The ACDP notes with sadness and concern that Police have seen a trend emerge where more and more children are being killed by their own mothers.

When the culture and laws of a country protect and even encourage and celebrate a woman's right to take the life of her unborn child - we have to ask - why does it surprise us when mothers take the liberty of killing their children after birth as well?  It is of course tragic and shocking but to be expected - our culture and liberal Laws on abortion must change if we want to see a decrease in violence against children in this country!
 
Family violence, child protection and sexual offences unit operational head Brigadier Bafana Linda told the newspaper, "We are seeing more children dying at the hands of their mothers. This is extremely worrying. How do the police prevent a child from getting killed in the place where they are presumed to be the most safe?
The unit secured 499 life sentence convictions over the past financial year alone", Linda said.

A World Health Organisation study released in May stated that 1018 child murders took place in South Africa in 2009, the newspaper reported.

Over a third, 35.5%, were killed by an acquaintance and nearly 30% by their mothers. Nearly half, 45.9%, took place in a public space, 34% in the victim's home, while girls were more likely to be killed at home than boys. Of the children murdered, 43% were cared for by single mothers and 29.8% by both parents.

ACDP says interventions must result in economic growth and food security if people are to benefit from land redistribution.

REPORT ON: LEGACY OF THE NATIVE LAND ACT OF 1913
Cheryllyn Dudley MP ACDP
29 October 2013

The ACDP acknowledges that the promulgation of the Native Land Act on 19 June 1913 was the start of a dispensation in which ‘Africans’ were prohibited from owning or renting land outside of designated reserves – a total of 7.13 per cent of South Africa’s total land area.
The unemployment, persisting poverty and deep inequality existing in South Africa today are undeniably linked to this and other legislation designed to enforce segregation and this exercise of co-ordinated oversight of the reversal of the legacy of these Acts is an important piece of the puzzle.  I say piece of the puzzle simply because we know human existence is a complex and complicated matter which defies simple or even rational explanation at times.

Based on the ad hoc Committees observations and findings we note recommendations directed at the departments of Rural Development and Land Reform, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Human Settlements, Public Works, Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs and Arts and Culture to: finalise consultations on the Green Paper on Land Reform, convene a national dialogue, assess skills, develop monitoring and evaluation systems for partnerships in mentoring programmes, draw lessons from best practice in South Africa, restructure the land distribution programme, finalise policy and legislation on the office of  Valuer-General, draw up memorandums of understanding, conduct audits and assessments and much more.

To touch on just one point in the short time we have today - the ACDP is optimistic about the concept of a Valuer-General to address the sluggish pace of redistribution of land in South Africa – redistribution which has been relying on the “willing buyer/ willing seller” policy to date - and has been experiencing many problems.

We acknowledge the obligation that the South African Constitution places on the state to “take reasonable legislative and other measures, within its available resources” to effect land redistribution and that the Bill of Rights clearly allows for the state to expropriate property.
The Constitution does however prohibit the arbitrary deprivation of property and provides that expropriation be subject to the payment of compensation.  While it does not require the state to pay the market value it is required to pay “just and equitable” compensation, “reflecting an equitable balance between the public interest and the interests of those affected”.

The ACDP believes Land Reform would be better served if a dedicated Valuations Court existed to approve all forms of compensation in cases of forced expropriation.
The ACDP also believes it is critical for all decisions and interventions to result in economic growth and food security – these must be a priority if people are to truly prosper and benefit from land redistribution.

NB. The full report is available on Parliaments website or from my office 021 4032453.

Article for Christian Lawyers Association FREEDOM UNDER LAW: Abortion and its effects on the national psyche

Confronted as we all are, with South Africa's shocking statistics on violent crime - from killing people for a cell phone to dismembering victims after a rape, one can't help wondering whether the national disregard for life, shown by the refusal to care for, and the brutal treatment of so many children in the womb, might be having an impact on the national psyche. Cheryllyn Dudley MP ACDP

Throughout the world, abortion is one of the most heated topics with both sides of the argument often losing sight of the main point; that in nurturing a healthy community and ultimately a healthy nation, children, including pre-born children, must have a right to life – and at the same time pregnant women in difficult and often desperate situations need relevant help in their circumstances.
We have had abortion on demand in this country for 16 years now and many hundreds of thousands of children have been blotted from the pages of life.  Researchers say the effects of abortion are leaving deep scars on society and whether we like it or not, abortion on demand is affecting us all. Still the majority of people in South Africa or at least the leaders they vote for - maintain that Abortion on demand is a freedom they want to protect.
Abortion law reform, advocates have argued prior to legalising abortion that it would have a positive effect on society. Decades later, their predictions have proven false.  The mother and child mortality rate in South Africa has shocked the world and it is increasingly alarming.  A law that was intended to promote women’s health completely missed its purpose.  Many argued that the law was necessary to protect women from the risks of backstreet abortions yet in reality the numbers of ilegal abortions have increased – only now we have 80 thousand plus babies a year aborted in addition.  We also have mothers who want to carry their babies to full term and give birth to a live and healthy child, at risk in health facilities as critical staff shortages are made worse by what is known as ‘abortion overloading’.

Abortions in South Africa are now mostly initiated by a drug not recommended or meant for the purpose of abortion but condoned by government because of its side effect of inducing labour.  The ACDP has called on government, many times to ban the use of Mysoprostil for abortions but it is still provided by GP’s, pharmacists, legal and backstreet abortionists.  Women and girls are told to take the pills and to visit a clinic if bleeding persists after the baby is expelled. Apart from the trauma experienced by women and girls – their subsequent need of emergency treatment at hospitals having a miscarriage – creates problems as theatre time, hospital beds, blood, and hospital staff, which are all in short supply, are no longer available for women giving birth to babies they want when they are in need of those services.  These women and their babies too often don’t make it through their crisis and lives are lost due to the congestion or ‘overloading’.

Confronted as we all are, with South Africa's shocking statistics on violent crime - from killing people for a cell phone to dismembering victims after a rape, one can't help wondering whether the national disregard for life, shown by the refusal to care for, and the brutal treatment of so many children in the womb, might be having an impact on the national psyche.

Few people realise that abortion is not a simple procedure –bloody and violent.  Of course legal abortion makes it easier for pimps, boyfriends, abusers and even husbands to avoid the responsibility of a child and to ensure no loss of income or favours provided by the woman – this however is tragic distortion of the freedom woman were promised!

CTOP legislation also disenfranchises men in South Africa who have no legal rights when it comes to the life of their unborn children.  They know their partner can, at any time, terminate the life of their unborn child without their consent or knowledge.  Faced with the potential loss of a child people protect themselves by not becoming attached and when a father does not attach to his baby, he is less likely to support his partner.  Studies show that a woman is more likely to have an abortion or miscarriage when she is not supported - and the vicious cycle continues!

A father that does not bond with his unborn baby is more likely to abandon the family and less likely to be protective after the baby is born.  Men, who have been deprived of deeply ingrained male prerogatives, also feel both impotence and rage that can express itself as family and societal violence. Incidence of rape and marital and family violence has been shown to increase as abortion increases.  Far from decreasing the crime rate as advocates of eugenics claimed would happen, abortion is more likely to be related to the increase of abuse and violence we are witnessing.

Separate studies have found that abortion impairs a woman’s ability to bond with subsequent children, suggesting a correlation between abortion and rates of child abuse and neglect. Since few women divulge they have had an abortion, thousands of women are bearing this burden alone, with heavy consequences for family and marriage relationships.

Many post-abortive women experience immediate psychological consequences – others suppress their symptoms successfully only to have them manifest years later - post-abortion syndrome is a diagnosable psychological condition.   A psychologist’s list of consequences of induced abortion includes guilt, depression, grief, anxiety, sadness, shame, helplessness and hopelessness, lowered self-esteem, distrust, hostility towards self and others, regret, sleep disorders, nightmares, anniversary reactions, psycho-physiological symptoms, suicidal ideation and behaviour, alcohol and/or chemical dependencies, sexual dysfunction, insecurity, numbness, painful re-experiencing of the abortion, relationship disruption, communication impairment, isolation, foetal fantasies, self condemnation, flashbacks, uncontrollable weeping, eating disorders, preoccupation, confused and/or distorted thinking, bitterness, and a sense of loss and emptiness.

