02 06 14 Workers Must Unite New airline on the Goldberg, a to ensure victory cards to replace fountain of against covid-19 SAA profound wisdom

Vol. 02 Issue 02 2020

State resources under severe pressure due to Covid-19 pandemic

The Standing Committee on Appropriations received two briefings on the 2020 drivers of economic growth. The committee believes that Appropriation Bill recently from the Public Services Commission (PSC) and the Human one of the ways to deal with Sciences Research Council (HSRC). Each presenter highlighted the potential cost-saving this challenge is to link the 30-day payment period to the measures and areas for concern that require additional funding, writes Abel Mputing. performance agreements that government officials sign. In its briefing, the PSC told the should be considered. The committee was told that highlighted once again committee that the ongoing the area of public service the failure of government In their briefing to the debate around the public wage The government’s cost of health risk assessment, done departments to utilise internal committee, the HSRC bill should include the issue doing business was raised by public financial institutions, capacity. highlighted areas most in need of excessive salaries in public as a concern and also as an is one of the areas which of additional funding, the first entities and municipalities, opportunity for cost-saving. should be revised, as these During the briefing, the of which relates to service in particular for executives According to the PSC, state assessments could also committee highlighted its delivery. The budget cuts for and board members. In light resources were already be done by government concerns with the ongoing local government support and of Covid-19, the presenter under severe pressure, healthcare practitioners. The issue of non-payment by traditional leaders remain a said, the non-payment of and this has been use of consultants, they said, government departments and growing concern, and they performance bonuses for the exacerbated by the Covid-19 also remains a large area of the effects of this on small said, this is the area where entire public administration pandemic. concern – and the briefing businesses, which are pivotal service delivery happens.

PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF www.parliament.gov.za parliamentofrsa 2 INSESSION NEWS

According to Prof Narnia Bohler- the infrastructure spending in The committee was told science and technology (IST). performance. The management Muller, executive director of the basic education, which remains that approximately 13.2% The HSRC’s Research Director, of public funds requires proper HSRC’s Research Programme critical. The HSRC welcomed of the population overall Dr Glenda Kruss, pointed to the accountability measures, more on Democracy, Governance the Covid-19 social assistance indicated that their chronic intensified problem of Covid-19. important now given the funds and Service Delivery, programme, but argued that its medication was inaccessible According to her presentation, made available to deal with the investment in basic services abrupt withdrawal at the end of during the lockdown, and the redirection of IST Covid-19 pandemic. infrastructure remains critical six months, without alternative 13% to 25% of those living expenditure to Covid-19-related to managing local responses interventions, may have a in informal settlements, rural priorities likely means further While the areas in need to the pandemic and general potentially destabilising impact (traditional tribal areas) and IST cuts, and that will impact of additional funds were household and/or community on the economy, poverty and farms indicated their chronic negatively on future growth highlighted in the presentation, resilience. vulnerability levels and social medications were not easily and development potential. what was not clear according stability. accessible. to the committee, are the She said the redirection of While noting the challenges programmes and measures the budget should therefore The Covid-19 pandemic has Addressing key constraints related to IST, the committee of enhancing revenue that consider the high prevalence thrust into the spotlight facing the country’s health questioned the decline in will be able to sustain these of hunger, the provision of the need for better health system, South Africa requires private sector investment in IST, areas more effectively. The water and sanitation required promotion strategies. According the reorientation of the health while encouraging the HSRC committee is determined to for personal and individual to Prof Khangelani Zuma, who system towards comprehensive to look at how schools in rural process an Appropriations Bill hygiene, and economic is HSRC’s Executive Director: primary healthcare and areas are included in IST and that is responsive to creating opportunities to protect the Social Aspects of Public Health, institutional reforms for the development. opportunities for efficiency, incomes of households. The the average growth of 5.1% implementation of the National effectiveness and value for second area of concern she Health Insurance (NHI). money. While keeping this in the health budget is With regard to cost-cutting raised relates to inclusive in mind, the committee also insufficient given the measures, the committee noted economic development. realises that budget cuts immediate and long-term The HSRC also spoke of the that this requires innovation across all areas to deal with health challenges facing South need for stronger prioritisation to facilitate effective and the current pandemic are Another area of concern was Africans. of expenditure on innovation, efficient service delivery and inevitable.

Workers Must Unite to ensure victory against covid-19 - Presiding Officers

The aftermath of this virus battle against this dangerous will be particularly hurtful invisible enemy will be The commemoration of the 2020 International Workers Day (May to the poor and the working required to defeat the resultant Day) takes place under an unprecedented and complex global health class, particularly the low- socio-economic challenges that wage workers. In South Africa, will remain with us after this crisis brought about by the dreaded coronavirus pandemic. Its impact the Covid-19 pandemic has pandemic. The South African on workers in South Africa, on the continent and across the world is graphically highlighted the working class has consistently depth of the triple challenges affirmed the principle that one of the most devastating health and socio-economic crisis the world facing our nation – inequality, workplace struggles cannot be of work has ever experienced. Millions of jobs are being lost globally, poverty and unemployment. separated from broader societal The global crisis has thus made developmental efforts. families are confronted with economic hardships as economies are it imperative and urgent to under major strain due to inactivity, say the Presiding Officers of confront these challenges more The unity of workers and the sharply than ever before, as working class during this time is Parliament, the Speaker of the National Assembly (NA), Ms Thandi an integral part of fighting the more paramount than ever, and Modise, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces pandemic. The human solidarity is historically re-affirmed by the and unity that has emerged famous rallying cry, “workers (NCOP), Mr Amos Masondo. amongst South Africans in the of the world unite”. As certain INSESSION NEWS 3

