DEADLINES FOR THE FOLLOWING CALLS FOR COMMENT DOCUMENTS HAVE PASSED


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PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: 2011


Comment: 2011 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS)


The Standing Committee on Finance and the Select Committee on Finance invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the 2011 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) that will be tabled on 25 October 2011.
The Minister of Finance will table the 2011 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) before Parliament on 25 October 2011. In tabling the MTBPS, the Minister will meet his obligation under section 28 of the Public Finance Management Act 1 of 1999 (PFMA) that requires the Minister to table multi-year budget projections for revenue, expenditure and key macro-economic projections on an annual basis. In addition to that, the Minister will also meet his obligation under section 6(1) of the Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters, Act 9 of 2009, that requires the Minister to submit the MTBPS to Parliament.
Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on 1 & 2 November 2011.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretaries, Mr Allen Wicomb at awicomb@parliament.gov.za or Mr Zolani Rento at zrento@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00 on Wednesday, 27 October 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr Allen Wicomb: (02) 403 3759; cell: 083 412 1475 or Mr Zolani Rento: 021 403 8071 or cell: 083 707 2188

Issued by Hon. TA Mufamadi, MP, Chairperson: Standing Committee on Finance (National Assembly) and Hon. CJ De Beer, MP, Chairperson: Select Committee on Finance (National Council of Provinces).

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Comment & Public Hearings: Skills Development Amendment Bill [B16-2011]

The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the Skills Development Amendment Bill [B16-2011]
The purpose of the Skills Development Amendment Bill [B16-2011] is to: amend the Skills Development Act, 1998, so as to define certain words or expressions and to delete certain obsolete definitions; to amend provisions relating to the establishment, amalgamation and dissolution of SETAs; to provide for the incorporation of a subsector of one SETA into another SETA; to provide for the composition of an Accounting Authority for each SETA; to regulate the eligibility to become a member of an Accounting Authority; to provide for the approval of a constitution for every SETA; to regulate the conduct of a member of an Accounting Authority, or of a member of the staff, of a SETA when engaging in business with the SETA; to require members of Accounting Authorities to disclose any conflict of interest with the relevant SETA; and to repeal certain provisions which became obsolete as a result of the transfer of the administration of the said Act to the Minister of Higher Education and Training; and to provide for matters connected therewith.
Public hearings on the Bill will be held at Parliament on Tuesday, 8 and Wednesday, 9 November 2011.
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr Anele Kabingesi at akabingesi@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00 on Thursday, 3 November 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Mr Anele Kabingesi: (021) 403 3760; cell: 083 412 1585

Issued by: Adv I Malale, MP Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training.

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Comment: National Climate Change Response White Paper

THE GROWING POTENTIAL RAVAGES OF CLIMATE CHANGE: CONTINUED POSSIBLE  CATASTROPHE OR FUTURE HOPE? A CALL FOR RESPONSES TO GOVERNMENT’S
National Climate Change Response White Paper

Have your say in averting potential adverse consequences of climate change in South Africa

Let your voice be heard in strengthening a national climate change policy for South Africa
Parliament invites you to be a solution in managing climate change
Call for all-hands-on deck for tackling potential threats of climate change in
South Africa

Climate change is a major potential threat to sustainable growth and development in South Africa and to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. The potential impacts of climate change, in terms of diminished natural resources, increased flooding and drought, reduced agricultural production, worsening food insecurity and spreading diseases, are already evident in our country, with many of our poor communities with the fewest choices and least access to resources bearing the full brunt of these challenges. The potential risks and challenges of climate change for the country and future generations are potentially colossal; needing urgent mitigation and adaptation measures. The need for all South Africans to have a shared understanding of climate change and the mechanisms for transforming its threats into opportunities for sustainable development cannot be over-emphasised, particularly as South Africa has the unique opportunity to host the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), in November /December 2011, in Durban.

The Portfolio Committee on Water and Environmental Affairs in the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa held public hearings, in March 2011, on the National Climate Change Response Green Paper 2010 that was released for written comment by Ms. Ednah Molewa MP, the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, in Government Gazette 33801 Notice 1083 of 2010, dated 25 November 2010.  The substantive insights offered at these hearings provided departmental officials an opportunity to incorporate substantial changes to the Green Paper and formulate an informed and improved White Paper. 

The Portfolio Committee invites all interested stakeholders to submit written comments on the National Climate Change Response White Paper, by not later than 16h00, on 20 October 2011. Public hearings are targeted for October/November 2011 and will probably commence around 25 October to 11 November 2011, with the Departmental briefings taking place on 18 and 19 October 2011.
Kindly note that the Portfolio Committee on Water and Environmental Affairs retains the right to regulate its own proceedings, including the right to decide whether to allow oral representations in respect of any submission, and the format, procedure and duration of any oral representation.

Electronic submissions can be made at: tmadubela@parliament.gov.za
For enquiries, contact Ms Madubela: 021 403 3713 or 083 304 9586.

Issued by Adv Johnny de Lange, MP: Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Water and Environmental Affairs on 30 September 2011
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Comment: Digital Terrestrial Television Draft Regulations
The lndependent Communications Authority of South Africa has published Amended Digital Terrestrial Television Draft Regulations for public comment.

This is in accordance of section 4(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2005 (Act No. 36 of 2005).
Comments can be emailed to Ms Refilwe Ramatlo at rramatlo@icasa.org.za or hmashapha@icasa.org.za by no later than 16h00 on 10 November 2011.

Enquiries tel Ms Refilwe Ramatlo: 011 566 3251 10h00 and 16h00, Monday to Friday only.
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Comment: Final Report on Humanities & Social Sciences Charter

The Department of Higher Education and Training invites interested persons and stakeholders to submit written comments on the Final Report to Department of Higher Education and Training on Charter for Humanities and Social Sciences.

In 2010, the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr BE Nzimande, appointed a Task Team to develop a Charter aimed at affirming the importance of human and social forms of scholarship. The final Report of the Charter was submitted to the Minister on 04 August 2011, and has now been published for public comments. The purpose of soliciting written comments on this Report is to afford the wider public an opportunity to respond critically to the content and recommendations of the Charter and to receive advice on how to effect these going forward.
Written comments/submissions on the Report can be emailed to Mr Victor Mathonsi at mathonsi.v@dhet.gov.za by no later than 31 October 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr Victor Mathonsi: (012) 312 5553

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Comment: Public Hospitals Management Policy; Hospital Categories regulations

The Department of Health intends, in terms of sections 3(1)(c) and 23(1) of National Health Act, 2003, after consultation with the National Health Council, to determine a Policy on the Management of Public Hospitals.  
Here is the Draft Policy on Management of Public Hospitals
The Department has also in terms of section 35 read together with section 90 of National Health Act, 2003, after consultation with the National Health Council, published Draft Regulations relating to categories of Hospitals for public comment.

Here is the Draft Regulations relating to categories of Hospitals.
Interested persons are invited to submit any substantiated comments or representations on the documents to Dr Thabo Lekalakala at lekala@health.gov.za (cc modisk@health.gov.za, mabuee@health.gov.za) by no later than 12 October 2011.
Enquiries tel Dr Thabo Lekalakala: (012) 395 8269/ (012) 395 8269
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Comment: Criminal Procedure & Magistrates Courts Acts: Determinations of Amounts
Criminal Procedure Act (51/1977) and Magistrate’s Courts Act (32/1944): Invitation to comment on determination of amounts


Invitation to comment on determination of amounts for purposes of -

(a) sections 9(1)(a), 56(1), 57(1)(a) and (5)(b), 57A(1), 112(1)(a) and (b), 300(1)(a) and 302(1)(a)(ii) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act 51 of 1977); and
(b) section 92(1)(b) of the Magistrates’ Courts Act, 1944 (Act 32 of 1944)
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development invites interested parties to submit any comments they might have on the Draft Determinations of Amounts.

Comments can be emailed to S J Robbertse at srobbertse@justice.gov.za on or before 15 October 2011.
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Comment: National Evaluation Draft Policy Framework

The Presidency has published National Evaluation Draft Policy Framework for public comment

Comments can be emailed to Dr Ian Goldman at ian@psppd.org.za by 30 September 2011

Enquiries tel Dr Ian Goldman: (012) 308 1918

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Comment: Dangerous Weapons Draft Bill

Following the decision of the Constitutional Court in the matter of S v Thunzi and S v Mlonzi (Case CCT/81/09), the Minister of Police intends to introduce a Draft Dangerous Weapons Bill, 2011, to Parliament, in order to repeal and substitute the Dangerous Weapons Acts in operation in the areas of the erstwhile Republics of South Africa, Transkei, Bophuthatswana, Venda and Ciskei, and to provide for matters connected therewith.

The attached draft Dangerous Weapons Bill is submitted for public comments, in order to finalise it for submission to Cabinet to obtain approval to introduce the Bill to Parliament.

Comments can be emailed to Major General PC Jacobs at jacobspc@saps.org.za by no later than 3 October 2011.

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Comment & Public Hearings: Constitution Eighteenth Amendment Bill [B8- 2011]


The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Constitution Eighteenth Amendment Bill [B8– 2011].

The purpose of the Constitution Eighteenth Amendment Bill [B8-2011] is to: 

  • Amend the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, so as to remove legislative competence in respect of further education and training and adult education and training from the functional areas of concurrent national and provincial legislative competence; and
  • Provide for matters connected therewith.

Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 14 September 2011.

Comments can be emailed to Mr V Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 13 September 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano, tel: (021) 403-3820 or 083 709 8427.

Issued by Hon. LT Landers, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development

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Comment & Public Hearings: Government Employees Pension Law Amendment Bill


The Standing Committee on Finance invites all interested institutions, organisations and individuals to submit written comments on the Government Employees Pension Law Amendment Bill.

The Bill was tabled in Parliament on 30 June 2011.

According to the rules of Parliament in processing the legislation, Parliament is expected to conduct public hearings and report back.

The purpose of the Bill is to:

  •  amend the Government Employees Pension Law, 1996, so as to insert a definition and amend a definition;
  •  to provide for the payment of a pension interest to a former spouse of a member on divorce, or the dissolution of a customary marriage;
  • to amend the powers of the Board to make rules;
  • to amend the provisions providing for the recognition of pensionable service of former members of non-statutory forces or services; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Public Hearings are scheduled to take place on 14 September 2011.

Interested individuals, organisations and institutions wishing to comment are kindly requested to email written submissions to the Committee secretary Mr A Wicomb at awicomb@parliament.gov.za by no later than Monday, 12 September 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr A Wicomb: (021) 403 3759, cell: 083 412 1475

Issued by: Honourable T Mufamadi MP, Chairperson: Standing Committee on Finance

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Comment: National Environmental Health Draft Policy

The National Department of Health invites interested parties to submit written comments on the Draft National Environmental Health Policy.

Comments can be emailed to Ms A Cele at CeleA@health.gov.za or helmc@health.gov.za by not later than 30 September 2011.

Enquiries tel Ms A Cele: (012) 395 8521 or Ms C Boyiatjis at (012) 395 8524.

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Comment: National Environmental Management Laws Amendment Draft Bill

The Department of Water and Environmental Affairs has published the National Environmental Management Laws Amendment Draft Bill, 2011 for public comment.

Comments can be emailed to Mr Milton Ntwana at mntwana@environment.gov.za by no later than 26 September 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr Sibusiso Shabalala at (012) 310 3449
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Comment: Recommendations of the Report by Gambling Review Commission

Final report submitted to the Minister of Trade and Industry - September 2010)

The Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry will hold public hearings on the Report by the Gambling Review Commission "Review of the South African Gambling Legislation & its Regulation".

Relevant documents:

National Gambling Act
International Study of Gambling Jurisdiction

Interested individuals and organizations are invited to submit written comments on the Recommendations of the Report by the Gambling Review Commission.

Public hearings have been scheduled for Friday, 16 September 2011 and Wednesday, 21 September 2011.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr Andre Hermans at ahermans@parliament.gov.za by no later than 9 September 2011.

Enquiries: tel Mr Andre Hermans (
021) 403 3776 / cell 083 709 8482

Issued by: Ms J. Fubbs, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee of Trade and Industry (National Assembly).

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Comment: Icasa Regulatory Framework for Broadcasting Transmission Services Discussion Document

The purpose of the Icasa Regulatory Framework for Broadcasting Transmission Services Discussion Document is to outline the initial views of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) on a number of aspects of the broadcasting transmission market in South Africa. ICASA accordingly seeks the views of interested stakeholders on these issues.


Comments can be emailed to Lufuno Sigwavhulimu at Lsigwavhulimu@icasa.org.za ( cc PCokie@icasa.org.za) by no later than 13 September 2011.


Enquiries tel Lufuno Sigwavhulimu: (011) 566 3683
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Comment: Ministerial Committee for Review of Funding of Universities

 

The Department of Higher Education and Training has established a Ministerial Committee to assess the experiences of the past six years of partial and full implementation of the 2003 Funding Framework for Universities. Here is the 2003 Funding Framework and the Terms of Reference of the Committee (Gov Gazette 34347 dated 3 June 2011)

In pursuance of its mandate, the Ministerial Committee invites written submissions from individuals, universities, institutions and organisations with an interest in the funding of universities. The submissions should focus on the strengths and shortcomings of the current Funding Framework, funding historically black universities, and meeting objectives set out in the Higher Education White Paper, 1997. Submissions should also propose policy changes in addition to setting out what the new Funding Framework should accomplish.

Submissions on other specific issues highlighted in the TOR such as the funding of experiential learning, distance education etc. are also welcome.

The Committee may invite formal presentations based on the submissions received.

Comments can be emailed to fundingreview.submissions@dhet.gov.za by no later than 30 September 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr S Makgoba on 012 312 5284 or Ms B Swart on 012 312 5262
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Nomination for SABC Board Member Appointment

Institutions and/or individuals are hereby invited to nominate a person to fill one (1) vacancy of non-executive member to the Board of the South African Broadcasting Corporation Limited, of which arise from the resignation of a member of the board, for the remainder of the term of office of the current board, as stipulated in section 13 clause 8 of the Broadcasting Act, No 4 of 1999.

The South African Broadcasting Corporation was established in terms of the Broadcasting Act of 1936 as a government enterprise to provide radio and television broadcasting services to South Africa.

Requirements: Members of the Board, when viewed collectively, must be persons who: • are suited to serve on the board by virtue of their qualifications, expertise and experience in the fields of broadcasting policy and technology, broadcasting regulation, media law, business practice and finance, marketing, journalism, entertainment and education, as well as social and labour issues • are committed to fairness, freedom of expression, the right of the public to be informed, as well as openness and accountability on the part of those holding public office • are representative of a broad cross-section of the population of the Republic • are committed to the objectives and principles as enunciated in the Charter of the SABC. Nominees must also be South African citizens permanently resident in the Republic.

Nominations and enquiries can be emailed to Mr Thembinkosi Ngoma at tngoma@parliament.gov.za / Ms Albertina Kakaza at akakaza@parliament.gov.za by no later than 30 September 2011.


Enquiries tel Mr Thembinkosi Ngoma: (
021) 403 3733; cell 083 709 8407 / Ms Albertina Kakaza: (021) 403 3765; cell 083 709 839.
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Nomination for MDDA Board Member Appointment

Institutions and/or individuals are hereby invited to nominate persons to fill two (2) vacancies of non-executive members to the Board of the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), of which will arise from the expiring of two board members’ term of office on 31 December 2011 at the MDDA Board, in terms of the Media Development and Diversity Agency Act, 2002 (Act No 14 of 2002).

The Media Development and Diversity Agency was created to enable “historically disadvantaged communities and persons not adequately served by the media” to gain access to the media. Its beneficiaries are community media and small commercial media.

A board member will be: • a person who is committed to fairness, freedom of expression, openness and accountability • representative of a broad cross-section of the population of the Republic and possess suitable qualifications, expertise and experience in the fields of, amongst others: • community media • social, labour and development issues • media economics, financial management and funding • advertising and marketing • journalism and broadcast programming • media research • media training, literacy and education • media Law • information and communication technology policy; or any other related expertise or qualifications. Nominees must also be South African citizens permanently resident in the Republic.

Nominations and enquiries can be emailed to Mr Thembinkosi Ngoma at tngoma@parliament.gov.za / Ms Albertina Kakaza at akakaza@parliament.gov.za by no later than 30 September 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr Thembinkosi Ngoma: (
021) 403 3733; cell 083 709 8407 / Ms Albertina Kakaza: (021) 403 3765; cell 083 709 839.
 
Issued by: Mr S.E. Kholwane, MP: Chairperson, PC on Communications.

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Comment: National Health Insurance Draft Policy

PLEASE NOTE DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO 30 DECEMBER 2011

The Department of Health intends, in terms of section 85 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 and section 3 of the National Health Act, 2003, after consultation with the National Health Council, to determine the National Health Insurance Draft Policy.

Comments can be emailed to Dr Aquina Thulare at  nhi@health.gov.za by no later than 11 October 2011.

Enquiries tel: Dr Aquina Thulare: (012) 395 9248 or Mr Moremi Nkosi: (012) 395 8169 
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Comment: Draft Road Accident Fund Amendment Bill

The Department of Transport has published Draft Road Accident Fund Amendment Bill for public comment.

Comments can be emailed to Adv AM Masombuka at masombuA@dot.gov.za on or before 20 September 201.

Enquiries tel Adv AM Masombuka: (012) 309 3888
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Comment: Tourism Draft Bill
The Department of Tourism has published for comment, the Tourism Draft Bill.

Comments can be emailed to Ms Mmaditonki Setwaba at msetwaba@tourism.gov.za by no later than 4 October 2011.

Enqiries tel Ms Mmaditonki Setwaba: 012 444- 6312
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Comment: Implementation of the Geneva Conventions Bill [B10-2011]


The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans invites interested persons and stakeholders, to submit written comments on the Implementation of the Geneva Conventions Bill [B10-2011].

The Bill seeks to:

- Enact the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols to the Convention

- Provide for measures in prevention and punishment of any breaches of this Convention and its Additional Protocols.

South Africa is a State Party to the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, and is legally obliged, in terms of Section 231 of the Constitution, to enact provisions into South African law. The Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols regulate the conduct of armed conflict and seeks to limit its effects, aimed at the protection of people who are not, taking part in and those who are no longer active in, armed conflict.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mandy Balie at mbalie@parliament.gov.za by no later than 29 August 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Mandy Balie: (021) 403 3673 or cell  078 341 3643

Issued by: Mr M.S. Motimele, MP and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans
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Comment: Financial Markets Draft Bill

PLEASE NOTE DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO 6 OCTOBER 2011


Cabinet has approved the release of the Financial Markets Draft Bill for public comment, as announced in the Statement on the Cabinet meeting of 26 July 2011. The Bill builds on existing policy for the financial markets as defined through the Securities Services Act of 2004, No 36 of 2004. This Act will be repealed and replaced.

Please find relevant documents here: Financial Markets Bill: Policy document: Reviewing the Regulation of Financial Markets in SA

The Securities Services Act took effect on 1 February 2005. It governs the regulation of securities services in South Africa to include securities exchanges, central securities depositories, clearing houses, and their respective members. It consolidated the South African regulatory framework for capital markets and aligned the regulation and supervision of South African financial markets with the prevailing international developments and regulatory standards.

In recognition of the need for financial regulatory reform following the recent financial crisis, President Jacob Zuma has committed South Africa to a global regulatory reform agenda, which for the financial sector - including financial markets - includes a stronger regulatory framework, more effective supervision, improved crisis resolution, and enhanced accountability through international assessments and peer reviews.

The Financial Markets Bill gives effect to this agenda by:

  • Strengthening the Self Regulatory Organisation model of supervision (which has proven efficient and effective in delivering on the objectives of securities regulation)
  • Aligning financial markets regulation with international best practice
  • Giving effect to recommendations made by the 2008 World Bank and International Monetary Fund Financial Sector Assessment Programme
  • Implementing South Africa's commitment to the UNIDROIT Convention to improve investor protection in cross-border transactions
  • Ensuring alignment between legislation that governs financial markets and the wider legislative framework, including the new Companies Act and the Consumer Protection Act

Comments on the Financial Markets Bill are invited from all interested stakeholders. After consideration of submissions made on the Bill, it will be tabled in Parliament. Implementation is expected to take place in 2012.

Draft subordinate regulation to be issued in terms of the Bill will also shortly be released for public comment.

Written comments can be emailed to Linda van Zyl at Linda.vanzyl@treasury.gov.za on or before 5 September 2011.

Issued by: National Treasury Thursday, 4 August 2011
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Comment: Credit Ratings Services Draft Bill

PLEASE NOTE DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO 16 SEPTEMBER 2011

Cabinet has approved the release of the Credit Ratings Services Draft Bill for public comment, as announced in the Statement on the Cabinet meeting of 26 July 2011.

