Bills merely combine preexisting stamp duties on unlisted shares and pre-existing
uncertificated security taxes on listed shares. The new regime
simplifies many archaic rules and streamlines exemptions. Most
taxpayers should benefit from the reduction in compliance costs
associated with these changes.
Once again, Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the chairperson of
the Portfolio Committee on Finance, the hon Nhlanhla Nene, for his
leadership and the members of the portfolio committee for their
constructive role in the process.
I would like to say the process because whilst there is a belief
that Parliament does not amend money Bills as any member of the
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Portfolio Committee on Finance would be able to testify, hon Cronin,
they have been through this, they have heard hearings, they have
submitted to us the amendments that are necessary and these changes
in the Bills before this House reflect the views and wisdom of the
Portfolio Committee on Finance. [Applause.]
So, Madam Speaker, I hereby table the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill,
2007, and the Securities Transfer Tax Bill 2007. Thank you very
much. [Applause.]
Bills referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for
consideration and report.
NOTICE OF MOTION
Dr J T DELPORT: Deputy Speaker, I wish to give notice that I shall
move:
That Parliament debates the ethical standards of conduct that
judicial officers ought to adhere to and the role of the Judicial
Services Commission in this regard.
CONGRATULATIONS TO NATIONAL CRICKET TEAM
(Draft Resolution)
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The CHIEF WHIP OF THE MAJORITY PARTY: Deputy Speaker, I move without
notice:
That the House -
(1)
notes the excellent performance by our national cricket team,
the Proteas, in Pakistan on Monday, 29 October 2007;
(2)
acknowledges that the magnificent performance of the cricket
team in the tournament demonstrates the hard work by the team
and management; and
(3)
congratulates the Proteas on winning the test series and the
one day tournament in Pakistan.
Agreed to.
CONGRATULATIONS TO BAFANA BAFANA
(Draft Resolution)
Mr M J ELLIS: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I move without
notice:
That the House –
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(1)
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congratulates Bafana Bafana on their 4-3 victory over Zambia
to win the COSAFA Castle Cup in Bloemfontein on Wednesday, 24
October 2007;
(2)
notes that this win denied defending champions Zambia winning
the Cup a record fourth time;
(3)
recognises that this was only the second success in 10 years
for South Africa in this annual Southern African
Championship;
(4)
further recognises that this win means that the trophy will
remain in South African hands, as this final was the last
match to have been played in the history of the COSAFA Castle
Cup; and
(5)
congratulates the team and coach Carlos Parreira on this win
and the boost it has given to footballers across the country.
Agreed to.
CORRECTION WEEK
(Member’s Statement)
Mrs L S CHIKUNGA (ANC): Madam Deputy Speaker, Deputy President,
Members of the Executive and hon members, we welcome the progress
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made by the Department of Correctional Services during Correction
Week from 15-19 October 2007.
It is one of the main highlights on the Department of Correctional
Services’ calendar and aims to create awareness around the various
correctional programmes driven by the department and its partners to
break the cycle of crime. The focus week of Correctional Services
seeks to inculcate knowledge and understanding of the department’s
core mandate of safe custody, rehabilitation and social
reintegration of offenders, whilst also encouraging meaningful
public participation and involvement in the implementation of the
mandate.
Some members from this House attended the week’s activities and as
such were exposed to the celebration of best practices, model
partnerships and successes in ensuring safe custody, the progress
made in rolling out the implementation of the White Paper in centres
of excellence and pockets of best practices in social reintegration
programmes. We acknowledge the strides made by the Department of
Correctional Services under the stewardship of Minister Balfour.
Most of us are still talking about Correction Week and as the ANC we
urge all hon members to participate in turning around the many
challenges facing the country’s correctional system and make their
mark in building a safer, more secure and prosperous South Africa,
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where all can enjoy a better quality of life. I thank you.
[Applause.]
AGENDA TO TOPPLE DA-LED MULTIPARTY GOVERNMENT IN WESTERN CAPE
(Member’s Statement)
The LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION (DA): Madam Deputy Speaker, the ANC is
currently engaged in its tenth attempt to topple the democratically
elected multiparty government in the Western Cape. They have,
obviously, not learnt that in a democracy, you must accept the will
of the voters. It is an outrage for the Western Cape Premier,
Ebrahim Rasool, and the Western Cape Provincial Police Commissioner,
Mzwandile Petros, to be abusing resources of state to pursue their
party-political agenda against the DA-led multiparty government.
Commissioner Petros has shown his political bias by continuously
allowing evidence that is part of a police investigation to be
selectively leaked to the media. It also seems that he reports on
almost a daily basis to Premier Rasool on the status of
investigations into the Premier’s political opponents, which is a
clear conflict of interest and undermines the constitutional
requirements of a politically neutral police service.
The real outrage lies in this: Why have Commissioner Petros, Premier
Rasool and Safety and Security Minister Nqakula not taken any action
against Badih Chaaban, the councillor accused of making death
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threats, offering bribes and having links to the criminal
underworld? The ANC will, clearly, go all out to protect this man
... [Time expired.]
NEGOTIATIONS ON TEACHERS’ SALARIES
(Member’s Statement)
Mr A M MPONTSHANE (IFP): Madam Deputy Speaker, the IFP has noted
with some concern that the negotiation process on teachers’ salaries
seems to have hit new difficulties, with at least three major unions
rejecting government’s occupation-specific dispensation document.
Naptosa, the National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of SA,
called the document “unworkable” and has called for negotiations to
be placed on hold, while Sadtu, the SA Democratic Teachers’ Union,
called it “a sham”.
It does appear strange that it would allegedly, take a new teacher
about 57 years to be eligible for the maximum proposed salary.
Surely, if this is true, this proposal must be deemed unworkable and
unrealistic.
The IFP recalls with concern the negative effects on learners of the
recent Public Service strike. It is clear that if common ground
cannot be found between teachers and the department, the potential
for further disruption in the education sector cannot be discounted.
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It is, therefore, of the utmost importance that the unions and the
department go back to the drawing board to come up with a solution
that will benefit both, by improving the salaries of teachers whilst
improving their performance. I thank you.
BUILDING OF PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE AT DE DOORNS APPLAUDED
(Member’s Statement)
Mnu M M DIKGACWI(ANC): Sekela-Somlomo, siqwalasela ngemigcobo
nochulumanco olungazenzisiyo ibhulorho esandula ukwakhiwa eDe
Doorns. Ngenxa yeentsokolo zezopolitiko wawungekho umhlaba
owawubekelwe bucala kulungiselelwa ukwakhiwa kwezakhiwo ezinje ngale
bhulorho.