sectors of our economy open and various categories of workers are set to return to workplaces following weeks of complete lockdown to slow down the rate of infections, all efforts must be made to ensure conducive environments, which are safe and hygienic for the workers. Companies are called Editor upon to ensure that workers Brent Simons are protected and regulations as well as all labour laws are Production editor Mava Lukani strictly observed. Design and layout Lazola Zantsi We commend the government for its bold and necessary Copy editors intervention, in the form of Jane Henshall, Vusumzi Nobadula R500-billion set aside for Writers injection into the economy, Mava Lukani, Sakhile Mokoena, Abel Mputing, Justice Molafo, to assist with cushioning the Sureshinee Govender, enormous socio-economic Sibongile Maputi, Brent Simons, effects of Covid-19. This Parliaments are critical Photography includes relief for people who Mlandeli Puzi, have been hit hard by the Zwelethemba Kostile virus, the unemployed and in coordinating the fight GCIS companies. Distribution & subscriptions against Covid-19 Jacqueline Zils On this day, our solidarity is Publisher with all the workers of our Parliament of the Republic of land as they toil under the South Africa The COVID-19 pandemic is not only impacting on our day-to- precarious Covid-19 conditions Section Manager: both remotely behind the gates day lives, it is also changing the way parliaments work around Publishing and Production Shirley Montsho of their residences and formal the world according to the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU), physical workplaces. Copyright writes Brent Simons. INSESSION is published by the Information and Content We particularly salute Development Unit of the essential workers who are at Parliamentary Communication Services of the Parliament the forefront of the national Parliaments have “a vital number of people infected level, but also as platforms of the Republic of South Africa. battle against the spread role to play in supporting is already into seven for developing joint solutions All material published is of Covid-19. These include national efforts to stem figures, and there are tens to international problems.” copyrighted and cannot be health-care practitioners, law- the pandemic and in of thousands of victims She recalled that the IPU had reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. enforcement officers, retail mobilising the resources all around the world… adopted “a resolution on workers, community workers, to implement the health we commend the heroic achieving universal health EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES scientists and the military. Their measures recommended work of medical officers, coverage by 2030”. Telephone 021 403 8738 commitment is a commendable by the World Health scientists and many other Fax 021 403 8096 passion-driven patriotism, Organization (WHO). They essential staff who are E-mail [email protected] selflessness and love for are also key in legislating to working to protect us from The resolution noted the Subscriptions humanity. mitigate the effects of the the most dangerous threat to “absolute importance of [email protected] ensuing economic crisis and modernity, sometimes at the building reliable primary Post We are convinced that as a protecting the livelihoods cost of their own lives.” health-care services and PO Box 15, , 8000 united front, victory against of the populations that they strengthening health OUR IDEALS Covid-19 is certain. We owe it represent.” These were the systems, highlighting also Vision to our forebears who fought words of IPU President, Ms Ms Cuevas says that the IPU the role that such systems An activist and responsive people’s hard the protracted battles Gabriela Cuevas. She believes has always seen its essential play in ensuring global Parliament that improves the quality in South Africa and across that “the human race faces mission as bringing together health security.” This, of life of South Africans and ensures enduring equality in our society. the world for workers’ rights a new global threat, the the parliaments of the world, according to Ms Cuevas, and social justice over the biggest challenge to date not “only in strengthening validates “the relevance and Strategic Objectives past centuries. We also owe of the new millennium: the the foundations of practical importance” of the • Strengthening oversight and it to future generations of Covid-19 pandemic. The democracy at the national work done by parliaments accountability; workers to conquer this health throughout the world. • Enhancing public involvement; and economic crisis with a • Deepening engagement in minimum negative impact on international fora; our nation and families. • Strengthening cooperative The IPU says that all government; “Parliaments are currently We wish all South Africans and • Strengthening legislative capacity. subject to the same public workers well during Worker’s BOOK A TOUR health and social distancing Day. May we all continue To tour Parliament measures as schools, places ensuring we remain safe, of worship or businesses.” Telephone 021 403 2266 observe social distancing and Fax 021 403 3817 However, “in a time of exercise the hygiene guidelines E-mail [email protected] crisis, the role of Parliament at all times. is more vital than ever, to 4 INSESSION NEWS

pass emergency laws, allocate Parliament continues to its members throughout the of confinement and social and ensuring the continuity of resources and scrutinise meet virtually using remote world. However, it believes distancing.” democratic practices.” government action.” working methods. Technical that these challenges can be To this end, “the IPU has Ms Cuevas says that infrastructure for remote overcome, through international also called on its Member “throughout its long history” meetings is widely available cooperation or locally produced Parliaments to join WHO’s the IPU “has always stood Accordingly, the IPU proposed through commercial providers. technological innovation. life-saving campaign on for the principle that global some of the following Many parliaments are exploring social distancing and hand challenges require global approaches to ensure effective options for remote working hygiene using the hashtag responses”. This means that oversight by IPU Member tools. This raises a number The IPU has also “reached out #SafeHands. Many parliaments only through collective action Parliaments around the world: of issues, including the legal to Speakers of its Member Parliaments, encouraging have started amplifying the and reaction can humanity Parliament continues to meet basis for remote working, efforts they are taking to message through social media confront international threats, physically (where possible), security and authentication. contribute to the efforts to and outreach efforts to their such as “dangerous diseases, but with restrictions. These Another factor is the capacity stem the Covid-19 pandemic. populations.” climate change, international restrictions may include: of parliamentary staff to put in In the interests of sharing terrorism and unsustainable fewer sittings of plenary place new solutions while being parliamentary practice and development”. sessions or committees; fewer subject to social distancing facilitating inter-parliamentary The IPU also acknowledge that parliamentarians and staff in measures themselves. communication, the IPU is during a times of crisis, “some the building with some working calling on its Members to authorities are tempted to She called on parliaments to remotely; changes to the venue communicate what actions bypass democratic practices continue its important day of parliamentary meetings, for The IPU is also fully aware that they are taking to legislate and parliaments in the name to day work while facing the example using a bigger building Covid-19 pandemic will present for the crisis, as well as how of expediency. The IPU will challenges of dealing with that allows for more effective legal, procedural, technical they are using technology to continue to support parliaments Covid-19 and rebuilding our social distancing. and security challenges to continue to function in a time in promoting political dialogue economies after the pandemic.

Constituency offices are an extension of Parliament

InSession spoke to the House Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) responsible for committees, Mr Jomo Nyambi, on the work of committees under virtual conditions and the constituency of the delegates to the NCOP. He was also asked about the allocation of constituencies to the delegates to the NCOP and their accountability on that work, writes Mava Lukani.