Please find relevant documents here: Media Statement: Credit Ratings Services Draft Bill

Credit ratings agencies are important actors in financial markets, and are designed to play a critical role in providing independent advice to investors, including on sovereign debt, equities and other investment products. By providing the market with independent, consistent and easy to- use measures of credit risk, credit ratings agencies reduce the costs of investment and enhance market efficiency.

During the global financial crisis, weaknesses in the way these agencies rated particularly “sub-prime” securitised instruments highlighted the need to re-examine the way in which such agencies operate, especially given that such agencies were not appropriately regulated. In particular, given that globally financial institutions and institutional investors rely heavily on external ratings, such ratings should be constructed in an independent, transparent and rigorous way. Any weaknesses in this respect can generate uncertainty and exacerbate volatile markets, which can trigger general financial instability.

As these agencies operate at a global level, it became clear a global response was required. As a result, the G-20 jointly committed to regulating these agencies. Introducing a regulatory framework for credit ratings agencies is thus one of South Africa’s G-20 commitments. The Bill being released today seeks to align the South African regulation of CRAs with international best standards and practice, including the International Organisation of Securities Commissions Principles, G-20 countries’ regulation and the European Union’s equivalency requirement.

The Bill aims to:

  • ensure that South African authorities can work with their international counterparts to ensure responsible and accountable credit rating agencies at a global level;
  • protect the independence, integrity, transparency and reliability of the credit rating process and credit ratings;
  • improve investor protection;
  • improve the efficiency and transparency of financial markets; and
  • reduce systemic risk.

National Treasury and the Financial Services Board have finalised the accompanying notices and regulations.

Comments on the Credit Rating Services Bill are invited from all interested stakeholders. A workshop will also be held in the course of August.

Written comments can be emailed to Roy Havemann at financial.policy@treasury.gov.za or on or before 5 September 2011. Participants for the workshop should send their details to the same address by 12 August 2011.

Issued by: National Treasury 4 August 2011
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Comment & Public Hearings: Tax Administration Bill [B11-2011]

The Standing Committee on Finance invites all interested institutions, organisations and interested individuals to submit written comments on the Tax Administration Bill [B11-2011].

The purpose of the Bill is to:

  • provide for the effective and efficient collection of tax;
  • provide for the alignment of the administration provisions of tax Acts and the consolidation of the provisions into one piece of legislation to the extent practically possible;
  • determine the powers and duties of the South African Revenue Service and officials;
  • provide for. the delegation of powers by the Commissioner;
  • provide for the authority to act in legal proceedings;
  • determine the powers and duties of the Minister of Finance;
  • provide for the establishment of the office of the Tax Ombud;
  • determine the powers and duties of the Tax Ombud;
  • provide for registration requirements;
  • provide for the submission of returns and the duty to keep records;
  • provide for reportable arrangements;
  • provide for the request for information;
  • provide for the carrying out of an' audit or investigation by the South African Revenue Service;
  • provide for inquiries;
  • provide. for powers of the South African Revenue Service to carry out searches and seizures;
  • provide for the confidentiality of information;
  • provide for the South African Revenue Service to issue advance rulings;
  • make provision in respect of tax assessments;
  • provide for dispute resolution;
  • make provision for the payment of tax;
  • provide for the recovery of tax;
  • provide for the South African Revenue Service to recover interest on outstanding tax debts;
  • provide for the refund of excess payments;
  • provide for the write-off and compromise of tax debts;
  • provide for the imposition and remittance of administrative non-compliance penalties;
  • provide for the imposition of understatement penalties;
  • provide for a voluntary disclosure programme;
  • provide for criminal offences and sanctions;
  • provide for the reporting of unprofessional conduct by tax practitioners;
  • and to provide for matters connected therewith.

 Public hearings are scheduled to take place on the 16 - 17 August 2011.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr A Wicomb at awicomb@parliament.gov.za by no later than Thursday 11 August 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr A. Wicomb (021) 403 3759, cell: 083 412 1475

Issued by: Honourable T. Mufamadi MP, Chairperson: Standing Committee on Finance

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Comment & Public Hearings: Further Education Colleges & Training Amendment Bill [B13-2011] & Higher Education Amendment Bill [B14-2011]

The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the following bills: Further Education Colleges and Training Amendment Bill [B13-2011] and Higher Education Amendment Bill [B14-2011].

The purpose of the Further Education Colleges and Training Amendment Bill [B13-2011] is to:

  • Amend the Further Education and Training Colleges Act, 2006, so as to remove all references to provincial authority;
  • Assign functions previously assigned to the Member of the Executive Council to the Minister;
  • Remove all references to ‘Head of Department’ and replace them with ‘Director-General’;
  • egulate the conduct of members of the council and staff of a public further education and training college engaging in business with the relevant public college;
  • Provide afresh for the appointment of staff; 
  • Provide transitional arrangements; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

The purpose of the Higher Education Amendment Bill [B14-2011] is to:

  • Amend the Higher Education Act, 1997, so as to regulate the conduct of members of the council and staff of a public higher education institution engaging in business with the relevant public higher education institution;
  • Adjust the period within which an independent assessor appointed by the Minister must finalise an investigation;
  • Amend the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act, 1999, so as to empower the Minister to intervene in the case of poor or nonperformance or maladministration by the Board of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme;
  • Provide for the dissolution of the Board, as well as the procedure for such removal;
  • Provide for the appointment of an administrator to temporarily take over the management, governance and administration of the Board;
  • Repeal the provisions placing an obligation on the employer of a borrower to make deductions from the remuneration of the borrower; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Public hearings on the Bills will be held at Parliament on Tuesday 23 August 2011 and Wednesday 24 August 2011.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr Anele Kabingesi at akabingesi@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00 on Thursday 18 August 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Mr Anele Kabingesi: (021) 403 3760; cell: 083 412 1585

Issued by: Adv I Malale, MP Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training.
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Comment: Walmart/Massmart merger


Portfolio Committee on Economic Development invites interested stakeholders and persons to submit written comments on Walmart/Massmart merger

The Competition Tribunal approved the merger between Wal-Mart Stores Inc. of the United States (“Walmart”) and South African retailer Massmart Holdings Limited (“Massmart”), on 31 May 2011, subject to conditions. Because the undertakings are made as conditions for the approval of the merger they are enforceable. The Competition Tribunal indicated that the companies must uphold existing labour agreements for three years, ensure that no jobs are cut for two years and added that it accepted the condition proposed by the merging companies to set up a R100 million supplier development fund.

It is in the light of the abovementioned, the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development is calling on all interested persons to make submissions. Submissions may cover the likely impact of the merger, particularly on employment, industrial development, local manufacturing and economic development; as well as comment on the conditions imposed by the Competition Tribunal.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr Arico Kotze at akotze@parliament.gov.za by Friday 15 July 2011. Please indicate your interest in making an oral presentation.

Enquiries tel Mr Arico Kotze: (021) 403 3662 or cell: 083 709 8470

Issued by: Honourable E.M. Coleman, Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Economic Development

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Comment & Public Hearings: Judges' Remuneration and Conditions of Employment Amendment Bill [B12-2011]

The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Judges’ Remuneration and Conditions of Employment Amendment Bill [B12-2011]

The purpose of the Judges’ Remuneration and Conditions of Employment Amendment Bill is to:

  • Amend the Judges’ Remuneration and Conditions of Employment Act, 2001, so as to provide for a minimum period of active service as Chief Justice of South Africa and President of the Supreme Court of Appeal; and
  • To provide for matters connected therewith.

Comments can be emailed to Mr V Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 22 July 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 26 July 2011

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano, tel: (021) 403-3820 or 083 709 8427.

Issued by Hon. LT Landers, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development

_____________________________________________________________________________

Comment:  Military Ombudsman Bill [B9-2011]

The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans invites interested persons and stakeholders to submit written comments on the Military Ombudsman Bill [B9-2011].

The Military Ombudsman Bill [B9-2011] seeks to:

  •  Establish the Office of the Military Ombudsman
  •  Provide for the appointment and functions of the Military Ombudsman.

This Office of the Military Ombudsman will attend to complaints emanating from members of the South African National Defence Force and members of the public for speedy resolution.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mandy Balie at mbalie@parliament.gov.za by no later than 15 July 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Mandy Balie on tel: (021) 403 3673 or cell: 083 709 8431 / 078 341 36:43

Issued by: Mr M.S. Motimele, MP and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans

_____________________________________________________________________________

Comment & Public Hearings: Constitution Seventeenth Amendment [B6-2011] & Superior Courts Bill [B7-2011]

The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Constitution Seventeenth Amendment [B6-2011] and the Superior Courts Bill [B7-2011]

 

The purpose of the Constitution Seventeenth Amendment is to:

  • Amend the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, so as to further define the role of the Chief Justice as the head of the judiciary;
  • Change references to ‘‘Magistrates’ Courts’’ to ‘‘Lower Courts’’;
  • Provide for a single High Court of South Africa;
  • Provide that the Constitutional Court is the highest court in all matters;
  • Further regulate the jurisdiction of the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal;
  • Provide for the appointment of an Acting Deputy Chief Justice;
  • Further regulate the composition and the functions of the Judicial Service Commission; and
  • Provide for matters connected therewith.

The purpose of the Superior Courts Bill is to:

    • To rationalise, consolidate and amend the laws relating to the Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court of Appeal and the High Court of South Africa;
    • Make provision for the administration of the judicial functions of all courts;
    • Make provision for administrative and budgetary matters relating to the Superior Courts; and
    • Provide for matters incidental thereto.

Comments can be emailed to Mr V Ramaano,at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 22 July 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament in August 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano: (021) 403-3820; or cell 083 709 8427.

Issued by Hon. LT Landers, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Develop

_____________________________________________________________________________

Comment & Public Hearings: Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill [B39- 2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill [B39– 2010].

The purpose of the Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill is to:

  • amend the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977, so as to substitute and align the provisions relating to the use of force in effecting arrest of a suspect with a judgment of the Constitutional Court; and
  • provide for matters connected therewith.

Comments can be emailed to Mr V Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 22 July 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament August 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano, tel: (021) 403-3820; or cell 083 709 8427

Issued by Hon. LT Landers, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development

________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Conversion of Medical Deductions to Medical Tax Credits - Tax Policy Discussion Document

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Conversion of Medical Deduction to Medical Tax Credits – Tax Draft Policy Discussion Document is published for public comment, and gives effect to the 2011 Budget tax announcement by the Minister of Finance to reform the current medical deduction allowances by replacing them with medical tax credits. Whilst this reform will be implemented in phases, it forms part of a comprehensive reform proposal – this document aims to facilitate consultation over the comprehensive proposal, and contextualises the phases for such reform.

The first phase of this reform is set out in the legislative amendments contained in the 2011 Draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (TLAB) published on 2 June 2011 Whilst these legislative amendments will be open to the normal public comment process for the TLAB, this document explains the underlying rationale for the entire medical reform, explains the first phase, and then focuses on the tougher questions for consideration in subsequent phases, including for catastrophic and out-of-pocket medical expenses. There is a two-phase process for public comments: Firstly, public comment for the TLAB proposals on medical scheme contributions are invited by 22 July 2011, and a second round of comments for future options on out-of-pocket expenses by 31 October 2011, to cover the proposals in the second and later phases that are not covered in the 2011 Draft TLAB. The key features of the present arrangements are discussed below.

Relief in the form of deductions from income is afforded to taxpayers for medical scheme contributions and out-of-pocket medical expenses. Medical scheme contributions by an employer on behalf of an employee are included as fringe benefits in the hands of the employee (taxpayer). Contributions to registered medical schemes are allowed as a deduction up to prescribed monthly capped amounts. Medical scheme contributions in excess of the caps, plus qualifying out-of-pocket medical expenses, can be claimed as a further deduction to the extent that they exceed 7.5 per cent of taxable income. Taxpayers aged 65 and above, or who have a disability or have an immediate family member with a disability, may deduct their medical expenses in full.

While the current deductions regime serves both to provide relief for those taxpayers contributing to medical schemes and protects families against catastrophic health expenditure, it is inequitable in that it affords a greater benefit to higher income taxpayers for necessary services like health, through the effect of the progressive marginal rate structure. It is proposed that deductibility of medical expenses should be replaced by tax credits, the value of which will be unrelated to a taxpayer’s income bracket. The principle difference between a tax deduction and tax credit is that medical tax credits reduce a taxpayer’s tax liability, whereas deductions reduce a taxpayer’s taxable income. Lower income taxpayers will therefore gain from such change, whereas higher income earners will benefit less than at present. The underlying principle behind the proposed change is fairness, and the new system is proposed as a step towards an equitable fiscal contribution to health insurance for all South Africans. In this respect, this proposal also facilitates the longer term goal of universal National Health Insurance.

In proposing policy options National Treasury aims to achieve the following policy objectives:

  • Equity and proportionality, particularly in enabling taxpayers across income groups to access healthcare
  • Fairness
  •  Alignment with National Health Insurance objectives
  • Affordability and fiscal sustainability
  • Administrative simplicity

Conversion of Medical Deductions to Medical Tax Credits – Discussion Document 3

Proposals relating to Medical Scheme Contributions (for adoption in 2012)

This discussion document explains the 2010 proposals which are intended to take effect on 1 March 2012. These are incorporated in the 2011 Draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (available on the treasury website at www. treasury.gov.za), and comprise:

• A medical scheme contribution credit will be available to taxpayers who belong to a medical scheme, set at a fixed amount per month for the taxpayer and first dependant, and two-thirds of this amount for additional dependants, adjusted annually for inflation. In 2011/12 values, amounts of R216 each a month for the taxpayer and first dependant, and R144 a month for each additional dependant, are proposed.

- A supplementary medical scheme contribution credit of R216 a month is proposed for members or dependants aged 65 and above, and members or dependants with a disability.

In addition, this document also seeks to explore the way forward on the tax treatment of out-of-pocket medical expenditures. Some of the key considerations are:

- When and how these expenses should be converted into credits;
- What should the phase-in period be for converting such deductions to credits;
- To what extent taxpayers and particularly vulnerable groups will be adversely affected by policy changes, and how these could be mitigated; and
- What the level of thresholds for credits should be, and what thresholds should be considered for taxpayers aged 65 years and older or those with disabilities.

In order to facilitate public comment on these important issues, three options are presented in this document for illustration. A few examples of policy options are evaluated according to how well they adhere to key policy objectives.

The current system, by way of medical scheme contribution and expense tax benefits (deductions), cost the fiscus an estimated R15.7 billion in 2008/09 terms. The proposals contained in this document are designed to maintain this level of tax expense benefit and seek to spread the benefit more evenly across income groups.

Medical tax credits will be non-refundable. It is envisaged that once the proposed Risk Equalisation Fund is in place as part of National Health Insurance reform, consideration will be given to the possibility of extending the benefit of the medical scheme contribution tax credit to those who fall below the tax threshold or who qualify for credits that exceed their tax liability, subject to practicality and affordability.

The public is invited to comment on the proposals contained in the discussion document.

Comments can be emailed to Suzan Papo at suzan.papo@treasury.gov.za by no later than 8 July 2011

Enquiries tel Suzan Papo: 012 395 6546

_____________________________________________________________________________


Comment & Public Hearings: Acid Mine Drainage


The South African mining sector is one of the critical drivers of the economy in South Africa. However, mining activities are also associated with environmental contamination such as acid mine drainage (AMD).  AMD is highly acidic water, usually containing high concentrations of metals, sulphides and salts because of mining activity.  The major sources of AMD include drainage from underground mine shafts, runoff and discharge from open pits and mine waste dumps, tailings and one stockpile, which make up nearly 80% of all waste produced in South Africa.

AMD has been described as the largest single environmental problem facing the mining industry, particularly because it is persistent and costly, and tends to be a liability for mines long after they cease to operate. AMD is a worldwide environmental problem.

AMD on the Witwatersrand has reached a crisis point. This is because some mining companies to allow untreated acid mine water to flow into streams, dams and sources of groundwater.

In response to the crisis, in August 2010, the South African Cabinet convened a special Task Team on Acid Mine Drainage, and in February 2011, the South African Cabinet approved the recommendations made by a team of experts on the acid mine drainage (AMD) situation in the Witswatersrand.  Some of the recommendations from the team of experts are: 

  • Implementing ingress control measures to reduce the rate of flooding and the eventual decanting and pumping volume;
  • Reducing costs to deal with AMD;
  • Improving water quality management, including neutralisation and metal removal in the short-term;
  • Removal of salt loads from river systems to be considered in the medium to long term; and
  • Monitoring and undertaking research to inform decision making and managing and monitoring other AMD sources within the Witswatersrand basin.

The Portfolio Committee on Water and Environmental Affairs (the Committee) intends holding public hearings dealing with Acid Mine Drainage. The Department of Water Affairs (the Department), including some of the experts who drafted the report, will commence the hearings by explaining the contents of the report and its findings and especially the recommendations, to the Committee. Thereafter, the Department will in detail outline the actions and steps government (not only the Department) intends to take in response to the report, its findings and its recommendations, including how the R 400 million government has budgeted to this end will be spent.

This will take place on Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 June 2011, from 09:30-17:00, Committee Room S12A, NCOP Building, in Parliament.

Then, on Tuesday 28 June 2011, from 09:30 until 17:00, the Chamber of Mines and the owners of the mines operating in the affected areas are expected to appear before the Committee to explain the steps taken or lack of action taken to ameliorate the problems identified in the report.

Members of the public may attend and observe the hearings. If any person wishes to bring to the attention of the Committee any matter relating to AMD, he/she is free to submit a WRITTEN REPRESENTATION to the Committee, which will be distributed for information purposes to all members.


Comments can be emailed to tmadubela@parliament.gov.za or hand-delivered at Room 0/88, 3rd Floor, 90 Plein Street, Cape Town.

For enquiries, contact Ms Madubela on (021) 403 3713; cell or 083 304 9586.

Issued by Adv. Johnny de Lange, M.P., Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Water and Environmental Affairs on 15 June 2011.

_____________________________________________________________________________


Comment: Municipal Property Rates Amendment Draft Bill


The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs intends introducing the Local Government: Municipal Property Rates Amendment Draft Bill in the National Assembly. The Bill is published for public comment in terms of section 154(2) of the Constitution.

Any person wishing to comment on the Bill can email comments to: mpra@cogta.gov.za by no later than 22 July 2011.

Enquiries tel: Veronica Mafokho: 012-334-4932/ 33

_____________________________________________________________________________

Comment: ICT Sector Charter for BEE (The Draft Code)


The Department of Trade and Industry has issued for public comment the Draft Information & Communication Technology Sector Charter for BEE as provided for in Code 000 Statement 003 of the Codes of Good Practice under Section 9(5) of the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (No 53 of 2003).

Comments on the Draft Code can be emailed to Xolisile Zondo and Jacob Maphutha at bee-ict@thedti.gov.za by no later than 9 August 2011.


Enquiries: 012 394 3430

_____________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Taxation Laws Amendment Draft Bills

National Treasury releases for public comment the 2011 Taxation Laws Amendment Draft Bill and Taxation Laws Second Amendment Draft Bill that give effect to most of the 2011 Budget Review tax proposals, as well as to additional urgent measures.

Please find also relevant documents here: Media Statement & Explanatory Memorandum

The National Treasury and SARS are scheduled to brief the Parliament’s Standing Committee on Finance regarding the draft legislation on 15 June 2011 (subject to confirmation by Parliament).

Comments can be emailed to the National Treasury via Nomfanelo Mpotulo at Nomfanelo.mpotulo@treasury.gov.za  and to SARS via Adele Collins at acollins@sars.gov.za by no later than 5 July 2011.

Comments can also be emailed to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance Secretary Mr Allen Wicomb at awicomb@parliament.gov.za by no later than 15h00 Monday, 20 June 2011, with informal hearings currently scheduled for 21 and 22 June 2011 (subject to confirmation by Parliament).

Enquiries contact Allen Wicomb: (021) 403 3759 cell: 083 412 1475. To assist with the processing of comments in regard to all of the above submissions, comments should be given in the order listed as per the explanatory memorandum.

Issued by: National Treasury

Date: 2 June 2011

_____________________________________________________________________________

Comment: process of reviewing the State Owned Entities
Presidential State-owned Enterprises (SOE) Review Committee calls for public submissions


The Presidential Review Committee (PRC) on State Owned Entities is calling on the public to make submissions which will contribute to the process of reviewing the SOEs in the country.

The Review Committee led by the Chairperson, Ms Riah Phiyega is calling for individual South African citizens, government departments (national, provincial, and local government), State-Owned Entities, organised business, labour, political parties, civil society, professional bodies, educational institutions, and industry associations to make submissions which will input into the review process.