Sikwaqaphela nokuba imali engangezigidi ezinga-20 eerandi
esetyenzisiweyo ukwakha le bhulorho yenze ukuba kuvuleke amathuba
engqesho kuninzi lwabantu baseDe Doorns. Le bhulorho iza kucutha
inani leengozi, njengoko abantu abaninzi bebetshayiswa ziimoto xa
bebuya emsebenzini benqumla indlela besiya kumatyotyombe abo, abanye
bevela kufolela imisebenzi.
Singabahlali baseNorth Side nabaseSouth Side ku-N1 siyabulela
kumasipala norhulumente wephondo bebambisene ne-SA National Road
Agency Ltd ngokuqinisekisa ukuba amathuba emisebenzi ayavuleka,
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kwanokuba abantu baza kusinda ekutshayisweni ziimoto. Kwakhona
abantu baza kukwazi ukuya ezikliniki, ezikolweni nasezivenkileni
ezikwelinye icala lika-N1.
Siyabakhuthaza nabanye abaneenjongo zokuphuhlisa kulaa mmandla ukuba
benjenjalo. Abahlali balaa ndawo basezintwaleni, bafuna
ukuhlanjululwa ngamabhakethi eJeyes Fluid. Yizani kutyala imali eDe
Doorns. Enkosi. (Translation of isiXhosa member’s statement
follows.)
[Mr M M DIKGACWI (ANC): Madam Deputy Speaker, we note with joy and
genuine happiness the bridge that has just been erected at De
Doorns. Due to political pressures, there was no land that had been
earmarked for such a bridge.
We also note that the amount of R20 million that was used to build
this bridge created job opportunities for many of the people of De
Doorns. This bridge will reduce the number of accidents, because a
number of people used to be knocked down by vehicles when going to
and coming from work, having to cross the highway on the way back to
their shacks, some coming from seeking jobs.
As residents of North Side and South Side, along the N1, we would
like to thank the municipality and the provincial government, in
collaboration with the SA National Road Agency Ltd, for ensuring
that job opportunities were created and that people will no longer
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be knocked down by vehicles. Furthermore, the people will now be
able to go to the clinics, schools and shops on the other side of
the N1.
We encourage others who intend to develop that area to do likewise.
The residents of that area have problems with an infestation of
fleas. They need to cleanse the area using buckets of Jeyes Fluid.
Come and invest at De Doorns. Thank you.]
MALARIA VACCINE
(Member’s Statement)
Mrs C DUDLEY (ACDP): Deputy Speaker, the ACDP welcomes breakthrough
research in the United States in developing a vaccine against
malaria. We are encouraged by news of an American scientist leading
an international team of researchers to produce a vaccine against
malaria.
As Africans we all know the terrible toll taken by malaria every
year, with an especially heavy toll on infants. Whilst we are
pleased that companies are establishing industries in malarial areas
and are endeavouring to protect their staff through the use of DDT,
we, however, recognise that DDT has its own negative effects and is
not the ultimate solution.
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So it is with real hope that the ACDP recognises the work being
carried out by a biotechnology firm in Maryland, using malarial
mosquitoes themselves to manufacture a vaccine against malaria.
Although there is a long way to go before they will be able to
license it and deploy it as an effective eradication method, this
vaccine brings hope. It promises the birth of economy and prosperity
in ravaged areas, and could save lives.
We look forward also to developments in this regard within South
Africa’s science and technology sector. Thank you.
MURDER OF THREE FEMALE LAUNDRY WORKERS
(Member’s Statement)
Ms D M RAMODIBE (ANC): Madam Deputy Speaker, on behalf of the ANC I
rise to bring to the attention of the House and share with you and
the nation at large, one of the challenges faced by our new
democracy, as the country advances towards transforming itself into
a nonracial, nonsexist, united and democratic society.
In the constituency where I am deployed in Vanderbijlpark near
Vereeniging, I have been following up a case of three female
workers, namely Joyce Lesito (28), Constance Moeletsi (30) and
Victoria Ndweni (30). In 2006 they were allegedly placed into a dry
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cleaning washing machine that contained chemicals. They were later
found dead.
The administration of justice should be accessible to all the
people. It must be credible and legitimate. The case against the
accused dragged on in the Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court and was
delayed by bail applications for the perpetrators. They were later
granted bail, despite public objections and demonstrations by the
ANC Women’s League and the alliance partners.
The case has now been put in abeyance or suspended, pending further
investigation. It was alleged that there was not enough evidence
against the accused. I call on the Minister for Justice and
Constitutional Development to investigate this very serious matter.
I thank you.
SLOW PACE OF LAND REDISTRIBUTION
(Member’s Statement)
Mr M V NGEMA (Nadeco): Madam Speaker, poverty is the parent of
revolution and crime. This is an observation that was made by
academic and philosopher, Aristotle. It was this statement that came
to mind when the media report seen over the weekend stated that less
than 5% of agricultural land has been transferred into black hands
since 1994.
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The issue of land will continue to open wounds for the people of
this country. Reports of widespread protests against the slow pace
of white-owned farmlands being transferred into black hands and
delays in compensating families who were forced off their land
during apartheid are disturbing, owing to the fact that the people
were promised the transfer of 30% of white-owned farmlands by 2014.
This year only 258 890 hectares have been redistributed, which is
almost 40 000 hectares less than in 2002.
South Africans have been extremely patient and understanding with
regard to the issue of land redistribution. However, when there are
reports of widespread underperformance in the redistribution of land
... [Time expired.]
SUSPENSION OF ABALONE HARVESTING
(Member’s Statement)
Mnr I F JULIES (DA): Mevrou die Speaker, die Minister van
Omgewingsake en Toerisme se besluit om die oes van perlemoen stop te
sit sal slegs die wettige vissers straf terwyl die stropers steeds
sal voortgaan met hulle kriminele bedrywighede. Deur dié stap sal
die Minister juis die belanghebbendes verloor wat ’n rol speel in
die beskerming van die vissery.
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Wat gaan nou gebeur met wettige perlemoenvissers? Hulle sal in
armoede verval. Die Regering se plan om ’n maatskaplike
armoedeverligtingsplan bekend te stel om hierdie vissermanne te help
sal nie werk nie. Dit is wel waar dat Suid-Afrika ’n
perlemoenakwakultuurbedryf nodig het, maar dit sal jare neem om
opbrengste te toon en dus ook om die vissers van ’n inkomste te
voorsien.