Mr Jomo Nyambi, MP

Mr Nyambi said: “Constituency responsibility for adherence to have brought into sharp focus State of Disaster, we called on committees of the legislatures offices are an extension of the programme of the NCOP, the stark realities of inequality, all the committees in the NCOP as the NCOP is responsible for Parliament and Members of the honours are with each unemployment and poverty. to redraft their second term provinces, Mr Nyambi said: Parliament would then be individual party to designate Whereas those who reside programmes, in consultation “We will actually do everything accountable to Parliament for or allocate its members in the suburbs and towns with their counterparts in the within the confines of the law the time it schedules for them to constituency offices or have reported better coping National Assembly so as to to ensure that the legislative to execute their constituency constituency areas.” mechanisms, the same cannot put in check the actions of the arm of government continues responsibilities. If you check be said about those who executive, especially during to execute its mandate. For the programmes of Parliament, reside in poor communities. these trying times.” instance, it is possible to On the impact of the lockdown you will realise that on top of Social distancing has just been get portfolio committees in on rural communities in the Mondays being designated a challenge due to the high the provincial legislatures to provinces, which are the as constituency days, there’s levels of poverty, inequality and He also said: “The reason attend joint briefings with constituencies of the NCOP, also a constituency period that unemployment.” we moved for heightened select committees where a he was asked whether NCOP precedes the leave period.” cooperation and coordination Minister would brief both, committees have Covid-19 is that we did not want to instead of the normal cycle response oversight plans He added: “This calls into wear down our Ministers. where the Minister briefs the in place to deal with those He added: “Members are urgency the fast-tracking of the Committees could actually select committee, and then a specific problems, Mr Nyambi expected to work in Parliament National Democratic Revolution conduct joint meetings and still permanent delegate reverts said: “It is indeed true that and in constituencies before as a noble battle cry. Coming to achieve the same outcome.” to the legislature to brief a lockdown measures, which they could take a break your question, you would have portfolio committee for it have proven to be an effective between terms. Whereas noted that immediately after to conclude its negotiating strategy in the fight against On the possibility of working the Chief Whips assume the declaration of the National mandate.” the rapid spread of Covid-19, closely with the portfolio INSESSION NEWS 5

“The short version of my response is not only possible but desirable to include provincial portfolio committees in NCOP virtual meetings and it will definitely be done once MP to visit Beit Bridge the need has been established. In terms of our Constitution Special Delegates to the NCOP Border Fence Erection who are from the provincial legislatures, they can attend Project site any of our meetings as they have at their disposal the programme of the NCOP. This Ms Nolitha Ntobongwana, MP includes the local sphere of The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) briefed the Portfolio government that’s represented by Salga (South African Local Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure recently on the government-owned Government Association) properties earmarked as quarantine facilities for Covid-19 patients. The department in the NCOP.” also reported on the Beit Bridge fence erection project and the role of Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) beneficiaries during the pandemic, writesAbel Mputing. Asked on whether joint virtual meetings allow both members According to the department’s are cases where people their safety. In addition, assist in managing the illegal of the National Assembly Director-General, Mr Sam have been released from the committee heard that crossing and safe-keeping (NA) and the NCOP to exercise Vukela, the department quarantine prematurely, initial problems with the of the border against the oversight properly as they depends on the compliance before the required 14 days. deployment plan have unnecessary risks of infection. don’t have the same mandate, measures approved by the “Now we have ensured that now been resolved with When members were critical he said: “The mandates of Department of Health. He when we sign a contract it the Department of Health of the amount of money both the NA and NCOP are conceded that “there are stipulates the period of stay. and the plan is ready to be spent on the erection of the indeed distinct, but the story challenges regarding repair If not, that would create implemented. border fence at Beit Bridge does not end there. The and renovation, procurement problems,” he reported. over the years and its current analysis becomes complete of beds and catering services Members of the committee Some committee members upgrade, Ms De Lille promised and instructive when we in some sites”. In addition, told the department to look were critical of the R100- that she will investigate the add that these mandates are the process of quarantine at the high costs charged by a-day wage, considering matter, alleging that “there interdependent. What happens began without a standard hotels for quarantine sites. the risk the virus poses to has been an act of corruption in the joint virtual meetings is operating procedure, but They believe that private these workers. However, or illegality in how this that each committee is able Mr Vukela added that “that businesses should control they were pleased to hear fence has been erected and to take from the Minister process is almost finalised the need to make maximum from the Minister of DPWI, continually replaced over what is relevant to it, now”. profit, especially during times Ms , that time. I will ask the Auditor- and no single committee of human suffering. during the Covid-19 lockdown General to furnish me with gets prejudiced by that Another challenge is hotel period all EPWP beneficiaries figures and see what steps arrangement.” rate payments because, he On the Expanded Public under contract will remain can be taken to sort this out said, some hotels demand Works Covid-19 response as beneficiaries, and will once and for all”. Furthermore, Mr Nyambi said: payment for the entire hotel interventions, the department be able to draw from the “This frees time for Ministers to in advance, regardless of reported that to date, Unemployment Insurance Members of the committee get along with the business of required occupancy. He told 22 000 employees have Fund (UIF) once their resolved to visit the Beit leading the charge in the fight the committee that the been paid over R100 per contracts expire. Bridge Border Fence Erection against Covid-19 and any other National Treasury approved day. The department also Project site as soon as business as per their mandate. this, stating that “it would not provides EPWP employees Concerning the Beit Bridge possible. They have requested Members of Parliament in make sense for the hotel to with personal protective border post, the Public Works an updated presentation general also benefit from the open only to be paid half of equipment and screening, team reported that it is busy from the department on aforesaid arrangement as the occupancy rate”. and they work under the with the upkeep of the fence the project, and on other time becomes available for supervision of a medical and have asked the defence maintenance work on land them also to concentrate on Furthermore, he said, there practitioner to ensure force to patrol it regularly to ports of entry. such other matters as may be required of them. This includes Members’ training, law-making and constituency work.”

He said the story of the NA and NCOP with their distinct and yet complementary mandates needs to be repackaged for clarity: “Members of society do not, honestly, care about these distinctions. All they see are Members of Parliament who should be responsive and amenable to addressing the needs of communities,” said Mr Nyambi.