President Jacob Zuma established the PRC in response to the acknowledgement that there is a need to strengthen the role of SOEs to ensure that they respond to a clearly defined public mandate and support the developmental state aspirations of government.

The broad objectives of the review are to:

·         Review transformation and development aspects encompassing definition of what constitutes state owned entities and revisitation of the current classification. This shall also include contextualisation of the role of SOEs in a developmental state within a South African context balancing socio-economic, and political imperatives. 

  • Review the contribution of SOEs to human capital development with a particular reference to the development of scarce skills.
  • Propose viable shareholder and governance models for SOEs taking into account enabling legislative and regulatory framework. Review of reporting and accounting practices and standards accounting is scoped in.
  • Proposing sustainable SOE business models that strike a balance between commercial, developmental and shareholder objectives.
  • Propose appropriate strategic framework or policies on board recruitment, performance and remuneration.
  • Review collaboration between government Ministries and SOEs, as well as consider proposals for strategic management and operational effectiveness of SOEs.
  • Review of SOEs on matters relating to strategic importance, value creation, viability and funding aspects.

The PRC has held seminars with domestic and international partners including consultations with SOEs, government departments and other role players and is now in a position to receive public submissions which will contribute to the successful completion of the report to the President.

These submissions should address issues/challenges/distortions that are either broad or specific and relate to the area(s) of the role-players’ or stakeholders’ operations. Overall, the input should seek to address the following three key challenges:

1. Are SOE(s) currently viable, effective, and adding value to development and transformation; and/or are they likely to in future? If not, what could be done, or what should be enhanced?

2. Are the governance, ownership model, policy, and legislation appropriate to enable SOEs to be effective in their delivery? If not, how can it be improved?

3. Is the mandate and agenda for SOEs clearly articulated and is there sufficient alignment with the State’s Development and Transformation Plans? If not, how can it be improved?

Comments can be emailed to Dr Godwin Ounoha at gonuoha@hsrc.ac.za or Dr Bheki Mfeka at bheki@soereview.co.za or bheki@christpro.co.za by no later than Friday, 31 July 2011.

NOTE: All information and documentation submitted will remain confidential and will be solely used by the PRC for the review process only.

Media Enquiries: tel Harold Maloka, Spokesperson Ministry in The Presidency: 082 847 9799 or by email harold@po.gov.za or Maloka.harold@gmail.com

Issued by: The Presidency
6 Jun 2011

_____________________________________________________________________________


Comment: A safer financial sector to serve South Africa better

Public consultation deadline for the draft financial sector policy document “A safer financial sector to serve South Africa better”
National Treasury published for public comment a draft financial sector policy document entitled “A safer financial sector to serve South Africa better” on Budget Day this year (23 February 2011).
The document sets out government’s vision for the continued development of the financial sector in South Africa, including on the regulation of the sector after the 2008 global financial crisis, and a shift to a twin peaks model. It outlines reform priorities in four policy areas: financial stability, consumer protection & market conduct, access to financial services, and combating financial crime.
Given the complexity of the proposed reforms, the National Treasury will be accepting comments on the document until 30 June 2011. Public comments are invited from all interested stakeholders.

Written comments should be sent to: financial.policy@treasury.gov.za on or before 30 June 2011.

Issued by: National Treasury

23 May 2011
________________________________________________________________________


Comment & Public Hearings: Transformation of the Fishing Industry

The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries will hold public hearings on transformation of the fishing industry.

The primary objectives of the public hearings will be to assess the following:

·         Current status of transformation in the fisheries sector within the developmental agenda of the country 

·         Draft Fisheries Charter, which provides the framework to address the inequities prevalent in the fisheries sector

The way in which current initiatives in the sector empower black South Africans to partake in fisheries activities and enterprises along the entire sector value chain.

 The following will be the focus areas of the public hearings:

·         An overview of the policy environment with specific reference to achievements, policy challenges, legislation and budget in the Sector

·         The economics of transformation of the fisheries sector

·         Small farmers' development and sustainability

·         Food safety and security - achievements and challenges

Fisheries support with specific reference to pre and post settlement support, funding models and market accessibility.

The public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on 14 June 2011.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Ms Dineo Martin at dmartin@parliament.gov.za

Enquiries tel Ms Dineo Martin: (021) 403 3601 / 083 7098462

Issued by Mr Mlungisi Johnson, Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and. Fisheries.

________________________________________________________________________

 

Comment: Independent System and Market Operator Draft Bill

 

The Department of Energy requests comment on the following draft Bill: Independent System and Market Operator Draft Bill before it submits it to Parliament.

 

Comments on this Bill can be emailed to Mathews Bantsijang or Maduna Ngobeni at epar@energy.gov.za no later than 13 June 2011.

Enquiries tel Mathews Bantsijang or Maduna Ngobeni: (012) 4444 081 or  (012) 4444 231

________________________________________________________________________

 

Comment: TRC Draft Regulations on Educational Assistance and Medical Benefits

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development invites interested parties to submit written comments on the proposed Draft Regulations:

A: The Promotion of National Unity and Reconciliation Act, 1995: Regulations relating to Assistance to Victims in respect of Basic Education;

B: The Promotion of National Unity and Reconciliation Act, 1995: Regulations relating to Assistance to Victims in respect of Higher Education and Training; and

C: The Promotion of National Unity and Reconciliation Act, 1995: Regulations relating to Medical Benefits for Victims.

The comments on the draft Regulations can be emailed to Ms F Bhayat at fbhayat@justice.gov.za  or Ms I Botha at  inbotha@justice.gov.za by not later than 8 June 2011.

________________________________________________________________________

 

Comment: Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Draft Bill

The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform invites any interested person or body to provide comments on the Draft Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Bill, 2011


The objects of the Bill are to-

(a) provide for a uniform, effective, efficient and integrated regulatory framework for spatial planning, land use and land use management in a manner that promotes the principles of co-operative government and public interest;

(b) provide for and determine development principles, compulsory norms and standards for land use management;

(c) maintain essential standards for land use management, spatial development and land use;

(d) promote-

(i) co-operative governance;

(ii) socio-economic benefits; and

(iii) sustainable and efficient use of land;

(e) establish planning tribunals; and

(f) redress the imbalances of the past and ensure that there is equity in land use and land use management.

Written comments and consultative inputs on the Bill can be emailed to Sunday Ogunronbi at SOGunronbi@ruraldevelopment.gov.za / Rajesh Makan at RMakan@ruraldevelopment.gov.za by no later than 06 June 2011:

Enquiries: tel Sunday Ogunronbi: (012) 312 9371 or Rajesh Makan: (012) 312 9548
________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Municipal Waste Sector Draft Plan

The Department of Water and Environmental Affairs has published the Draft Municipal Waste Sector Plan for public comment.

Interested and affected parties are invited to email written comments to Mrs. Khashiwe Masinga at kmasinga@environment.gov.za no later than 30 May 2011

Comments received after the closing date may not be considered.

BUYELWA SONJICA: MINISTER OF WATER AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

________________________________________________________________________


Comment on the Executive Members’ Ethics Amendment Draft Bill, 2011


The purpose of the Executive Members’ Ethics Amendment Draft Bill is to amend the Executive Members’ Ethics Act, 1998, so as to further regulate the procedure to be followed by the Public Protector when reporting on conduct of the President, as discussed in the (draft) Memorandum on the Objects of the Bill.

Any person wishing to comment on the Bill is invited to submit written comments to Mr J A de Lange at jdelange@justice.gov.za on or before 3 June 2011.

_____________________________________________________________________________


Comment: Further Education &Training Colleges Amendment Draft  Bill; Higher Education Laws Amendment Draft Bill & Skills Development Amendment Draft Bill


Please Note: – SUBMISSION DATE FOR COMMENTS EXTENDED to 22 MAY 2011

The Department of Higher Education and Training, after consultation with the Council of Education Ministers in respect of the FETCA Bill, has published the Further Education & Training Colleges Amendment Draft Bill, 2011;  Higher Education Laws Amendment Draft Bill, 2011; & Skills Development Amendment Draft Bill, 2011, for comment.

All interested persons and organisations can email comments on the draft Bills to Mr V L Rikhotso at Rikhotso.v@dhet.gov.za

Kindly provide the name, address, telephone number, fax number and email address of the person or organisation submitting the comments.

DR BONGINKOSI EMMANUEL NZIMANDE, MP, MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

SIGNED 13 APRIL 2011
_____________________________________________________________________________



Comment: Muslim Marriages Draft Bill

Please Note: – SUBMISSION DATE FOR COMMENTS EXTENDED to 31 MAY 2011


The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development invites interested parties to submit any comments they might have on the Muslim Marriages Draft Bill.
Comments on the Bill can be emailed to Mr T Matibe at TMatibe@justice.gov.za

By way of background, the following:
The Bill emanates from an investigation by the South African Law Reform Commission (the SALRC) on Islamic Marriages and Related Matters. Its report on the matter contains legislative proposals in the form of a Muslim Marriages Bill. The aim of these legislative proposals is to provide statutory recognition of Muslim marriages in order to redress inequities and hardships arising from the non-recognition of these marriages.

The Bill is applicable to persons who adhere to the Muslim faith and who elect to be bound by its provisions. In other words, it contains an opting out provision for persons who do not wish to be bound by it. The need for this legislation finds support in section 15(3) of the Constitution. This section provides that the right to freedom of religion, belief and opinion does not preclude legislation recognising

(a) marriages concluded under any tradition, or a system of religious, personal or family law; or
(b) systems of personal and family law under any tradition, or adhered to by persons professing a particular religion.
The Bill sets out a statutory framework for the legal recognition of Muslim marriages and their consequences.

__________________________________________________________________________

Comment: "Review Framework for Cross-Border Direct Investment in South Africa" & "Prudential Regulation of Foreign Exposure for South African Institutional Investors"

Please Note: – SUBMISSION DATE FOR COMMENTS EXTENDED to 31 MAY 2011

The Department of National Treasury has published the following documents for public comment:

Review Framework for Cross-Border Direct Investment in South Africa and “Prudential Regulation of Foreign Exposure for South African Institutional Investors


Comments can be emailed to financial.policy@treasury.gov.za 

After the close of the comment period, Treasury will host workshops on the two papers on dates to be advised in June 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr Unathi Kamlana: 012 315 5765 


_____________________________________________
___________________________


Comment: Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Draft Bill

The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform invites any interested person or body to provide comments on the Draft Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Bill, 2011


The objects of the Bill are to-

(a) provide for a uniform, effective, efficient and integrated regulatory framework for spatial planning, land use and land use management in a manner that promotes the principles of co-operative government and public interest;

(b) provide for and determine development principles, compulsory norms and standards for land use management;

(c) maintain essential standards for land use management, spatial development and land use;

(d) promote-

(i) co-operative governance;

(ii) socio-economic benefits; and

(iii) sustainable and efficient use of land;

(e) establish planning tribunals; and

(f) redress the imbalances of the past and ensure that there is equity in land use and land use management.

Written comments and consultative inputs on the Bill can be emailed to Sunday Ogunronbi at SOGunronbi@ruraldevelopment.gov.za / Rajesh Makan at RMakan@ruraldevelopment.gov.za by no later than 06 June 2011:

Enquiries: tel Sunday Ogunronbi: (012) 312 9371 or Rajesh Makan: (012) 312 9548
___________________________________________________________

Comment: Municipal Waste Sector Draft Plan


The Department of Water and Environmental Affairs has published the Draft Municipal Waste Sector Plan for public comment.
Interested and affected parties are invited to email written comments to Mrs. Khashiwe Masinga at kmasinga@environment.gov.za no later than 30 May 2011
Comments received after the closing date may not be considered.

BUYELWA SONJICA: MINISTER OF WATER AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

___________________________________________________________

Comment on the Executive Members’ Ethics Amendment Draft Bill, 2011


The purpose of the Executive Members’ Ethics Amendment Draft Bill is to amend the Executive Members’ Ethics Act, 1998, so as to further regulate the procedure to be followed by the Public Protector when reporting on conduct of the President, as discussed in the (draft) Memorandum on the Objects of the Bill.

Any person wishing to comment on the Bill is invited to submit written comments to Mr J A de Lange at jdelange@justice.gov.za on or before 3 June 2011.
___________________________________________________________

Comment: Further Education &Training Colleges Amendment Draft  Bill; Higher Education Laws Amendment Draft Bill & Skills Development Amendment Draft Bill


Please Note: – SUBMISSION DATE FOR COMMENTS EXTENDED to 22 MAY 2011

The Department of Higher Education and Training, after consultation with the Council of Education Ministers in respect of the FETCA Bill, has published the Further Education & Training Colleges Amendment Draft Bill, 2011; Higher Education Laws Amendment Draft Bill, 2011;& Skills Development Amendment Draft Bill, 2011, for comment.

All interested persons and organisations can email comments on the draft Bills to Mr V L Rikhotso at Rikhotso.v@dhet.gov.za

Kindly provide the name, address, telephone number, fax number and email address of the person or organisation submitting the comments.

DR BONGINKOSI EMMANUEL NZIMANDE, MP, MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

SIGNED 13 APRIL 2011
___________________________________________________________

Comment: Muslim Marriages Draft Bill

Please Note: – SUBMISSION DATE FOR COMMENTS EXTENDED to 31 MAY 2011

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development invites interested parties to submit any comments they might have on the Muslim Marriages Draft Bill.
Comments on the Bill can be emailed to Mr T Matibe at TMatibe@justice.gov.za

By way of background, the following:
The Bill emanates from an investigation by the South African Law Reform Commission (the SALRC) on Islamic Marriages and Related Matters. Its report on the matter contains legislative proposals in the form of a Muslim Marriages Bill. The aim of these legislative proposals is to provide statutory recognition of Muslim marriages in order to redress inequities and hardships arising from the non-recognition of these marriages.

The Bill is applicable to persons who adhere to the Muslim faith and who elect to be bound by its provisions. In other words, it contains an opting out provision for persons who do not wish to be bound by it. The need for this legislation finds support in section 15(3) of the Constitution. This section provides that the right to freedom of religion, belief and opinion does not preclude legislation recognising

(a) marriages concluded under any tradition, or a system of religious, personal or family law; or
(b) systems of personal and family law under any tradition, or adhered to by persons professing a particular religion.
The Bill sets out a statutory framework for the legal recognition of Muslim marriages and their consequences.

___________________________________________________________

Comment: "Review Framework for Cross-Border Direct Investment in South Africa" & "Prudential Regulation of Foreign Exposure for South African Institutional Investors"

Please Note: – SUBMISSION DATE FOR COMMENTS EXTENDED to 31 MAY 2011

The Department of National Treasury has published the following documents for public comment:
Review Framework for Cross-Border Direct Investment in South Africa and “Prudential Regulation of Foreign Exposure for South African Institutional Investors
Comments can be emailed to financial.policy@treasury.gov.za

After the close of the comment period, Treasury will host workshops on the two papers on dates to be advised in June 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr Unathi Kamlana: 012 315 5765

___________________________________________________________

Comment: Draft Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Regulations, 2011

The Department of Transport intends to make regulations on the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act, 1998.
Interested persons are invited to comment on the Draft Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Regulations, 2011
Comments can be emailed to Adv A Masombuka at MasombuA@dot.gov.za by no later than 16 May 2011.
Enquiries tel Adv A Masombuka: (012) 309 3289

___________________________________________________________

Comment & Public Hearings: Appropriation Bill [B3-2011]

The Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act requires Parliament to conduct public hearings on the Appropriation Bill. This Bill provides for the appropriation of money from the National Revenue Fund for the requirements of the State for the 2011/12 financial year.

The Standing Committee on Appropriations invites you to make written submissions on the Appropriation Bill [B3-2011]. The Bill was be tabled together with the 2011/2012 Budget on 23 February 2011.

Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on 24 - 25 May 2011. Submissions must be received by no later than 12:00 on Tuesday 3 May 2011.

Submissions can be directed to the Committee Secretaries, Mr Darrin Arends at daarends@parliament.gov.za and Mr Tebello Maleeme at tmaleeme@parliament.gov.za

Enquiries tel Mr Darrin Arends:(021)
403 8105 cell 071 363 2273; or Mr Tebello Maleeme (021) 403 3716 cell 083 709 8489

Issued by Hon. E M Sogoni, MP, Chairperson: Standing Committee on Appropriations (National Assembly).

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Comment: Proposed Regulations: Independent Police Investigative Directorate Bill, 2010

The Independent Complaints Directorate requests comment on the Proposed Regulations for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate Bill, 2010, with a view to submitting these to the Minister of Police for consideration when the Act comes into operation.

Comments can be emailed to Mr F Beukman at FBeukman@icd.gov.za by no later than 22 April 2011.
Enquiries tel: (012) 399 0000
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Comment: Confronting Youth Unemployment - Policy options for SA

The Department of National Treasury has published a discussion document on Confronting Youth Unemployment - Policy options for SA for public comment

Comments can be emailed to ria@treasury.gov.za on or before the 30 April 2011
Enquiries tel Mr Jabulani Sikhakhane: on 012 315 5944.
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Comment: National Health Amendment Draft Bill

The Department of Health intends to table the National Health Amendment Draft Bill, 2011 in Parliament this year, 2011.

Interested persons are invited to email comments to Ms Hyldia Phasha at phashah@health.gov.za by not later than 22 April 2011.
Enquiries tel Ms Hyldia Phasha: (012) 395 8492

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Comment: Draft Guidelines for accreditation of Ombud-Schemes (Consumer Protection Act)

The National Consumer Commission has published Draft Guidelines for the accreditation of Ombud-Schemes as provided for in Section 82(6) of the Consumer Protection Act (No 68 of 2008).
Comments can be emailed to Ms Prudence Moilwa at pmoilwa@thedti.gov.za on or before 07 April 2011
Enquiries tel Ms Prudence Moilwa: (012) 394 1544
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Comment: Co-operatives Amendment Draft Bills

The Department of Trade and Industry invites interested parties to submit written comments on the Co-operatives Amendment Draft Bill and Co-operative Second Amendment Draft Bill (Section 75 and Section 76).

The comments on the draft Bills can be emailed to Mr Jeffrey Ndumo at jndumo@thedti.gov.za or mcronje@thedti.gov.za by not later than 22 March 2011.
Enquiries tel: Mr Jeffrey Ndumo at (012) 012 394 1608/31
.
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Comment & Public Hearings: Mining Charter

The Mining Charter was established in terms of section 100 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 2002 (MPRDA). The purpose of the Charter was to set the framework, targets and timetables for the implementation of the government's transformation policies through its power to regulate and grant prospecting and mining rights. Its objectives were to inter alia, promote equitable access to South Africa's mineral wealth; increase opportunities for historically-disadvantaged South Africans to benefit from mining; expand the skills base; job creation; improve living standards, particularly in regard to the conversion of single sex hostels into family units; and promote beneficiation of mineral resources.

Stakeholders recognised that the achievement of the objectives set out in the Charter entails continuous engagement on reporting, monitoring and evaluation and further agreed to review the Charter if required. The Department of Mineral Resources had recently reviewed the Mining Charter. The review looked at various elements of the charter including ownership, procurement and enterprise development, beneficiation, employment equity and human resource development.

In line with Parliament's core objective of facilitating public participation, the Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources together with the Select Committee on Economic Development (the Committees) therefore invite the public to submit written submissions on the results of the review of the old Mining Charter and proposals on the new Mining Charter.

Based on the written submissions, the Committees will invite selected stakeholders to come and make oral representations on 23 March 2011 in Parliament. The Committees will also conduct public hearings in Gauteng
(Carltonville) on 30 March and North West (Klerksdorp) on 31 March 2011.

Interested individuals and organisations wishing to comment on this subject are kindly requested to forward written submissions to the Committee Secretary Ms Noluthando Skaka nskaka@parliament.gov.za by no later than Friday, 11 March 2011 at 12.00 noon.

Enquiries tel Ms Noluthando Skaka (021) 403-3751 cell 083 709 8520
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Comment & Public Hearings: Division of Revenue Bill [B4-2011]

The Select Committee on Appropriations invites stakeholders and interested parties to make written submissions on the Division of Revenue Bill [B4–2011] that was tabled together with the 2011/2012 Budget on 23 February 2011.

The Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act, Act No 9 of 2009 requires Parliament to conduct public hearings and to report on the Division of Revenue Bill. This Bill provides for-the equitable division of revenue raised, nationally among the national, provincial and local spheres of government for the 2011/12 financial year and the responsibilities of all three spheres pursuant to such division; and provides for matters connected therewith.
Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on 22 & 23 March 2011.
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretaries, Ms Estelle Grunewald at egrunewald@parliament.gov.za and Mr Lubabalo Nodada at lnodada@parliament.gov.za by no later than 16:00 on Friday, 11 March 2011.