The ACDP has always opposed the legalisation of abortion and in 2007 tabled a proposal in Parliament for a Private Members Bill in the form of a Constitutional Amendment in order to include the right to life of the unborn child.  And in 2010 we submitted a proposal for another Private Members Bill, this time, an amendment to the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act to ensure informed choice.  Presently legislation does not protect women, who should receive comprehensive counselling and have access to a scan if they are to give truly informed consent for a termination of pregnancy.  Both proposals were opposed by other parties and ultimately unsuccessful.
The case brought by South Africa’s Christian Lawyers Association versus our Minister of Health, which challenged the validity of the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act on the basis that it violated the right to life in section 11 of the Bill of Rights cut straight to the heart of the issue. However, the Pretoria High Court dismissed their argument, ruling that constitutional rights only apply to people and not to a foetus.
Terms such as 'baby', 'foetus', and 'infant' are used interchangeably and to create distinction yet throughout the world pregnant women refer to their ‘bump’ as a baby from the moment they know they are pregnant.  Like the British Royal couple, they proudly declare "We are going to have a baby!” Instinctively parents and well-wishers are in no doubt as to the unborn child's personhood; every reproductive magazine encourages the parents to tickle, talk and sing to the little one growing inside its mother.
Economic reasons are grounds for abortion in South Africa but does abortion impact on the economy?
Most people are programmed to think that overpopulation is a global threat, yet it is the opposite that is true.  As Longman notes in Demographic Winter, no society has both a shrinking population and a growing economy. The two are incompatible. Population growth is a major source of economic growth; more people create more demand for products and services and also supply labour that is needed for industry and commerce.
The age of a population or the ratio of older people to younger people is also a reliable indication of the economic health and future of a nation. Future prosperity is determined, to a significant degree, by the number of children being born today.  The more people in their peak spending years, the more spending you have on everything from housing, to travel, and taxes paid. As a population ages, it spends less.  The irony is that our material prosperity depends on future generations - and right now, a significant percentage of all pregnancies in the nation are being aborted.

Surely every child deserves to be protected... those who are wanted and those who are said to be unwanted, those whose parents can afford them and those who can't, in the womb and out of it.  Human rights are valueless if we don’t value human life – this cannot be what is envisaged by Freedom under Law!

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY QUESTION 269/2013 FOR ORAL REPLY

Date of publication on internal question paper: 03 September 2013
Internal question paper no: 29

269. Mrs C Dudley (ACDP) to ask the Minister of Social Development:

With reference to her recent speech on the repatriation of South African children in distress in foreign countries and her reference to routes that most drug mules use (details furnished), what (a) is the outcome of her meeting with the Inter-Ministerial Committee in ensuring a co-ordinated government approach to prevent and combat illicit drug trafficking, (b) steps are being taken in collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) and (c) are the challenges in this regard? NO2804E


REPLY:


Honourable Speaker, let me begin by informing this House that I shared the report of my visit to Brazil with the President of the Republic, Mr Jacob Zuma, and the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Combating Alcohol and Substance Abuse in July this year.

Both the President and the IMC recommended that we work jointly with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to compile a full report on South African citizens incarcerated in foreign prisons for drug trafficking to ensure that our intervention matches the scale of the problem.

Honourable Members, I must point out that the visit was indeed an eye-opener for the Department.  It gave us not just a window to the business of drug trafficking, but also a perspective on how it destroys families, vulnerable young women and children born in prison. Currently, there are 92 women in nine female prisons in Brazil. This is an indication that the drug lords have declared war on our vulnerable groups and combating this problem should be treated as such – a national war on drugs.

Honourable Speaker, let me remind the Honourable Members that in July this year Cabinet approved the National Drug Master Plan and its implementation over the next five years.  The Plan (2013-2017) serves as our country’s blueprint for preventing and reducing alcohol and substance abuse, and its associated social and economic consequences on our society.

The Plan sets out a clear determination by this government to cut down on the supply of illicit drugs. The Plan further outlines our plans to reduce demand through prevention programmes, early intervention and harm reduction.  This government is committed to ensure that our young people do not take drugs in the first place.

Working together with other African countries on supply reduction is an integral part of our approach to disrupt the international illicit drug trade by targeting specific drug trafficking routes. As a signatory to the African Union (AU) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) Drug Control Protocol and various UN conventions on drugs, South Africa has accepted the five principles of international drug policy adopted at the UN General Assembly Special Session on Drugs. These are shared responsibility, multilateralism, balanced approach to reduce drug demand and drug supply, mainstreaming alternative development projects and respect for human rights.

We will therefore continue to work together with partner organisations such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) to ensure a coordinated response to the illicit drugs trade and to enhance our national and regional efforts.


Our drug enforcement agencies cooperate and collaborate with similar agencies in SADC countries, specifically the South African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (SARPCCO).

We are determined to reduce drug supply further through a co-ordinated response across Government and law enforcement agencies to build a drug-free South Africa.  We therefore note and commend the leadership of President Jacob Zuma on the significant and visible national effort to deal with the scourge of drug abuse in our communities.

I thank you.

QUESTION 268 FOR ORAL REPLY IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Mrs C Dudley (ACDP) to ask the Minister of Sport and Recreation:
What
            (a) targets have been set for the development of facilities for
                        (i) cricket and
                        (ii) rugby in junior and high schools, particularly in the less advantaged areas,
            (b) progress has been made and
            (c) are the further relevant details?                                                  NO2803E


REPLY:

SRSA is in the process of establishing a comprehensive database on Facilities on both Sport and Recreation. The schools sport facilities database will also be completed before end of the financial year 2013/14.
Cricket is in the process of finalizing their facilities database.
Rugby has completed a comprehensive database with the assistance of the Sport Science Institute. Details of the database will be made available as upon request as they have to pay to access the information.
The classification framework has been completed by SRSA and targets have been set on development of multipurpose facilities including Cricket and Rugby.
Further details will be submitted by rugby before end of September 2013

MINISTER F.A. MBALULA
MINISTER OF SPORT AND RECREATION SA

Sudan

"The minds of brilliant and misguided men and women devise the law but the mood of the masses will challenge it good or poor!"
Cheryllyn Dudley 

Sudan's President Bashir has opted to apply for a U.S. visa to travel to the U.N. General Assembly in New York with an international arrest warrant for war crimes still hanging over his head.

ACDP MP and Int Relations PC Member Cheryllyn Dudley commenting on the fact that the US is not a member of the Hague-based ICC and not legally bound to hand the president over pointed out that:

"Washington has led calls for Bashir to face international justice though, and has transferred ICC suspects before".

"Sudan simply dismisses the ICC charges of course, and claims reports of mass killings in Darfur have been exaggerated", Dudley said

 "The visa challenge itself coincides  with growing hostility to an ICC perceived by some to be targeting African leaders - all in all - a serious game of poker going down!"

A picture I took some years ago while in Sudan

ACDP supports SA efforts to extend Agoa

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
18th September 2013

ACDP supports SA efforts to extend Agoa
• SA efforts may be too little too late
•US/SA relations not always an SA priority
•poverty and inequality will rise if SA loses preferential market access."

ACDP MP and Member on Parliaments International Relations Committee, Cheryllyn Dudley said today that:

"The ACDP supports SA's combined efforts to extent Agoa for the mutual benefit of SA, and the Region.  We would not be surprised however if our efforts amount to 'too little too late' as US/SA relations are not always a SA priority and this I am sure has not gone unnoticed!"

MP Cheryllyn Dudley said "Our efforts to address poverty and inequality will take a serious knock if Min Davies fails in his belated efforts to argue the mutual benefits of Agoa for the US and SA."

A high-level government and business delegation is in the US this week to present South Africa’s case for the extension of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) beyond its September 30, 2015 expiry date.