6 INSESSION NEWS

would look like. He said that lockdown eased. Mr De Ruyter New airline on the “not every employee will be said: “It will depend on how employed in the new airline”. the lockdown is released, whether a big bang where all industries go back at the same cards to replace SAA Asked whether this process time or it’s done gradually.” was not aimed at privatising The Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr , SAA, Mr Gordhan said: “We are not privatising anything. Transnet’s CEO, Ms Portia and representatives from three of the department’s entities, We will entertain strategic Derby, said the Covid-19 South African Airways (SAA), Eskom and Transnet appeared equity partners.” He also period was an “extreme warned members of the change from business as before a joint meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Public committees that the cost of usual”. She added: “As the Enterprises and the Select Committee on Public Enterprises air travel will be higher, post- crisis has unfolded, lessons Covid-19, due to new rules have been learned and and Communications, to brief the committees on the latest such as social distancing, new ways of working have developments at the entities, writes Sakhile Mokoena. which will impact on the evolved. Relative stability in number of passengers in an the environment has given aircraft. A 100-seater might Transnet the opportunity to Mr Gordhan focused primarily old SAA will not exist in the Public Enterprises and carry about 30 passengers. go through the process of on SAA, which he said is future.” Communication, asked the codifying these into a new currently undergoing business Minister whether Parliament Briefing the committees on way of working, based on an rescue, while Eskom and will be required to amend the the latest developments at Asked to provide further estimated 18 months’ impact Transnet were represented SAA Act or if the new airline Eskom and the impact of details about the planned window for the Covid-19 by their Chief Executive will operate under the old Covid-19, Eskom’s CEO, Mr new airline and where the pandemic.” Officers (CEOs), Mr Ander de Act. SAA was established in Andre de Ruyter, said Eskom funding will come from as Ruyter and Ms Portia Derby, terms of an Act of Parliament had experienced a drop in “launching an airline was a respectively. in 2007. Minister Gordhan demand as industries shut She said the prediction of very costly exercise “, the could not give an immediate down, but “a full financial a deep slump in the global Minister could not give a clear response, but promised to impact of Covid-19 and economy will have a negative Mr Gordhan told the response, but he said: “All is provide an answer at a later restrictions is still being fully impact on the transportation committees that the business being worked through and date. assessed”. (export) of cargo, and the that rescue process at SAA will some of it is commercially Transnet operating divisions result in the emergence of a sensible information – the (freight rail and the ports, in new, viable airline. He said: business model and funding.” Mr Gordhan also added that Members of the committees particular) will be significantly “As we go through business a process of consultation with wanted to know if impacted in terms of the rescue, if the business is labour unions at SAA was Eskom will be able Mr Mlindi Nhanha, who volumes transported, due rescuable, a new type of underway and discussions to keep lights on, is a member of the to the fact that the virus airline will emerge and the involved what a new airline with more industries Select Committee on reopening as the outbreak will slow global economic growth this year.

The Portfolio Committee had completely changed how Committee tells transport on Transport and the Select the department works and Committee on Transport, Public therefore a budget review was Service and Administration, necessary. He said some of the department to submit Public Works and Infrastructure plans the department is looking received briefings from the to introduce include high- Department of Transport speed rail, but that requires covid-19 impact report and the Driving Licence Card the participation of the private Account (DLCA) on their sector. “This will put an end strategic plans, and also their to the monopoly of Prasa and The committees on transport heard that they will be provided with annual performance plans Transnet,” Mr Moemi said. a comprehensive report on the impact of Covid-19 on the budget (APPs). The committees heard that of the Department of Transport, and how the department hopes to The Director-General of the Sanral remains a big risk, readjust and prioritise the budget, writes Sibongile Maputi. Department of Transport, and needed to be dealt with Mr Alec Moemi, told the urgently. Mr Moemi said: “We committees that Covid-19 are still waiting for Cabinet INSESSION NEWS 7

decisions on the matter of e-tolls, and we are hoping to get those decisions soon and Tax relief measures will have direct implement them soon.” revenue reduction and cash flow Members of the committees asked questions about the maintenance of rural roads, implications the bicycle programme for schools, the impact of Covid-19 on the Road Accident Fund, The Commissioner of the South African Revenue Services (Sars), Mr Edward Kieswetter, the use of consultants at told members of the Standing Committee on Finance and of the Select Committee on the department, the taxi recapitalisation programme, Finance that tax relief measures announced by President , aimed at and the appointment of an mitigating the impact of Covid-19 on small and medium-sized businesses, will have direct Administrator at Prasa. revenue reduction and cash flow implications, writesJustice Molafo.

The committees heard that the DLCA intended to provide secure and quality drivers licences, and they also heard that the DLCA was looking to automate most of its services to ensure a seamless service when it came to issuing of licences. Also, the committees heard that the matter involving 27 contract employees at the DLCA had been resolved and that these contract employees were made permanent.