Enquiries tel Ms Estelle Grunewald 021
403 3843; cell 071 363 2257 or Mr Lubabalo Nodada 021 403 3669; cell 083 412 1526
Issued by: Hon. TE Chaane, MP, Chairperson: Select Committee on Appropriations (National Council of Provinces).
_______________________________________________________
Comment: Military Veterans Bill [B1-2011]

The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans invites interested persons and stakeholders to submit written comments on the Military Veterans Bill [B1-2011].
The Military Veterans Bill [B1-2011] seeks to

  • Repeal the Military Veterans Act, 1999;
  • Give effect to the recommendations made by the Ministerial Task Team on Military Veterans to Cabinet;
  • Set out benefits available to military veterans and their dependents;
  • Set out certain functions of the Department of Military Veterans; and
  • Establish an Advisory Council on Military Veterans and a Military Veterans Appeal Board.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mandy Balie at mbalie@parliament.gov.za by no later than 11 March 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.
Enquiries tel Mandy Balie 021 403 3673 or cell: 083 709 8431
Issued by: Mr M.S. Motimele, MP and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans
______________________________________________________

Comment: National Consumer Commission Draft Enforcement Guidelines

The National Consumer Commission, has published Draft Enforcement Guidelines for the National Consumer Commission, in terms of the Consumer Protection Act, 2008 (Act No 68 of 2008) for public comment.

Comments can be emailed to Mr Sipho Tleane at STleane@thedti.gov.za by no later than 10 March 2011. Kindly provide the name, address, telephone, fax numbers and/or email address of the person or organization submitting the comments.

_____________________________________________________

Comment: Constitution Amendment Draft Bill, 2011


The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development intends introducing the Constitution Amendment Draft Bill of 2011, in the National Assembly.
Comments on the draft Bill can be emailed to Ms C van Vuuren at cvanvuuren@justice.gov.za by not later than 15 March 2011.
Enquiries tel: Mrs. C van Vuuren  012 315 1706
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Comment: Land Tenure Security Draft Bill
Please Note Deadline for Public Comments has been extended to 18 March 2011
The Land Tenure Security Draft Bill, that has been published heralds a new dawn and hope for a better life for millions of farm dwellers throughout South Africa, many of whom have fallen victim to arbitrary evictions, perpetual inhuman treatment and denial of basic human rights by some land owners.

The Bill seeks to address loopholes in the current two Acts, the Extension of Security of Tenure Act 62 of 1997 (ESTA) and the Land Reform (Labour Tenants) Act 3 of 1996, which were passed to provide security of tenure to persons residing on farms

The Bill however, goes beyond providing for basic human rights as promised by the Constitution of South Africa, but also addresses the need for productive use of agricultural land to meet the vision of sustainable, equitable and vibrant rural communities and food security for all.  Amongst others, the Bill seeks to provide for:

  • the continued protection of the rights of persons living and working on farms;
  • a support framework for sustainable livelihoods for persons living and working on farms that would, amongst other things,
  • address the need for sustained food production and production discipline;
  • state assistance in the settlement, on alternative land, of interested and affected persons
  • the acquisition of rights in land for resettlement;

Public outcry, petitions by farm dwellers, civil society and by rural service organisations as well as media reporting and documentation of perpetual human rights abuses by some farmers clearly pointed to the inadequacy of ESTA and LTA to curb arbitrary evictions. The Bill will, in the long term, achieve the separation of farm workers’ labour related rights / obligations from those relating to residence on farm land.  It also seeks to achieve the creation of harmonious relations on farms, the establishment of Agri-villages to deal with tenure security within the context of sustainable human settlement and food production.

Comments can be emailed to Landtenuresecuritybill@ruraldevelopment.gov.za or SOgunronbi@ruraldevelopment.gov.za by no later than Thursday, 24 February 2011.
Public consultations will also be conducted early in 2011 and a communication plan will be implemented to inform interested stakeholders about dates and venue of consultations.
Enquiries tel Mr Eddie Mohoebi – Head of Communications, 082 550 1445
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Comment: Second Land Transport Draft Regulations


The Department of Transport requests the public to comment on the Draft Second Land Transport Regulations (in terms of section 8 of the National Land Transport Act, 2009).
Comments can be emailed to Mr Muzi Simelane at simelanm@dot.gov.za or Mr Hament Patel at patelh@dot.gov.za by no later than 7 March 2011.
Enquiries tel Mr Muzi Simelane: 012 309 3002 / Mr Hament Patel:  012 309 3276.
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Comment & Public Hearings: State Liability Amendment Bill [B2 - 2011]


The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the State Liability Amendment Bill [B2 – 2011]:

The purpose of the State Liability Amendment Bill is to:

    • Amend the State Liability Act, 1957, so as to regulate the manner in which a final court order sounding in money against the State must be satisfied; and 
    • To provide for matters connected therewith. 

Submissions can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr V Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 4 March 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament 9 March 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano: (021) 403-3820 or cell 083 709 8427.
Issued by Hon. LT Landers, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development

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Comment: Fiscal Framework and Revenue Draft Proposals
The Standing Committee on Finance and the Select Committee on Finance invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposals, that will be tabled together with the 2011/2012 Budget on 23 February 2011.
The Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act, Act No 9 of 2009 requires Parliament to conduct public hearings and to report on the
Fiscal Framework and Revenue Draft Proposals. This Act defines the fiscal framework as follows:
The framework for a specific financial year that gives effect to the national executive’s macro-economic policy and includes-

(a) estimates of all revenue, budgetary and extra-budgetary specified separately, expected to be raised during that financial year;
(b) estimates of all expenditure, budgetary and extra-budgetary specified separately, for that financial year;
(c) estimates of borrowing for that financial year;
(d) estimates of interest and debt servicing charges; and
(e) an indication of the contingency reserve necessary for an appropriate response to emergencies or other temporary needs, and other factors based on similar objective criteria.

Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on 1 & 2 March 2011.

Comments can be emailed to Submissions and your indication to make oral presentation must be received
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretaries, Mr Allan Wicomb (Standing Committee on Finance) at
awicomb@parliament.gov.za and Mr Zolani Rento (Select Committee on Finance) at zrento@parliament.gov.za  by no later than 12:00 on Monday, 28 February 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr Allan Wicomb 021 403-3759; cell
083 412 1475 / Mr Zolani Rento 021 403-8071; cell 083 707 2188
Issued by: Hon. TA Mufamadi, MP, Chairperson: Standing Committee on Finance (National Assembly) and Hon. CJ De Beer, MP, Chairperson: Select Committee on Finance (National Council of Provinces).
______________________________________________

Comment: Promotion of Access to Information Amendment Draft Bill

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development invites interested parties to submit written comments on the Draft Promotion of Access to Information Amendment Bill, 2011 (the draft Bill).

The comments on the draft Bill can be emailed to Ms T Skhosana at thskhosana@justice.gov.za by not later than 28 February 2011.

Enquiries tel: Ms T Skhosana at (012) 315 1724 or Ms I Botha at 012 315 1702.
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Comment: Carbon Tax Discussion Draft Paper


Please note the following National Treasury request for comment:

As indicated in the 2010 Budget Review, the National Treasury publishes the Carbon Tax Discussion Draft Paper for public comment. This paper seeks to complement the regulatory efforts of the South African government in addressing environmental challenges.

The paper follows the announcement by South Africa at the 2009 Copenhagen conference of our intention to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 34 per cent by 2020 and 42 per cent by 2025 below the business as usual scenario. The Long Term Mitigation Scenarios and the recently published National Climate Change Response Green Paper (2010) recognise the use of market-based policy measures, such as an escalating carbon tax, to price carbon so that the cost of climate change can be reflected in the price of goods and services.

Carbon Tax Discussion Paper

The carbon tax discussion paper, “Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The Carbon Tax Option”, follows the 2008 announcement of an electricity generation levy of 2c per kWh, which was the first explicit carbon tax to be introduced in South Africa.

A carbon tax seeks to reflect the external costs of greenhouse gas emissions causing climate change, and should help to create a level playing field between high- and low-carbon emitting sectors.The early adoption of a low-carbon growth path can also result in competitive advantages in low-carbon technologies and create incentives for research, development, and increased levels of innovation.

The paper discusses the economics of climate change, the role of carbon taxes in reducing emissions at the least cost possible, and compares regulatory and market-based policy measures as well as carbon taxes and emissions trading schemes. The design of a carbon tax is best addressed by focussing on the definition of an appropriate tax base and measures to mitigate potential adverse impacts on low-income households and on the trade competiveness of certain sectors. The paper argues that the gradual phasing in of a carbon tax is the best way to deal with competitiveness concerns.

Three options for imposing a carbon tax are explored:
1. An emissions tax applied directly on measured carbon dioxide emissions;
2. An upstream tax on fossil fuel inputs based on the carbon content of the fuel (for example, coal); or
3. A downstream tax imposed on the outputs or products generated from fossil fuels (for example, electricity or liquid fuels).

A carbon tax imposed directly on all measured emissions of carbon dioxide appears to be the most appropriate. The second best option is to tax fossil fuel inputs such as coal, crude oil and natural gas, based on the carbon content of these fuels. Both options create adequate incentives to encourage behavioural changes. A tax on actual measured emissions would require appropriate institutional capacity to measure, monitor and verify actual emissions. An upstream tax would be based on the estimated carbon content of the fuel in question and could piggyback on the existing tax administrative system. In the case of an upstream tax, its design could also include a crediting system to encourage the development and adoption of technologies such as carbon capture and storage.

Other design considerations include:

  • To provide certainty to taxpayers, the level of the tax should be phased in.
  • That the tax rate should over time be equivalent to the marginal external damage costs of carbon dioxide emissions to effect the appropriate incentives.
  • Distributional concerns need to be dealt with in a transparent and targeted manner (for example, improved targeted provision of free basic electricity and improved subsidised public passenger transport).
  • The tax should as far as possible cover all sectors.
  • Relief measures to deal with competiveness concerns, if any, should be limited and of a temporary nature. The proposed tax incentive for energy efficiency savings might be an appropriate intervention in this regard.

The phased introduction of the tax at initial low rates, with a commitment to phase-in increased levels of taxation over a specific time period, would provide certainty and an opportunity for taxpayers to adjust to the new tax. This will also provide a strong price signal to both producers and consumers to change their behaviour over the medium to long term.

Comments on the carbon tax discussion paper can be emailed to Sharlin Hemraj at sharlin.hemraj@treasury.gov.za by 28 February 2011.

Issued by: National Treasury: 13 December 2010
________________________________________
Comment: Labour Law Amendments

The Department of Labour has published amendment bills for the Labour Relations Act (LRA), the Employment Equity Act (EEA), the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) and a new Employment Services Bill, for public comment. Each bill is accompanied by an Explanatory Memorandum.

Comments can be emailed to Mr. Thembinkosi Mkalipi at Thembinkosi.Mkalipi@labour.gov.za or Maria.Briedenhann@labour.gov.za by no later than 17th February 2011.
Enquiries tel Thembinkosi Mkalipi: cell 082 8544 358
Please find more details here: www.pmg.org.za/bills/details-labourlaws.htm
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Comment: Proposed Consumer Protection Regulations


The Department of Trade and Industry, pursuant to the signing of the Consumer Protection Act, 2008 by the President, give notice in terms of section 120 (2)(a) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2008, as follows:

1. The Proposed Consumer Protection Regulations , 2010 are published for public comment with effect from date of publication to 31 January 2011.

2. Members of the public are requested to send their comments to cparegs@thedti.gov.za  by no later than 31 January 2011.
Enquiries tel Mr. Ntutuzelo Vananda at (012) 394 1383.
________________________________________

Comment: Merchant Shipping (Safe Containers Convention) Bill [B31-2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Transport invites interested people and stakeholders to submit written comments on the Merchant Shipping (Safe Containers Convention) Bill [B31-2010]. The Bill seeks to give effect to the International Convention for Safe Containers by:

  • maintaining a high level of safety of human life in the transport industry and handling of containers by providing generally acceptable test procedures and related strength requirements; 
  • facilitating international transport of containers by providing uniform international safety regulations, equally applicable to all modes of surface transport in order to avoid proliferation of divergent national safety regulations; and
  • repealing the International Convention for Safe Containers Act, 1985, and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Written submissions can be emailed to Valerie Carelse at vcarelse@parliament.gov.za by no later than 25 February 2011. In addition to the written comments, please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Valerie Carelse: (021) 403 3272, cell 083 709 8445
Issued by: Ms N Bhengu, MP, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport

________________________________________

Comment: Immigration Amendment Bill [B32 - 2010]
The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs encourages interested individuals and organisations to submit written comments on the Immigration Amendment Bill [B32 – 2010]

The Bill seeks to:

 

  • Amend the Immigration Act, 2002, so as to substitute certain words of the Preamble to the Act;
  • Delete, insert or substitute certain definitions;
  • Revise provisions relating to the Immigration Advisory Board;
  • Revise provisions relating to the making of regulations;
  • Provide for the designation of ports of entry;
  • Revise provisions relating to visas for temporary sojourn in the Republic and for the procedures with regard thereto;
  • Provide for the mandatory transmission and use of information on advance passenger processing;
  • Provide for the transmission of passenger name record information;
  • Revise provisions relating to permanent residence;
  • Revise penal provisions;
  • Correct certain important technical aspects.

 

Public hearings will take place at Parliament on 25, 26 and 27 January 2011.

Written submissions can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr Eddy Mathonsi at emathonsi@parliament.gov.za by no later than 20 January 2011 at 12:00. In addition to written comments, please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.
Enquiries: Mr Eddy Mathonsi, tel: ( 021) 403-3826, cell: 084 630 1992/ 083 709 8523
Issued by Ms M Maunye, MP, Acting Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs.
_____________________________________________

Comment: Second -Hand Goods Draft Regulations

The South African Police Service is consulting on regulations under section 41 (1)(c) of the Second-Hand Goods Act, 2009 (Act No. 6 of 2009), with a view to submitting Second –Hand Goods Draft Regulations to the Minister of Police for consideration when the Act comes into operation.

Comments can be emailed to Mr J A van der Walt at vanderwaltja@saps.org.za by no later than 19 January 2011.
Enquiries tel Mr J A van der Walt (012) 393 7231
_____________________________________________

Comment & Public Hearings: Code of Judicial Conduct and Regulations on Judges' Registrable Interests


The Ad Hoc Joint Committee on Code of Judicial Conduct and the Regulations on Judges’ Disclosure of Registrable Interests invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Code of Judicial Conduct and Regulations on Judges’ Registrable Interests.

  • Section 12(1) of the Judicial Service Commission Act, 1994 (Act No 9 of 1994), provides that the Chief Justice, acting in consultation with the Minister, must compile a Code of Judicial Conduct, which must be tabled by the Minister in Parliament for approval.
  • Section 12(5) of the Act, specifically provides that the Code shall serve as the prevailing standard of judicial conduct to which judges must adhere.
  •  Section 13(1) of the Act requires the Minister, acting in consultation with the Chief Justice, to appoint a senior official in the Office of the Chief Justice as the Registrar of Judges’ Registrable Interests.

The Minister, acting in consultation with the Chief Justice, must make regulations regarding the content and management of the Register. The Registrar must open and keep a register, called the Register of Judges’ Registrable Interests. Every judge must disclose to the Registrar, in the prescribed form, particulars of all his or her registrable interests and those of his or her immediate family members.

PMG is notifying subscribers late as the advert appeared in December with the deadline set for Friday 14 January. However, contact Mr V. Ramaano if you would like to comment and he will be flexible and accommodate your submission. Please indicate if you are interested in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament on Wednesday 19 January 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr V. Ramaano (Committee Secretary) on tel. (021) 403 3820 or cell 083 709 8427 or vramaano@parliament.gov.za
Issued by: Hon. JB Sibanyoni and Hon. AG Matila, Co-Chairpersons: Ad hoc Joint Committee on Code of Judicial Conduct and the Regulations on Judges’ Disclosure of Registrable Interests.
_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: 2010

Comment: Companies Draft Regulations, 2011

The Department of Trade and Industry intends to publish the Companies Draft Regulations, 2011, after due consideration of stakeholder comments and inputs. The draft Regulations are premised on the Companies Act, No. 71 of 2008 and the Companies Amendment Bill, 2010, as published in the Government Gazette, No. 33695, dated 27 October 2010. The draft Regulations deal with the functions of the Companies Commission, the Takeover Regulation Panel and the Companies Tribunal, as well as other matters relating to the regulation of companies, to take effect upon enactment of the Companies Act, 2008.
Comments on the draft Regulations can be emailed to Mr Desmond Ramabulana at
companiesregulations@thedti.gov.za on or before 31 January 2011

The Department of Trade and Industry, pursuant to the signing of the Consumer Protection Act, 2008 by the President, give notice in terms of section 120 (2)(a) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2008, as follows:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Comment: Proposed Consumer Protection Regulations

1. The Proposed Consumer Protection Regulations , 2010 are published for public comment with effect from date of publication to 31 January 2011.

2. Members of the public are requested to send their comments to cparegs@thedti.gov.za  by no later than 31 January 2011.

Enquiries tel Mr. Ntutuzelo Vananda at (012) 394 1383


________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Rural Development and Land Reform General Amendment Bill [B33-2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Rural Development and Land Reform (National Assembly) invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written comments on the Rural Development and Land Reform General Amendment Bill [B33 - 2010]

The Bill seeks to amend various laws under the administration of the Minster of Rural Development and Land Reform, so as to:

·         •substitute certain obsolete definitions to ensure legal certainty

·         •effect certain consequential amendments in this regard

·         •provide for matters connected therewith.

 

Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on Tuesday, 25 and Wednesday, 26 January 2011

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary, Ms Phumla Nyamza at pnyamza@parliament.gov.za by no later than 17:00 on Friday 14 January 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel: Ms Phumla Nyamza at: 021 403 3852, 083 709 8492
Issued by Hon Sizani Mr PS, Chairperson: PC on Rural Development and Land Reform

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
__________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill [B36-2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education invites institutions, organisations and interested individuals to submit written comments on the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill [B36-2010]

The purpose of the Bill is to align existing laws to the new education dispensation that came about in 2009 when the former Department of Education was split into two distinctive, independent yet interrelated departments. The split has necessitated the alignment of the new education dispensation with the existing legislation, which includes National Education Policy Act, the South African Schools Act, the Employment of Educators Act, the South Afri­can Council for Educators Act and the General and Further Education and Training Quality Assurance Act as follows:

·         From the National Education Policy Act, the Bill seeks to amend the definitions of "Director-General", "Minister" and "education institution" in order to reflect the new dispensation. The Bill also proposes the deletion of the definition of "student" and the replacement of the word "Student" in sections 3 and 4 of the Act with the word "learner".

·         The Bill further proposes an amendment to section SA (1) of the South African Schools Act in order to provide that the Minister of Basic Education must first consult the Minister of Finance before prescribing a regulation on minimum norms and standards for school infrastructure.

·         From the South African Council for Educators Act, the Bill proposes and' amendment to section 5 of the Act, to ensure that the South African Council for Educators promotes in-service training of educators at the request of their employers upon the payment of an agreed fee by the employers of the educators concerned.

·         An amendment is also proposed from .section 1 of the General and Further Education and Training Quality Assurance Act, to draw a distinction between institutions administered by the Department of Higher Education and Training and those administered by the Department of Basic Education.

 

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary, Mr L Brown at lbrown@parliament.gov.za by no later than Monday, 11 January 2011. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel: Mr L A Brown at: 021 403-3764, cell: 083 709 8450, fax: 086 523 7591
Issued by: Ms H Malgas MP, Portfolio Committee on Basic Education (National Assembly) 

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

__________________________________________________________________________


Comment: Property Sector Draft Charter


The Department of Trade and Industry has issued the Draft Property Sector Charter for public comment.

Comments can be emailed to Xolisile Zondo and Jacob Maputha at bee-property@thedti.gov.za by no later 15 December 2010.

Enquiries: tel Xolisile Zondo or Jacob Maputha: (012) 394 1609/ 3430

The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs
__________________________________________________________________________

Comment: National Climate Change Response Draft Green Paper


The Department of Water and Environmental Affairs invite members of the public to submit written comments on the National Climate Change Response Draft Green Paper 2010.

Members of the public can email written comment to Ms Joanne Yawitch at jyawitch@environment.gov.za or dngobeni@environment.gov.za by no later than 16h00 on 11 February 2011. Comments should be titled as: National Climate Change Response Green Paper 2010

Enquiries tel Ms Joanne Yawitch: (012) 310 3666 or Mr Peter Lukey at (012) 310 3710.