Agoa, first introduced in 2000 and extended in 2008, offers duty-free and quota-free access to the giant US market across a wide range of products from qualifying African countries.

African governments strongly favour extending Agoa, and US President Obama has shown support but Congressional approval is required and a formal public review has been launched.

Given  SA's development, our inclusion in BRICS our non-reciprocal US trade preferences and reciprocal relations with the EU  -concerns have been raised.

European carmakers exporting vehicles to the US from facilities in SA make SA one of the largest beneficiaries of Agoa - a point highlighted by Pres Obama when he called for a level playing field for US investors and exporters.

South Africa is presently the continent's largest non-oil-exporting beneficiary of America’s preferential market-access  which includes motor vehicles and parts, nonferrous metals, iron and steel, chemicals, and other mining products.

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley with SA Ambassador Rassool in Washington DC in June 2012

NB  ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley attended Agoa committee Hearings in Washington in June '12

ACDP says package of services offered using credibility of Police and NPA inappropriate.

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP and Whip
16 September 2013

ACDP says package of services offered using credibility of Police and NPA inappropriate.

• raises suspicions around growing support for legalized prostitution

•a lucrative pension plan maybe?!

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today:

“I appreciate that the Sunday Times newspaper picked up on this inappropriate and distasteful package of services being offered by a man using the credibility of being former police and NPA spokesperson.

"It really does add to the picture of significant and growing support for legalized prostitution from people and organizations that should and do know better.

"It also makes me for one, ever more conscious that this is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to perverse incentives and  the possibility of an already existing pension plan for the 'top brass' - or personnel needing to be pensioned off early!"

Dudley added that, “Police statements on the subject of legalised prostitution must be viewed cautiously if they are not 'overtly committed' to upholding the present laws of the land.”

The former Police and National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Makhosini Nkosi said on Sunday he would close his massage parlour after the Sunday Times reported that it was a brothel. He said he was not aware of any criminal action taking place at the Randburg property, which he termed a “lodge”. He was reported as explaining why pornographic videos were shown in massage rooms, by stating: “haven't you heard about happy endings"!

A QUICK LOOK AT THE WORLD BANK TODAY! My summary...for what it's worth!

Faced with a tight budget and greater competition for development funds, the World Bank has to be more selective in its lending, according to a draft strategy presented to the bank's executive board last week. 

Founded after World War II to help rebuild Europe, the World Bank later focused on lending money to developing countries in order to improve the lives of poor people.

Operating in fragile and wore-torn states and keeping a global presence has strained funds - now tough decisions must be made as departments and programs have to shrink. 

More private-public partnerships for basic services like health, education and housing can be expected. 

As for middle income countries - they will be expected to rely more on private funding and bilateral loans from emerging markets like China.

ACDP calls on stakeholders to comment on draft minimum uniform norms & standards for school infrastructure by 11 October 2013

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
16th September 2013

ACDP calls on stakeholders to comment on draft minimum uniform norms & standards for school infrastructure by 11 October 2013

* stressed importance of MEC's to update DBE regularly on review of norms and standards to ensure regulations stay current and relevant.

Draft regulations have been published in the Government Gazette on Thursday, 12 September and stakeholders are invited to study and comment on the draft minimum uniform norms & standards for school infrastructure by 11 October 2013.

Comments received will be studied and evaluated, with a view to incorporating them into the draft regulations expected to be published on or before 30 November.

The objectives include:
• improved access to quality education facilities
• sustainable & equitable facilities for all learners in SA
• addressing diverse needs of learners and teachers with functional limitations

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today that while nothing new - it is still portant for Min Motshekga to again prioritize ...availability of classrooms, electricity, water, sanitation and perimeter security.

MP Cheryllyn Dudley stressed the importance of MEC's being held to reporting regularly to the Minister on regular reviews of norms and standards in regulations to ensure they are current and relevant.

Inspiration for a 'Shared Future' - from Zimbabwe no less!

"Entrepreneur Trevor Ncube has caught my attention - the way I see it - he is working for a 'Shared Future' - something you may have guessed - impresses me!"

Unconvinced by Zimbabwe’s two largest political parties, he envisions more - a political party made up of the best men and women across the political divide, business community, and civil society  - why not!

Zimbabweans, clouded by party politics and the ‘you are either with us or against us’ attitude are seen as traitors if they criticise or question their party positions or party leaders. Civil society also plays into this mindset and holds back critical public discussions and advocacy on central issues - as some are inclined to criticise government officials on the basis of their party membership rather than the principles and values that they practice.

Ncube's take on things through his twitter followers, is that they want to judge issues for the value that they represent to them as individuals and not as party members and he purposes to be the man in the middle. “I have been accused of being ZANU-PF and MDC on the same day,” he says. As a result,  followers include people from across the political, racial and ethnic divide.

Information sharing is one of his greatest strengths and contrasts with the culture of secrecy which prevails within government and civil society in Zimbabwe where things are not as black and white as often depicted in the Zimbabwean and international media - it is a diverse nation with a strong yearning for debate and freedom of expression.

Go Trevor!

Explanation re: ACDP PROPOSED RESOLUTION ON ISRAEL/PALESTINIAN CONFLICT

(11th September 2013)

The ACDP was aware that Parliaments International Relations Portfolio Committee Report was likely to be biased to some degree, in that the majority of Committee Members make no apology for their uncompromising solidarity with the Palestinian cause.  We were aware that the agenda for the PC visit to Gaza, Palestine and Israel heavily favoured a pro-Palestine/anti Israel sector of society.  But we were also aware that any attempt to bring this to the committee’s attention and to request they include more informative pro-Israel individuals or groups was being received as control and manipulation and was overtly rejected.
The ACDP reasoned that it would be in the best interests of Israel/SA Relations for the committee to experience Israel without being on the defensive and determined to hear nothing. For this reason we supported the agenda and observed members of the committee attempt to be open-minded, seeing, listening and even hearing things they would have been inclined to reject out of hand.  Personally I think we made enormous strides forward, although that does not mean that individually or collectively members of the committee will abandon their commitment to being anti-Israel in order to act on their unconditional solidarity with Palestine.

The Report did not conclude anything – it reported what was presented to the PC, gave a summary of the questions asked by the committee and summarised the responses.  The Gaza report was the result of a visit to Gaza by the Committee in 2011 – a delegation I was not part of.  My understanding was that this report would not be relevant and therefore not included, once the 2013 delegation reported on Gaza.  This however did not happen as Israel did not allow the committee to visit Gaza and Hebron – this was unfortunate and left no alternative but for the committee to refer to the original Gaza report.  I make note here that getting to visit Israel was not an easy matter and the trip had been postponed many times due to reluctance - for various reasons - on the part of Israel.
Having said that – and because the ACDP was no part of the delegation to Gaza it is important for us to note that the blockade was not imposed immediately after the evacuation of all Israelis from the Gaza Strip in 2005 but only after the “Battle of Gaza” in June 2007 when Hamas violently ousted Fatah and seized full control and after Israel suffered innumerable rocket attacks. PM Ariel Sharon's plan in 2004 for disengagement from Gaza stated clearly that Israel was committed to the peace process and in promoting improvement of the economy and welfare of the Palestinian residents.

Believe it or not, Israel believes that a high standard of living for the Palestinians is important for the achievement of good neighborly relations. Many projects were in the pipeline for joint ventures fostering cooperation between Jews and Arabs and creating employment. Unfortunately very little is known, even by experts on Palestine, about the many cooperative efforts that existed at that time and about the ambitious plans for expansion that should be rekindled. Israel and the Palestinian Authority cooperated in creating employment opportunities along the “seam-line" between Israel and the territories and in areas under the jurisdiction of the PA.