The entity is doing well on liquidity and it will change the outdated machines it uses to produce licences. Members of the committees sought clarity Mr Kieswetter told the two a fall in compliance during Select Committees on Finance statement from Minister from the DLCA on how the committees that Sars has the national lockdown and were briefed on the National Mboweni that small, medium fraudulent issuing of licences projected the actual impact has undertaken to fully Treasury’s and Sars’ strategic and micro-enterprises and would be curbed. over a maximum period implement its third strategic and annual performance cooperatives should be given of six months, starting objective, thereby seeking plans, and budget for the equal opportunity in the The Co-Chair of the joint from 1 April 2020, to be in to detect all non-compliance 2020/21 financial year procurement of personal meeting and the Chairperson excess of R70 billion. His and take corrective measures by Minister protective equipment for of the Portfolio Committee on presentation stated that the to counter the impact on and Deputy Minister, Mr Covid-19, as long as they Transport, Mr , biggest impact is expected revenue. David Masondo, together meet prescribed minimum said the matter of Sanral and to come from the deferral with the National Treasury standards. e-tolls needed to be resolved, of 35% of pay-as-you-earn Director-General and the Sars The revue services identified and that if the committees’ liability for four months for Commissioner. nine strategic objectives in The committees held the intervention is required, that businesses with expected its annual performance plan firm view that the national should be made clear. He said gross turnover of less than for the 2020/21 financial The National Treasury disaster arising from the the committees had been R100 million a year. It year, as well as the medium presented an annual Covid-19 pandemic is not talking about the matter for too further indicated that this is term expenditure framework. departmental budget of a licence to suspend the long. The department told the expected to have an impact According to the strategic R33.1 billion, which will application of the Constitution committees that it will provide of R21 billion. goal 3, Sars aims to detect be spent under the seven and other legislation written responses in five days’ taxpayers and traders who departmental programmes. concerning procurement. time. The Sars Commissioner also do not comply, and make stated that the deferral non-compliance hard and The Co-Chairperson, Mr Joe Lastly, Mr The Deputy Minister of the of 35% of provisional tax costly. This, according to Mr Maswanganyi, advised the emphasised that Department of Transport, Ms payments for the next six Kieswetter’s presentation, National Treasury to consider procurement processes during Dikeledi Magadzi, said the months for businesses and will be achieved by ensuring, revising its annual plan to the state of national disaster responses will include how the self-employed with among other things, a deal with the economic must be conducted within the department intended expected gross turnover of concerted effort to combat structural reform measures, the framework of existing to approach issues around less than R100 million is syndicated fraud, including in order to address the statutes, including section Covid-19, reorganise the expected to have revenue value-added tax and challenges of poverty and 217 of the Constitution, the budget, and how best to impacts of R15 billion over undervaluation of imports. joblessness. Preferential Procurement reshape its APP. “We will the same period. Policy Framework Act and the have to tweak the annual The Standing Committee on Broad-Based Black Economic performance plans, and ensure However, the two However, Sars is projecting Finance, together with the Empowerment Act. compliance,” Ms Magadzi said. committees welcomed the 8 INSESSION NEWS

MPs keep working during lockdown

Sureshinee Govender for Insession spoke to Mr Kenny Mmoeimang, who is the delegate to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) for the Northern and also the Chairperson of the Select Committee on Transport, Public Service and Administration, Public Works and Infrastructure, on conducting oversight and constituency work remotely.

Mr Kenny Mmoeimang, MP

Mr Mmoeimang said it has committee oversees, he said sufficiently prepared.” Mmoeimang. to mitigate Covid-19 were: been an eye-opener to work that despite the technical basic education, transport, under these conditions where glitches with the virtual Asked about site visits health, social development, He said the discipline we are forced to hold the system, Parliament is working during the lockdown, Mr correctional services, South displayed in communities in executive to account, and well with government Mmoeimang said that on 26 African National Defence adhering to the lockdown reach our constituencies departments. He commended March, which was the first Force, directives was overwhelming. for constituency work the intervention of day of the lockdown, he Service and environment. “That was the way in which purposes under the lockdown Parliament’s Presiding Officers visited the Olifantshoek Police they showed their submission conditions. During lockdown, in ensuring that the work of Station, Kathrine Koikoi Clinic to the clarion call to flatten On adherence to the this work has to happen. committees goes on. and the Olifantshoek Health the curve.” lockdown regulations Indeed, there are challenges Centre to assess the readiness and hygiene rules in his to that work through “The virtual meetings of these centres of service to constituency, Mr Mmoeimang virtual platforms, but we have enabled us to invite the people for Covid-19. On 7 May Mr Mmoeimang said in the meeting he are optimistic about the government departments attended John Taolo attended, people highlighted improvement particularly on and their entities to come “During the walkabout, I was Gaetsewe District Covid-19 the failure of the people to the security of the platforms and present their strategic accompanied by the ward meeting where the adhere to the regulations. we use. and annual performance councillor and community regional departments in He said the long queues for plans and their budgets in leaders. Health workers and the district presented their social grants is a cause for Commenting on the terms of the money bills and the leaders of these centres interventions to mitigate concern, as it is currently cooperation of government related matters. “I must say complained about the lack of the spread of Covid-19. impossible to keep social departments and their that they showed a degree of protective clothing He said the departments distance under those entities the cooperation and always came at the centres,” said Mr that presented strategies conditions.

We must appreciate farmworkers during lockdown - Committee Chairperson Nkosi “Zwelivelile” Mandela

InSession’s Sureshinee Govender spoke to Nkosi Mandla “Zwelivelile” Mandela, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, and also the Chief of Mvezo. About his role during the national lockdown.

Asked about his experience entities on specific issues He mentioned that the on conducting virtual when we require clarity or committee appreciates that oversight over the last few intervention on a regular it has an activist Minister weeks, Nkosi Mandela said: basis. Covid-19 conditions of Agriculture, Land Reform “Virtual oversight is not new have, however, made this and Rural Development, Ms to our space. We call up the modus operandi a default , and “therefore Nkosi “Zwelivelile” Mandela, MP Minister, the department and way for us to conduct operating this way has been the officials of the related operations and oversight.” quite effective in dealing with INSESSION NEWS 9