The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs
________________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Companies Amendment Bill [B40 -2010]


The Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry has published the Companies Amendment Bill [B40 -2010] for public comments

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Mr Andre Hermans at ahermans@parliament.gov.za by no later than 26 November 2010. Please also indicate if you wish to make oral presentation.

Public Hearings will be held on the 30 November and 1 December 2010.

Enquiries tel Mr Andre Hermans: (021) 403 3776; cell 083 709 8482

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
________________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Correctional Matters Amendment Bill [B41-2010]


The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services invites interested individuals/ organisations to submit written comments on the Correctional Matters Amendment Bill [B41-2010]

The Correctional Matters Amendment Bill [B41-2010] seeks to:

  • amend the Correctional Services Amendment Act, 2008 in order to repeal provisions establishing an incarceration framework; 
  • amend the Correctional Services Act, 1998 in order to insert new definitions;
  • provide for a new medical parole system;
  • strengthen the parole system;
  • provide for the management and detention of remand detainees; and
  • provide for matters connected therewith.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary, Cindy Balie at cbalie@parliament.gov.za by no later than Friday 3 December 2010.

Enquiries tel Cindy Balie: (021) 403 3667; cell: 083 709 8444

Issued by Mr VG Smith MP, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Correctional

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
________________________________________________________________________________________________

Pardons: Invitation to Victims and Interested Parties to make Representations

Please Note: Deadline for representations has been extended to 5 December 2010

The President is considering the applications of the 149 applicants mentioned in this Schedule who have been recommended for pardon by the Reference Group and who are relying on a political motive and/or political objective for the offences for which they seek a pardon. Within the context of the national reconciliation and unity objectives of the special dispensation process of 2007, the President must make a final decision on whether to grant or refuse a pardon to these applicants.

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development invites the victims of offences committed by the applicants for pardon and any parties with a direct or substantial interest in the applications for pardon under consideration by the President in terms of the special dispensation process of 2007, to make written representations on whether or not a pardon ought to be granted to a particular applicant.

Any person or party who wishes to make representations to The Presidency must notify the Secretariat at PoliticalPardons@justice.gov.za  by 14 November 2010. On receipt of communication from a victim or interested party the Secretariat will respond by way of a letter to the victim or interested party requesting that they, within a 30 day period:

·         State in appropriate detail, whether or not, in his or her view, the offence(s) was/were politically motivated.

·         Indicate, with reasons, whether they support the application for pardon.

·         Indicate, with reasons, whether they object to the granting of a pardon.

Comments can be emailed to the head of the Secretariat: Mr Frederik Heyns at PoliticalPardons@justice.gov.za
Enquiries tel: Liana Nieuwoudt: Tel (012) 315 1278 / Thulani Khambule: Tel (012) 315 4822; / Fritz Willmot: Tel (012) 3151412
The document is also here: SCHEDULE: LIST OF APPLICANTS BEING CONSIDERED FOR A PARDON BY THE PRESIDENT

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Nominations Requested: Appointment of Members to Board of South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC)

Institutions and/or individuals are hereby invited to nominate persons to fill four vacancies of non-executive members of the Board of the South African Broadcasting Corporation Limited, for the remainder of the exiting member’s terms of office, in the above-mentioned entity, as established in terms of the Broadcasting Act, No 4 of 1999 (as amended).

A Board Member will be: • Suited to serve on the board by virtue of their qualifications, expertise and experience in the fields of broadcasting policy and technology, broadcasting regulation, media law, business practice and finance, marketing, journalism, entertainment and education, as well as social and labour issues • Committed to fairness, freedom of expression, the right of the public to be informed, as well as openness and accountability on the part of those holding public office • Representative of a broad cross-section of the population of the Republic • Committed to the objectives and principles as enunciated in the Charter of the SABC • South African citizens permanently resident in the Republic.

Written nominations must contain: • The full name, contact number and address of the institution and/or individual making the nomination, the nominee’s signed acceptance of the nomination and his/her Curriculum Vitae, providing at least the following information: • Full name, ID number and gender • Contact address, telephone and fax numbers, e-mail address • Previous experience (quoting dates and organisations concerned) • Academic qualifications •  Completed and signed Questionnaire for Candidates for SABC Appointment (available here:  Questionnaire for Candidates for SABC Appointments

Note: Nominations without the completed and signed questionnaire will not be considered. 

Appointment process: The Committee intends to short-list candidates, conduct interviews and present its findings to the National Assembly for recommendation to the President.

Nominations can be emailed to Mr TK Ngoma at tngoma@parliament.gov.za or Ms A Nel at alnel@parliament.gov.za by no later than 09:00 on 15 November 2010.

Enquiries tel Mr TK Ngoma: (
021) 403 3733; cell: 083 709 8407 / 079 498 8913 or Ms A Nel: (021) 403 3782; cell: 083 709 8391

Issued by the Hon I Vadi, MP: Chairperson, PC on Communications.
__________________________________________________________________________

Nominations Requested: Appointment of Members to Board of Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA)

Institutions and/or individuals are hereby invited to nominate persons to fill three [3] vacancies, arising as from 31 December 2010, in the above-mentioned Agency, as established in terms of the Media Development and Diversity Act, No 14 of 2002 as amended by the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act, No 12 of 2004.

The Media Development and Diversity Agency was created to enable “historically disadvantaged communities and persons not adequately served by the media” to gain access to the media. Its beneficiaries are community media and small commercial media.

A Board Member will be:• A person who is committed to fairness, freedom of expression, openness and accountability • Representative of a broad cross-section of the population of the Republic and possess suitable qualifications, expertise and experience in the fields of, amongst others: n Community Media • Social, labour and development issues • Media economics, financial management and funding • Advertising and marketing • Journalism and broadcast programming • Media research • Media training, literacy and education • Media Law • Information and communication technology policy; or any other related expertise or qualifications. Nominees must also be South African citizens permanently resident in the Republic.

Written nominations must contain the full name and address of the institution and/or individual making the nomination, the nominee’s signed acceptance of the nomination and his/her Curriculum Vitae, providing at least the following information: n Full name, ID number and gender • Contact address, telephone and fax numbers, e-mail address • Previous experience (quoting dates and organisations concerned) • Academic qualifications • Completed and signed Questionnaire (available here: Questionnaire for Candidates for MDDA Appointments)  Note: Nominations without the completed and signed questionnaire will not be considered.

Nominations can be emailed to Mr TK Ngoma at tngoma@parliament.gov.za or Ms A Nel at alnel@parliament.gov.za by no later than 16:00 on 8 November 2010.

Enquiries tel Mr TK Ngoma: (
021) 403 3733; cell: 083 709 8407 / 079 498 8913 or Ms A Nel: (021) 403 3782; cell: 083 709 8391

Issued by the Hon I Vadi, MP: Chairperson, PC on Communications.
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Deadline Extended: Comment: National Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements

Please note the deadline for public comments has been extended to 18 October 2010

The Minister of Basic Education invites stakeholder bodies and members of the public to comment on the newly developed National Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements .

The National Curriculum and Assessment Statements are single, comprehensive, and concise policy documents to replace the current Subject and Learning Area Statements, Learning Programme Guidelines and Subject Assessment Guidelines for all subjects listed in the National Curriculum Statement Grades R – 12.

Comments can be emailed to CAPScomments@dbe.gov.za by no later than 18 October 2010.

Please see the Media Statement

The document is also here: www.education.gov.za/CAPS.asp
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Comment: Refugees Amendment Bill [B30 - 2010]


The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs (National Assembly) encourages interested individuals and organisations to submit written comments on the Refugees Amendment Bill [B30 - 2010]
The Bill seeks to:

      • Amend the  Refugees Act, 1998, so as to amend, insert or delete certain definitions;
      • Clarify how applications for refugee status rejected as manifestly unfounded and unfounded must be dealt with;
      • Empower the Director–General to establish the Status Determination Committee
      • Revise the provisions relating to withdrawal of refugee status.

Public hearings will take place on 26 October 2010 at Parliament.

Written submissions can be emailed to Committee Secretary: Mr. Eddy Mathonsi at
emathonsi@parliament.gov.za by no later than 22 October 2010 at 12:00. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation

Enquiries tel:
Mr. Eddy Mathonsi at tel. (02)1 403-3826 / cell: 084 630 1992 / 083 709 8523

Issued by: Mr B D Martins, MP, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs.

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
___________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Draft Repeal of the Black Administration Act and Amendment of Certain Laws Amendment Bill, 2010

A Draft Repeal of the Black Administration Act and Amendment of Certain Laws Amendment Bill, 2010, as presented to the Speaker of the National Assembly by the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development has been published for comment.

Comments can be emailed to Mr Vhonani Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za before 26 October 2010

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano (021) 403-3820 or 083 709 8427

Issued by Hon. NA Ramatlhodi, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development


The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Action Draft Plan to 2014: Towards the Realisation of Schooling 2025

Please note the deadline for public comments has been extended to 29 October 2010

The Department of Basic Education has released an Action Draft Plan to 2014: Towards the Realisation of Schooling 2025 for public comment. This is after the Department has consulted the Council of Education Ministers and in terms of the National Education Policy Act (Act 27 of 1996).

Comments can be emailed to Mr P Njobe at Njobe.P@dbe.gov.za by no later than Friday, 27 August 2010. All comments should clearly indicate the following information about the commentator:
Name of commentator, and organisation represented;

    • postal and email addresses; and
    • telephone, fax and cell numbers (if available).

The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs
Enuiries tel Mr P Njobe: 012 357 4009 / 3000

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Comment: Deeds Registries Amendment Bill[B13-2010] & Sectional Titles Amendment Bill [B14 - 2010]

The Select Committee on Land and Environmental Affairs (National Council of Provinces) invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written comments on the following Bills:

Deeds Registries Amendment Bill [B13-2010]

The Bill seeks • to amend the: Deeds Registries Act, 1937, so as to substitute certain obsolete expressions; • to delete the reference to a registrar of mining titles or a mining commissioner acting as a registration officer; • to provide for the extension of the duties of a registrar; • to provide for the appointment of alternate members to the deeds registries regulations board; • to provide for the disclosure of the full names and marital status of persons in all deeds and documents to be executed or lodged for registration or record in a deeds registry; • to provide for the issuing of a certificate of registered title in respect of a fraction of an undivided share in land; • and to amend certain definitions; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Sectional Titles Amendment Bill [B14 - 2010]

The Bill seeks • to amend the: Sectional Titles Act, 1986, so as to amend certain definitions; • to redefine the boundaries between certain sections and common property; • to regulate the substitution of bonds registered in respect of different pieces of land shown on the sectional plan; • to provide for issuing of certificates of real rights of extension and certificates of real rights of exclusive use areas at the opening of a sectional title register; • to provide for the issuing of more than one certificate of real rights of extension and more than one certificate of real rights of exclusive use areas; • to further regulate the cancellation of registered sectional plans; • to provide for the issuing of a certificate of registered sectional title in respect of a fraction of an undivided share in a section; • to provide for a notice to a mortgage for consent to proposed extension to a section in a scheme; • to provide for the extension of a scheme by the addition of rights to exclusive use areas only; • to provide for a right of extension of a scheme in respect of a building or buildings that already exist; • to provide for the deletion of a provision pertaining to certain administrative expenses payable by a developer; • to provide for the deletion of a superfluous reference to urban immovable property; • to provide for the production of a certificate by a conveyancer regarding the payment of moneys in respect of the cession of real rights; to provide for a cession of real rights to exclusive use areas within a specific time for the benefit of owners of sections; • to further provide for the vesting of rights to exclusive use areas where an owner ceases to be a member of a body corporate; • to provide for the cancellation of exclusive use area rights with the written consent of the mortgage and holder of a registered real right; • to further provide for the regulation of consent of bondholders for the registration of servitudes; • to provide for the payment of certain contributions by a developer towards the defrayal of certain rates and taxes and the maintenance of common property; • to further provide for liability for payment of contributions where ownership in units changes; • to provide for the levying of special contributions by the trustees of a body corporate; • to provide for the use of exclusive use areas for purposes depicted on the registered sectional plan only; • to substitute obsolete references; • to delete and amend certain incompatible provisions no longer applicable; • and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Mr Asgar Bawa at abawa@parliament.gov.za by no later than 16: 00 Friday 1st October 2010.

All correspondence should be address to the Chairperson: Hon Ms 
Noluthando Qikani and marked for the attention of Mr Asgar A Bawa, Committee Secretary, Select Committee on Land and Environmental Affairs

Enquiries tel Committee Secretary Mr Asgar Bawa:( 021) 403 3762; cell: 083 709 8530

Issued by: Hon Ms 
Noluthando Qikani: Chairperson: SC on land and Environmental Affairs.


The Bills are also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
____________________________________________________________________________________________


Comment & Public Hearings: Protection from Harassment Bill [B1 - 2010]


The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Protection from Harassment Bill [B1 – 2010].

 

The purpose of the Protection from Harassment Bill is to:

 

·         provide for the issuing of protection orders against harassment;

·         amend the Criminal Procedure Act, 1955, so as to provide for an increase of the amount which may be fixed by a magistrate in respect of a recognisance as security to keep the peace;

·         effect consequential amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977;

·         amend the Domestic Violence Act, 1998, so as to provide a mechanism to subpoena witnesses to attend proceedings in terms of that Act;

·         to effect consequential amendments to the Firearms Control Act, 2000;

·         and to provide for matters connected therewith.


Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 19 October 2010.

Comments can be emailed to Committee Secretary: Mr V Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 30 September 2010. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano (021) 403-3820 or 083 709 8427.

Issued by Hon. NA Ramatlhodi, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Magistrates' Courts Amendment Bill [B23 - 2010]


The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Magistrates’ Courts Amendment Bill [B23 – 2010].

The purpose of the Bill is to:

 

·         To amend the Magistrates’ Courts Act, 1944, so as to regulate anew the qualifications required for the appointment of a person as a magistrate, additional magistrate and magistrate of a regional division;

·         To further regulate the inclusion of magistrates of regional divisions on the list of magistrates who may adjudicate on civil disputes;

·         To authorise the Minister to determine the conditions relating to the authorisation of a person to serve process of court or other documents on behalf of a public body; and

·         To provide for matters connected therewith.

 

Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 14 September 2010.

Comments can be emailed to Mr V Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 10 September 2010. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel: Mr V Ramaano, tel: (021) 403-3820 ; cell 083 709 8427.

Issued by Hon. NA Ramatlhodi, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Comment: Local Government: Municipal Systems Amendment Bill [B22-2010].


The Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs invites interested stakeholders to make written submissions on the Local Government: Municipal Systems Amendment Bill [B22-2010].

The purpose of the Bill is to promote a more professional administration by way of better-qualified senior management, more impartial and greater efficiency. The Local Government: Municipal Systems Amendment Bill [B22-2010] is a direct response to the crisis in local government and forms part of the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs turn around strategy.

Comments can be emailed to Committee Secretary – PC on Co-operative: Ms Shereen Cassiem at Shereen scassiem@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00, Monday, 5 September 2010. Please indicate your interest to make verbal submission. There will also be public hearings in Parliament.

Enquiries tel Ms Shereen Cassiem: 021 403-3769, cell
083 709 8533

Issued by: Mr S L Tsenoli, MP Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

______________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Local Government: Municipal Electoral Amendment Bill [B27-2010]

TheCommittee on Home Affairs (National Assembly) encourages interested individuals and organisations to submit written comments on the Local Government: Municipal Electoral Amendment Bill [B27-2010].

The Bill seeks to:

·         Amend the Local Government: Municipal Electoral Act, 2000, so as to supplement provisions relating to the election timetable and insert a related Schedule to the Act;

·         Amend provisions relating to nomination of candidates;

·         Provide for central payments of deposits by a party which contests election in more than one municipality;

·         Empower presiding officers to alter boundaries of voting stations, if necessary;

·         Revise provisions relating to number of party agents at a voting station;

·         Clarify the rights and responsibilities relating to assistance to certain voters;

·         Provide for special votes and the procedure related thereto;

·         Enhance the powers and functions of the Electoral Commission and the Electoral Court in relation to the determination and declaration of the result of an election;

·         Provide for further regulation of objections material to the result of an election.

 

Public hearings will take place on 14 September 2010 at Parliament.

Comments can be emailed to Mr Eddy Mathonsi at emathonsi@parliament.gov.za by no later than 10 September 2010 at 12:00. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries: tel Mr Eddy Mathonsi:( 021) 403-3826, cell: 084 630 1992 / 083 709 8523

Issued by: Mr B Martins, MP, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment: Sectional Titles Schemes Management Bill [B20-2010] and Community Scheme Ombud Services Bill [B21-2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements invites interested stakeholders and persons to submit written comments on the Sectional Titles Scheme Management Bill [B20-2010] and Community Scheme Ombud Services Bill [B21-2010]

The Sectional Titles Scheme Management Bill seeks to:

·         Remove the scheme governance provisions currently contained in the Sectional Titles Act, 1986 (Act No. 95 of 1986) from that Act and to incorporate these provisions in the proposed Bill and in respect of the management of sectional title scheme; to give effect to Cabinet’s strategy to bring all housing-related legislation currently administered by other Departments under the administration of the Department of Human Settlements (‘‘the Department’’). 

The Community Scheme Ombud Services Bill seeks to:

·         Establish the Service as a national public entity listed in terms of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999). The main objective of the Service is to monitor and control the administration and occupation of private and common areas in community schemes, and be involved in issues of governance in community schemes. 

The Service will develop and provide a framework for the avoidance and resolution of disputes in community schemes and the custody of community scheme governance documentation determined by the Minister of Human Settlements. 

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Ms Koliswa Pasiya at kpasiya@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00 on 3 September 2010.

Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 7 and 8 September 2010. Please indicate your interest in making an oral presentation.

Enquiries tel Ms Koliswa Pasiya: (021) 403-3725 or cell: 083 709 8495

Issued by: Hon BN Dambuza, Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
___________________________________________________________________________

Comment: National Draft Policy Framework on Child Justice [GovGazetteNo33461 dated 13 Aug 2010]

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has published the National Draft Policy Framework on Child Justice for public comment. This is in terms of section 93(2)(b) of the Child Justice Act (Act No 75 of 2008).

Comments on the National Policy Framework on Child Justice can be emailed to Mrs C S Kok at ckok@justice.gov.za by 1 October 2010

Enquiries tel Mrs C S Kok: (012) 315 1259
The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs
__________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Transport Laws Repeal Bill [B19 -2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Transport (National Assembly) invites all stakeholders and interested parties to submit written comments on the Transport Laws Repeal Bill [B19 -2010]

The Bill seeks to repeal certain obsolete or redundant transport laws: Amongst others,

Schedule 1 lists Acts that may be repealed in their entirety. For instance, the Schedule seeks to repeal some 20 Railway Construction Acts, dating back to 1939. These Acts authorised the construction of and equipment for railway lines at certain places in the country. The Schedule also seeks to repeal Acts that no longer serve any purpose. For example, the Railway and Habours Strike and Service Amendments Act, 1914 (Act no. 7 of 1914), granted employees who did not take part in the 1914 strike, special leave, a bonus, a. reward or special promotion, Since this Act no longer serves purpose it may be repealed.

Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on Tuesday, 7 and Wednesday, 8 September 2010.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Ms Dineo Martin at dmartin@parliament.gov.za by no later than 17:00 on Friday, 03 September 2010. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Ms Dineo Martin: (021) 403 3601; cell 072 231 2337
The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

__________________________________________________________________________


Comment: Rental Housing Amendment Draft Bill


The Department of Human Settlements has published the Rental Housing Amendment Draft Bill, 2010 for public comment. A draft Bill together with a Memorandum on the Objects of the Bill is attached.

Interested persons and institutions can email comments to Phindile Fakude at phindile.fakude@dhs.gov.za on or before the 31 August 2010

Enquiries tel  Phindile Fakude : 012 421 1338

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
____________________________________________________________________________________


Please note
 request by Committee Secretary that Public Hearings scheduled for August 2010 has been postponed.

 

Dear Stakeholders

Please be informed that the public hearings on the Intellectual Property Laws Bill, scheduled for August 2010, has been postponed. The Committee wishes to undertake further consultation with parties other that the Executive on deepening their understanding of this complex piece of legislation. Stakeholders will be informed timeously on the resumption of the public hearings.

PLEASE NOTE: PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE SCHEDULED AT DATES YET TO BE DETERMINE.

Our apologies for the convenience this may have caused. If you have any queries do not hesitate to contact me via email.

Regards,

André Hermans

PS: It would be appreciated if stakeholders can inform any other interested parties that do not appear on the mailing list
____________________________________________________________________________________


The Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry has published the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment Bill [B8-2010] for public comments

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Mr Andre Hermans at ahermans@parliament.gov.za. Please also indicate if you wish to make oral presentation. 