Die grootste probleem met die perlemoenbedryf is dat 300 wettige
perlemoenvissermanne en 700 ander wat betrokke is by die verwerking
van perlemoen miljoene rande belê het in fabrieke en in bote. Die
kapitaal is nou bestee en dit is onwaarskynlik dat dit oorgedra kan
word na ander visserye, wat reeds oorgekapitaliseer is. Daar is baie
vissermanne wat die banke baie geld skuld vir bates waarvoor hulle
nou nie meer sal kan betaal nie.
Die DA versoek die Minister om dringend sy besluit te heroorweeg en
om so spoedig moontlik met die wettige vissermanne te vergader om
die gemeenskaplike bestuur van hierdie hulpbron te bespreek. Baie
dankie. (Translation of Afrikaans member’s statement follows.)
[Mr I F JULIES (DA): Madam Speaker, the Minister of Environmental
Affairs and Tourism’s decision to put a stop to abalone harvesting
will only punish legal fishermen while poachers will continue with
their criminal activities. By taking this step the Minister will, in
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fact, lose the interested parties who play a role in the protection
of the fishing industry.
What is going to happen to legal abalone fishers? They will fall
into poverty. The government’s plan to introduce a social poverty
alleviation plan to assist these fishermen won’t work. It is,
indeed, true that South Africa needs an abalone aquaculture
industry, but it will take years to show a return as well as
supplying the fishermen with an income.
The biggest problem in the abalone industry is that 300 legal
abalone fishermen and 700 others who are involved with abalone
processing have invested millions of rands in factories and boats.
The capital has already been spent and it is unlikely that it can be
transferred to other fisheries, which are already overcapitalised.
There are many fishermen who owe the banks a lot of money for assets
they will no longer be able to pay for.
The DA requests the Minister to reconsider his decision as a matter
of urgency and to meet with the legal fishermen as soon as possible
to discuss the joint management of this resource. Thank you very
much.]
MURDER OF DR “POX” REGHAVJEE
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Prof S M MAYATULA (ANC): Somlomo, into yokugetyengwa ngokumasikizi
kuka-Gqr “Pox” Reghavjee eQonce ngentsasa yayizolo, ilanga lihlabe
umhlaba, isothusile, kwaye isivusele umnyele thina bantu baseMpuma
Koloni. Lo ibingugqirha wabantu nosincede kakhulu nangexesha
localucalulo kwingingqi yaseQonce. Sithi kwabo bambuleleyo: Ingalo
yomthetho inde. Sihlaba ikhwelo kwabomthetho nakuluntu ngokubanzi
ukuba lubambisane ukulwa nalo mthyoli ukuze kufunyanwe abenzi bobu
bubi. Enkosi. [Kwaqhwatywa.] (Translation of isiXhosa member’s
statement follows.)
[Prof S M MAYATULA (ANC): Madam Deputy Speaker, the brutal murder of
Dr “Pox” Reghavjee in Queenstown, yesterday morning, in broad
daylight, has shocked us and has disturbed us as the people of the
Eastern Cape. This was a people’s doctor who helped us greatly
during the apartheid era in Queenstown and surrounding areas. To
those who killed him we say: Beware the long arm of the law. We
would like to plead with law enforcement officials to co-operate in
fighting this abomination so that the perpetrators of this crime may
be brought to book. [Applause.]]
SCOURGE OF VIOLENCE AT SCHOOLS
(Member’s Statement)
Ms C N Z ZIKALALA (IFP): Madam Deputy Speaker, we are in a crisis
and do not seem to have any solutions at hand. The level of violence
in and around our schools has spiralled out of control. A Durban
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teacher was stabbed and robbed of her vehicle as she was leaving her
school in Marianhill yesterday. The incident happened just a few
days after 23 teachers were held up at Savanna Park Secondary
School, near Marianhill.
The future of our children and grandchildren looks bleak. They are
not able to concentrate on their school activities as they have to
be vigilant for acts of violence and criminal activities.
The only way that we will overcome this scourge is for all of us to
work together and try our utmost to find lasting solutions. It is
unacceptable that learners do not feel safe in their schools.
The future of our country and of our youth needs to be liberated
from the unscrupulous criminals who are holding them hostage and who
seem to commit their criminal activities at will. The culture of
violence and lack of respect must be stopped before it takes root in
our society and becomes the norm. I thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker.
IMPROVED SERVICE DELIVERY IN SOSHANGUVE
(Member’s Statement)
Mr H P MALULEKA (ANC): Madam Deputy Speaker, Soshanguve is one of
the biggest townships in Tshwane, which, like many of our townships,
is still lagging behind as regards some essential services. Our
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government has established a number of departments within the
township. Residents of Soshanguve now have services provided on
their doorstep by the following government departments: Labour;
Correctional Services; Justice; SA Police Service; Social
Development; Home Affairs; and GCIS.
We would like to thank the MEC for Social Development in Gauteng, Mr
Kgaogelo Lekgoro, for his quick response after we brought to his
attention the need for more resources for social workers who work in
Soshanguve. The MEC has made the following tools of the trade
available to our social workers: computers with 3-G connectivity,
four cars of which two are subsidised, and office space, which is
currently being renovated. We have also been informed that social
workers who are not office-bound will be provided with cellphones.
These interventions can only mean improved service delivery and the
realisation of our commitment to create a better life for all.
I thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Applause.]
KAUSHIK PATEL NAMED CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER OF SAA
(Member’s Statement)
Dr S M VAN DYK (DA): Deputy Speaker, last week SAA appointed Kaushik
Patel, the former chief financial officer of Telkom, as its new
chief financial officer. No mention was made of this to the
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Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises, which was briefed by the
airline a week before.
SAA’s overstretched board is known not to pay attention when it
matters most and therefore this situation creates suspicion and
concern. Just take into account that Mr Patel will be SAA’s fourth
CFO in only one year. Members will agree with me that this is a
highly unusual situation for a multi-billion rand company to be in.
It is also the same year in which SAA Chief Executive ``Emperor``
Khaya Ngqula promised to turn the state airline’s R883 million loss
into a R47 million net profit. Of course, seeing is believing. Given
SAA’s performance under him, Ngqula’s abilities are by no means
proven.