A very successful industrial zone was created at Erez, employing about 5,000 workers in some 200 businesses half of which were Palestinian-owned. This was part of a larger Gaza Industrial Estate slated to provide up to 50,000 jobs. In addition a joint industrial zone was planned south of Tulkarm intended to provide jobs for more than 5,000 Palestinians. Additional areas were planned for Jenin and the Kerem Shalom area near Rafah in Gaza. But all these positive efforts were tragically thwarted when the zone became the target of deadly Palestinian attacks leading to closure of the enterprises.
The 2013 visit to Ramallah and Israel, in terms of being an “investigation” was not without its weaknesses either - the report in many ways reflects this in recording the focus on individuals and organizations with a pro-palestine or anti-Israel position.

The ACDP had hoped, however, that despite the unlevel playing field in terms of material presented to the committee - the Parliamentary Committee delegation would have had the courage to overcome their natural bias and commit to a greater degree of balance in proposing a resolution.
The ACDP is known to have a similar sense of solidarity when it comes to Israel due to our mutual biblical history regarding Israel and the disputed territory.  With this in mind we have chosen not to disregard the ANC proposal out of hand and have tried to find a way to bring some balance.  We do not agree with everything in the proposed resolution but understand that much of the success of our democracy in South Africa is due to compromise that takes us forward.  We genuinely want peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people.

The ACDP would like to commend IBSA on their statement on the Middle East Peace - we recognize this approach as being an example of true leadership committed to peace and development for all people living in the Middle East.  (Statement included below)
Despite the obstacles it is essential that Israel, the PA and Hamas endeavor to come to terms in the interests of the Palestinian and Israeli people. Towards this end, the peace brokers should be encouraged by the examples of positive pre-intifada events described above, to believe that cooperation rather than confrontation is achievable and would undoubtedly be mutually beneficial.




IBSA Statement on the Middle East Peace, 23 August 2013 

Taking into consideration the previous declarations of the India, Brazil and South Africa Dialogue Forum (IBSA) on the Middle East Peace Process, the Foreign Ministers of India, Salman Khurshid; Brazil, Antonio Patriota and South Africa, Maite Nkoana Mashabane, after consultations, agreed on the following statement:

We reaffirm that the Israeli Palestinian conflict remains an urgent and key issue for the international community, the resolution of which is a prerequisite for building a sustainable and lasting peace in the Middle East region.

We support the mediation efforts undertaken by the U.S.  Secretary of State John Kerry and welcome the announcement of the resumption of direct final status negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis. This is an encouraging development, one that has the potential for reverting the deadlock and paralysis that have plagued the peace process in recent years. We hope this renewed effort will lead to the full and overdue realization of a two state solution based on 1967 borders.

We have noted with satisfaction the decision of Israel to release 104 Palestinian prisoners, which is a gesture that contributes to the spirit of cooperation surrounding the negotiations. We are also pleased with the announcement made on 30 July by Mr. Kerry indicating that the Palestinian and Israeli negotiators are committed to reaching a comprehensive peace agreement within nine months. Such an agreement should culminate in the full realization of an independent Palestinian State. We call on the parties to adhere strictly to this timetable.

As we reiterate our call for the Security Council to fully exercise its functions under the UN Charter, with regard to the Palestinian Question, we express our firm belief that the Council should provide sustained support to the peace process and work towards its full and satisfactory completion. 

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS &  COOPERATION

ACDP Proposal - Resolution on Israel/Palestinian Conflict

After receiving the ANC proposed resolution I realised we had 2 choices - either to reject it out of hand and put forward an 'ideal' resolution which will be ignored OR try to work with the ANC resolution in an effort to encourage compromise that would bring some balance. 

The following  proposed resolution was drawn up after discussions with ACDP MPs, the Israeli Ambassador, The Zionist Federation in Gauteng, Cape Town and Durban and the Jewish Board of Deputies in Gauteng, Cape Town and Durban and will be presented at the International Relations Committee meeting on 11th September 2013.

ACDP PROPOSAL

RESOLUTION ON ISRAELI/PALESTINIAN CONFLICT

Noting;

• That the Portfolio Committee sought to understand the underlying causes of the long-standing Palestinian/Israeli conflict, and make a contribution to the search for a comprehensive, just, peaceful and lasting solution.
• That this enquiry took place in the context of the fact that Palestinians have, after more than 2 decades of negotiations that failed to satisfy the minimum requirements of self-determination and Statehood, submitted an application for Statehood to the United Nations.

Recalling;

• That the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation has undertaken an extensive enquiry into the Israeli/Palestinian conflict involving a broad section of the South African society, representing government, religious, trade union, civil society and lobby groups and representatives of the Palestinian Authority and Israeli government respectively.
• This enquiry took the form of 2 briefing meetings and a Symposium involving a broad section of the South African public.
• The Symposium on 16 November 2011, hosted with the participation of the Ambassadors of Palestine, HE.  Ambassador Ali Halimeh (now late) and HE Ambassador Dov Segev Steinberg of the State of Israel.
• That civil society organisations, government, religious bodies, trade unions, lobby groups, political organisations and members of the public participated robustly and made valuable contributions to the debate.
• That the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation undertook visits to Gaza (Palestine) from 7 December to 11 December 2011 and Israel and West bank, (Palestine) from 31 March 2013 to 5 April 2013 as part of the effort to familiarise itself with the historical and obtaining situation in the Palestinian Territories and the State of Israel.

Believe;

• That having solicited a divergence of views from a broad section of society; both in South Africa, Israel and Palestine and having undertaken a visit to Israel and Palestine, has empowered the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation with deeper insight into the conflict; its causes and consequences.
• That having gained a broader understanding of the conflict and its impact on the population and the region, the Committee is empowered to form and express an opinion and recommend to the House the appropriate course of action.

Further Recalling;

That the liberation struggle in South Africa enjoyed the support of the international community and the Palestinian people in particular as it mirrored their own experiences of subjugation, oppression, exclusion, colonialism and dispossession.
• That the fraternal, relations between the people of South Africa and Palestine are historical and deep, forged in the trenches of our common struggles for freedom and dignity.
• That South Africa has since the democratic-breakthrough in 1994 supported the aspirations of the Palestinian people for the right to self-determination through the creation of a State of their own, living side by side and in peace and security with the State of Israel.

Recognising

That South Africa’s support for the cause of the Palestinian people is a principled position borne out of our own experiences as a people and our vision for the creation of a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world, free from colonial subjugation, injustice and all forms of oppression.
• That the support human rights, freedom, democracy, peace, justice and equality is a historical and constitutional obligation bestowed upon South Africa and future generations.

Further recalling;

• That South Africa has actively lobbied for and supported the Palestinian bid for Statehood at the United Nations General Assembly resulting in Palestine being granted Non-Members status at the United Nations and paving the way for the Palestinian people to deepen and broaden their participation in the United Nations.

Recall and reaffirm;

The 2007 Resolution 1015 No 29 - 2007] FOURTH SESSION, THIRD PARLIAMENT,
• stating our support for a just and fair solution in accordance with the relevant UN Resolutions, as the only way to create peace and security for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
• all parties to contribute to the creation of an atmosphere of calm by suspending all forms of violent action and signing a comprehensive truce;
• the removal of all further obstacles to peaceful negotiations.


Further Recall and reaffirm;

Former President Nelson Mandela’s Statement at the occasion of the United Nations International day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people when he said;

“The temptation in our situation is to speak in muffled tones about an issue such as the right of the people of Palestine to a state of their own. We can easily be enticed to read reconciliation and fairness as meaning parity between justice on the one hand, and their opposite on the other. Peace and prosperity, peace and prosperity; tranquillity and security are only possible if these are enjoyed by all without discrimination” He went on to say “But we know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians...”

Believing;

• That the aspirations of the Palestinian people cannot be denied any longer
• That the current negotiations must as an outcome resolve the fundamental grievance of the Palestinian people and lay the solid foundations for peace in the Middle-East.
• That settlement construction in the disputed Territories (OPT) is a violation of international law and poses a real threat to the negotiations.
• That a unified ideological position has to be established between Fatah and Hamas that includes the recognition of Israel and the suspension of all activities that erode Israeli confidence in a post-agreement future. This includes incitement to violence and the denial of the Jewish historical and spiritual connection to the land.