 
Enquiries tel Mr Andre Hermans: 021 403 3776; cell 083 709 8482


The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill


_________________________________________________________________________________



Comment: Action Draft Plan to 2014: Towards the Realisation of Schooling 2025

The Department of Basic Education has released an Action Draft Plan to 2014: Towards the Realisation of Schooling 2025 for public comment. This is after the Department has consulted the Council of Education Ministers and in terms of the National Education Policy Act (Act 27 of 1996).

Comments can be emailed to Mr P Njobe at Njobe.P@dbe.gov.za by no later than Friday, 27 August 2010. All comments should clearly indicate the following information about the commentator:
Name of commentator, and organisation represented;

    • postal and email addresses; and
    • telephone, fax and cell numbers (if available).

The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs
Enuiries tel Mr P Njobe: 012 357 4009 / 3000

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Comment: Higher Education Laws Amendment Bill [B24 - 2010], Skills Development Levies Amendment Bill [B25 - 2010] and Higher Education and Training Laws Amendment Bill [B26 - 2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the Higher Education Laws Amendment Bill [B24 – 2010], Skills Development Levies Amendment Bill [B25 – 2010] and Higher Education and Training Laws Amendment Bill [B26 – 2010].

The purpose of the Higher Education Laws Amendment Bill [B24 – 2010]: Amend the Higher Education Act, 1997, so as to amend certain definitions • To ensure that all higher education programmes offered in South Africa by a foreign juristic person are registered on the National Qualifications Framework • To ensure that higher education institutions may offer a degree, diploma or certificate only if it is registered on the National Qualifications Framework. The Skills Development Act, 1998, so as to amend certain definitions • To provide for the appointment of the chief executive officer of the QCTO and for the transfer to and appointment of staff to the QCTO • To further regulate the composition of the QCTO. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act, 1999, so as to amend certain definitions. The National Qualifications Framework Act, 2008, so as to amend a definition and delete another • To amend the application of the Act in order • To require that all qualifications offered in the Republic are registered on the National Qualifications Framework • To remove references in the said Act to the Minister of Labour; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

The purpose of the Skills Development Levies Bill [B25 – 2010]: To amend the Skills Development Levies Act, 1999, so as to amend the definitions of ‘‘Director-General’’ and ‘‘Minister’’; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

The purpose of the Higher Education Laws and Training Bill [B26 – 2010]: Amend the Adult Basic Education and Training Act, 2000, so as to amend certain definitions • To make provision for the employment of educators at public centres by inserting provisions in the said Act with regard to employers of educators, salaries and other conditions of service of educators, the educator establishment, powers of employers, appointments and the filling of posts, the transfer of educators, the secondment of educators, the retirement of educators, the discharge of educators, incapacity and misconduct and the performance of other work by educators • To provide for transitional arrangements with regard to public centres • To make provision for the determination of national education policy for public centres, for directive principles of national education policy, for consultation on policy and legislation, for the publication of national education policy and for the monitoring and evaluation of adult education and training • To provide for quality assurance in respect of the qualifications offered by public and private centres • The Further Education and Training Colleges Act, 2006, so as to amend certain definitions • To make provision for the determination of national education policy for colleges, for directive principles of national education policy, for consultation on policy and legislation, for the publication of national education policy and for the monitoring and evaluation of further education and training • To make provision for the Council of Education Ministers and the Heads of Education Departments Committee and for their administrative functions • To provide for transitional arrangements with regard to colleges • To provide for quality assurance in respect of the qualifications offered by colleges • To provide for matters connected therewith.

Public hearings on all Bills will be conducted at Parliament on Tuesday 31 August 2010 and Wednesday 1 September 2010.  

Comments can be emailed to the Secretary of Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Mr Anele Kabingesi akabingesi@parliament.gov.za by no later than Thursday, 26 August 2010 at 12:00. Please indicate your  interest in making a verbal presentation.

Enquiries tel Mr Anele Kabingesi: 021 403-3760 or cell 083 412 1585

The Bills are also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

Issued by: Mr M Fransman, MP and Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training.
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Comment: South African Reserve Bank Amendment Bill 

The Select Committee on Finance invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the South African Reserve Bank Amendment Bill [B10-2010]

    • The South African Reserve Bank Amendment Bill seeks to amend the South African Reserve Bank Act (Act No 90 of 1989) in order to achieve the following objectives:  
    •  To amend the South African Reserve Bank Act, 1989, as to provide for the amendment of certain definitions, the insertion of new definitions and the deletion of a definition; 
    • to provide for the establishment of a Panel for the election of directors to the Board and the functions of the Panel;  
    • to reinforce the requirements regarding the limitation on shareholding in the South African Reserve Bank and to prevent the abuse. of those provisions
    • to provide for the nomination of Directors by a broader base of the South African public and to broaden representation on the Board of the South African Reserve Bank;
    • to define clear criteria regarding when persons are disqualified from serving on the Board;  
    • to provide for the confirmation of Board nominees against "fit and proper" and fiduciary criteria; 
    • to clarify the powers and functions of the Board; and 
    • to provide for the possibility of the Governor and Deputy Governors being re-appointed to serve terms of office of less than five years.

Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on the 25 August 2010.

Submissions and your indication to make oral presentation can be emailed to the Committee Secretary, Mr Zolani Rento at zrento@parliament.gov.za  by no later than 12:00 on Monday, 23 August 2010.

Enquiries tel 021 403 8071 / cell
083 707 2188

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill [B7 - 2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill [B7 – 2010]

The purpose of the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill is to:

      • Give  effe ct to the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children
      • Supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, 2000
      • Provide for an offence of trafficking in persons and other offences associated with trafficking in persons
      • Prevent and combat the trafficking in persons within or across the borders of the Republic
      • Provide for measures to protect and assist victims of trafficking in persons
      • Provide for the establishment of the Intersectoral Committee on Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons
      • Provide for matters connected therewith.

Comments can be emailed to the Secretary Mr V Ramaano at vramaano@parliament.gov.za by no later than 20  August 2010, 12:00 AM. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 24 and 25 August 2010.

Enquiries tel Mr V Ramaano: (021) 403-3820 or 083 709 8427

Issued by Hon NA Ramatlhodi, MP, Chairperson: PC on Justice and Constitutional Development

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Comment: Births and Deaths Registration Amendment Bill [B18 - 2010]

The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs (National Assembly) encourages interested individuals and organisations to submit written comments on the Births and Deaths Registration Amendment Bill [B18 - 2010]

The Bill seeks to:

  • Amend the South African Citizenship Act, 1995, so as to substitute, insert or delete certain definitions;
  •  Revise the provisions relating to acquisition of citizenship by birth, descent and naturalisation;
  •  Repeal or to substitute certain obsolete references;
  •  Effect certain technical corrections.


Public hearings on the Bill will take place on 24 August 2010 at Parliament.

Written submissions can be emailed to Committee Secretary: Mr. Eddy Mathonsi at emathonsi@parliament.gov.za  by no later than 6 August 2010 at 12:00.

Enquiries tel : Mr. Eddy Mathonsi at tel. (02)1 403-3826, cell: 084 630 1992 / 083 709 8523


Issued by: Mr B D Martins, MP, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs.


The Bill is also available here: http://www.pmg.org.za/bill

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: South African Citizenship Amendment Bill [B17 - 2010]


The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs (National Assembly) encourages interested individuals and organisations to submit written comments on the South African Citizenship Amendment Bill [B17 - 2010]

The Bill seeks to:

  • Amend the South African Citizenship Act, 1995, so as to substitute, insert or delete certain definitions;
  •  Revise the provisions relating to acquisition of citizenship by birth, descent and naturalisation;
  •  Repeal or to substitute certain obsolete references;
  •  Effect certain technical corrections.

Public hearings will take place on the 17 August 2010 at Parliament.

Written submissions can be emailed to Committee Secretary: Mr. Eddy Mathonsi at emathonsi@parliament.gov.za  by no later than 6 August 2010 at 12:00.

Enquiries tel :
Mr. Eddy Mathonsi at tel. (02)1 403-3826, cell: 084 630 1992 / 083 709 8523
Issued by: Mr B D Martins, MP, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs.

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
___________________________________________________________________________________________

Please note request by Committee Secretary that Public Hearings scheduled for August 2010 has been postponed.

Dear Stakeholders

Please be informed that the public hearings on the Intellectual Property Laws Bill, scheduled for August 2010, has been postponed. The Committee wishes to undertake further consultation with parties other that the Executive on deepening their understanding of this complex piece of legislation. Stakeholders will be informed timeously on the resumption of the public hearings.

PLEASE NOTE: PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE SCHEDULED AT DATES YET TO BE DETERMINE.

Our apologies for the convenience this may have caused. If you have any queries do not hesitate to contact me via email.

Regards,

André Hermans

PS: It would be appreciated if stakeholders can inform any other interested parties that do not appear on the mailing list
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The Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry has published the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment Bill [B8-2010] for public comments

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Mr Andre Hermans at ahermans@parliament.gov.za. Please also indicate if you wish to make oral presentation. 

Enquiries tel Mr Andre Hermans: 021 403 3776; cell 083 709 8482

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
_________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: National Tourism Sector Draft Strategy

The Department of Tourism has published the Draft National Tourism Sector Strategy for public comments.

Comments can be emailed to strategy@tourism.gov.za by no later than 31 July 2010

Enquiries tel Lizzy Suping: 012 310 3310; cell 083 758 0553 / Ronel Bester: 021 465 7240; cell 083 242 7763


The document is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes

__________________________________________________________________________

Comment: National Waste Management Strategy


The Department of Water and Environmental Affairs requests comment on its Draft National Waste Management Strategy.

Comments can be emailed to Ms Thandeka Mandigora at tmandigora@deat.gov.za by no later than 6 August 2010.

Enquiries tel Ms Thandeka Mandigora: 012 310 3220

The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes

Comment: Independent Police Investigative Directorate Bill [B15-2010] & Civilian Secretariat for Police Service Bill [B16-2010]
The Portfolio Committee on Police invites interested stakeholders and persons to submit written comments on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate Bill [B15-2010] and Civilian Secretariat for Police Service Bill [B16-2010].
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate Bill seeks:

  • To make provision for the establishment of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate and to regulate the functions of the directorate; to provide for the establishment of a Management Committee and Consultative forum and their respective functions; to provide for the appointment and powers of investigators; to provide for transitional arrangements, repeal and amendment of certain laws; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

The Civilian Secretariat of Police Bill seeks:

  • To provide for the establishment of a Civilian Secretariat for the police service in the Republic; to define the objects, functions and powers of the Secretariat, and for this purpose, to align the operations of the Secretariat at the national and provincial spheres of government and reorganise the Secretariat into an effective and efficient organ of state; to regulate the appointment, duties and functions, powers and the removal from office of the Secretary for the police and heads of provincial secretariats; to provide for the establishment of a senior management forum and Ministerial Executive Committee, and co-operation with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate; to provide for intervention into the affairs of provincial secretariats by the Secretariat; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Mr Luvo Nxelewa at lnxelewa@parliament.gov.za by no later than 26 July 2010. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation.
Enquiries tel Mr Luvo Nxelewa: 021 403-3734 or 074 674 1065
The Bills are also available here: http://www.pmg.org.za/bill
Issued by: Hon L S Chikunga, Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Police.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

Comment: Defence Amendment Bill [B11-2010]

Please Note the deadline for public comments has been extended to 23 July 2010

The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans invites interested persons and stakeholders to submit written comments on the Defence Amendment Bill [B11-2010].

The Defence Amendment Bill [B11-2010] seeks to:

      •  Ensure that Reserve Force members can be utilised and required to perform service in the Defence Force at all times, including peacetimes, and 
      • Establish a permanent Defence Force Service Commission - a body that will advise the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans on the improvement of conditions of service of members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). 

Interested stakeholders and persons are also invited to submit written comments on the proposed inclusion of an additional clause in the Defence Amendment Bill that will provide for the inclusive definition of “Military Command". Section 202(1) of the South African Constitution requires the President to appoint the "Military Command of the Defence Force". The Defence Act (No 42 of 2002), however, does not define the concept "Military Command"; instead, sections 7(1) and 13(1) of the Defence Act only stipulate the appointment of the Secretary of Defence and the Chief of the SANDF by the President. An inclusive definition of the Military Command is therefore proposed, to include the appointment of the Chiefs of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Medical Health Services, Defence Intelligence and Joint Operations to this structure.
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Ms Mandy Balie at mbalie@parliament.gov.za by no later than 16 July 2010.
Enquiries tel Ms Mandy Balie: 021 403 3673; cell 083 709 8431
The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

Issued by: Mr MS Booi, MP and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans.
_____________________________________________________________________

Comment: Participation of Municipal Staff Members as Candidates for National, Provincial and Municipal Elections: Regulations

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs asks you to comment on the draft regulations for Participation of Municipal Staff Members as Candidates for National, Provincial and Municipal Elections, in accordance with section 71A read with sections 72 and 120 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act (No 32 of 2000).
Comments can be emailed to Mr Tebogo Motlashuping at TebogoMo@cogta.gov.za by no later than 8 July 2010.

Enquiries tel Mr Tebogo Motlashuping: 012 334 4900 / 012 334 4901

The document is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes
___________________________________________________________________

Comment: ICASA Amendment Draft Bill [GovGazetteNo 33324 of 25 June 2010]

The Department of Communications requests your comments on the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa Amendment Draft Bill which it intends to introduce during the course of the 2010 Parliamentary Programme.
Comments on the proposed Bill can be emailed to Lerato Monareng at lerato@doc.gov.za by no later than 26 July 2010.
Enquiries tel Lerato Monareng: (012) 427 8217 / (012) 427 8070

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

____________________________________________________________________

Comment: Intellectual Property Laws Amendment Bill [B8-2010] - deadline change

Please noterequest by Committee Secretary to submit comments by 9 July 2010 as the Committee leaves for a study tour on 15 July. Public hearings have been postponed to August 2010.

The Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry has published the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment Bill [B8-2010] for public comments
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Mr Andre Hermans at ahermans@parliament.gov.za. Please also indicate if you wish to make oral presentation. 
Enquiries tel Mr Andre Hermans: 021 403 3776; cell 083 709 8482

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
________________________________________________________________________

Comment: National Tourism Sector Draft Strategy

The Department of Tourism has published the Draft National Tourism Sector Strategy for public comments.
Comments can be emailed to strategy@tourism.gov.za by no later than 31 July 2010
Enquiries tel Lizzy Suping: 012 310 3310; cell 083 758 0553 / Ronel Bester: 021 465 7240; cell 083 242 7763
The document is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes


Comment: Constitution Amendment Draft Bill, 2010, and the Superior Courts Bill, 2010
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development intends introducing the Constitution Amendment Draft Bill, 2010, and the Superior Courts Bill, 2010, in the National Assembly.
Comments can be emailed to Mr J A de Lange at jdelange@justice.gov.za by not later than 30 June 2010
The Bills are also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment: Sheriffs - Draft Amendment Regulations

The Regulations relating to Sheriffs, 1990, made under section 62 of the Sheriffs Act, 1986 (Act 90 of 1986), were amended by Government Notice No. R.1293 published in Government Gazette No 31658 of 5 December 2008.
Since the commencement of the amending Regulations certain practical and other challenges have been experienced in the application thereof.  Furthermore, certain views have also been expressed regarding the fact that some of the amending Regulations may possibly be ultra vires
The Department has considered those challenges and views and has prepared a set of Draft Amending Regulations that seeks to address those matters.
Comments on the draft amending Regulations can be emailed to Ms A van der Walt at alvanderwalt@justice.gov.za by no later than 28 June 2010
The document is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs

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Comment: Protection of Information Bill [B6 - 2010]

The Ad Hoc Committee on Protection of Information Legislation (National Assembly) invites interested individuals and organizations to submit written submissions on the Protection of Information Bill [B6 – 2010].
This Bill seeks: To provide for the protection of certain information from destruction, loss or unlawful disclosure; to regulate the manner in which information may be protected; to repeal the Protection of Information Act, 1982; and to provide for matters connected therewith.
Written submissions can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Ms Ntombe Mbuqe at nmbuqe@parliament.gov.za by no later than Friday, 25 June 2010 at 12:00
Public hearings for those selected for verbal presentations will be held at Parliament on Wednesday, 21 and Thursday, 22 July 2010.
Enquiries tel Ms Ntombe Mbuqe: 021 403-2319 / cell 083 709 8432
Issued by: Mr C V Burgess: Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Protection of Information Legislation.
Here is a list of Members of the Adhoc Committee
The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bil
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Comment: Call Termination Draft Regulations

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (herein after referred to as "the Authority") released the Draft "Call Termination Regulations" Part 1 Part 2 and Part 3 in Government Gazette Number 33121 of the 16th April 2010.
These draft regulations invited interested parties to submit written submissions to the Authority by the 2nd June 2010.
The Authority has received a number of requests for an extension of time for written submissions to these draft regulations.
The Authority has considered these requests and, given the intrusive nature of the price control proposal in these draft regulations, grants an extension of time for written submissions to the Draft Call Termination Regulations to the 18th June 2010.
Comments can be emailed to Peter Grootes at pgrootes@icasa.org.za  or pcokie@icasa.org.za by no later than 18 June 2010.

All written representations submitted to ICASA pursuant to this notice will be made available for inspection by interested persons at the ICASA library and copies of such representations will be obtainable on payment of the prescribed fee.
At the request of any person who submits written representations pursuant to this notice, ICASA will determine whether such representations or any portion thereof is confidential in terms of section 40 of the lCASA Act. If the request for confidentiality is refused, the licensee making the request will be allowed to withdraw such representations or portion thereof.
Persons interested in participating in public hearings must indicate such interest in their written submission.
Public hearings will be convened from the 28th to the 30th of June 2010.

Enquiries tel Peter Grootes: 011 566 3641
The document is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes

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Comment: Local Government: Municipal Systems Amendment Draft Bill

The Department for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs intends introducing the Local Government: Municipal Systems Amendment Draft Bill  in the National Assembly in late July. The draft Bill is published for public comment in terms of section 154(2) of the Constitution.
Comments on the Bill can be emailed to Mr J Maepa at jackeym@cogta.gov.za  by no later than 14 June 2010.
Enquiries tel Mr J Maepa: 012 334 4943 / cell 082 775 1063
The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment: National Strategy on Sustainable Development and Action Draft Plan

The Department of Water and Environmental Affairs has published a Draft National Strategy on Sustainable Development and Action Plan that will operate between the years 2010 and 2014.
Comments can be emailed to Ms Dorah Nteo at dnteo@deat.gov.za by no later than 14 June 2010
Enquiries tel Ms Dorah Nteo: 012 310 3813
The document is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes

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Comment & Public Hearings: Taxation Laws Amendment Draft Bill and Taxation Second Amendment Draf Bill

National Treasury has published Draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill and Draft Taxation Second Amendment Bill for public comment.
Here is a Media Statement and Explanatory Memorandum of Taxation Laws Amendment Bill
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary: Bradley Viljoen at bviljoen@parliament.gov.za by no later than 11 June 2010
Enquiries, tel Bradley Viljoen: 021 403 3759 / cell: 083 412 1475
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Media Statement on the Ongoing Investigation - Offshore Captives and Protected Cell Companies has been published for public comment.
Comments can be emailed to Lutando Mvovo at lutando.mvovo@treasury.gov.za by no later than 16 July 2010.
Issued by: National Treasury
Date: 10 May 2010

The Bills are also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill 
Media Statements and Explanatory Memorandum are available here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs

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Comment & Public Hearings: Black Authorities Act Repeal Bill [B9-2010]

In line with Parliament’s objective of facilitating public participation, the Portfolio Committee on Rural Development and Land Reform will host public hearings on the Black Authorities Act Repeal Bill [B9-2010] on Tuesday 20 and Wednesday 21 July 2010. The purpose of the bill is to repeal the Black Authorities Act (Act No 68 of 1951) which:
(a) established statutory "tribal", regional and territorial authorities to (amongst other things) generally administer the affairs of Blacks;
(b) abolished the Black Representative Council established by section 20 of the Representative of Blacks Act,1936 (Act No.12 of 1936);
(c) amended the Black Affairs Act, 1920 (Act No. 73 of 1920), and the Representation of Blacks Act, 1936 (Act No.12 of 1936).