Along with the fact that he has a hand in at least 22 other
companies, he will need all the assistance he can get to turn SAA
around. About 2 232 employees will lose their jobs to save R863
million. They need to know that this is not for nothing.
Another R3 billion in taxpayer’s funds have been requested from
Treasury, of which R1,3 billion has already been paid for
recapitalisation.
South Africans need to know that Mr Patel’s appointment was the
culmination of an exhaustive process to find a CFO to guard the
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taxpayer’s ever-increasing investment in SAA. Public Enterprises
Minister Alec Erwin needs to provide that assurance to Parliament.
Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. [Applause.]
ELDORADO PARK FM
(Member’s Statement)
Mr S J NJIKELANA (ANC): Madam Deputy Speaker, my statement is about
another creative and dynamic development tool for Eldorado Park.
On 15 September, history was made in Eldorado Park in the Deep South
around Johannesburg when Eldorado Park FM was formalised. Whilst the
establishment of community radio stations is a growing activity in
South Africa, the uniqueness of Eldorado Park FM is confirmed by the
composition of its board of directors, which is well balanced in
terms of gender, race and age grouping.
What was also admirable was the effort put in by the youth
empowerment network of Eldorado Park in relentlessly pursuing this
project to its current stage of development. The board of Eldorado
Park FM committed itself to promoting community values and a true
sense of South Africanness. There was a clear commitment that
various languages other than English and Afrikaans would also be
used.
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Participation from the areas that will be covered will be strongly
encouraged and adhered to. Areas that will benefit are Slovo Park,
Kliptown and Klipspruit in Soweto and Freedom Park as well as
Eldorado Park itself. Even local councillors have endorsed the
intention for the station to cover local activities in the City of
Johannesburg regarding service delivery and development projects
generally. Thank you. [Applause.]
DEPARTURE OF DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF AGRICULTURE AND LAND AFFAIRS AND
PERFORMANCE OF DEPARTMENT
(Member’s Statement)
Mnr A H NEL (DA): Dit is vanoggend aangekondig dat die Minister van
Landbou en Grondsake en die Direkteur-generaal van Grondsake
ooreengekom het dat sy dienste beëindig word.
Die hele saga spruit voort uit mnr Glen Thomas se bywoning van die
Wêreldbeker-eindstryd waar hy, ongelukkig vir hom, op televisie
gesien is. Dit wys ‘n mens hoe ‘n gevaarlike spel rugby is! [Gelag.]
Feit is egter dat Grondsake al ‘n geruime tyd nie presteer nie. Die
Minister het die department laat ondersoek deur die
Staatsdienskommissie. Die President het sy ontevredenheid
uitgespreek met die leiding van die department wat, volgens hom, net
beplan, maar niks uitvoer nie.
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Die Minister en haar Adjunk kan egter nie agter rugby skuil nie.
Hulle moes al lankal opgetree het. Hulle het hul plig versuim.
(Translation of Afrikaans member’s statement follows.)
[Mr A H NEL (DA): It was announced this morning that the Minister of
Agriculture and Land Affairs and the Director-General of Land
Affairs have agreed that his services would be terminated.
The whole saga resulted from Mr Glen Thomas attending the World Cup
Final where, unfortunately for him, he was seen on television. This
goes to show what a dangerous game rugby really is! [Laughter.]
However, the fact is that Land Affairs has not been performing for
quite some time. The Minister has had the department investigated by
the Public Service Commission. The President has expressed his
dissatisfaction with the leadership of the department, which,
according to him, only plans, but never carries anything out.
The Minister and her Deputy cannot hide behind rugby, however. They
should have acted long ago. They have neglected their duties.]
AIDS STATISTICS AND THE NEED TO REVISE AIDS POLICIES
(Member’s Statement)
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 72 of 104
Dr R RABINOWITZ (IFP): Deputy Speaker, the recent comments from the
United Nations Children’s Fund that our country has lost the Aids
battle give us cause for concern.
One hears reports from various sectors of the Health department that
the numbers of people with HIV are decreasing in certain categories.
However, statistics that have been issued by the statistical bodies
monitoring the Aids epidemic in South Africa indicate that, although
their statistics are not identical, in all categories the numbers of
people suffering from HIV are increasing, and the numbers of people
who will die from HIV will increase from the current 1 000 per day
to 1 100 or 1 200 per day in the coming years.
That being the case, something drastic should be done about our
current Aids policies. The Minister of Finance’s voting of
additional money to fight HIV and tuberculosis is not the answer.
Thank you.
AGENDA TO TOPPLE DA-LED MULTIPARTY GOVERNMENT IN WESTERN CAPE
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER OF SAFETY AND SECURITY: Deputy Speaker, obviously the
fear of the ongoing investigation into the case that the hon Botha
has referred to, is causing them sleepless nights. Hon Botha, the
fact of the matter is that your entire leadership is running scared.
30 OCTOBER 2007
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Do you remember the English phrase that says, “the guilty are
afraid”? I am sure you can recall that.
The fact that you are trying to divert attention from the DA and the
possibility that there is more that is going to be uncovered in the
investigation, is causing you sleepless nights; but we are going to
continue to investigate the case. If a crime has been committed, we
will investigate. [Interjections.]
The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order, please, hon members!
NEGOTIATIONS ON TEACHERS SALARIES;
SCOURGE OF VIOLENCE AT SCHOOLS
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER OF EDUCATION: Deputy Speaker, with respect to the
proposed occupation-specific dispensation, which I have placed
before the Education and Labour Relations Council, it’s important,
perhaps, to say to the member who made the statement that it is
vital in negotiations that you don’t negotiate in the media.
Therefore, what we have done is to meet with the union
representatives, and my department and the unions are discussing the
areas in which there appear to be different approaches with respect
to the model.
30 OCTOBER 2007
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I shall just repeat that what we would want to achieve is, of
course, an occupation-specific dispensation for teachers that must
be achieved in terms of the agreement reached in the Public Service
bargaining chamber. That dispensation must be linked to performance
assessment, because we have agreed that performance has to be a core
part of the model. It must support career pathing in a positive
fashion for educators in service; it must recognise experience; it
must encourage qualifications and recognise them; and it must also
support us in retaining scarce skills in the critical core subjects
or gateway subjects: maths, science and technology.
We hope that the final model, which I trust will be agreed to, and
which I think we know is as far apart as our statements in the media
may indicate, will at least have these core principles enshrined in
it.