Further Recall and Reaffirm

His Excellency President Jacob Zuma’s Statement on 14 February 2013, at the occasion of the State of the Nation address when he said;

South Africa’s internationalism has a strong element of solidarity to it. We stand with the people of Palestine as they strive to turn a new leaf in their struggle for their right to self-determination; hence we supported their bid for statehood.

Urge;

That the International community assist both Israel and Palestine to work towards a solution that ensures a contiguous and economically viable Palestinian State existing side by side in peace with Israel within internationally recognised borders based on those existing on 4 June 1967.  

Therefore Resolve:

• To intensify our efforts supporting a just, peaceful and lasting solution, including the strengthening of a sovereign, independent Palestinian state; which will help to bring peace between Palestinians and Israelis and an end to the conflict in to the region.


• To continue to support the efforts by our government to encourage an inclusive peaceful process of a negotiated settlement between the concerned parties.

• To utilise the strong relationship with all Palestinian political factions to lead efforts to establish a unified ideological Palestinian position on Israel so that negotiations are representative and that a viable peace between Israel and Palestine becomes a possibility.


• To support all efforts to engage with all parties in Israel and Palestine to find a just, lasting and peaceful solution resolution towards the settlement of the Palestinian question and peace in the Middle East.

ACDP calls for a debate on “Balancing privacy and security”

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
3rd September 2013

ACDP calls for a debate on “Balancing privacy and security”

•Says degree to which checks and balances are successful will determine whether public trust can be restored
•Questions success of data gathering in counter-terrorism - asks what alternatives there are?

The ACDP plans to call on the National Assembly – at the next sitting of the House in early October to debate the issue of:

“Balancing privacy and security - looking at the reality of how security agencies work and identifying measures to protect the privacy of citizens”. ACDP MP and Member of the International Relations Portfolio Committee, Cheryllyn Dudley said today that:

“Both security and privacy are extremely important and the degree to which we trade one for the other must be a priority concern for us – I for one would definitely like a closer look at just what is at stake as we prioritise both security and privacy and try to find an acceptable balance.”

“Edward Snowden’s revelations have opened up some debate on the issues but to really apply our minds we do need to take into consideration the views of both officials and civil rights and privacy advocates.

“Most of us are not well informed when it comes to how effective checks and balances are and the ACDP sees this as important if public trust is to ever be restored.

“Whether or not data gathering is successful in counter-terrorism has not been obvious and many of us are wondering what, if anything, are the alternatives.

With the NSA building a data centre that will host the world’s largest amount of data - questions are being asked about whether or not agencies can effectively analyse so much information, and whether they can protect it against hackers?

Splits taking place within the SA Labour and Political scene

"This summary of splits taking place within the SA labour and political scene is a useful overview.

The more the DA pushes for a 2 party state and with voters appearing to have bought into this line of thinking at the last National election - the more the need for a strong Multi -Party Democracy is obvious - we are a diverse society and without representation in Parliament for all segments of society - there is great potential for unrest and violent demonstrations!

The ACDP has a 20 year track record in Parliament, Provincial Legislatures and Local Councils and is committed to a 'shared future' for all who live in South Africa. We view the divisions caused by 'power mongering' as enormously destructive, undermining Nation Building and NOT in the interests of the people of South Africa!"


Overview:  A proliferation of, often opportunistic, new political parties in the run-up to  national election is to be expected under the South African constitutional dispensation.

Much of  the present trend however, seems to contain elements of more fundamental social developmental and economic policy than just superficial, opportunistic issues. Among the main drivers are basic economic policy, the issues of corruption, poverty, inequality, unemployment, service delivery, and quality of political leadership.

At present the biggest potential threatening fracture has as its centre the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) and its governing alliance with the African National Congress  and the South African Communist Party (SACP).

Speculation is mounting that the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) could split from Cosatu, backed by Vavi- supporting unions.

Historically, in many African countries liberation was eventually followed by a parting of ways between political and labour movements.

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), Cosatu’s largest union, emerged weakened from last year’s mine unrest. It lost some 90,000 members, mostly to AMCU.

The transformation of South Africa’s broader political-electoral sphere perhaps goes back to, among others, the formation of the Democratic Alliance (DA), with much of the New National Party leadership component subsequently joining the ANC and the breakaway from the ANC and formation of the United Democratic Movement (UDM).

Since then have come various splits in the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), the formation of new parties, the most recent being the National Freedom Party (NFP), the formation from the ranks of the ANC of the Congress of the People (Cope), the launch of Dr Mamphela Ramphele’s  Agang, the formation of the Socialist and Workers Party (WASP) in the wake of the labour unrest in North West, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) by the expelled ANC youth leader Julius Malema.

On the front of organised Business there has also been a number of early shakeouts and realignments, mostly still divided along racial-political lines.

Going forward it is however, not only the ANC that will be affected by the realignment taking place.

Agang is, for instance, likely to have an impact on the support of the DA in next year’s general elections.

And, while many write off Malema’s EFF as a “joke” that will be short-lived, he and his fellow EFF activists do enjoy a certain rapport with and support from the most impoverished communities, especially in the North West mining areas.

In community-based political struggles related to poverty and service-delivery in informal shack settlements independent organisations like Abahlali baseMjondolo have sprung up, while Malema’s EFF, WASP and others are also seeking to gain a foothold.

While it maybe argued that such developments are good for democracy, broadening diversity and the scope for debate and participation, it also serves to heighten political intolerance and violence. The natural successor to these is often political repression.

The ruling party is perhaps at its most vulnerable ever and for the first time since 1994 faces a very serious prospect of a split.

While nowhere near being toppled yet, or even being dramatically weakened, the ANC’s influence and grip on power is being seriously challenged and is slipping.

Whether the current shifts and realignments of players in the socio-political arena will be in South Africa’s best interest in the long run, or whether good or bad will come from it, remains to be seen.

For now South Africa lives in challenging if not dangerous times.

(Summary of a more comprehensive report - shortened ).

27 August Edition of The Intelligence Bulletin.

ACDP welcomes Russian support for investigations into chemical attacks

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley, MP and Whip
27th August 2013

ACDP welcomes Russian support for investigations into chemical attacks

* Cautions against Western powers escalating situation forcing world powers to take sides

* Unilateral attacks in retaliation could have unintended consequences and prove disastrous for all concerned

"The ACDP welcomes Russia's more reasonable response in not opposing investigations into chemical attacks, by UN chemical weapons experts.

"It will be important for global powers to work together to find ways to help Syria move forward and to minimize the potential for loss of life and further destruction," Cheryllyn Dudley said.

ACDP MP and Member of the International Relations Committee in Parliament said today that: "The ACDP recognises legitimate concerns that the Syrian situation presents a significant threat but cautions against Western powers moving ahead of themselves and exacerbating the situation or even escalating it by forcing world powers to take sides actively."

Russia warned Western powers on Monday against any military intervention in Syria, saying the use of force without a United Nations (UN) mandate would violate international law and that Washington and its allies would be repeating "past mistakes" if they intervened in Syria.

French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius has said Russia and China would probably veto a Security Council vote to allow strikes against Syria.

British Foreign Secretary William Hague, however, said it would still be possible to respond to a chemical weapon attack without the Security Council's backing.

"Any change of government in Syria must be the result of a political process and relevant political pressure must be put on the present regime - Russia will be key in this regard".

"Unilateral attacks on Syria in retaliation to use of chemical weapons could have many unintended consequences and prove disastrous for all concerned," Dudley added.

ACDP calls on Parliament to take action against IEC Chairperson

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley, MP and Whip
27th August 2013

ACDP calls on Parliament to take action against IEC Chairperson

• IEC Chair should have declared relationship and recused herself from procurement process

"The ACDP calls on Parliament to consider action to be taken against IEC Chairperson Pansy Tlakula.  It is reasonable to expect the IEC Chairman to have declared her relationship and recused herself from the procurement process," ACDP Member of Parliament Cheryllyn Dudley said today.