pressing issues, such as the prevailing conditions that epicentre of the pandemic “A protracted lockdown Madiba’s birth. declaration of farm workers can be a quantum leap in the Eastern Cape. has the potential to as essential workers with regard to the work Already there have been ferment civil unrest and “We are proud of this in order to secure food that we do.” 20 deaths. The situation chaos, as individuals and harvest of cabbage, security to the nation”. has been compounded by communities battle for butternut and spinach and the fact that there are low survival and to eke out a Asked about his it will bring much needed levels of literacy amongst daily subsistence.” According to Nkosi constituency work and respite and relief for a rural communities and Mandela, everyone visits to projects in the few needy families. Food the messages may not be applauds the healthcare communities during Therefore, the committee insecurity, hunger, poverty effectively reaching them. workers for being on the the lockdown and his must accelerate priority and underdevelopment However, we are working frontline of the struggle observations, Nkosi issues that are within is not just an academic to mitigate some of these against Covid-19. However, Mandela said that he the mandate of the concept here. It is real and risks.” we should also appreciate and the Premier of the department, “including we can count it by the that the entire country Eastern Cape, Mr Oscar land reform, land household. It is the daily relies on farm workers for Mabuyane, had visited the He said life was tough in restitution, ramping up lived experience of many food during the lockdown. Academic rural communities, even agricultural extension in rural villages in South Hospital in and the prior Covid-19, due to programmes aimed at Africa such as Mvezo. Mthatha Regional Hospital. the remoteness of the meeting our domestic He said the department has The purpose of the visit, communities. However, needs, and ramping up been extremely responsive “These crops provide hope he said, was to assess the “It has become tougher agricultural and agri- to the committee. But, he and augment the efforts of state of readiness of the under these prevailing processing exports.” said, as activists they will philanthropists who have hospitals for the Covid-19 conditions. Poverty always push for more, as come to the aid of needy pandemic. and underdevelopment Malcolm X said: “It is the On constituency work, families. We are far from remain the two starkest door that squeaks that Nkosi Mandela also worked the peak of Covid 19 and characteristics of rural gets the grease.” He said “It was very clear that we with Mvezo residents winter lies ahead. This life and the new Covid-19 the committee would like face serious challenges who received vegetables initiative from our gardens conditions have just to see a greater degree although there are 200 harvested from Mandela at the Mandela School of exposed how much more of proactiveness from beds available to deal with School of Science and Science and Technology vulnerable and exposed the department – and to the immediate demand if Technology on Workers’ feeds our nation with rural communities are.” ensure that the committee required. However, should Day. “On Workers Day, we hope.” doesn’t reverse or lose the we reach peak conditions salute the workers of the gains it has made in any and the need arises beyond Nkosi Mandela said rural world. We pay tribute to area of operations as a this level, we will face a communities have learnt the ragged hands that work result of covid-19 lockdown serious crisis,” said Nkosi resilience and forbearance the soil and harvest conditions. Mandela. in the face of adversity, life sustaining and that helps in coping crops. Today, a with tough conditions. “We humble crop “We must seize the “To give you an indication, are grateful to religious of vegetables opportunity to expedite more than 200 people and aid organisations, was harvested interventions that can were infected in the Majola such as Awqaf SA, which at Mvezo and make a difference, either funeral alone. We don’t has already provided hand will feed 18 through advancing existing know yet what the knock- sanitisers and soup. In households; mandates or to formulate on effect of secondary the coming week we will the poorest of critical interventions infections is. Port St Johns be distributing 500 food the poor in appropriate for the has now become the rural parcels,” he added. the village of 10 INSESSION NEWS

‘Volunteers risk their lives to help serve the poor’ MP Hishaam Mohamed

On Freedom Day, the Southern Suburbs Parliamentary Constituency Office (PCO) of the African National Congress, in partnership with the Southern Suburbs Legal Advice Centre (Sslac) reached out to the communities it serves through its Covid-19 Assistance Programme, writes Brent Simons.

In partnership with Sslac, said: “We have a shared in the southern suburbs. In communities of the south fish, tinned mix-veg curry, a total of 700 food parcels commitment and pride partnership with Sslac, the not only helped to ease the baked beans, fish oil, soya were distributed, reaching ourselves as a nation that PCO’s target was to distribute hunger of 5 000 people, but mince and salt. households in eight areas of stands up to any challenge, 800 food parcels to the poorest also helped them to adhere Adv Mohamed says they the southern suburbs of Cape including Coved-19, which is families in the constituency. to the Covid-19 regulations by distributed the food parcels and Town. It is estimated that more threatening our lives.” practising social distancing, as fundraising for future projects than 5 000 people benefited they were not required to leave under the banner of “Help us to from these food parcels. Sslac is Communities identified included their homes to go and look for help more people”. a non-profit organisation and a Adv Mohamed indicated that Masiphumelele, Vrygrond, food for at least a month.” registered trust providing free “we can defeat Covid-19 if we Phumlani, Westlake, Parkwood, legal advice and human rights all adhere to the regulations as Redhill, Lotusriver, Ottery, training to communities in Cape outline by the government”. Imizamo Yethu and Steenberg. The PCO coordinated and He thanked the volunteers Town’s southern suburbs since He added that on 27 March The eight communities reached, ensured that all volunteers who “risk their lives to serve 2009. when the national lockdown are areas where unemployment had the necessary permits, as the poorest of the poor. Their came into effect, the PCO is about 80%. voluntary essential workers. revolutionary duty during had resolved to respond to this difficult and frightening Each food parcel cost about Calling on South Africans not President Cyril Ramaphosa’s period of our history will be R300 and the food items in to lose hope, Adv Hishaam call to assist communities “The PCO is immensely proud remembered by our community each pack consisted of rice, Mohamed, a Member of the to adhere to the Covid-19 and grateful for our partnership for a very long time. We salute sugar, cake flour, maize meal, National Assembly deployed lockdown regulations by with Sslac. The generous them all”. tea, soup mix, lentils, tinned to this area of Cape Town, assisting impoverished families donation from Sslac to the

Mr Hishaam Mohamed, MP INSESSION NEWS 11

We must embrace technology and make it work for us –

Ms Faith Muthambi, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, talks about her experience of virtual meetings, digital oversight and her Constituency work during lockdown.