On the matter of violence in schools, clearly, this is an aspect
that all of us should be worried about. I think what we should be
doing is to engage our young people in our communities, in our homes
and in our schools, to begin to share a set of core values that we
would promote and hope young people would espouse the notion that
when there is a quarrel you resolve it without a knife, a gun or a
dangerous object; if you differ, you discuss the difference and
arrive at an agreement.
30 OCTOBER 2007
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I think this Parliament has great experience at finding one another
in a range of domains. We need to transmit that manner of conflict
resolution to the children of our country and, as parents, play a
greater role in shaping the moral fibre of our children and not just
leave this to teachers. Apart from the rules and measures we put in
place each of us, as South Africans, have a role to play.
SUSPENSION OF ABALONE HARVESTING
(Minister’s Response)
Die MINISTER VAN OMGEWINGSAKE EN TOERISME: Speaker, ek wil graag
reageer op die agb Julies van die DA se verklaring oor die kommer
oor die opskorting van perlemoenvangste.
Laat ek dadelik sê dit is nie ’n besluit wat ons maklik geneem het
nie, maar dit is ook nie die eerste keer dat dit gebeur in ons
visbedryf nie. Daar is al voorheen sulke noodtoestande verklaar ten
opsigte van sommige van die visbronne waar daar ’n probleem was.
Wat met die perlemoen gebeur, is dat hierdie bron jaar ná jaar besig
is om dramaties te krimp. Dit het oor die afgelope dekades gekrimp
van ’n jaarlikse kwota van duisende ton na 600 ton enkele jare
gelede, en tot slegs 125 ton verlede jaar.
30 OCTOBER 2007
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By al die besluite wat ons neem, neem ons ’n sterk wetenskaplike
inset in berekening. Wat baie belangrik is, is dat ons dit nie net
gaan opskort het nie. Ons het ook daarmee saam ’n maatskaplike plan
aangekondig om die impak te versag op dié mense wat geraak word,
maar ons weet almal dit is baie moeilik om die impak 100% uit te
skakel.
Dis ’n baie moeilike besluit vir enige regering om te neem. Ek
vergader later vanmiddag met Cosatu en Masifundisi. Ons het niks om
weg te steek nie. Die besluit wat ons neem, is ’n besluit waarvan
ons die inligting met enigiemand kan deel, en ek is selfs bereid om
dit direk met Cosatu te bespreek.
Môreoggend sal ek ook aan die portefeuljekomitee ’n deeglike
voorlegging daaroor doen, maar dis ’n moeilike besluit en ons kyk na
alle opsies om te kyk of ons nie steeds die impak kan versag nie.
[Applous.] (Translation of Afrikaans Minister’s response follows.)
[The MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM: Speaker, I would
like to respond to the hon Julies of the DA’s statement regarding
the concern about the suspension of abalone fishing.
Let me say immediately that this is not a decision that we took
lightly, but it is also not the first time that this has happened in
our fishing industry. Such states of emergency have been declared
30 OCTOBER 2007
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before with regard to some of the fish resources where there was a
problem.
What has happened to the abalone is that this resource is
diminishing drastically year after year. Over the last few decades
it has declined from a yearly quota of thousands of tons to 600 tons
a few years back, and to only 125 tons last year.
In all the decisions we take, we take a strong scientific input into
account. What is very important is that we are not simply going to
suspend it. Along with it we also announced a social plan to soften
the impact on those people who are affected, but we all know that it
is very difficult to eradicate the impact 100%.
It is a very difficult decision for any government to take. Later
this afternoon I will be meeting with Cosatu and Masifundisi. We
have nothing to hide. The decision we are taking is a decision we
can share the information of with anyone, and I am even prepared to
discuss it with Cosatu directly.
Tomorrow morning I will also give a thorough presentation on it to
the portfolio committee, but it is a difficult decision and we have
to look at all the options to see if we can’t still soften the
impact. [Applause.]]
30 OCTOBER 2007
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MURDER OF DR “POX” REGHAVJEE
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES: Deputy Speaker, I am only
taking the one issue, which is on the murder of Dr “Pox” Reghavjee,
because there is a Minister for the one on correctional services,
and that is the Deputy Minister of Correctional Services.
Malunga no Gqr “Pox” Reghavjee eQonce, sithumela imiyalezo yosizi
novelwano kusapho lwakhe nakubantu beelali zonke zasekhaya,
nezijikeleze idolophu yaseQonce. Ukugetyengwa kwalo qgirha wabantu
kusothusile sonke. Kwabo benze obu bubi neli nyala lihlasimlisa
umzimba sithi, ingalo yomthetho inde.
Amapolisa aphume iphulo njengokuba ndithetha nje, athe mbende emva
kwabo ukuze ababambe abo sathana. Niyaya emaplangeni, kanti
naseKokstad entolongweni ndinilindile. (Translation of isiXhosa
paragraphs follows.)
[With regard to the murder of Dr “Pox” Reghavjee in Queenstown, we
would like to convey our condolences to his family and to the people
of the villages surrounding Queenstown. The murder of this people’s
doctor has shocked all of us. To those who have committed this
heinous deed we would like to say: beware the long arm of the law.
30 OCTOBER 2007
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The police are investigating as we speak. They are tracking them
down so that they may arrest these devils. You are going to appear
in court and I am waiting for you at the Kokstad prison.
CORRECTION WEEK
ELDORADO PARK FM
(Minister’s Responses)
The DEPUTY MINISTER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES: Deputy Speaker, I want
to respond to the statement made by the hon Chikunga as well as that
of the hon Njikelana.
Firstly, I want to welcome the statement of the hon Chikunga, and
secondly, to re-emphasise the call of the hon member to all of us to
mobilise and rally our communities behind the Department of
Correctional Services call to make corrections, rehabilitation, and
social reintegration the responsibility of all South Africans in
order to ensure a safer and more secure South Africa.
Lastly, I would like to remind the members of the yellow ribbon
campaign – and I only see the Minister and myself wearing our yellow
ribbons - since I explained the purpose of the yellow ribbon
campaign last week. It is aimed at embracing ex-offenders upon their
30 OCTOBER 2007
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release and encouraging them to live crime-free lives and join the
majority of people who are upright citizens of this country.
On the second statement by the hon Njikelana, I would also like to
congratulate Eldorado Park FM on their launch in September 2007, and
hope that the community of Eldorado Park and beyond will use this
radio station to increase their participation in local, provincial
and national government.