Public Protector Thuli Madonsela has recommended that Parliament consider taking action against Independent Electoral Commission chairperson Pansy Tlakula.
Tlakula had a ‘grossly irregular’ role in the procurement of the Riverside Office Park building in Centurion for the IEC's head office, the protector said in Pretoria on Monday.
In a probe into the matter, Madonsela found improper conduct and maladministration on Tlakula's part, and a conflict of interest involving a co-director, with whom she was accused of being romantically involved.

She recommended that the IEC review its agreement with Abland, which was awarded the contract to lease the Riverside Office Park building.
Tlakula is accused of having a romantic relationship with Parliament's finance portfolio committee chairperson Thaba Mufamadi, who owns a 20% stake in Abland by virtue of their co-directorship in Lehotsa Investments (Pty) Limited.

Madonsela found that Tlakula had failed to disclose her business relationship with Mufamadi to the bidding team, which compromised her independence and objectivity.

“Tlakula was highly involved in initiation, evaluation and adjudication of the bids for the procurement of the building,” said Madonsela.

Notice of Condolence Mr Ntopile ‘Prof’ Kganyago

NOTICE OF CONDOLENCE
Cheryllyn Dudley, MP
22nd August 2013

ACDP says ‘Prof’ Kganyago was a courageous pioneer

We have lost a principled and compassionate man through the death of Hon Kganyago, Deputy President of the UDM. He served as a Member of Parliament from April 2004 and was Deputy Minister of Public Works for five years.

He was affectionately known as “Prof” because he was well educated, highly regarded as a teacher, and known as an eternal student, always asking questions and never too old to learn.

The ACDP recognizes Hon Kanyago as a courageous pioneer that helped establish his party at a time when the political situation was volatile.

He had a full and productive life holding a Master's degree in School Psychology, a BA and a BEd. Psychology, guidance and counseling were close to his heart and he served as Head of Psychological Services in the Education Department in the '70s.

I served with Hon Kanyago on Basic Education and on committee trips we often had time to chat.  One story that he told me about his very much younger days sticks in my mind – partly because it caused me some sadness and despite his chuckle, I suspect it was a slightly painful memory for him too.  He told me that when he was still just a boy he was an apprentice to an electrician and was often up in the roves of houses in ‘white areas’ – he said he would never forget the fright he got one day when he misplaced his foot and fell through the roof of a house - into the bedroom of a little girl who had stayed home from school because she was sick that day.  The little girl screamed and screamed uncontrollably repeating the words “’n swart duiwel, a swart duiwel”!

I am not sure why he shared that particular story but it appeared to be important to him – and so – with a heavy heart I share it with you.

We will miss you Hon Kanyago and our prayers are with your wife and family, colleagues and friends during this sad time -rest in peace.

ACDP says crime and violence in schools has always been a shared responsibility

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
13th August 2013

ACDP says crime and violence in schools has always been a shared responsibility

•         commends and encourages DBE & SAPS renewed efforts
•         concerned decisive efforts have taken too long


The ACDP welcomes increased efforts by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to promote and prioritise the school-based crime prevention programme.  “Safety in schools must be a top priority and the ACDP supports all efforts to prevent young people from involving themselves in criminal activities” ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said.

DBE Deputy Minister Surty said the aim of the Partnership Protocol signed on 11 April 2011, is to render a ‘school-based crime prevention service that is pro-active, to build and promote cordial and positive relationships between schools, police stations, children in general, communities and the police’. The Deputy Minister of Police Ms Sotyu emphasised that the protocol is important for its ‘clear guidelines on how and who responds in situations of crime at schools’, and to ‘instil sound values for the positive development of young people into responsible citizens who revere the constitution’.

The main objective is to establish ‘safe school committees’ across the country.

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said: “The issue of crime and violence in our schools is a shared responsibility and these two government departments are best placed to tackle the problem – this however has always been the case and while the ACDP commends and encourages the two departments in their efforts we are concerned that they have taken so long to move decisively on this important initiative”!

ACDP calls on the departments of Higher and Basic Education to work together on relevant programs to promote Technical Schools as institutions of choice for learners

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
13th August 2013

ACDP calls on the departments of Higher and Basic Education to work together on relevant programs to promote Technical Schools as institutions of choice for learners

•        welcomes measures to improve enrolment numbers at Technical High schools resulting from Ministerial Task Team set up to look at challenges

“The ACDP welcomes measures to improve enrolment numbers at Technical High schools which have been struggling to attract learners”, ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today. The enrolment figures in 2007 were at 119 000 and in 2013 it is 45 000.

A Ministerial Task Team set up to look at the challenges facing technical schools has drafted a Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for Technical Schools which will allow for specialization in Civil Technology, Electrical Technology and Mechanical Technology - supported by Technical Mathematics, Technical Science and the current Engineering  Graphics and Design.

Before the subjects are introduced, an audit of available resources i.e. infrastructure, equipment and educator competence will be done – as well as an assessment of financial implications for implementation and sustainability.

“Continuous Professional Development of educators must ensure competent teaching and skills development, and collaboration with business and industry professional bodies, Higher Education Institution sector, organized labour and statutory bodies must be prioritized”.
The ACDP calls on the departments of Higher and Basic Education to work together on relevant programs to promote Technical Schools as institutions of choice for learners.

ACDP pleased to hear failed Outcome Based Education (OBE) behind us.

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
13th August 2013

ACDP pleased to hear failed Outcome Based Education (OBE) behind us.

•        Welcomes report of smooth process and support of educators

The ACDP is pleased to hear Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga say that Outcome Based Education (OBE) is safely, permanently and firmly behind us – that the process has been smooth and that it has received support from educators.
The Minister has explained that during the strengthening of CAPS (Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements) content was specified, sequenced and paced per grade in order to provide teachers with the confidence to teach and assess learners - and that support has been provided to subject advisors through the orientation process.

CAPS is being incrementally implemented as follows: Foundation Phase and Grade 10 were in 2012; Intermediate Phase and Grade 11 in 2013 and Senior Phase and Grade 12 in 2014.

The ACDP notes that 8268 Grade 10-12 subject advisors and 1600 subject advisors responsible for Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase and Senior Phase have been trained so far.  We also welcome reports that Provinces have trained teachers in CAPS and are continuing to support its implementation.

ACDP says children must not be put at increased risk as budgets are balanced

ACDP says children must not be put at increased risk as budgets are balanced

• applauds Children’s Institutes relentless efforts to assess and publicise adequacy of social development budgets for funding of Children’s Act services

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today that “it is unacceptable for us to allow children to be put at increased risk due to budget constraints”.

She also said that “the ACDP applauds the Children’s Institute for their relentless efforts to assess and publicise the adequacy of social development budgets for funding of Children’s Act services”.

Historically social welfare services for children have been seriously under-funded and in 2005 government was funding no more than 25% of the cost of implementing the old Child Care Act in South Africa.

“In 2010, the Children’s Act raised hopes as it clearly recognised government’s constitutional obligation to provide children with adequate care, protection and social services - holding government primarily responsible for providing and funding a wide range of welfare services for children”.

The Children’s Institute maintains that ‘given the historically low funding base for this area of services, if we are to achieve the objectives of the Children’s Act we need to see continuous above average real budget growth in the sub-programmes that house children’s welfare services’.

“The ACDP acknowledges the legitimate concern that our presently high level of unemployment is placing families under material and psychological stress to make ends meet - and that children are at a greater risk of vulnerability, under-development, abandonment, neglect and abuse”.

The ACDP calls on the Ministers of Finance and Social Development – and Members of Parliament to ensure that the budget allocations for programmes and services that strengthen and support vulnerable families will genuinely be able to lessen this risk and keep children safe.

South Africa has high rates of child abuse, abandonment and orphaning.

Questions for the Minister of International Relations

QUESTIONS
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
5 August 2013


ACDP Member of Parliament and Chief Whip, Cheryllyn Dudley, is to pose the following question to the Minister of International Relations:


·     Whether South Africa has made any representation to His Excellency Hassan Rouhani President of Islamic Republic of Iran concerning Saeed Abedini (known as Saeed Abedinigalangashi in Iran);

·                Whether any diplomatic intervention is possible in view of the fact that Iran has unconditionally accepted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and is a signatory to the international civil, economic, and cultural covenants;

·                Are we correct in our understanding that Article 18 of the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights holds all signatories accountable to honoring their citizens’ freedom of religion and religious expression?


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Saeed Abedini - a young father who is currently being held in ward 350 of Evin Prison in violation of both Iranian and international law. Mr. Abedini has been sentenced to eight years in prison because his participation in peaceful religious gatherings in private homes was viewed as a threat to Iran’s national security. According to the Iranian Constitution he possesses the legal right to exercise his Christian faith, which includes the right to freely worship God in a peaceful gathering.

Iran has also unconditionally accepted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and is a signatory to the international civil, economic, and cultural covenants. Article 18 of the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights hold all signatories accountable to honoring their citizens’ freedom of religion and religious expression.  Iran has also obligated itself to respect the peaceful assembly of religious minorities within its borders.

WC School Closures overturned

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
2nd August 2013

Western Cape High Court judges ruled that both the reasons given for the closure of WC schools and the public consultation process that followed were inadequate.

They set aside Western Cape education minister Donald Grant's decision, made in October to go into effect from December 31.

He and his department were ordered to pay the legal costs of the schools and their governing bodies.

The ACDP welcomes the court ruling which confirms the irrational nature of the DA's actions.

The court also found the public consultation process to be an "artificial formality" that fell short of what was reasonably expected.

Grant announced last year that 27 schools faced possible closure for various reasons.

ACDP says survey shows most farmers absorbing the new minimum wage

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
2nd August 2013

Positive trend re permanent jobs is encouraging for career farm workers

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today that "the hysteria and threats of significant job losses when the minimum wage for farm workers was increased by 52% in March this year - we are please ro note - has proved unfounded."

At the time The ACDP welcomed the increase which meant workers would earn a minimum of R105 a day but pointed out that this would still leave farm workers and their families with little chance of combating the poverty and poor nutrition which is their daily reality.

The quarterly labour force survey released this week shows that Agri employment between March and June dropped by 26,000 - "a mere 3.5% reaction to the increase - with most farmers absorbing the new minimum wage"  ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today.

"Economists from the Pretoria and Stellenbosch Universities confirmed that predictions of job losses were exaggerated!"  Cheryllyn nDudley said.

A recent trend shows a large shift from casual and seasonal labour to permanent labour on farms - with an emphasis on more skilled labour.

"This is a positive trend which is encouraging for career farm workers" Dudley said.

What Now?

Zimbabwe's leading domestic election monitoring agency cried foul on Thursday over this week's poll, saying the credibility of the vote was "seriously compromised" by irregularities on polling day. Officials from the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) said urban voters, who mainly favour Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, had been turned away from polling stations in their thousands.

The people's choice is no choice at all...

Ruled by a dictator/lunatic

or

Take to the streets like Egypt inviting violent clashes, sacrificed lives and on- going mayhem - allowing space for a military take over.

What my Irish Granny would describe as " BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND THE DEEP BLUE SEA"!

We can probably guess the SADC and AU response will be weak - but clearly - no-one in the world seems to have any answers - the soft underbelly of democracy being exposed - yet again!"

ACDP concerned but not surprised at renewed efforts to ban ‘reasonable chastisement’ which will make criminals of parents who spank their children

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
30th July 2013

ACDP concerned but not surprised at renewed efforts to ban ‘reasonable chastisement’ which will make criminals of parents who spank their children

During deliberations on the Children’s Amendment Bill in 2007, the ACDP proposed the removal of section 139 to allow the Bill to proceed without delay.  The subsequent removal of section 139 (the clause banning spanking of children) was therefore welcomed by the ACDP in November that year.

Responding to reports indicating that the department of Social Development is preparing to place the matter before Parliament once again, ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley - a Member of the Social Development Portfolio Committee over the years that this and other amendments to the Children’s Act were being considered and voted on – said today that “the ACDP is concerned but not surprised at renewed efforts to ban ‘reasonable chastisement’.  Concerned because it will make criminals of parents who choose to spank their children – and not surprised because we know that lobby groups have been working in communities and on government to ensure this matter is placed before the National Assembly once again”.

 “The public will now have another opportunity to express themselves on this controversial issue and the degree to which they understand this to be - an intrusion into their homes and further undermining of their authority as parents.”

“The ACDP is acutely aware of the very real problem of abuse and violence against children in South Africa.  Abolishing the defense of reasonable chastisement and turning the majority of responsible parents into criminals is a very weak and misguided attempt to address this problem.  It is also a costly experiment which will drain budgets and man-power unnecessarily.  Attempts to equate abuse and violence with reasonable chastisement are not in any way rational and must be challenged so that children and families at risk can receive the attention and interventions necessary to help them specifically”.

The ACDP had pointed out that if clause 139 had not been removed this long awaited and extremely important piece of legislation in terms of protection of vulnerable children, would have been challenged in the Constitutional Court at great expense to Parliament and the Department and ultimately the people of South Africa – and any delay in implementation of the legislation would have significantly disadvantaged vulnerable children.

ACDP says proposed DA Bill amounts to an attack on multi-party democracy and is not best suited for South Africa

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley, MP and Whip
30th July 2013


ACDP MP and Whip, Cheryllyn Dudley today said that “The proposed DA Bill amounts to an attack on multi-party democracy and is not best suited to South Africa.”

“The ACDP supports initiatives to ensure greater accountability but we do not agree that the DA’s proposal will ensure MP’s are any more accountable to the electorate than they are now.  We also regard the proposal as a tool that will disadvantage minority groups and new parties on the political landscape.

The ACDP pointed out, at the time the proposal was submitted to Parliament, that it might also be in conflict with section 46 (1)(d) of the constitution which requires an electoral system that “results, in general, in proportional representation”.

“The changes suggested by the DA are not new and were in fact considered at the time of the Slabbert Commission.  At that time it was acknowledged that the multi-party aspect of South African politics has proved invaluable in ensuring relative peace, allowing a significant degree of goodwill and nation-building.”

“A ‘first-past-the-post’ system can leave as much as 49% of people feeling they have lost. Having no representation or voice causes frustration which often results in irrational behavior in an effort to be seen and heard.”

The Home Affairs Portfolio Committee have also concluded that the proposed changes to the electoral system might very well dilute the constitutional principle of multi-party democracy and that the proposed changes will be to the detriment of smaller parties, resulting in a two or three party system instead of the current multi-party system.

The introduction of a constituency-based proportional representation list system will result in a more complex electoral system. Whilst aimed at greater accountability, it is questionable to what extent a proportional representation list at constituency level will achieve this as the voter will still vote for a party, not a candidate.

The part of the Bill dealing with absent and special voters will be dealt with through the Electoral Amendment Bill [B22-2013], 2013, which has been submitted to the Speaker by the Minister of Home Affairs.

 “The ACDP appreciates the importance of these matters being debated with a view to improving on aspects of accountability, we have however voted against this proposal which, in our opinion does not find the right balance.”

ACDP welcomes Parliament and Cape Mental Health programme to provide knowledge about mental illness and access to help

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP and Whip
30th July 2013


ACDP welcomes Parliament and Cape Mental Health programme to provide knowledge about mental illness and access to help

·        Calls on MEC’s for Social Development and Health to strengthen partnerships to provide community access to programmes on mental illnesses and available support

·        WHO says SA is 6th highest in world for anxiety disorders

·        SA research shows one in five SA’s suffer from a mental condition   at some point in their life

According to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) most recent Stress and Health Study, South Africa ranks as having the 6th highest prevalence for anxiety disorders compared to the rest of the World.

The ACDP welcomes Parliaments partnering with Cape Mental Health to provide employees with knowledge about mental illness and access to help by providing a comprehensive counselling service that assists Members of Parliament and Staff 24/7/365 with telephone counselling in a confidential manner and with all the official languages.

ACDP MP and Health Portfolio Committee Member, Cheryllyn Dudley said today that according to the first quarterly report (April 2013 to June 2013) of the Parliamentary Wellbeing Programme, most psychosocial cases were related to trauma, depression and grief.

"High stress and anxiety levels are linked to multiple societal and socio-economic risk factors - all major factors contributing to mental illness. Poverty, inequality, urbanisation, unemployment, trauma, violence and substance abuse being just some of these factors."

Research by South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) shows that one in five South Africans suffer from a mental condition at some point in their life.

The ACDP calls on the Ministers of Social Development and Health and all relevant MEC’s  to strengthen partnerships with provincial and local organisations to provide community access to programmes creating awareness and knowledge on how to identify these illnesses, how to deal with them and what support is available.

ACDP calls on countries to resist temptation to supply weapons to rebels

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
24 July 2013

As the World debates whether or not 'to arm Rebels' ACDP Member of Parliament Cheryllyn Dudley is calling on countries like France, the UK the USA, Russia and others to resist the temptation to supply weapons to rebels and governments alike!

Dudley said: “Cutting off the supply of weapons on all sides will not immediately stop the fighting but it is a necessary step if peace is ever to be a reality - putting down arms was a major element in South Africa's turning point toward a real chance of Nation Building.”

Bluff Meeting

I had the opportunity to share with (about 50) Bluff residents about the aspects of my work, the vision of the ACDP, my perspective on issues facing South Africans today and respond to their questions!

Demi signing up new ACDP memberships

I would like to share my perspective on Parliament and the vision of the ACDP by meeting with people who want to get serious about weighing up their options in terms of Political Parties, explore the idea of Christian Democracy and get real about whether or not the ACDP truly has the potential to deliver a better future... 

Please contact me through mmabungane@parliament.gov.za or 021 403 2453 if you would like to arrange for me to come and speak.

The Truth at Last

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
20th July 2013

ACDP MP and Member on the Basic Education Portfolio Committee, Cheryllyn Dudley - a loan voice of reason in defense of truth in the past few years - welcomed DA Leader Helen Zilles revelation but is disappointed that she so blatantly misled the public regarding the performance of the Education Minister.

After leading a vicious and unwarranted attack on Education Minister Angie Motshekga, DA Leader Helen Zille has at last 'come clean' - admitting that Angie Motshekga has in fact excelled in her difficult task. She has been blocked by Provinces and Unions and has faced the full impact of unwise policies of previous administrations. Yet She has achieved more in the last 4 years - than any of her predecessors.

It has been painful to witness the unrelenting and misguided pressure which has kept the Minister and her department tied up in Court - undermining service delivery and depleting budgets.

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today: The disingenuous and opportunistic antics of the DA despite knowing differently has in my opinion cost South Africa and Education in particular.

ACDP 'Only Hope for SA'

ACDP notes renewed efforts to ban ‘reasonable chastisement’ making criminals of parents who choose to include spanking in discipline of their children

          MEDIA RELEASE
          Cheryllyn Dudley MP
          11 July 2013

On 21 May, the Department of Social Development conducted a Child Care and Protection Forum, where the topics of “Positive Discipline of Children” and “The Right of Parents to Discipline Their Children” were discussed. Many organisations have been working since 2007 to attempt once again to ban ‘reasonable chastisement’ – criminalising parents who choose to spank their children.

“I think many people never realised the fight of many years waged by the ACDP over this issue and the incredible victory we ALONE won on behalf of responsible parents in South Africa.

“The statements we put out at the time were purposely understated as I had to convince people that removing the contentious clause would, for a variety of reasons, be in their own best interests.  This was a huge work and attention to detail was critical - I personally worked past midnight with other members on many nights as we worked with this legislation.  The multi-faceted approach of the ACDP on this specific issue was a huge success - and we would be grateful if you could find a way to let people know how it really happened - bragging about our own successes has sadly been one of our weaknesses.  We need people like you to help us with this and even more so now that we are approaching the 2014 election.” – Cheryllyn Dudley MP
During deliberations on the Children’s Amendment Bill in 2007, the ACDP proposed the removal of section 139 to allow the Bill to proceed without delay.  The subsequent removal of section 139 (the clause banning parental physical discipline of children) was therefore enthusiastically welcomed by the ACDP in November that year.

While the offending clause is expected to be placed before the National Assembly in due course, ACDP Member of Parliament and Member (at the time) of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, Cheryllyn Dudley said: “The public will have further opportunity to express their considerable concerns and hopefully common sense will once again prevail in the legislature!  Failing that another miracle?

“Abolishing the defense of reasonable chastisement and turning a majority of parents into criminals is no solution; it cannot possibly hope to address the very real problem of abuse and violence against children in South Africa.  Constant attempts to equate abuse and violence with reasonable chastisement or a spanking are misguided and frankly disingenuous”.

At the time, the African Christian Democratic Party, whole-heartedly supported the remainder of the Bill and thanked - not only the Department, law advisors and Portfolio Committee but also civil society for their dedication, time and effort in working on this much needed piece of legislation.

The ACDP is particularly pleased to have been instrumental in ensuring that Provinces are now obliged to provide and fund Prevention and Early Intervention Services for children at risk.  Lack of funding has until now, severely restricted Child Protection Organisations, to dealing with children in crisis rather than being able to intervene effectively at an earlier stage.

The prioritizing of funding for Early Childhood Development in needy communities and the fact that street children will now be acknowledged and given greater priority as children in need of care and protection are just some of the ACDP’s significant achievements during the drafting of this bill.

The ACDP had pointed out that if clause 139 had not been removed this long awaited and extremely important piece of legislation would be challenged in the Constitutional Court at great expense to Parliament and the Department and ultimately the people of South Africa – and any delay in implementation of this legislation would significantly disadvantage vulnerable children.

ACDP says judgement respects rights of School Governing Bodies and pregnant learners

MEDIA RELEASE

Cheryllyn Dudley MP

11 July 2013

The ACDP welcomes the Constitutional Court judgment handed down yesterday, regarding

the powers of a Head of a Provincial Department of Education (HOD) to instruct a principal of a public school to act in contravention of a learner pregnancy policy adopted by the governing body of that school.

ACDP Member of Parliament on the Basic Education Portfolio Committee, Cheryllyn Dudley said today:

“The ACDP recognises the wisdom of this judgement and we believe it brings clarity in the circumstances.  It is important that School Governing Bodies have the assurance that school policy will be respected by the department and that due process will be followed when policy is queried. 

“Society as we know it today has opted for inclusive rather than exclusive policies and education – our children and educators have had to come to terms with realities such as pregnant learners and as much as it is not the most ideal situation - excluding these learners from school would not help create a better reality – in fact it is just another excuse for people to terminate the pregnancy and pretend the developing child does not exist. In my opinion, the natural restrictions and consequences of pregnancy could help convince other girls and boys that waiting until they are ready to have a family is a far better option.

In 2008 and 2009 the governing bodies of Welkom High School and Harmony High

School respectively adopted pregnancy policies that provide for the exclusion of pregnant learners from school for certain time-periods. The HOD issued instructions to the principals of the schools to readmit two learners who had been excluded from school.  The schools sought to interdict the HOD from interfering with the implementation of their policies - the High Court granted the interdict, which was confirmed by the Supreme Court of Appeal.

The Constitutional Court, concluded that, because the HOD had purported to override school policies without following the relevant procedures set out in the Schools Act, he acted unlawfully.

The ConCourt did however acknowledge that the schools’ pregnancy policies at face-value infringe upon the constitutional rights of pregnant learners, including the rights to human dignity, to freedom from unfair discrimination and to receive a basic education. In order to address these concerns, the schools were ordered to review the policies and to meaningfully engage with the HOD in the process of reviewing their policies, in line with the principles of cooperative governance enshrined in the Schools Act.

CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA - CCT 103/12

Date of Hearing: 5 November 2012

Date of Judgment: 10 July 2013