Comments can be emailed to Ms P Nyamza at pnyamza@parliament.gov.za by no later than Friday 11 June 2010.
Stakeholders interested in making oral submissions are also requested to contact our office by no later than Friday 11 June 2010.
Enquiries tel Ms P Nyamza: 021 403 3852 cell
083 709 8492
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment: South African Reserve Bank Amendment Bill
The Standing Committee on Finance invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the South African Reserve Bank Amendment Bill [B10-2010]

  • The South African Reserve Bank Amendment Bill seeks to amend the South African Reserve Bank Act (Act No 90 of 1989) in order to achieve the following objectives:  
  •  To amend the South African Reserve Bank Act, 1989, as to provide for the amendment of certain definitions, the insertion of new definitions and the deletion of a definition; 
  • to provide for the establishment of a Panel for the election of directors to the Board and the functions of the Panel;  
  • to reinforce the requirements regarding the limitation on shareholding in the South African Reserve Bank and to prevent the abuse. of those provisions
  • to provide for the nomination of Directors by a broader base of the South African public and to broaden representation on the Board of the South African Reserve Bank;  
  • to define clear criteria regarding when persons are disqualified from serving on the Board;  
  • to provide for the confirmation of Board nominees against "fit and proper" and fiduciary criteria; 
  • to clarify the powers and functions of the Board; and 
  • to provide for the possibility of the Governor and Deputy Governors being re-appointed to serve terms of office of less than five years.

Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament from 2 to 4 June 2010.
Submissions and your indication to make oral presentation can be emailed to the Committee Secretary, Mr Bradley Viljoen at bviljoen@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00 on Friday, 28 May 2010.
Enquiries tel 021 403 3759 / cell 083 412 1475
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Invitation for Public Submissions- by Constitutional Review Committee


In terms of Section 45(1 )(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, the Constitutional Review Committee must review the Constitution annually. Members of the public are therefore invited to make written submissions to the Committee on specific sections of the Constitution that they feel need to be reviewed.

Comments can be emailed to Committee Secretary Ms Pat Jayiya at pjayiya@parliament.gov.za by no later than 28 May 2010.
Enquiries tel Ms Pat Jayiya: 021 403-3661 / cell: 083 709 8453.
Issued by: Adv SP Holomisa, MP and Mr BA Mnguni, Mp, Co-chairpersons: Constitutional Review Committee.
The Constitution is also available here: www.pmg.org.za

________________________________________________________________________________________________


Comment: Increased inmate labour, Inmate privileges and particularly on how social reintegration can be promoted to ensure a reduction in recidivism


Section 40 of the Correctional Services Act (1998) requires that "sufficient work must as far as is practicable be provided to keep sentenced offenders active for a (normal working day” and that "such work must as far as practicable be aimed, at providing such offenders with skills in order to be gainfully employed in society on release".

The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services recognises the value work programmes can add, not only to the rehabili­tation and reintegration of offenders, but also as far as increasing the Department of Correctional Services' self-sufficiency, especially at correctional centre-level, thereby contributing to more efficient use of taxes and, in line with government priorities, ensuring that all South Africans feel and are safe.

Latest figures indicate that incarceration costs taxpayers more than R200 per offender per day. The average offender spends up to 23 hours of that day locked behind bars in 'often overcrowded cells. Such idleness not only promotes ill-discipline and despondency, but also wastes human energy that could be utilised in work activities that can develop a healthy work ethic, and a'sense of social responsibility while reducing the cost of incarceration by using inmate labour to, for example, clean prison grounds, do minor repairs and prepare meals.

It is speculated that between 55% and 95% 'of those released from prison, 're-offend. While the DCS has a responsibility to ensure that offenders sentenced to their care are provided with the necessary programmes to address their offending behaviour, thereby ensuring that upon release they are law-abiding citizens able to positively contribute to society, broader. society has a role to play in ensuring that those who have served their sentences, are given fair opportunity to reintegrate and are not discriminated against.

The Committee is cognisant of the human rights aspects to be considered when advocating for increased inmate labour and realises that given the prevalence of crime and unemployment in South Africa, the acceptance of ex-offenders, and creation of work for those in prison are thorny issues, demanding evaluation by parliamentarians, the Department of Correctional Services, relevant research and non-governmental organisations, the business sector, and especially ordinary citizens who are often most affected by crime.

The Committee hereby calls for public comment on increased inmate labour, inmate privileges and particularly on how social reintegration can be promoted to ensure a reduction in recidivism. Public hearings will be held towards the end of May, and some contributors may be selected to present their views to the Committee at Parliament.

Written comment, indicating availability to make an oral submission, can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Cindy Balie at cbalie@parliament.gov.za by Friday, 7 May 2010 at 17:00.

Enquiries tel Cindy Balie: 021 403-3667 or 073 158 4696.

Issued by: Hon VG Smith, Mp, Chairperson: Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services.

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Comment and Public Hearings: Changes to Municipal Property Rates Act

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs will conduct public hearings in the nine provinces to solicit the views of the public on the Municipal Property Rates Act (Act 6 of 2004) with a view to amend the Act where necessary.

Comments can be emailed to
Nkanyiso Ndadane at NkanyisoN@cogta.gov.za or Veronica Mafokho at mpra@cogta.gov.za by no later than 3 May 2010. Submissions received after this date will not be considered.

Enquiries tel Veronica Mafokho: 012-334-4932

Here are the relevant documents:
Guide to the Municipal Property Rates Act Amendments
Municipal Property Rates Amendment Act, 2009
Municipal Property Rates Act (Act 6 of 2004)

Members of the public are invited to the public hearings scheduled to take place in the various provinces as follows :
(Note: In respect of the Free State and Western Cape valid identity documents are required for gaining access to the venue)

PROVINCE

DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING

VENUE

TIME

EASTERN CAPE

Tuesday 6 April  2010

Provincial Legislature, Independence Avenue, Bhisho

09h00

NORTH WEST

Friday 9 April 2010

Provincial Legislature, Dr James Moroka DriveMmabatho

09h00

LIMPOPO

Monday 12 April 2010

Jack Botes Hall, corner Kerk and Bodenstein street, Polokwane

09h00

FREE STATE

Thursday 15 April 2010

The Chamber, Fourth Raadsaal, President Brand Street Bloemfontein

09h00

MPUMALANGA

Monday 19 April 2010

Nelsville Hall, Grace street, Nelsville, Nelspruit

09h00

NOTHERN CAPE

Thursday 22 April 2010

Provincial Legislature, Northern Noben Bula Extension, Galeshewe, Kimberly  

09h00

GAUTENG

Monday 26 April 2010

Johannesburg City Hall, Corner Harris and President Streets, Johannesbur g

09h00

KWAZULU-NATAL

Wednesday 28 April 2010

The Chamber, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature, 239 Langalibalele street, Pietermaritzburg

09h00

WESTERN CAPE

Friday 30 April 2010

Old Assembly Chamber in Parliament, 120 Plein street, Cape Town

09h00

Please email Mlulami Dodo at mlulami@pmg.org.za if you cannot access the documents

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Comment on Service Delivery

The National Assembly has established the Ad Hoc Committee on Service Delivery to conduct co-ordinated oversight on service delivery under the theme “Working together to ensure the delivery of quality service to communities". The mandate of the Committee will be to enquire into the progress with regard to service delivery and, where protests took place, what the challenges are in order to table a report to the National Assembly with clear achievable recommendations and a proposed implementation plan.

To this end, the Committee will undertake co-ordinated visits in rural and urban areas and conduct public hearings at Parliament and in the provinces. The public hearings at Parliament will take place from 2 - 4 February 2010.

During its visit to the provinces, the Committee will undertake site inspections and meet with members of the communities, Local Government officials, Provincial Government Department officials, ward committees, civil society organisations and members of the business fraternity.

Members of the public are invited to the public hearings that are, scheduled to take place in the various provinces as follows:

Province

Venue

Date

Time

Mpumalanga

eMkhondo Local Municipality Dipaleseng Local Municipality

22 February 2010
24 February2010

16:00

Eastern Cape

Buffalo City Local Municipality Great Kei Local Municipality

22 February 2010
24 February 2010

16:00

Western Cape

City of Cape Town

22 February 2010
24 February 2010

16:00

Gauteng

Nokeng Tsa Taemane
Emfuleni Local Municipality

15 March 2010
17 March 2010

16:00

Free State

Kopanong Local Municipality
Nala Local Municipality

15 March 2010
17 March 2010

16:00

North West

Greater Taung Local Municipality Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality

15 March 2010
17 March 2010

16:00

Limpopo

Thulamela Local Municipality

19 April 2010

16:00

Northern Cape

Dikgatlong Local Municipality

19 April 2010

16:00

KwaZulu-Natal

 eThekwini Metro Municipality
Msunduzi Local Municipality

19 April 2010
21 April 2010

16:00

Provincial submissions should be submitted by no later than dates listed below:

Provinces

Date

Mpumalanga

Eastern Cape

Western Cape

12 February 2010

Gauteng

Free State

North West

1 March 2010

Limpopo

Northern Cape

KwaZulu-Natal

8 April 2010

Comments can be emailed to Mr L Nxelewa at lnxelewa@parliament.gov.za or Ms A Mtiya at amtiya@parliament.gov.za by no later than 22 January 2010

Enquiries tel Mr L Nxelewa: (021) 403 3734 or Ms A Mtiya: (021) 403 3740
Issued by Ms SL Tsenoli (Chairperson of the Ad hoc Committee on Service Delivery)

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Comment: Road Accident Fund Restructuring Draft Policy (RAF No Fault Policy)

The Department of Transport has published the Draft Policy on the Restructuring of the Road Accident Fund on a No Fault Basis and as Compulsory Social Insurance in Relation to the Comprehensive Social Security System for public comments as approved by Cabinet.

Comments can be emailed to Ms Nthabiseng Mokobodi at rabspolicy@dot.gov.za by no later than 14 April 2010.

Enquiries: Ms Nthabiseng Mokobodi at (012) 309 3980
The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs

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The Gambling Review Commission public hearings will take place as follows:

Dates

City/Town

Conference Venue

Time

 15 March 2010

Worcester

Protea Hotel: Cumberland

9am – 2pm

15 March 2010

Vryburg

Banguet Hall: Vryburg

9am – 2pm

16 March 2010

Brits

Ukuthula Lodge

9am – 2pm

16 March 2010

Cape Town

Protea Hotel: Sea Point

9am – 2pm

17 March 2010

Mitchells Plein

East Reach Community Centre

9am – 2pm

18 March 2010

Polokwane

Protea Hotel: Landmark

9am – 2pm

18 March 2010

Kimberly

Floors Civic Hall –Square Hill Park

9am – 2pm

19 March 2010

Burgersfort

Greater Tubatse Municipal Chamber

9am – 2pm

19 March 2010

Kuruman

Civic Centre Wrenchville

9am – 2pm

23 March 2010

Pretoria

Manhattan Hotel

9am – 2pm

23 March 2010

Empangeni

Protea Hotel: Umvubu

9am – 2pm

24 March 2010

Vereneeging

Vereneeging Town Hall

9am – 2pm

24 March 2010

Durban

Southern Sun Elangeni

9am – 2pm

25 March 2010

Johannesburg

Sandton Conventional Centre

9am – 2pm

25 March 2010

Nelspruit

Orion Hotel: Promenade

9am – 2pm

26 March 2010

Witbank

Protea Hotel: Witbank

9am – 2pm

29 March 2010

Umtata

Garden Court: Umtata

9am – 2pm

29 March 2010

Welkom

Ferdie Meyer Hall: Ballroom

9am – 2pm

30 March 2010

Bloemfontein

Protea Hotel: Bloemfontein Central

9am – 2pm

30 March 2010

East London

Premier Hotel: Regent

9am – 2pm

 

The public can also forward their written submissions by 5 April 2010, to Ms. Pinky Mothabi on email: PMothabi@thedti.gov.za

 

After considering all relevant aspects of gambling, including assessment of all reports from the hearings and written submissions, the Gambling Review Commission will make recommendations to Minister Rob Davies. Based on the recommendations, the Minister will table to Parliament the policy position regarding the proliferation of legal and illegal gambling activities in South Africa.

 

This review process will assist Government to assess whether there is a need to curtail gambling activities or consider requests to expand such activities, considering the current number of casinos, Limited Payment Machines and bingo outlets already licensed, says Ntuli.

 

The scope of the Gambling Review Commission covers, amongst others:

  • The social effects of gambling and mechanisms in place to address them
  • Commitment of the industry to social investment
  • Evaluate the adequacy of the regulatory framework to accommodate and effectively deal with the impact of technology and new trends, and
  • The effectiveness of current regulation, control and enforcement structures

The Gambling Review Commission is chaired by Ms Astrid Ludin and members comprise of Ms Adheera Bodasing, Professor Siphiwe Nzimande, Mr Clement Mannya and Dr Stephen Louw. These members bring together different expertise and experiences in the area of gambling policy and law.

 

Queries: Director Media Relations and Publicity, Sidwell Moloantoa Medupe, Tel: (012) 394 1650, Mobile: 073 522 6801, E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
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Comment & Public Hearings: Social Assistance Amendment Bill [B5 - 2010]


The Portfolio Committee on Social Development (National Assembly) will conduct public hearings on the Social Assistance Amendment Bill [B5 - 2010]

The Social Assistance Amendment Bill aims to:

  • Amend the Social Assistance Act, 2004, so as to insert a definition;
  • Further regulate the eligibility for a disability grant;
  • Enable applicants and beneficiaries to apply to the Agency to reconsider its decision;
  • Further regulate appeals against decisions of the Agency;
  • Effect certain textual corrections; and
  • Provide for matters connected therewith.

Interested individuals, organisations, communities and groups can email comment in any of South Africa 's official languages to Ms Zola Vice at zvice@parliament.gov.za by 16 April 2010.

Those who are interested to make further oral presentations should indicate that on their submissions.

Public hearings will take place on 20 - 21 April 2010 from 09:00 to 12:30 at Old Assembly Chamber, Ground Floor, Old Assembly Wing, Parliament, Cape Town.

Enquiries tel Ms Zola Vice, Committee Secretary: (021) 403-3755 or cell: 083 709 8397.

Issued by: Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, Hon Yolanda Botha, MP.

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment & Public Hearings: Appropriation Bill [B3-2010]

The Standing Committee on Appropriations invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the Appropriation Bill [B3-2010].The Bill was tabled together with the 2010/2011 Budget on 17 February 2010.

The Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters, Act No 9 of 2009, requires Parliament to conduct public hearings and to report on the Appropriation Bill. This Bill provides for the appropriation of money from the National Revenue Fund for the requirements of the State for the 2010/11 financial year.

Public hearings will be conducted at Parliament on Tuesday, 4 May 2010.

Submissions can be emailed to the Committee Secretary, Ms Thoko Xaso, at txaso@parliament.gov.za  by no later than 12:00 on Tuesday, 27 April 2010.

Enquiries tel Ms Thoko Xaso: 021 403-3716 / cell: 083 709 8489

Issued by: Hon EM Sogoni, MP, Chairperson: Standing Committee on Appropriations (National Assembly).

The Bill is also available here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment & Public Hearings: Division of Revenue Bill [B4 - 2010]
Part 1 & Part 2

Submissions and Hearings

The Select Committee on Appropriations invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit written submissions on the Division of Revenue Bill [B4-2010) that was tabled together with the 2010/2011 Budget on 17 February 2010.
The Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act No 9 of 2009 requires Parliament to conduct public hearings and to report on the Division of Revenue Bill. This Bill provides for the equitable division of revenue raised nationally among the national, provincial and local spheres of government for the 2010/11 financial year and the responsibilities of all three spheres.

Public hearings will be conducted in Parliament on Friday, 5 March 2010.
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary, Mr Lubabalo Nodada at lnodada@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00 on Thursday, 4 March 2010.
Enquiries tel Mr Lubabalo Nodada: (021) 403-3669  / Cell 083 412 1526
Issued by: Hon. TE Chaane, MP, Chairperson: Select Committee on Appropriations (National Council of Provinces)
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Submissions and Public Hearings: The South African Post Office Bill (B2 – 2010)

The Portfolio Committee on Communications invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the South African Post Office Bill (B2 – 2010).

The object of the South African Post Office Bill is to:  

    •  Provide for the continued existence of the South African Post Office Limited
    • Provide for the governance of the Post Office
    • Provide for the separation of accounts of the Post Office between reserved and unreserved postal services
    • Ensure the provision of universal, accessible, reliable and affordable postal services
    • Ensure the provision of a wide range of postal services in the interest of the economic growth and the development of the Republic
    • Encourage the development of human resources and capacity building within the postal industry, especially among historically disadvantaged groups.

Submissions must be received by no later than 16:00 on 16 March 2010. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 23 March 2010.
Submissions can be emailed to Mr T Ngoma at tngoma@parliament.gov.za or Ms A Nel at anel@parliament.gov.za by no later than 16:00 on 16 March 2010. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 24 March 2010.
Enquiries tel Mr T Ngoma: (021) 403-3733 cell: 072 145 9368 or Ms A Nel: (021) 403-3782, cell: 083 709 8391
Issued by the Hon I Vadi, MP: Chairperson, PC on Communications.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Comment: Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is requesting comment on a draft bill, the Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill, 2010

The purpose of the Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill, 2010 is to amend the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977, so as to bring the provisions relating to the use of force when effecting an arrest into line with a judgment of the Constitutional Court, as discussed in the (draft) Memorandum on the Objects of the Bill.
Comments can be emailed to Mr J A de Lange at jdelange@justice.gov.za  on or before 24 March 2010.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Submissions and Public Hearings: The South African Postbank Bill [B14 – 2009]

The Portfolio Committee on Communications invites stakeholders and interested persons to submit written submissions on the South African Postbank Bill [B14 – 2009].
The object of the South African Postbank Bill is to provide for the incorporation of the Postbank Division of the Post Office as a legal person with the aim of:

    • Conducting the business of a bank that will encourage and attract savings amongst the people of the Republic; 
    •  Rendering transactional services and lending facilities through, amongst others, the existing infrastructure of the Post Office; and 
    • Developing into a bank of first choice, in particular to communities that have little or no access to commercial banking services or facilities.

 Submissions can be emailed to Mr TT Ngoma at tngoma@parliament.gov.za or Ms A Nel at anel@parliament.gov.za by no later than 16:00 on 16 March 2010. Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 24 March 2010.
Enquiries tel Mr TT Ngoma: (021) 403-3733 cell: 072 145 9368 or Ms A Nel: (021) 403-3782, cell: 083 709 8391
Issued by the Hon I Vadi, MP: Chairperson, PC on Communications.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill?year=2009
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Comment: Magistrates' Courts Amendment Bill, 2010

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is requesting comment on a draft bill, the Magistrates' Courts Amendment Bill, 2010. 
The objects of the Magistrates' Courts Amendment Bill, 2010 is to amend the Magistrates' Courts Act, 1944 so as to regulate anew the qualifications required for the appointment of a person as a magistrate, additional magistrate and magistrate of a regional division; to further regulate the inclusion of magistrates of regional divisions on the list of magistrates who may adjudicate on civil disputes; and to authorise the Minister to further regulate the conditions relating to the authorisation of a person to serve process of court or other documents on behalf of a public body.  

See the end of the Bill, Paragraph 3, for a discussion on the proposed amendments.
Comments on the proposed amendments can be emailed to Mr S J Robbertse at srobbertse@justice.gov.za on or before 19 March 2010.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Comment: Judicial Matters Amendment Bill, 2010

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is requesting comment on a draft bill, the Judicial Matters Amendment Bill, 2010. 
The purpose of the Judicial Matters Amendment Bill, 2010 is to effect amendments to various Acts, most of which are administered by the Department and which do not require individual amendment Acts. Amendments to Acts not administered by the Department have been prepared in consultation with the relevant Departments. The Memorandum  at the end of the Bill provides the reasons for these amendments.
Comments on the Bill can be emailed to Mr S J Robbertse at srobbertse@justice.gov.za on or before 19 March 2010.
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment & Public Hearings: Department of Human Settlements Budget 2010/11
PUBLIC HEARINGS  Budget
Vote 30 of the Department of Human Settlements  

The Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements will consider the Budget Allocated to the Department of Human Settlements.
Comments can be emailed to the Committee Secretary Ms Koliswa Pasiya at kpasiya@parliament.gov.za by no later than 12:00 on Friday, 12 March 2010.
Public hearings will be held in Parliament on 17 and 19 March 2010.
Please indicate your interest in making a verbal presentation. The Committee reserves the right to decide on who should be invited to make a verbal presentation.
Enquiries tel Koliswa Pasiya: (021) 403-3725 / Cell 083 709 8495
Issued by: Ms BN Dambuza, MP and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements
The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs
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Comment: SA National Cybersecurity Policy

The Department of Communications requests comments on its Draft South African National Cybersecurity Policy  made in terms of section 3(1) of Electronic Communications Act, 2005.
Comments can be emailed to Mr Jabu Radebe at cybersecurity@doc.gov.za by 19 March 2010.
Enquiries tel Mr. Jabu Radebe: (012) 427 8038
Issued by Gen (Ret) Siphiwe Nyanda: Minister of Communications
The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs
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Comment: Judicial Matters Amendment Bill, 2010

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is requesting comment on a draft bill, the Judicial Matters Amendment Bill, 2010. 
The purpose of the Judicial Matters Amendment Bill, 2010 is to effect amendments to various Acts, most of which are administered by the Department and which do not require individual amendment Acts. Amendments to Acts not administered by the Department have been prepared in consultation with the relevant Departments. The Memorandum  at the end of the Bill provides the reasons for these amendments.
Comments on the Bill can be emailed to Mr S J Robbertse at srobbertse@justice.gov.za on or before 19 March 2010.

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
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Comment: Companies Draft Regulations

The Department of Trade and Industry has published the Companies Draft Regulations for public comment.
Comments can be emailed to Mr MacDonald Netshitenzhe at MNetshitenzhe@thedti.gov.za by no later than 1 March 2010.
Enquiries tel Mr MacDonald Netshitenzhe: 012 394 1510
The Draft Companies Regulations are in 6 parts:

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Comment: Icasa Discussion document: Ownership and Control

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa gives a notice of its intentions, in terms of the Electronic Communications Act, 2005 to publish its discussion document on Ownership and Control issues.

Comments can be emailed to Mrs Nkulumo Ndlovu at nndlovu@icasa.org.za or Ipholosi@icasa.org.za by no later than 19 February 2009.
Enquiries: Mrs Nkulumo Ndlovu: (011) 566 3055 / (011) 566 3247
The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes
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The Authority will consider all submissions when drafting regulations for further public comment. In order to facilitate focused discussion, each section of this discussion document is accompanied by a set of questions which should be engaged by all stakeholders.
The Authority may publish all or any part of the written submissions on its website www.icasa.ora.za. The Authority will consider stakeholders to have consented to the publishing by making a submission, unless it is clearly specified otherwise in a submission.
Stakeholders are kindly advised to indicate any objection to the release of information contained in a submission, which is considered as confidential. Motivations in this regard shall include reason(s) for such information not to be made public. The Authority will take into account all such objections when responding to requests for copies and information on submissions to this document.

Persons submitting written representations are further invited to indicate, as part of their submissions. whether they require an opportunity to make oral representations and the estimated duration thereof, which duration shall not exceed one hour.
The Authority will review and analyze all submissions received from stakeholders in response to this DISCUSSION DOCUMENT. Findings emanating from this consultation exercise will form a foundation In the development of draft regulations for further public consultation.

PARIS MASHILE CHAIRPERSON


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Comment: Improve Basic Education

Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Basic Education is shifting its focus towards the delivery of, and challenges facing, quality education in South Africa.
This after the Committee noted areas of concern, particularly with regard to equal access to quality education by all categories of learners and questionable levels of learning outcomes.
The Committee is now calling for written submissions on aspects affecting quality outcomes in primary and high schools. Those aspects include the following:

  • curriculum content
  • teacher development
  • class size
  • managerial capacity at schools  
  • orientating schools towards specialisation
  • values in education.

Submissions are also invited on the issue of access to education. This pertains to such issues as geographic location of schools and infrastructure; language barriers; homeless children/orphans; children in trouble with the law and education in prisons and inclusive education.
Through these submissions, the Committee aims to obtain first-hand information on the pressure points and to find mutual solutions that would make positive contribution towards improving areas of concern within the basic education system.
All stakeholders and teachers in particular are urged to contribute and send their submissions by 28 February 2010.
Submissions should be emailed to Committee Secretary: Mr Llewellyn Brown, Committee Secretary at lbrown@parliament.gov.za by no later than 28 February 2010
Enquiries tel Mr Llewellyn Brown: (021) 403 3764, cell 083 709 8450
Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services

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Comment: Tax Administration Draft  Bill

Release of the
Draft Tax Administration Bill for Public Comment

Background

The drafting of the Tax Administration Bill (TAB) was announced in the Budget Review 2005 as a project “to incorporate into one piece of legislation certain generic administrative provisions, which are currently duplicated in the different tax Acts. These provisions include, for example, the objection and appeal procedures, search and seizure provisions, provisions relating to secrecy and collection processes.” The scope of the project has since been extended so that it can now be seen as a preliminary step to the re-write of the Income Tax Act, 1962. It will assist in dividing the work of the re-write into more manageable parts, since the administrative part of the Act comprises about 25% of the Act.

Objects of the TAB

Generally, the TAB seeks to provide a single body of law that outlines common procedures, rights and remedies and to achieve a balance between the rights and obligations of both SARS and taxpayers in a transparent relationship. The TAB takes account of the constitutional rights of taxpayers but does not seek to re-codify them, since all legislation - including the TAB - must be read together with the Constitution.
The drafting of the TAB focused on reviewing the current administrative provisions of the tax Acts administered by SARS, excluding the Customs & Excise Act, 1964, and harmonising these provisions across taxes as far as possible. The drafting of the TAB was also informed by a comparative evaluation of the tax administration laws of other countries and involved the assistance of international tax experts and local constitutional experts.

Presentation of the TAB

The layout of the TAB largely follows the administrative “life cycle” of a taxpayer. The TAB begins with general provisions and registration, runs through assessment and recovery of tax, and concludes with the reporting of unprofessional conduct and transitional provisions. Measures to assist in understanding the TAB include shorter sections, shorter sub-sections and the use of less formal language.

Noteworthy changes in the TAB

Apart from consolidating and harmonising existing provisions, the TAB seeks to provide a foundation for further modernisation of the administration of the tax Acts and to close certain gaps identified by the review and experts mentioned above. Some examples of the changes are as follows.

  • The introduction of a framework for the single registration of taxpayers for all tax types.
  • The extension of third party information reporting for purposes of, amongst others, the pre-population of returns.
  • The reservation of more serious powers for senior SARS officials only.
  • The extension of SARS’s information gathering powers, including interviews at SARS offices and the gathering of information in respect of identified classes of taxpayers.
  • The provision of monthly audit reports to a taxpayer undergoing a field audit and notice of final conclusion of the audit, including a letter of findings a taxpayer may respond to before an assessment is issued.
  • The separation of audits and criminal investigations by SARS to ensure that the rights of taxpayers who are suspects in a criminal investigation are given effect to.
  • The power to conduct a search and seizure without a warrant if such warrant cannot be obtained in time to prevent the imminent removal or destruction of records.
  • The insertion of a requirement that an assessment that is not issued in accordance with a return be accompanied by a statement on the grounds for the assessment
  • The insertion of a number of provisions to deal with the securing of the collection of taxes that would otherwise be in jeopardy due to the actions of a taxpayer, including the right to issue an assessment in advance of the date it would normally be issued and to seize a taxpayer’s assets for up to 24 hours while a court is approached to prevent the dissipation of the assets.
  • The publication of all judgments of the Tax Court in a form that does not reveal the taxpayer’s identity, whether marked reportable or not, to ensure that taxpayers and SARS are placed on an equal footing with respect to knowledge of these persuasive judgments.
  • The creation of a framework to support the modernisation of SARS’s accounting system, within which—

    - a single taxpayer account with a “rolling balance” may be created,

    - instalment payment arrangements may be approved,

    -  new payment allocation rules may be applied, for example the application of the First-In-First-Out rule, and

    - interest provisions may be aligned across taxes and interest due or payable may be calculated on a compound basis.

  • The replacement of the discretionary system of imposing additional tax of up to 200% to penalise non-compliance with a system imposing penalties based on specific behaviours and factors. The onus to prove the grounds for the imposition of additional tax is placed on SARS
  • The modification of the onus on a taxpayer, whose return reflects a false statement, in a criminal prosecution, so that the taxpayer now only has the onus to show that he or she had reasonable grounds for believing the statement to be true.

Explanatory notes

An Explanatory Memorandum is provided in order to assist commentators working through the draft Tax Administration Bill.
Click here for the Explanatory Memorandum.
Commentary period

The draft Public comments can be submitted on the standardised comment sheet (click here for the comment sheet) to the following address until the deadline of 26 February 2010. email:policycomments@sars.gov.za , with the subject “Draft Tax Administration Bill”
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
Explanatory Memorandum is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs


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Comment: Draft Customs Control Bill and Draft Customs Duty Bill

Draft Customs Control Bill and Draft Customs Duty Bill

Background

The re-write of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964, taking into consideration the increased focus on trade facilitation and customs control, regional economic integration, the distinct difference between customs and excise matters, applicable international conventions, trends linked to the globalisation of trade, etc was announced by the previous Minister of Finance.
Drafting commenced in January 2005 after the conclusion of a research and policy development phase.
Objects of the Bills

SARS, as a modern customs administration, is required to strike the appropriate balance between trade facilitation and economic growth, economic and community protection and border security. The current Customs and Excise Act, 1964, however, is no longer structurally suitable to serve as a vehicle for implementing a modern system of customs control in accordance with current international trends and best practices and needs to be replaced by a new legislative framework that

  • is simpler to understand, clear and predictable;
  • supports a fast-paced international trade environment;
  • is aligned with international customs conventions aimed at standardising customs procedures;
  • supports the enforcement of a wide variety of national policies and laws at the border relating to border security, environmental controls and the protection of the economy and the people of South Africa; and
  • provides for the levying, payment and recovery of customs duties on goods imported or exported from the Republic.

Presentation of the Bills
Due to the volume and complexity involved in providing an entirely new legislative framework to replace the current Customs and Excise Act, 1964, the customs and excise components have been split into two phases. The Draft Customs Control Bill and the Draft Customs Duty Bill constitute the first phase of the project and will be followed by the drafting, in the second phase, of an Excise Bill.

Once the draft Customs Control Bill and the draft Customs Duty Bill have been enacted into law, the current Customs and Excise Act, 1964, will be retained for the continued administration of excise duties until the drafting of the Excise Bill has been completed and it has been enacted.

The draft Customs Control Bill (Click here for the draft Customs Control Bill)

The draft Customs Control Bill is primarily concerned with the control of goods imported into or intended for export from the Republic. The rationale for this control is to ensure that any taxes imposed by various other laws on such goods are collected and that other laws regulating the import or export of specific goods are complied with.

As such the draft Bill can best be described as a law that will serve as a “platform” for the implementation of these other laws that are concerned with goods imported into or exported from the Republic. Laws that will rely for their implementation on the Customs Control Bill include, firstly, laws imposing taxes on goods when imported or exported, such as the proposed Customs Duty Act, the proposed Excise Act, the VAT Act, 1991, and the Diamond Export Levy Act, 2007, and, secondly, laws prohibiting or regulating the import or export of certain goods such as arms and ammunition, protected species, goods that are subject to permit control, counterfeit goods, etc. The primary aims of the draft Bill are –

  • to provide systems and procedures for customs control of all goods and persons entering or leaving the Republic;
  • to enable the effective collection of tax on such goods imposed in terms of the tax levying Acts; and
  • to facilitate the implementation of other legislation applicable to such goods and persons.

The draft Customs Duty Bill (Click here for the draft Customs Duty Bill)

The scope of this Bill is confined to providing for the levying, payment and recovery of customs duties on goods imported or exported from the Republic. As such it is one of the so-called tax levying Acts which for its implementation will rely on the “platform” provided by the proposed Customs Control Act.

The draft Bill is structured around three broad topics: the imposition of duties, the assessment of duties, and the payment and collection of duties. It is also closely linked to the draft Customs Control Bill as its implementation is dependent on the implementation of the draft Customs Control Bill.

Noteworthy changes in the draft Customs Control Bill

The Customs Control Bill serves as the legislative platform for the changes to policy, processes and technology that are to be delivered under the Customs Modernisation programme. It furthermore complies with the requirements of all international instruments and conventions to which the Republic is a signatory, as well as with relevant recommendations of the World Customs Organisation (WCO). Some examples of the changes are as follows:

  • An emphasis on electronic reporting and declarations in order to speed up processing, reduce errors and enable effective risk assessment.
  • The clearance and release of goods for home use or an internationally accepted customs procedure (transit, warehousing, temporary admission, inward processing, etc)
  • Fast-tracking clearance and release procedures in respect of certain categories of persons (accredited) or goods (low-value goods).
  • Complete chapters on subjects not comprehensively dealt with in the current legislation (transhipment, coastwise traffic of domestic vessels, stores, tax free shops, exports, international postal articles, security for payment of tax, detention, seizure and confiscation of goods, prohibited and restricted goods, etc).
  • Comprehensive provisions relating to damaged, destroyed, lost or unaccounted for goods as well as for abandoned and unclaimed goods.
  • Greater flexibility as regards extension of time periods and the granting of authorisations, permissions or approvals; and
  • The introduction of advance binding rulings (private, class and general) on the interpretation or application of a provision of the Bills in order to create legal certainty.

Noteworthy changes in the draft Customs Duty Bill

The Customs Duty Bill provides for the levying, payment and recovery of customs duties on goods imported or exported from the Republic. Some examples of the changes introduced by the Bill are the following:

  • The payment and recovery of duty when goods are imported other than through places of entry or when goods are not dealt with in terms of the provisions of the customs procedure under which they were cleared and released;
  • Appropriate provisions to give maximum effect to the principle of self-assessment with the role of the customs authority focused on verification of self-assessment rather than on assessing the amount of tax;
  • Introduction of a flat rate of duty payable on non-commercial goods of a customs value below a certain threshold to expedite the clearance and release of such goods;
  • Period of liability for duty increased from two to three years from the date of assessment in order to ensure alignment with similar periods contained in other Acts administered by the Commissioner;
  • The refund without application in circumstances set out in a general directive authorising such refunds, but excluding refunds relating to duties, penalties or interest paid or overpaid as a result of errors in tariff, valuation or origin;
  • Provisions relating to binding advance rulings on the tariff, value and origin determination of goods to be cleared during a future period for home use or a customs procedure.

Explanatory notes

An Explanatory Memorandum is provided in order to assist commentators working through the draft Customs Control Bill and the draft Customs Duty Bill.

Click here for the Explanatory Memorandum.

Commentary period

The draft Public comments can be submitted on the standardised comment sheet (click here for the comment sheet) to the following address until the deadline of 26 February 2010.
Once that is completed, please email your comments to: sauthar@sars.gov.za with the subject “Draft Customs Control and Draft Customs Duty Bills”.The Bills are also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
Explanatory Memorandum is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs

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Comment: Social Assistance Amendment Draft Bill & Regulations


1 The Department of Social Development intends to amend the Social Assistance Act 2004 (Act 13 of 2004). Interested parties are invited to submit comments on the proposed Social Assistance Amendment Draft Bill.
Comments can be emailed to Mr Puseletso Loselo at puseletsol@socdev.gov.za by no later than 30 December 2009
2 The Draft Regulations relating to the Application for and Payment of Social Assistance and the Requirements or conditions in respect of Eligibility for Social Assistance are also published for comment. 

Comments can be emailed to Mr Puseletso Loselo at puseletsol@socdev.gov.za by no later than 11 December 2009
Enquiries: Mr Puseletso Loselo 012 312 7106
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
The Regulations are also here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes

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Comment: Captive Elephant Management - Draft Minimum Standards

The Department of Water and Environmental Affairs has published for public comment the Draft Minimum Standards for the Management of Captive Elephants as Schedule VII of the national Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, in terms of National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004.
Comments can be emailed to Ms Olga Kumalo at okumalo@deat.gov.za by no later than 30 December 2009.
Enquiries tel Ms Olga Kumalo: (012) 310 3573
The Document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes
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Comment: Chartered Accountancy Charter (Draft): Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment

The Department of Trade and Industry has published for public comment a Draft Chartered Accountancy Charter as provided for in Code 000 Statement 003 of the Code of Good Practice under Section 9 (5) of the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (Act No. 53 of 2003 )
Comments can be emailed to Xolisile Zondo  and Jacob Maphutha at bee-ca@thedti.gov.za by no later than 30 December 2009

Enquiries tel 012 394 1609 / 012 394 3430
The document is here:
Draft Chartered Accountancy Charter (Draft Code): Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Part 1
Draft Chartered Accountancy Charter (Draft Code): Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Part 2
Draft Chartered Accountancy Charter (Draft Code): Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Part 3

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Comment: Basic Education Laws Amendment Draft Bill


The Department of Basic Education after consultation with the Council of Education Ministers, has published the Basic Education Laws Amendment Draft Bill 2009, for public comment.

Comments can be emailed to Mr C Ledwaba at ledwaba.c@doe.gov.za by no later than 11 February 2009
Kindly provide the name, address, telephone number, fax number and email address of the person or organization submitting the comments
Enquiries tel Mr C Ledwaba: 012 312 6314
The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill 
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Comment: Disciplinary Code and Procedures for Senior Managers – Regulations
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs publishes the Disciplinary Code and Procedures for Senior Managers Draft Regulations

The regulations are published for public comment in accordance with section 72 and 120 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, 2000
Comments can be emailed to Mr J Maepa at jackeym@dplg.gov.za or disciplinarycodeandprocedures@cogta.gov.za by no later than 31 January 2009

Enquiries tel Mr J Maepa: (012) 334 4943
The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes
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Comment: Second Hand Goods [GovGazette No 32646 of 16 Oct 2009]


The South African Police Service is consulting on regulations under section 41(1)(c) of the Second-Hand Goods Act, 2009 (Act NO.6 of 2009), with a view to submitting draft regulations to the Minister of Police for consideration when the Act comes into operation. The proposed Notice has been drafted for consultation purposes.

An invitation has been extended to any person, or private or public institution that may have an interest to comment on the Second-Hand Goods Draft Regulations.

The contents of the draft regulations are for consultation purposes only at this stage and should not be regarded as reflecting any official policy or viewpoint.
Comments can be emailed to J A van der Walt Legal Support: Crime Operations South African Police Service at vanderwaltja@saps.org.za or Du Toit Elmin at dutoite@saps.org.za by no later than 15 November 2009.
Enquiries Tel Snr Supt Gerhard Pretorius: 012 353 6313
The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes

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Comment:  Review of National Gambling Legislation 


The Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry will be holding public hearings to review the National Gambling Legislation, and invites civil society and organisations to submit written comments thereon.

The hearings will give the public an opportunity to address the Committee on the following:

The socio-economic impact of legalised gambling

The impact of misleading advertising

The regulation of cross-border gambling

The-effectiveness of the current regulatory environment with regards to gambling

Interactive gambling

Comments can be emailed to Mr Andre Hermans at ahermans@parliament.gov.za by no later than 30 October 2009

Public hearings have been scheduled for Friday, 6 November and Tuesday, 10 November 2009.
Enquiries tel Mr Andre Hermans: 021 403 3776 / cell
083 709 8482
Issued by: Ms J Fubbs, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee of Trade and Industry (National Assembly)

Current pieces of legislation are the National Gambing Act [Act No 7 of 2004 and National Gambing Amendment Act [Act No 10 of 2008]

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Comment: Public Service Broadcasting Bill, Charter of the Corporation and the Charter of Community Broadcasting Services [GovGazetteNo 32663 of 28 Oct 2009]

The Department of Communications has , in terms of section 3(1) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2005 (Act No. 36 of 2005), gazettes the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, Charter of the Corporation and the Charter of Community Broadcasting Services as a process to repeal the Broadcasting Act no.4 of 1999,
Interested persons are invited to furnish comments on the Public Broadcasting Service Bill, Charter of the Corporation and Charter of Community Broadcasting Services.
Comments can be emailed to Miyelani Khosa at miyelani@doc.gov.za  by no later than 7 December 2009. Please note the Deadline for public comments has been extended to 15 January 2010.

Enquiries tel Miyelani Khosa: 012 427 8174 / Humbulani Rambau: 012 421 7046
The Bill is here: www.pmg.org.za/bill
The charters are here: www.pmg.org.za/gazettes

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Comment: Community Scheme Ombud Service Draft Bill [GovGazetteNo 32666 of 30 Oct 2009]

The Department of Human Settlements has published the Community Scheme Ombud Service Bill, 2009 for public comment. A draft Bill together with a Memorandum on the Objects of the Bill is attached.

Interested persons and institutions are invited to submit written comments on the draft Bill to Adv Santie Burger at santie.burger@dhs.gov.za on or before 30 November 2009

Enquiries tel Adv Santie Burger: (012) 421 1491

The Bill is also here: www.pmg.org.za/bill

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Comment: Policy Direction on Mobile Termination Rates


The Department of Communications has published a Policy Direction on Mobile Termination Rates in terms of section 3(2)(c) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2005

This is in line with the Department of Communications’ commitment to reduce the cost to communicate.
Comments are invited and can be emailed to Ephraim Adom at Ephraim@doc.gov.za by 23 November 2009
Enquiries tel Ephraim Adom: 012 427 7207/ 8000 / Tiyani Rikhotso: 012 427 8010 / 083 800 9936

The document is also here: www.pmg.org.za/policy_docs