Lastly, I would like to call on Eldorado Park FM to raise topical
matters that will assist, not just that community but all South
Africans, to bring to the attention of law makers issues that will
enable them to create a better life for all. Thank you. [Applause]
The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon Deputy Minister, I do apologise for my pink
rose. Thank you. [Laughter.]
AGENDA TO TOPPLE MULTIPARTY GOVERNMET IN WESTERN CAPE
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY: Deputy Speaker, those who shout the
loudest about democracy respect it the least. They must explain to
us, because before you intercept anybody’s communications you need a
court order. Did they have a court order or not? Do not come here,
digress, and talk of something else or somebody else getting reports
30 OCTOBER 2007
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without telling us whether they did or did not have a court order.
They paid this money ...
Mr M J ELLIS: Deputy Speaker, may I rise on the point of order to
say that we have already had a response from a Minister to the hon
Sandra Botha on this matter, and I believe the Rules imply that
there should be only one ministerial response to each issue. Thank
you.
THE LEADER OF THE OFFICIAL OPPOSTION: Madam Deputy Speaker, I would
be delighted to have a second one. Thank you.
The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY: Yes, that is your democratic right.
That is the first point. The second point is that they must come
clean. Did the DA and that speaker intercept the communications of
their own members or their allies such as the ID without a court
order or not? Surely we need to come clean on those questions,
because if you did that I want to know what respect you have for
democracy. The third point is that the DA knows ... [Interjections.]
The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order, hon members! I need to be able to follow
what is being said in the House and you ...
Mr M J ELLIS: It is not worth following.
The DEPUTY SPEAKER: It is worth following from where I am sitting.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 82 of 104
The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY: Ag, laat hulle skreeu man, [Oh, let
them shout], because there is nothing else they can do. The third
point is that they know that it is not in the power of the Minister
or the Premier or anybody else to charge people. That is the
responsibility of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, but those
who feel aggrieved by what Mr Chabaan has done have a right to go
and charge him. So why do we stand here, under the protection of
this Chamber, and make these statements? Go and lay a charge,
because that is your democratic right.
The last point that I want to make is that if you respect democracy
you will, therefore, respect the fact that this side of the House
has 70% of the legislative powers here in South Africa. Respect
democracy. [Time expired.][Applause.]
MURDER OF THREE FEMALE LAUNDRY WORKERS
(Minister’s Response)
The MINISTER FOR JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Yes,
interception without permission is a crime. There is a charge for
that.
My sister ...
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 83 of 104
... ke batla go tlatsa polelo e e dirilweng ke wena ka kgang ya
batho ba ba neng ba bolawa ba bo ba tsenngwa kwa ditshelong tsa
“dry-clean”. Ditopo tsa bona tsa fitlhelwa koo.
Nnete ke gore bagarona ba utlwile botlhoko thata. Bagarona ba ntse
ba re kwalela ba re botsa gore a go na le sengwe se re se dirang ka
kgang eo naa.
Kwa tshimologong ya kgang e fa re dira dipatlisiso, re utlwile gore
diphosonyana di diragetse mo tsamaong. Ga re ise re fitlhelele
sentle gore go diragetse eng.
Ke kwaletse Mokaedi wa Lekgotla la Bosetšhaba la Botšhotšhisi ke mo
kopa gore a re fe pegelo ka botlalo. Ke solofela gore pegelo eo e
tla tla. E tla re thusa gore re le Khuduthamaga re kgaleme fa re
kgalemang teng, re kgothatse gore ba dire tiro tsa bona jaaka ba
tshwanetse go di dira.
Ke tla bowa ke bega sentle ka kgang e. Gona re diegile mme le rona
re emetse dikarabo. Ke a leboga. (Translation of Setswana paragraphs
follows.)
[... I would like to support you on the issue you have raised in
your statement, namely the issue of people who were killed and then
stuffed into dry-cleaning machines. Their corpses were then hidden
there.
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 84 of 104
The truth of the matter is, our people were seriously affected. Our
people are still writing to us, asking us whether we are doing
something about this.
At the beginning of this case, while we were investigating it, we
were told that some mistakes had been made in the meantime. We did
not discover exactly what had happened.
I wrote to the Director of Public Prosecutions requesting him to
give us a full report. I hope the report will come. It will help us
as the Executive to condemn the perpetrators if need be and
encourage them to do their work as expected.
I will come back to report in full on this issue. Indeed, we took
some time, but we are also awaiting answers. Thank you.]
The House adjourned at 15:29.
__________
ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
FRIDAY, 26 OCTOBER 2007
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 85 of 104
The Speaker
1.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The report is also referred to the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs and
Tourism in accordance with its mandate. The Report of the Auditor-General is referred to the
Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Food and Beverages Manufacturing Sector
Education and Training Authority (FoodBev-Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of
the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 65-2007].
2.
The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The reports are also referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance in accordance with
its mandate. The Reports of the Auditor-General are referred to the Standing Committee on
Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority
(Inseta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 67-2007].
(b)
Report and Financial Statements of the Banking Sector Education and Training Authority
(Bank-Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 57-2007].
30 OCTOBER 2007
(c)
Page 86 of 104
Report and Financial Statements of the Finance, Accounting, Management Consulting and
other Financial Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) for 20062007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 20062007 [RP 63-3007].
3.
The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The reports are also referred to the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry in
accordance with its mandate. The Reports of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements
are referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Services Sector Education and Training Authority
(Services Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 88-2007].
(b)
Report and Financial Statements Clothing, Textiles, Footwear and Leather Sector
Education and Training Authority (CTFL-Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 60-2007].
(c)
Report and Financial Statements of the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and
Training Authority (W&R-Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the AuditorGeneral on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 78-2007].
4.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The report is also referred to the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture and Land Affairs
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 87 of 104
in accordance with its mandate. The Report of the Auditor-General is referred to the Standing
Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Agricultural Sector Education and Training
Authority (Agri-Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 56-2007].
5.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The report is also referred to the Portfolio Committee on Health and the Portfolio
Committee on Social Development in accordance with their mandate. The Report of the
Auditor-General is referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training
Authority (HW-Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 66-2007].
6.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The report is also referred to the Portfolio Committee on Education in accordance with
its mandate. The Report of the Auditor-General is referred to the Standing Committee on
Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Education, Training and Development Practices
Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP-Seta) for 2006-2007, including the Report
of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 62-2007].
30 OCTOBER 2007
7.