Ms Faith Muthambi, MP

What has been your making the presentations to tanks standing which have lack of access to communication households are struggling to experience in conducting the Portfolio Committee on not been connected for weeks tools including ICT facilities put a meal on the table. As virtual oversight? CoGTA and the fact that we are now, whilst people have no to access government relief a committee we have heard live makes a big difference, access to water. I have made facilities. They are forced to of some councillors allegedly the public can now see the enquiries with the Department go to centres that are open, involved in discriminatory We are in the 4th Industrial difference between the work of COGTA in this regard and which are congested and they distribution of food parcels, Revolution, technology is here of parliament and the work have requested for the national are likely to be infected hence some are alleged to be stealing and it is time to embrace the of government. The work of list for the distribution of water maintaining social distances the food parcels for themselves challenge of using technology oversight when Members of tanks across the country. become impossible. Majority and their families and flouting and making it work for us. I Parliament asks questions make of them are complaining of the lockdown regulations with I have since escalated the appreciate that the various this function of ours very clear. not receiving any assistance of regards to permits. matter with the Portfolio applications such as Zoom the relief grants as promised Committee On Human and MS Teams have made by government. Their wish is Settlements, Water and it possible for committees Have you been out to to have a fair and equitable There have been many queries Sanitation for them to follow to meet and to conduct its visit any sites during the distribution of food parcels, with regard to the regulations it up with DWS as to when the oversight work which is lockdown, if yes, what are sanitizers and masks. which need to be applied outstanding water tanks will be mandatory. In the beginning those and what are your consistently throughout the installed. it took some use to get used observations? country. COVID-19 has shown to, but now the committee We need to adhere to the us that as a country we have is comfortable and our work lockdown regulations in the ability and spirit to come The other issue that’s prevalent is being carried out. I also whichever level we find together to support each other. I have been to Khathisa in the two districts is the welcome the fact that there ourselves. These regulations Village in Gumbani under brewing of traditional beer but are now more people watching have been imposed for our Municipality in the police are apprehending all the work of committees on safety and the restriction of Vhembe where I have seen a culprits in this respect. the various platforms such as water tank and borehole movement to work has perhaps DSTV channel 408, You Tube, donated by the Motsepe been the hardest and most Twitter and Facebook, however stringent, but necessary to Foundation two years ago The local municipalities are we must be mindful of the fact flatten the curve. Its effects are standing which has not been collecting refuse as it is that not everyone has access to being seen now, with the daily connected , whilst people expected of them. these sites as data costs are still have no access to tap water. I infection rates which could very high. Millions of people have made enquiries with the have been a lot higher if it was not imposed timeously. This are relying on food parcels and Vhembe District Municipality, The Department of Health was necessary for government therefore buying data or paid Eskom and the National is busy doing door to door to buy time to put systems in for TV is not a necessity for Disaster Management Centre in screening of communities and place. As a committee we fully them. this regard and have requested referring those suspected of that the electrification of the support the regulations. infections for tests in identified borehole be expedited. It is health facilities. What has been the response essential that communities to the virtual meetings by have water to wash their hands What is the greatest challenge at the moment, the Department that you and for their daily needs during How are the people in your and what do you think as the oversee? and after this pandemic. community coping with the Chairperson of Cogta needs to lockdown regulations? be done? The Department of CoGTA I have been to both Vhembe and Mopani District Disaster has come on board without People in these areas are Management Command The greatest challenge is that any hitches as it is business the most rural poor and Council. people are hungry. Due to the unusual. We acknowledge vulnerable. There is poverty massive unemployment and the Minister of CoGTA, Dr and unemployment within the Nkosazana Dlamini – Zuma non -payment of salaries, many The major problem is the water communities. The challenge is 12 INSESSION NEWS

Political parties on the lockdown

Steve Swart, ACDP – Lulama Ntshayisa, AIC – , ANC Siviwe Gwarube, DA – , DA – The ACDP welcomes the risk- We welcome and appreciate – The ANC welcomes and We welcome the As you now know, we will adjusted strategic plan for the levels that were introduced appreciate the initiative announcement by the President be moving out of the hard economic activity announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa as pronounced by the President that we will, as from next lockdown phase into what is by President Ramaphosa. What for the purpose of easing the that the government is week, be looking at a risk- called a smart risk-adjusted this entails are five different lockdown. The President has embarking on a risk-adjusted adjusted strategy when it approach going forward. This levels. Level five is the most got to strike a balance between approach. We fully support this comes to our lockdown in is essential to allow us to severe one and the hard opening up the economy of the initiative, as it will go a long South Africa. South Africa has start opening up the economy lockdown, which is very difficult country and also trying to curb way in saving us as a country. been on lockdown now for and to keep South Africans’ for all of us. But hopefully this the spread of this coronavirus. Those selected industries, as several weeks and we are livelihoods safe. Managing the will move down to level one, We also appreciate the fact well as the sectors that are looking forward to this risk- virus is going to take on a new a level which will be almost a that the President is consulting supposed to start gradually to adjusted strategy that will be phase, the hard lockdown was total lifting of the lockdown. all other stakeholders in order do business, must be given implemented in the coming necessary and it has worked. to come to a proper decision, time and space to do so. All days. It was essential that we were so that it is not something of of us must stay at home and able to flatten the curve and From 1 May, the lockdown his own. For that, we are very ensure that we adhere to all stop the spread, but now we’ve will move to level four, where much appreciative, as the the lockdown regulations. However, we do want to urge got to move into this new certain businesses will be African Independent Congress. everybody to please remain at phase so that we can protect able to open their doors. After Our country now has been home. Although some of the South Africans from the twin making submissions to the under difficult time; we still It is in the interest of our restrictions will be eased, it threat to life, of the spread of relevant Cabinet ministers, urge our people to be patient. country that while we are on doesn’t mean it is business as the virus, as well as the loss of those ministers will also lockdown, we must also allow usual. Reality, as we know it, livelihood. announce details as to which economic growth. We therefore has changed fundamentally. businesses would be able pledge our unwavering support We need to make sure that we to open under strict health to ensure that when this remain at home if we don’t This does not mean that the protocols. lockdown ends, our country is have to be anywhere, and if precautions that we have still intact in terms of economy we do leave home, we need to adopted over the last few and all other social amenities. make sure that we are wearing weeks are a thing of the past, The ACDP will also like to see masks and we are practising and certainly for the near future our faith-based organisations immaculate personal hygiene. a number of things are going to being declared essential So please, let’s continue remain with us – first of them is services. There is a dire need doing the work together, let’s masks, mask wearing needs to for pastoral, and spiritual care continue to make sure that we become a culture in the whole at this time when our citizens bring down the infection rate of of South Africa. Every South are going through such a tough this virus, and we can beat it if African citizen should have a time, and we would urge the we all work together. cloth mask that they wear in government to look into that. public places all the time to help stop the spread of the virus. So, from the ACDP side at this stage, let us keep up our personal hygiene, let us keep Social distancing is also going up our social distancing as to remain with us, we need to far as possible. Let us stay at make sure that whether we are home. Let’s pray and let us in the shopping centres, or out stand firm with the knowledge in the street, or whether we that soon it will pass and we are in the workplaces that will will be able to be with our begin to open, we still continue loved ones. God bless. practising social distancing, maintaining a two-metre distance from fellow citizens. And hygiene – absolutely essential, always ensure that our hands are clean, either using a hand sanitiser with at least 70% alcohol or washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. INSESSION NEWS 13

And then we are going to have , IFP – Speaker The more we unite and work , UDM – a special effort to keep those The IFP welcomes the carefully – Compatriots, we live in together against this enemy, The UDM welcomes the vulnerable safe during this time considered, measured and extraordinary times – this the more we observe the country’s roadmap back to – that means if you are over decisive approach adopted by lockdown period has forced us regulations, the quicker we normality. This balancing act 60 years or have pre-existing the government to ease the to change our way of life. We can shorten this restriction will no doubt lead to the conditions – you need to lockdown restrictions in phases now have to have our go-bag period and the sooner we can resuscitation of our economy, practise some sense of isolation as announced by President (a bag with supplies for use in return to our way of life. Our so that we don’t become a and take real care of your Cyril Ramaphosa. We are an emergency) with us all the plea is that we must continue country of consumers. Let us go health at this particular time. pleased that the government, time. We have to frequently to observe the rules of the back and do this in an orderly in consultation with an array wash our hands, we have lockdown, we must continue to fashion. of stakeholders, in particular learned social distancing, we self-isolate, we must wear our We’ve done well to get local and global health have to stay indoors at home, masks. through this hard lockdown authorities and agencies, has we have time to reconnect with , FF Plus South Africa and it has only taken a phased approach to our families, we have time to – The risk analysis approach to worked because you have ease the lockdown restrictions. reprioritise our own thoughts We cannot afford to let our start to open the economy after played your part. We need to Furthermore, we welcome the and our priorities. guard down at this critical the lockdown is in line with the continue playing our part as President’s approach in the stage. As Parliament we proposal made by the Freedom responsible citizens to make consultative spirit in which continue to serve you remotely, Front Plus to the President. We the smart lockdown work. That he had called upon various This has not been easy, but also while appropriately closer, also agree with the different means we have to continue industries to make submissions this has also not been in vain. to ensure that all the laws levels to ensure that we still playing our part in stopping and possible proposals moving Our sacrifices, our commitments are observed and to ensure curb the spreading of the virus. the spread and flattening the forward. to the regulations of the that all the constitutional We would like to see the details curve and ensuring that we lockdown have enabled us as responsibilities towards you are of the different levels because stay safe. Thank you for your a country to slow down the respected. We have adopted the devil lies in the detail. commitment to fighting this We are confident that the rate of infections and therefore a business unusual way of virus, we commit ourselves national Coronavirus Command to save many lives. We know working as Parliament, as we to stand on the frontline with Council will make the correct that this battle is far from contribute towards flattening The FF Plus would like to see the government. We continue determination to balance the over. We know that we face a the curve. With an army of that, for instance, stationery, IT to put ideas on the table that need for economic activity to cruel enemy who respects no 56 million South Africans, equipment by means of courier will make it possible for us to resume to save the economy, boundaries, no languages, no coronavirus cannot win, please services, can be made available. beat this virus and get through but to form a safeguard and creeds, and no ideologies. stay safe, please stay at home. We would also like to see this. Thank you for your role protect the lives of South micro-businesses allowed to South Africa, we only got this Africans. open to start business because far because of you and your That is why we join the they are very vulnerable in this efforts. Stay safe South Africa, President in requesting you to period. We will wait to see the we are going to beat this. We want to caution the public please persevere a little longer, detail but we also say we must to remain aware that the easing please endure a bit further ensure that the spreading of of the lockdown restrictions this battle. Your respect of the the virus must be curbed or through various stages will not regulations of the lockdown has else we would have to go back be set in a descending order enabled our country to ease to a total lockdown again. due to the fact that fighting restrictions from level five to the spread of this various is level four, as announced by the a moving target. Our country President. has come a long way, and has showed, with steely resolve and determination, that we can beat the community transmission of Covid-19 if we work together, remain at home and limit our movements to get essential needs and essential services only. God bless South Africa, and God bless its people. 14 INSESSION NEWS

Goldberg ‘a fountain of profound wisdom and an outstanding patriot’

enis Theodore Goldberg who passed The last time the struggle veteran symbolism of our freedom, but They said: “He was one of the awayD on 29 April 2020 was a South African social visited Parliament was when he are stretching the values of our activists, amongst them Nelson campaigner, who was active in the struggle against attended the ceremony of the freedom.” Mandela, , , . He was accused No. 3 in the Rivonia unveiling of the inscriptions of the , Andrew Mlangeni, Trial, alongside Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu, key pillars of the Constitution in June Wilton Mkwayi and others who were and was the youngest of the defendants. 2018. Mr Goldberg said the inscriptions are charged with treason in the infamous part of the climax of the Freedom of 1963.” Charter of 1955 which followed the Asked to express his view about 1943 African Claims document which the unveiling of the inscriptions, was part of the African National The Presiding Officers added: “He Mr Goldberg said: “I am deeply Congress Youth League’s Programme was a living treasure; a fountain of humbled and very excited by of Action. “The demands for freedom profound wisdom, a combatant and being invited by the Parliament of now in our lifetime, equality before outstanding patriot to the end. South the Republic of South Africa – our the law, and other freedoms were Africa wakes up poorer today without people’s Parliament – to attend this demanded in 1943.” this giant leader of our people. historic unveiling of the inscriptions Despite his advanced age and poor of the key pillars of the Constitution. health, he remained politically Above all, to assist President Cyril Expressing Parliament’s collective conscious, with a sharp mind and Ramaphosa to cut the ribbon sadness on the passing of Mr actively preoccupied with the cause unveiling the inscriptions of the Goldberg, the Presiding Officers, for the betterment of the people of key pillars of the Constitution. I led by National Assembly Speaker South Africa.” am very proud about that. Ms Thandi Modise and the National

The inscriptions of the Council of Provinces Chairperson Mr They extended their deepest key pillars of the Amos Masondo, said Mr Goldberg sympathies and condolences to Constitution are comes from a generation of South the Goldberg family, his friends, not a mere African leaders with rare leadership comrades and all whose causes he qualities, humility, remarkable championed. integrity and selflessness.