Page 88 of 104
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The report is also referred to the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs and
Tourism and the Portfolio Committee on Sport and Recreation in accordance with their
mandate. The Report of the Auditor-General is referred to the Standing Committee on Public
Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Education and
Training Authority (Theta) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on
the Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 77-2007].
8.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Defence for consideration and
report. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements is referred to the
Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Armaments Corporation of South Africa Limited
(ARMSCOR) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 101-2007].
9.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance and the Portfolio
Committee on Safety and Security for consideration and report. The Report of the AuditorGeneral on the Financial Statements is referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts
for consideration:
30 OCTOBER 2007
(a)
Page 89 of 104
Report and Financial Statements of the Financial Intelligence Centre for 2006-2007,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007
[RP 133-2007].
10.
The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture for
consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements are
referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the National Museum – Bloemfontein for 2006-2007,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
(b)
Report and Financial Statements of Artscape for 2006-2007, including the Report of the
Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
(c)
Report and Financial Statements of the South African State Theatre for 2006-2007,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007
[RP 156-2007].
(d)
Report and Financial Statements of the National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) for
2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for
2006-2007 [RP 186-2007].
(e)
Report and Financial Statements of the Robben Island Museum for 2006-2007, including
the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 1612007].
30 OCTOBER 2007
(f)
Page 90 of 104
Report and financial Statements of the Pan South African Language Board (Pansalb) for
2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for
2006-2007 [RP 174-2007].
(g)
Report and Financial Statements of the William Humphreys Art Gallery for 2006-2007,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
(h)
Report and Financial Statements of the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) for
2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for
2006-2007 [RP 150-2007].
(i)
Report and Financial Statements of the Iziko Museums of Cape Town for 2006-2007,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
11.
The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs and
Tourism for consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements are referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of South African Tourism for 2006-2007, including the
Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
(b)
Report and Financial Statements of the South African National Biodiversity Institutes
(SANBI) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial
Statements for 2006-2007.
30 OCTOBER 2007
(c)
Page 91 of 104
Report and Financial Statements of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park Authority for 20062007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 20062007.
12.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration and
report. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements is referred to the
Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Financial and Fiscal Commission (FFC) for 20062007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 20062007 [RP 143-2007].
13.
The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry for
consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor-General and the Independent Auditors on
the Financial Statements are referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts for
consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Industrial Development Corporation of South
Africa Limited (IDC) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on
the Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
(b)
Report and Financial Statements of the Competition Commission for 2006-2007, including
the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 1022007].
30 OCTOBER 2007
14.
Page 92 of 104
The following papers are referred to the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises for
consideration and report. The Reports of the Auditor-General and the Independent Auditors on
the Financial Statements are referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts for
consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of Vote 9 – Department of Public Enterprises for 20062007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements of Vote 9
for 2006-2007 [RP 196-2007].
(b)
Report and Financial Statements of the South African Forestry Company Limited
(SAFCOL) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the
Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
15.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises and the
Portfolio Committee on Minerals and Energy for consideration and report. The Report of the
Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements is referred to the Standing Committee on
Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (Proprietary) Limited
for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial
Statements for 2006-2007.
16.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour and the Joint
Monitoring Committee on Improvement of Quality of life and Status of Children, Youth
and Disabled Persons for consideration and report. The Report of the Independent Auditors on
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 93 of 104
the Financial Statements are referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts for
consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Umsobomvu Youth Fund (UYF) for 2006-2007,
including the Report of the Independent Auditors on the Financial Statements for 20062007.
17.
The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Labour for consideration and
report. The Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements is referred to the
Standing Committee on Public Accounts for consideration:
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and
Arbitration (CCMA) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements for 2006-2007 [RP 93-2007].
TABLINGS
National Assembly
1.
The Speaker
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of
the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL) for 2006-2007,
including the Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements for 2006-2007
[RP 126-2007].
30 OCTOBER 2007
(b)
Page 94 of 104
Letter from the Minister of Home Affairs, dated 28 September 2007, to the Speaker of the
National Assembly, in terms of section 65(2)(a) of the Public Finance Management Act,
1999 (Act No 1 of 1999), explaining the delay in the tabling of the Annual Report of the
Department of Home Affairs for 2006-2007.
TABLING OF ANNUAL REPORT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS IN
THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY: 1 APRIL 2006 – 31 MARCH 2007
Dear Speaker
In terms of section 65 (2)(a) of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 as amended, you are
hereby informed that the Annual Report of the Department of Home Affairs will be submitted
late.
The Auditor-General is still finalising his report as he has to consider post-balance sheet
events.
Please accept my apology in this regard.
Yours sincerely
N N MAPISA-NQAKULA, MP
MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 95 of 104
MONDAY, 29 OCTOBER 2007
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
1.
Introduction of Bills
(1)
The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
(a)
National Environment Management: Integrated Coastal Management Bill [B 40 –
2007] (National Assembly– proposed sec 76) [Bill and prior notice of its introduction
published in Government Gazette No 30141 of 6 August 2007.]
Introduction and referral to the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs
and Tourism of the National Assembly, as well as referral to the Joint Tagging
Mechanism (JTM) for classification in terms of Joint Rule 160.
In terms of Joint Rule 154 written views on the classification of the Bill may be
submitted to the JTM within three parliamentary working days.
TABLINGS
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 96 of 104
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
1.
The Speaker and the Chairperson
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of Vote 2 – Parliament for 2006-2007, including the
Report of the Auditor-General on the Financial Statements of Vote 2 for 2006-2007 [RP
97-2007].
TUESDAY, 30 OCTOBER 2007
ANNOUNCEMENTS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
The Speaker and the Chairperson
1.
Draft Bills submitted in terms of Joint Rule 159
(a)
Revenue Laws Second Amendment Bill, 2007, submitted by the Minister of Finance.
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance and the Select Committee on Finance.
(b)
Security Transfer Tax Administration Bill, 2007, submitted by the Minister of Finance.
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance and the Select Committee on Finance.
30 OCTOBER 2007
2.
Page 97 of 104
Introduction of Bills
(1)
The Minister of Finance
(a)
Adjustments Appropriation Bill [B 41 – 2007] (National Assembly – proposed sec
77)
(b)
Revenue Laws Amendment Bill [B 42 – 2007] (National Assembly –
proposed sec
77)
(c)
Revenue Laws Second Amendment Bill [B 43 – 2007] (National Assembly –
proposed sec 75) [Explanatory summary of Bill and prior notice of its introduction
published in Government Gazette No 30398 of
22 October 2007.]
(d)
Securities Transfer Tax Bill [B 44 – 2007] (National Assembly –
proposed sec
77)
(e)
Security Transfer Tax Administration Bill [B 45 – 2007] (National Assembly –
proposed sec 75) [Explanatory summary of Bill and prior notice of its introduction
published in Government Gazette No 30398 of
22 October 2007.]
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 98 of 104
Introduction and referral to the Portfolio Committee on Finance of the National
Assembly, as well as referral to the Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM) for classification in
terms of Joint Rule 160.
In terms of Joint Rule 154 written views on the classification of the Bills may be submitted
to the Joint Tagging Mechanism (JTM) within three parliamentary working days.
TABLINGS
National Assembly and National Council of Provinces
1.
The Minister of Finance
(a)
Medium Term Budget Policy Statement 2007 [RP 228-2007].
Referred to the Joint Budget Committee and the Portfolio Committee on Finance for
consideration and report, in accordance with their respective mandates.
(b)
Adjustments Appropriation Bill, 2007 [B41-2007].
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration and report.
(c)
Adjusted Estimates of National Expenditure 2007 [RP 229-2007], which includes:
30 OCTOBER 2007
1.
Page 99 of 104
Memorandum on Vote No 1 - "The Presidency", Adjustments Estimates, 20072008;
2.
Memorandum on Vote No 2 - "Parliament", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
3.
Memorandum on Vote No 3 - "Foreign Affairs", Adjustments Estimates, 20072008;
4.
Memorandum on Vote No 4 - "Home Affairs", Adjustments Estimates, 20072008;
5.
Memorandum on Vote No 5 - "Provincial and Local Government", Adjustments
Estimates, 2007-2008;
6.
Memorandum on Vote No 6 - "Public Works", Adjustments Estimates, 20072008;
7.
Memorandum on Vote No 7 - "Government Communications and Information
System", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
8.
Memorandum on Vote No 8 - "National Treasury", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
9.
Memorandum on Vote No 9 - "Public Service and Administration", Adjustments
Estimates, 2007-2008;
30 OCTOBER 2007
10.
Page 100 of 104
Memorandum on Vote No 10 - "Public Service Commission", Adjustments
Estimates, 2007-2008;
11.
Memorandum on Vote No 11 - "South African Management Development
Institute", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
12.
Memorandum on Vote No 12 - "Statistics South Africa", Adjustments
Estimates, 2007-2008;
13.
Memorandum on Vote No 13 - "Arts and Culture", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
14.
Memorandum on Vote No 14 - "Education", Adjustments Estimates, 20072008;
15.
Memorandum on Vote No 15 - "Health", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
16.
Memorandum on Vote No 16 - "Labour", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
17.
Memorandum on Vote No 17 - "Social Development", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
18.
Memorandum on Vote No 18 - " Sport and Recreation South Africa",
Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
30 OCTOBER 2007
19.
Page 101 of 104
Memorandum on Vote No 19 - "Correctional Services", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
20.
Memorandum on Vote No 20 - "Defence", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
21.
Memorandum on Vote No 21 - "Independent Complaints Directorate",
Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
22.
Memorandum on Vote No 22 - "Justice and Constitutional Development”,
Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
23.
Memorandum on Vote No 23 - "Safety and Security", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
24.
Memorandum on Vote No 24 - "Agriculture", Adjustments Estimates, 20072008;
25.
Memorandum on Vote No 25 - "Communications", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
26.
Memorandum on Vote No 26 - "Environmental Affairs and Tourism",
Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
27.
Memorandum on Vote No 27 - "Housing", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
30 OCTOBER 2007
28.
Page 102 of 104
Memorandum on Vote No 28 - "Land Affairs", Adjustments Estimates, 20072008;
29.
Memorandum on Vote No 29 - "Minerals and Energy", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
30.
Memorandum on Vote No 30 - "Public Enterprises", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
31.
Memorandum on Vote No 31 - "Science and Technology", Adjustments
Estimates, 2007-2008;
32.
Memorandum on Vote No 32 - "Trade and Industry", Adjustments Estimates,
2007-2008;
33.
Memorandum on Vote No 33 - "Transport", Adjustments Estimates, 2007-2008;
34.
Memorandum on Vote No 34 - "Water Affairs and Forestry", Adjustments
Estimates, 2007-2008;
Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Finance for consideration and report.
2.
The Minister for Public Enterprises
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of arivia.kom (Pty) Ltd for 2006-2007, including the
Report of the Independent Auditors for 2006-2007.
30 OCTOBER 2007
3.
Page 103 of 104
The Minister of Trade and Industry
(a)
Report and Financial Statements of the Technology and Human Resources for Industry
Programme (THRIP) for 2006-2007, including the Report of the Auditor-General on the
Financial Statements for 2006-2007.
(b)
Report of the National Industrial Participation Programme for 2006-2007.
National Assembly
1.
The Speaker
(a)
Agreement between the Republic of South Africa and the Government of the Republic of
Cuba on the Employment of Technical Advisors, tabled in terms of section 231(3) of the
Constitution, 1996.
(b)
Letter from the Minister for Public Enterprises, dated 25 October 2007, to the Speaker of
the National Assembly, in terms of section 65(2)(a) of the Public Finance Management Act,
1999 (Act No 1 of 1999), explaining the delay in the tabling of the Annual Report of
Arivia.kom for 2006-2007.
TABLING OF ARIVIA.KOM’s FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2006 – 2007
Dear Speaker
30 OCTOBER 2007
Page 104 of 104
In terms of section 65 (1)(a) and (2) of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No
1 of 1999), as amended, I am required to table Arivia.kom’s Annual Report and Financial
Statements in Parliament within six months after the end of the financial year to which
those Statements relate. As Arivia.kom’s financial year ended 31 March 2007, the Annual
Report and Financial Statements must be tabled in Parliament not later that 30 September
2007.
We are in the process of winding down this state-owned entity. Since our last submission
the shareholding in the company has changed resulting in Eskom Enterprises now the
major shareholder with 58,5% and Transnet 41,5% of Arivia.com. No Annual Report for
Arivia.com has therefore been prepared for the financial year 2006/7. Audited financial
statements for that period however are available. In compliance with the PFMA
requirements I therefore wish to table the Arivia.kom’s financial statements before
Parliament.
Kind regards
ALEC ERWIN, MP
MINISTER OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES