ACDP calls on minister to address Bill contradicting NDP’s call for ‘regulatory reforms that provide policy certainty'

MEDIA RELEASE

Cheryllyn Dudley MP

28 May 2013

ACDP calls on minister to address Bill contradicting NDP’s call for ‘regulatory reforms that provide policy certainty'

·        welcomes new environmental guideline

·        points out need for new migratory labour system

According to the National Development Plan (NDP), the mining industry in South Africa has lagged behind global competitors in the past decade for reasons which include: poor rail, water, energy infrastructure and a ‘regulatory and policy framework that hinders investment'.  The ACDP holds the view that the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Bill contradicts the NDP's call for ‘regulatory reforms that provide policy certainty' and calls on the Minister to address this contradiction.

Regulatory stability is crucial in the mining industry which has to think decades ahead when making investments.  Certainty about rules they will operate under is so important - and onerous and unpredictable regulatory change or existing regulatory requirements being enforced in an arbitrary and unequal manner are a huge stumbling block to investment.

On another very important aspect - the ACDP welcomes the latest environmental guideline report which starts an important process of finding a balance between two extremes – destructive mining and extreme environmental demands.

With labour challenges, land-use issues, rising costs, weakening currencies and pricing, constrained budgets - and more than 30% of platinum companies ‘in the red’- the mining industry is in crisis.  The additional challenge of stricter environmental measures could seem like a potential final straw but fears are countered by promises of greater sustainability – this is much bigger than the mining industry and will require changes in thinking, culture, technology, the education of leaders and investment plans.  Hon Minister, does this budget take these issues into consideration – will it adequately facilitate the necessary working together of government, industry, communities and NGOs to find sustainable solutions together?

Moving on to the subject of beneficiation, a Chamber of Mines senior executive has pointed out that too little attention has been given to side-stream beneficiation which is playing an important role in South Africa’s economy, creating 1.3-million jobs, and accounting for about 19% of gross domestic product (GDP) and 20% of investment.  Existing downstream beneficiation in South Africa – at the same time - is worth R300 billion and creating about 150 000 jobs.

Support from both, government and mining companies in side-stream and downstream processes; the related research and development; funding arrangements; training and market development - is going to be critical.

For successful beneficiation almost all government departments have some role to play including: basic education, tertiary education and training, infrastructure, transport, energy and minerals. But it is important that one government department takes the lead. The ACDP calls on the Minister of Minerals to provide SA with a ‘champion for beneficiation’ - and to ensure we no longer lag behind.

Industrial sociologist Gavin Hartford last year placed the migrant labour system at the heart of South Africa’s mining unrest, saying that its punishing yearly work cycle spawned social evils.  It is with this in mind that the ACDP notes mining union pioneer Dr James Motlatsi’s proposal for a new deal for South Africa's migrant mineworkers.  He is proposing that: migrant mineworkers work for four months and go home for two months as opposed to the current system of 11-shift fortnights and 12 holidays a year. This he suggests will improve the economies of rural areas and increase employment opportunities, without increasing the cost to the employer.  At the same time, he suggests that mineworkers willing to leave the rural areas and relocate with their families to mine accommodation should be accommodated.

Hon Minister is the department involved in talks about new migratory labour models founded on human dignity and shorter work cycles within a continuous-operation scenario?

The ACDP will support this budget despite reservations.


For more information contact Cheryllyn Dudley, MP, 082 890 6520 (SMS best for urgent response)
Media enquiries: Keeno Petersen, Media Liaison Officer, ACDP - Parliament, Tel: 021-403-3307 or Email: kpetersen@parliament.gov.za

‘Confronting the Causes of Religion-Motivated Terrorism - A Letter from a Muslim

I have been giving a lot of thought lately to how I would like to see a responsible government respond to the challenges Islamic fundamentalism presents - and this letter adds food for thought!

The murderers screamed ‘Allahu akhbar’ as they tried to decapitate the soldier (a barbaric hallmark of Islamic terror), announced proudly that ‘We swear by almighty Allah we will never stop fighting you’ and quoted the Koran as religious justification.

* LETTER

‘Confronting the Causes of Religion-Motivated Terrorism.

‘I'm from a Muslim family background, and I needed to write down my thoughts on this terrible and traumatic event. I feel that it raises points that would be appropriate for the excellent articles that you publish.

  ‘The overwhelming majority of Muslims here and throughout the world will be as horrified as anyone by the terrible events in Woolwich. Furthermore, I am certain that the overwhelming majority of Muslim organisations, imams and community leaders would describe the actions of the men concerned to be evil and un-Islamic. The accepted consensus among most scholars is that when you live in a non-Islamic country (where you are allowed live and practice your religion in peace), you are forbidden to make war on the people of that country. 

  ‘That being said, surely it’s time for Muslims everywhere to confront some of the extreme views held within their communities and face up to the fact that such views may act as stepping-stones for some ignorant and impressionable people who go on to carry out atrocious acts of violence. 

  ‘It is a fact that far too many Muslim scholars promote and far too many Muslims believe, interpretations of Islam that are anything but moderate. For example, that non-Muslims are morally and spiritually ‘inferior’ beings to Muslims or that in an ideal ‘Islamic’ society, the death penalty should apply for a Muslim who leaves Islam, for anyone who insults the Prophet, has sex outside of marriage or takes part in an homosexual act.

   ‘Whilst I’m not suggesting that any significant number of the Muslims holding such views would ever commit or even condone the events we saw in Woolwich, I am suggesting that if someone already believes such interpretations of Islam then it would be easier for them to believe that it’s morally acceptable to behead an off-duty soldier in the street. 

  ‘As we have seen in the various media exposés, extreme views such as those outlined above are being promoted, often with impunity, in mosques, madrassas, faith schools and Islamic student societies throughout Britain. The result of this, as numerous polls have demonstrated, is that an unacceptably high minority of British Muslims support extreme and illiberal interpretations of Islam. For example, a poll carried out by Policy Exchange suggested that over a third of young British Muslims believe that the death penalty should apply for apostasy.

  ‘In every other aspect of our society, an ‘extremist’ is defined by both their actions and their personally held views. It is perfectly reasonable to label a racist a ‘racist’, whether or not they carry out illegal acts or promote law-breaking. For some reason, however, such rational logic isn’t generally applied when it comes to describing members of religious groups. 

   ‘It seems that any Muslim who states that they support obeying the laws of the land is defined by default as ‘moderate’ without regard to whether he or she might hold some views that are very extreme and unpleasant indeed. However, a large section of our media and institutions appear to only label a Muslim as an ‘extremist’ if he or she breaks the law or incites others to do so. 

  ‘This is illogical and irrational. The time has come for Muslim organisations, scholars, imams and lay-people to stand up and state unequivocally that interpretations such as those outlined above are unacceptable and should never be promoted, here or abroad. They should go further and distance themselves from anyone who promotes those views. 

   ‘What’s more, politicians, the media and all of us should ask questions of any person who refuses to condemn such bigotry and ostracise them, just as we do with someone who refuses to condemn racism. Universities must ban Islamic societies that promote hateful views, and any mosque, madrassa or Islamic faith school that promotes extreme, illiberal interpretations of Islam should be closed down and the management prosecuted. 

  ‘Stating that non-Muslims are inferior to Muslims or that people should be killed for leaving a religion or having gay sex is simple hate speech, whether or not the speaker believes that it is ordained by Allah. The fact that hate speech is illegal under English law recognises the fact that hateful speech can sometimes promote hateful action. Surely it’s time for the people who promote the views outlined above are treated as the criminals they are. 

    ‘Most importantly, the time has come for our media, politicians and anti-fascist organisations to expose, name and shame any Muslim organisation, mosque, imam, scholar or spokesperson who refuses to condemn and distance themselves from the unacceptable interpretations of Islam that are far-too-often promoted without challenge in Britain today.’

The Prime Minister has spoken of the Woolwich killers ‘betraying’ Islam. But in refusing to acknowledge the true religious nature of such terrorism, it is surely he who is betraying reformist Muslims everywhere.

ACDP says government must monitor standard of safety at initiation schools

MEDIA RELEASE

Cheryllyn Dudley MP

22 May 2013

ACDP says government must monitor standard of safety at initiation schools

·       calls for closure of all illegal initiation schools across the country

·       lives of young men in similar situations are at risk 

ACDP Member of Parliament and health spokesperson, Cheryllyn Dudley, today said she was shocked at reports of 27 young men between the ages of 13 and 20 years who have died at initiation schools this month.

“The African Christian Democratic Party welcomes the investigation by the South African Police Service into the deaths of these young men who died at initiation schools across Mpumalanga.

A colleague who was working in my constituency office in Siyabuswa earlier this month was devastated by the news and said: “To think that I witnessed the joy the boys were experiencing when they were running wild in the streets of Siyabuswa because they were about to become men. It is extremely sad to know that they will not experience their manhood or have the chance to be seen as male adults in their culture”.
Dudley said: “We believe that these deaths could have been prevented if precautionary measures were in place at initiation schools and monitored regularly. If health and safety measures were in place – they were not of a good or acceptable standard. The ACDP calls on government to urgently put in place an inspectorate to monitor the standard of safety at initiation schools on a regular basis and to compel compliance, to prevent this tragic loss of lives.”

Police are currently investigating these deaths and have not yet made any arrests. They are expecting the results of the post mortems soon.

Dudley said: “The deaths of these boys must be investigated thoroughly and effectively and those responsible must be arrested without delay, charged with murder and sentenced.  The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated as around the country young men are in similar situations and their lives are at risk.  If we do not move quickly there will be more fatalities.”

The ACDP calls on the relevant Ministers to ensure that all illegal initiation schools across the country are closed and that young men at risk are urgently relocated to facilities where they can receive the medical care they need.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the boys who have died in this terrible way and we mourn this tragic loss of young lives.”


For more information contact Cheryllyn Dudley, MP, 082 890 6520 (SMS best for urgent response)
Media enquiries: Keeno Petersen, Media Liaison Officer, ACDP - Parliament, Tel: 021-403-3307 or Email:kpetersen@parliament.gov.za

ACDP raises concern that institutional knowledge in Water Affairs Department can be lost

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
21 May 2013

ACDP raises concern that institutional knowledge in Water Affairs Department can be lost

·        Welcomes 3rd Regional Southern African Young Water Professionals Conference


“The ACDP notes the 3rd Regional Southern African Young Water Professionals Conference will take place at the University of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape in July this year. The conference aims to further career development and young professional capacities, encouraging discourse on current and future water concerns.  We welcome this initiative.

Hon Minister, I heard you briefly mention recruiting 160 people, which sounds like a move in the right direction.  Is it true that most engineers in the Department of Water Affairs are in their late 50’s and early 60’s - with very few younger engineers to pass institutional knowledge on to.  Even if engineers are employed now, I am told it will take a minimum of ten years - 15 to 20 years ideally - to adequately transfer skills - so unless experienced engineers come back after 65 the institutional knowledge we do have will be lost.  For experienced engineers to continue after the age of 65 it may be necessary to give contracts longer than 2 years and for the decision to be taken at department rather than Ministerial level.  Do we have relevant incentives in place to entice mature expertise to stay and mentor others?  Of course, first – ‘others’ must be employed – do we have bursaries in place and are they enough to attract young people into this field – are we head-hunting outside South Africa?

Because personnel from level 13 upwards are subject to Ministerial approval and a noticeable lack of in-depth scientific knowledge and skills is evident - the perception exists - that skills and expertise are not the primary criteria in these appointments!  What are we doing to change this perception?

Has the department considered that a barrier to attracting skills could be the fact that there are only two ranks for engineers: production and chief engineer – there used to be four – providing greater opportunity for recognition and promotion!  I am told it can take 36 years to get to the top on the present system which disadvantages existing staff in relation to newcomers.  In years gone by chief engineers had 25 years or more experience - a new entrant to chief engineer now only needs six years’ experience – this can be demoralizing for existing staff with more experience.

Hon Minister, what is the situation regarding salaries presently – how competitive are they compared to the private sector say – in on province, after advertising for production level engineers for 18 months they were unable to attract a single engineer with professional status.

Not so long ago we were told 90 municipalities did not have a single professional water engineer, and very few had written operating procedures – The ACDP welcomes the new focus on correcting this situation.

We also welcome the increased number of conditional grants to better target problems at Provincial and Local levels.

The ACDP previously raised concerns that we had not budgeted adequately for urgently finding much needed expertise in the area of reservoir & lake management to prevent polluted dams deteriorating further – do we have tertiary courses on this subject yet?

Lastly water management seems to be provided for only in the short term but we note with interest - research published in March this year detailing how technology, developed at the University of Witwatersrand in conjunction with a professor from NASA in the US, could be used to clean contaminated water flowing from metal mines which cause ecological harm and compromise human and animal health. Last year, the Mpumalanga town of Carolina lost its municipal water supply when acid mine water polluted its dam.

The ACDP will support this budget of which much will be expected.”


For more information contact Cheryllyn Dudley, MP, 082 890 6520 (SMS best for urgent response)

Media enquiries: Keeno Petersen, Media Liaison Officer, ACDP - Parliament, Tel: 021-403-3307 or Email: kpetersen@parliament.gov.za

ACDP says Public Enterprises fraught with challenges

MEDIA RELEASE

Cheryllyn Dudley, MP and Whip

14 May 2013

ACDP says Public Enterprises fraught with challenges

·   so much is riding on the success of infrastructure development as SA aggressively takes hold of opportunities for economic growth!

·   massive rail infrastructure upgrade could reduce cost of doing business in SA

“To say Public Enterprises is fraught with challenges is an understatement I know – we just have to look at SAA, Alexkor and Denel - all singled out by treasury for poor performance.

Hon Minister, will court challenges and accusations that government bail-out’s for SAA to the tune of R11 billion plus a further R5 billion guarantee - are anticompetitive and have resulted in a number of commercial airlines shutting their doors - cause any drastic change in policy?

Statements by Treasury that: parastatals facing persistent financial difficulties will be urgently reviewed to establish sustainability - would be reassuring - only no-one believes any tough decisions will actually be taken.

State-owned entities are set to spend R397 billion over the next three years on infrastructure - 43% of the money sourced from debt markets and the remainder internally generated.  The ACDP recognises that so much is riding on the success of our infrastructure development - as South Africa attempts to aggressively create and take hold of opportunities for economic growth!

Eskom and Transnet - the largest contributors to the borrowing requirement - account for 87% of capital expenditure by parastatals.  Ongoing building of power generation plants and new transmission lines, investment in rail, ports and pipelines, large new water transfer schemes and airport upgrades – account for some of the spending.  We are seeing some bold moves that carry huge risk but we also understand we simply must pull it off!

Sentech and the SABC are also in line for large amounts to help pay for digital terrestrial television (DTT) migration - some of this being preparation for the 2014 African Nations Championship.

The ACDP congratulates Safcol on a 22% improvement in sales, an operating profit of R51million and plans to expand operations beyond South Africa and Mozambique - a great recovery from the previous year's R32million loss!  Safcol’s world-class forestry stewardship and management skills which can be shared with other African countries also offer opportunity for entry into the forestry industry in these countries.

Eskom, we understand, is reviewing the implications of the National Energy Regulator of SA's (NERSA) decision to grant it a lower than requested electricity tariff hike.  The16 percent increase asked for would have more than doubled the current price and the ACDP commends NERSA, who opted for an eight percent increase – a decision which went some way in softening the immediate impact on users.

We note Government’s resolve in pursuing nuclear options - seen as a critical driver of much needed industrialisation.   This controversial energy source will however take time - and lots of money - as safety and technology challenges rear their heads.

Transnet is spending heavily to revive South Africa's rail network and has signed an agreement with the China Development Bank - expected to yield a loan around US$5 billion (R45-billion) to help finance a massive rail infrastructure upgrade that could significantly reduce the cost of doing business in South Africa.

In the meantime 66 000 pensioners have instituted a civil claim to recover about R79 billion they claim Transnet has plundered from their pension funds – a potential liability which does not look good for the budget.

The ACDP will support this budget.”
-ENDS-

For more information contact Cheryllyn Dudley, MP, 082 890 6520 (SMS best for urgent response)

Media enquiries: Keeno Petersen, Media Liaison Officer, ACDP - Parliament, Tel: 021-403-3307 or Email:kpetersen@parliament.gov.za

A Shared Future!

 AFRICAN CHRISTIAN DEMOCRATIC PARTY 

• A political party standing for Christian democratic principles - aspiring to bring stability, prosperity and hope to our nation.

• A party that values unity and diversity - committed to protecting freedom of religion and family integrity; 

• Determined to provide reliable, trustworthy leadership - passionate about addressing the needs of all the people in South Africa;

• Standing for a 'shared future'!

ABOUT THE ACDP

Formed four months before the first democratic elections, under the leadership of Reverend Kenneth Meshoe, the ACDP won 2 seats in the National Assembly and presently holds 3 seats at National Parliament, 3 seats in Provincial Legislatures and 40 seats in local councils. 

Our strength lies in our belief in a God of justice and love and in the Christian Democratic value system we adhere to.  Our policies aim to strengthen family and in turn strengthen communities and the nation.

The ACDP fully supports ‘constitutional democracy’ and will diligently protect the Constitution of SA.  We did however vote against the Constitution in 1996 in protest against clauses detrimental to nation building and we continue to actively oppose abortion on demand, legalised prostitution, easy access to gambling and pornography, and the promotion of a homosexual agenda (we respect people’s right to privacy and to choose – but reject the promotion of a homosexual agenda in schools and public fora). 

South Africa is a beautiful and diverse country with great potential for growth and prosperity. People are never-the-less despondent as poverty, high unemployment, violence, crime, corruption and poor education outcomes, undermine our progress.

WHAT THE ACDP IS SAYING ABOUT:

POVERTY

Inequality causes instability  

The ACDP will:

• address inequality from every angle and particularly through education and our economic policy

• provide social protection - unemployment insurance, elderly and disability pensions, child, adolescent and family welfare, subsidised housing and essential services to increase people’s ability to get through times of illness, loss of income and other difficulties

• provide incentives to discourage on-going dependency on the state and facilitate opportunities for individuals, families and communities to be self-sustaining

• take a more targeted approach in order to address needs more effectively and efficiently. This will necessitate training and employing vast numbers of social workers

UNEMPLOYMENT AND THE ECONOMY

To boost employment and improve economic growth rates

The ACDP will:

• review labour laws and regulations with a view to making changes that will promote labour productivity and increase global competitiveness

·         focus on education and skills development

·         incentivise entrepreneurial and labour-intensive initiatives

·         invest in infrastructure

·         encourage a culture of savings, investment and hard work

·         prioritise water security and supply, energy generation and supply, food security & agricultural development, sustainable mining and beneficiation of minerals and attracting and retaining manufacturing entities

VIOLENCE & CRIME

Violent crime is rampant in SA because perpetrators are not swiftly apprehended, tried, convicted and sentenced. 

The ACDP will:

·         strengthen police units and ensure training produces greater capacity to investigate crime and secure convictions

·         tighten access to parole and bail and reinstate capital punishment for certain categories of murder and rape

·         strengthen the capacity to implement restorative justice

CORRUPTION AND MALADMINISTRATION - stealing our country’s future! 

The ACDP will:

·         remove corrupt officials from office

·         review legislation to ensure culprits are not suspended indefinitely on full pay

·         prioritise the placements of suitably skilled and experienced officials

·         provide for the mentoring of promising young graduates and school leavers 

EDUCATION

The ACDP will:

• place increased emphasis on improving teaching skills, content knowledge and the provision of quality textbooks.

• ensure the curriculum adequately incorporates study techniques and ethics and leadership training. 

• establish ICT laboratories in schools and budget for upgrades, maintenance, and teachers with the relevant skills.

• hold Provinces accountable to ‘norms & standards’ for school infrastructure, effective spending, transport and school nutrition.

• ensure minimum disruption of learners’ studies by union activities.

.

• ensure Grade R is available at all schools and Early Childhood Development facilities are available in all areas, improve access to quality ECD teacher training and market ECD teaching as a viable career option.

EARLY SEXUAL ACTIVITY AND TEEN PREGNANCY

Early sexual activity and teen pregnancy prevent young people reaching their full potential - condoms and abortion are not solutions.

The ACDP will:

• support and encourage initiatives which address poverty, change mindsets, build self-esteem, create awareness, mentor and teach on positive choices, and equip young children to protect themselves when touched inappropriately.
• place counsellors in schools to help young people stay strong in valuing themselves and their futures – also ensuring young people access relevant help where necessary.

HUMAN RIGHTS

“Human rights are valueless if we fail to value human life”.

The ACDP will:

• ensure that legislation regarding termination of pregnancy ensures informed choice
• provide for access to a scan showing the developing baby and counselling to fully consider all relevant aspects regarding risks, options and alternatives including adoption and state or other support. 

HOUSING

The ACDP will:

·         prioritise access to suitable accommodation through public-private initiatives. 

·         ensure contractors are held accountable for work done. 

·         empower communities, through knowledge, skills and infrastructure to participate in the building of homes and communities.

LAND

The ACDP will:

·         prioritise land restitution 

·         ensure support for emerging farmers

·         value existing commercial farmers

·         protect agriculture and ensure food security

For more information visit our website

Parliament this week...

The President of the European Parliament, Mr Martin Schulz, will visit Parliament tomorrow to hold bilateral talks with National Assembly (NA) Speaker, Mr Max SIsulu, and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson, Mr Mninwa Mahlangu, on strengthening existing cooperation between the Parliaments.

One area of collaboration, which dates from 1997, is the capacity building programme for Members of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures. In addition to this capacity building programme, our partnership with the EU is assisting us in finalising a Public Participation Framework for our Legislative Sector.

Mr Schulz will also address the annual South Africa-European Union (EU) International Consultative Seminar, This year the annual seminar focuses on the role of Parliaments and the Legislatures in economic development and transformation.  Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe will deliver the keynote speech.  Minister in the Presidency: National Planning Commission, Mr Trevor Manuel, and ambassador and head of the EU Delegation to South Africa, Mr Roeland van de Geer will speak on perspectives on the role of Parliaments and the Legislatures in long-term, sustainable economic growth and development.

On Wednesday, the increasing importance of Parliaments in fiscal management and the determination of relevant oversight mechanisms will be explored.

Our Parliament is currently in the process of appointing a director for the Parliamentary Budget Office. The Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act of 2009 (Act No.9 0f 2009) provides for a procedure to amend money bills before Parliament, including the national budget.

Section 15 of the Act also establishes the Parliamentary Budget Office, which has the mandate to provide independent, objective and professional advice and analysis to Parliament on matters related to the budget and other money bills.

Also coming under scrutiny on Wednesday are current oversight mechanisms of Parliaments and Legislatures over economic policies and programmes.

ACDP calls on Minister of Safety and Security to crack down on receivers of stolen cables.

MEDIA RELEASE                                        

Cheryllyn Dudley, MP and Whip

10 May 2013

ACDP calls on Minister of Safety and Security to crack down on receivers of stolen cables.

• calls on the Minister of Public Enterprises to look into utilising a new durable tamperproof shield to prevent cables from being directly accessed or dragged from the ground 

ACDP MP Cheryllyn Dudley said today:

"The ACDP calls on the Minister of Safety and Security to crack down on those who are receiving stolen cables and 'scrap' metal in whatever form. 

This kind of theft is continuously disrupting services, including the power supply provided by Eskom, the rail transport system and Telkom’s telecommunication services.

Large parts of the West Rand were left without power this week, with businesses losing millions of rand. Cable theft costs South Africa about R5 billion a year and is negatively impacting our economic growth and employment.

Under new law, any person buying stolen goods, including cables, is as guilty as the person who stole the goods. If an unscrupulous dealer is found guilty, a court could impose a prison sentence of up to 10 years – the problem is that for this law to be effective, it must be implemented! 

Whilst we are pleased that police have intensified the war on cable theft, the ACDP feels that the 'fences' and receivers of stolen property are not being sufficiently scrutinised and targeted.  We call on the Minister of Safety and Security to step up this aspect of their offensive to ensure those receiving the stolen cables and scrap metal in whatever form are apprehended and dealt with appropriately."

“The ACDP also calls on the Minister of Public Enterprises to look into the value of utilising a new product patented by a South African inventor - a durable tamperproof shield for underground cables using redundant truck tyres.  It apparently prevents cables from being directly accessed or dragged from the ground. 

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For further information contact:

Cheryllyn Dudley, MP and Whip

ACDP Parliament

082 890 65 20

Sms for urgent response

or Keeno Petersen

Media Liaison Officer - ACDP

Tel: 021-403-3307

Cell: 076-734-9067

Email: kpetersen@parliament.gov.za

This release is sent from a 'sending only' e-mail address on behalf of the ACDP. To subscribe or unsubscribe please communicate with kpetersen@parliament.gov.za

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DIFFICULT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS by Cheryllyn Dudley MP ACDP

Christianity and democracy conflict – how do you explain your party name?

The usual answer to this is that there is such a concept as ‘Christian Democracy’ which is different to democracy and that Christian Democratic Parties have been a part of the political landscape for a very long time and have been successful in governing and governing co-alitions.

The word ‘Africa’ is important because it places South Africa in context.

The word ‘Christian’ is there because we are being transparent and describing the kind of values and principles we subscribe to.

The word ‘Democracy” is there as a promise – a promise that as Christians with a Christian world-view we will be disciplined in keeping within the constraints of democracy when we are in government.  As individual Christians we may believe what we like but as a collective entrusted with the well-being of a nation with diverse beliefs we must govern with everyone in mind and not just our own narrow interests. This helps people, including Christians, who do not trust Christians to govern, to feel more secure and allows people to hold us accountable in terms of democracy as well as Christian principles and values.  The Christian world is diverse, ranging from cult-like organisations to traditional and balanced believers and all the way in many directions to other extremes – voters need assurances.

The ACDP is too small

A – The ACDP is as big as you want it to be – one Christian party who was in Government at the time (The Swedish Democratic Party) told us they had existed for 30 years before they got even one person into Parliament – they understood just how difficult it was to get people to have the faith to vote for a small party.  They said the tipping point comes at 5% - once they got to 5% people began to see them as a contender and voted for them.  The ACDP is asking for a chance to prove what we can do – for that we need your help to get that 5%.  With 5% of the vote we will have the public office bearers and the resources that come with that, to show South Africa what kind of a government we will be.

The ACDP is divided

A – The ACDP approaches issues from a Christian perspective – our Christian worldview is however diverse in the sense that the Christian community in South Africa is diverse – so while we have basic truths that we will not compromise, we make room for debate and discussion to ensure that we benefit from the wisdom of many and access a broad range of thinking to help us find the creative solutions necessary – solutions applicable in today’s world and in the specific situations we are facing in our country.  Anyone wanting to make a difference will have to get comfortable with conflict in the sense that it stretches us and humbles us.  We will not always get what we want but we will have given our best arguments to convince people of what we believe is best – at the end of the day, where there is no consensus, the majority will decide and we all move forward together.

The ACDP is exclusive

A – some of the clauses in our constitution have had unintended consequences and large groups of people in South Africa who share a lot in common with us have felt excluded – eg Catholics, Zionist Church and the Jewish Community.  The specific clauses responsible have been identified and at the level of a Federal Council of Provinces meeting, change has been agreed to – this change is expected to be ratified at the ACDP National General Conference this year.  Of course anyone joining the ACDP, will only do so if they subscribe to the values and the constitution of the Party – there is no political party that expects any less.

The ACDP is Judgmental and intolerant

A – In articulating many issues that the ACDP has understood to cut across biblical principles and to threaten the well-being of people living in South Africa, the ACDP has unfortunately given the impression that we are intolerant and judgemental.  As a party we are committed to a shared future for all people living in South Africa and are committed to protecting the rights of all people. Choice and freedom are our own Christian heritage and we, of all people must protect hard won freedoms including freedom of religion, culture and beliefs.

The ACDP voted against the Constitution

A – The ACDP fully supports ‘constitutional democracy’ and will diligently protect the Constitution of SA.  We did however vote against the Constitution in 1996 in protest against clauses detrimental to nation building and we continue to actively oppose abortion on demand, legalised prostitution, easy access to gambling and pornography, and the promotion of a homosexual agenda (we respect the right of people to privacy and to choose – but reject the promotion of a homosexual agenda and other harmful practices in schools and public places).  We have also proposed constitutional changes through Private Members Bills such as the Constitutional Amendment to protect the right to life of an unborn child.

The ACDP cares about moral issues but not the hardships of people

A -  The impression that we are more concerned about moral issues than ‘bread-and-butter’ issues exists – but only because we do not have the tax payers money that the ANC has – nor do we have the support of business that the DA have and therefore the projects we are involved in are not on the same scale – nor do they get the same media attention – so the work the ACDP does on the ground, although substantial, goes largely unnoticed or should I say noticed but not acknowledged as ACDP – just church or community assistance.  In the past the media have only quoted us on moral issues and not the current pressing issues of the day – this is changing.  Of course we are concerned about moral issues which we believe impact radically on everyday issues but...more concerned...no...as concerned...yes! 

The ACDP Leader is autocratic and has been the leader for 20 years – we are afraid he will be the same if he were in government

The ACDP leader has on occasion spoken about stepping down – he is however, at present, the popular leader of the current ACDP membership.  When that changes the ACDP Leader will change as well!  The ACDP is committed to transparent democratic processes, to hearing what people are saying and to being the voice of all the people we represent.  Our challenge will always be - how to do this without compromising Christian values & principles – but it is a challenge we must face.  The person leading the ACDP will always be a reflection of who the majority of people are who are in the ACDP – you can make the difference you want to see!

People don’t want another church

A – Leaders and members of the ACDP have wrestled for some time with the fact that the ACDP is perceived as a ‘Church party’ rather than a ‘serious political party’.  Recognising that this perception restricted our work and growth, we have to a large degree moved away from this imagein the work we do at parliament, in the provincial Legislatures and local councils – where we are respected as politicians adding value and taking responsibility across a broad range of issues and portfolios.

We are now transitioning more fully as a party ensuring that our structures, policy, strategy and even our constitution -  are in line with a new vision to promote growth and to develop the capacity we need to become an efficient and effective party that is ready to govern.

ACDP leaders have not been people of integrity

A - There are those in the party who have on occasion, failed to demonstrate leadership of trust and integrity.  The party is committed to dealing with these situations - firmly, fairly and in line with our constitution, balancing the reputation and work of the party with - compassion for individuals and a recognition that everyone and every situation is redeemable.  The best interests of the people of South Africa will guide our responses.

What does the ACDP want to do in South Africa

A – We want to see a stable and prosperous South Africa – peace on our borders and at home. We are committed to relieving and reducing poverty, minimising unemployment, eradicating inequality, providing trustworthy leaders of integrity and ensuring that crime and corruption is dealt with quickly and effectively. 

The ACDP believes that a Christian work ethic, Christian morals and Christian principles applied in a generous and caring manner, offer Hope for a better future for everyone living in South Africa.

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ACDP welcomes 6% budget increase - says DBE taking too long to deliver

MEDIA RELEASE

Cheryllyn Dudley MP ACDP

7th May 2013

ACDP Member of Parliament, Cheryllyn Dudley, today during the Basic Education Budget in the National Assembly said: “Hon Minister, despite the efforts and the progress I have seen, the people of South Africa are extremely frustrated that it is taking so long to deliver improved quality education to meet the human resource development needs of the country and to end poverty and inequality. With this in mind the African Christian Democratic Party welcomes the R164 billion budget for Basic Education - an increase of almost 6%. 

Government’s mantra of 'do more with less' now becomes 'do more with more' in the case of DBE – no less of a challenge however, as under-spending and lack of delivery has been a serious problem particularly in the area of infrastructure backlogs. 

In the last financial year, the department received R2.3-billion to replace 496 schools and to provide 1 257 schools with water, 878 schools with electricity and 868 schools with sanitation.   Only 12 of 49 mud schools in the Eastern Cape were replaced, only 106 schools received water, 144 received sanitation and 118 received electricity – this resulted in nearly R1.7 billion for infra-structure being re-directed away from basic education – a great shame!

Apart from infrastructure, quality education requires quality teachers and quality textbooks.  Two areas in which the department has failed to deliver!  

The ACDP regards the disruption of learners’ studies by union activities as extremely problematic and weare calling on government to commit fully to ensuring that the teaching profession is held to a higher professional standard.
DBE promises to improve accountability measures to ensure all teachers are in school, on time, regularly, and teaching – seriously begs the question - ‘why have you waited till now?’ This is not exactly a new revelation!

The ACDP has welcomed theNational Education Evaluation and Development Units (NEEDU) 2012 Report on the state of Literacy Teaching and Learning in the Foundation Phase. There are grave concerns about poor levels of reading and it is in the foundation phase where the education battle is won or lost.

We note that problem areas identified include difficulties experienced by teachers and learners regarding language and we support the introduction of English as a compulsory Additional Language in African language schools.  Learners must have a solid grounding to assist them when they move from the Foundation Phase to the Intermediate Phase.

A good grounding in a learner’s Home Language is just as important and we welcome the new policy that will come into effect in 2014 mandating the learning of an African language in all schools.

Provincial Education Departments (PED’s) have been cutting independent school subsidies unilaterally by as much as 40% which is not in line with the present Norms and Standards for School Funding.  These subsidy cuts have resulted in some schools closing down and others, operating under impossible financial constraints. The ACDP is calling for allocations to independent schools to be made by National Treasury and “ring-fenced” at provincial level.

Accreditation of independent schools - a key mandate of Umalusi in terms of its founding Act - remains severely underfunded and independent schools have to pay. A small, low-fee school must pay up to R40 000 for accreditation and High fee schools have to find up to R75 000 for the process.  The ACDP is calling for an increased allocation to deliver on this mandate.  Independent schools are an asset and South Africa should place greater value on their existence and inclusion in delivering accessible and quality education.

The ACDP will support this budget which must succeed in remedying shortcomings and eliminating barriers to quality education if we are to address inequality, poverty and both - chronic under- and unemployment.”
-Ends-
For more information contact Cheryllyn Dudley, MP, 082 890 6520 (SMS best for urgent response)

Media enquiries: Keeno Petersen, Media Liaison Officer, ACDP - Parliament, Tel: 021-403-3307 or Email:kpetersen@parliament.gov.za

ACDP welcomes NEEDU Report 2012 on state of Literacy Teaching & Learning in Foundation Phase

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
3 May 2013


ACDP welcomes NEEDU Report 2012 on state of Literacy Teaching & Learning in Foundation Phase

* it is in foundation phase where education battle is won or lost

* questions why teachers still not in school, on time, teaching

* calls on government to hold teaching profession to professional standards


ACDP Member of Parliament and spokesperson on Education, Cheryllyn Dudley today said that: "the ACDP sees the NEEDU National Report 2012 as a necessary guide to intervention strategies to remedy shortcomings in educational practice and to eliminate barriers to quality education.

The mandate of the National Education Evaluation and Development Unit (NEEDU) is to provide the Department with expert advice, on those factors that inhibit or advance school improvement.

"The ACDP sincerely hopes that these observations and recommendations will result in important breakthroughs.

"The ACDP is particularly pleased that efforts have been focused on the quality of teaching and learning in the Foundation Phase, as concerns about the poor levels of reading among learners, especially those in the first few years of schooling have been mounting and it is in the foundation phase where for many learners, the education battle is won or lost."

The NEEDU report provides evidence of where schools are falling short in teaching young learners to read, as well as evidence of good practice that can be learned from.

Problem areas include difficulties experienced by teachers and learners regarding language issues and a lack of sufficient monitoring of learner reading.

In 2012 English was introduced as a compulsory First Additional Language in all African language speaking schools.  "The ACDP recognises the importance of this and supports efforts to ensure learners have a solid grounding in English to assist them when they move from the Foundation Phase to the Intermediate Phase.

"It is of course, just as important that a good grounding in a learner’s Home Language is prioritised and we welcome the new policy that will come into effect in 2014 mandating the learning of an African language in all schools.

"The ACDP calls on government to commit fully to doing everything possible to ensure that the teaching profession is held to professional standards.

"The departments promises regarding improving accountability measures, across the system, to ensure that all teachers are in school, on time, regularly, and teaching - begs the question ‘why have we waited till now - this is not exactly a new revelation!’

"The people of South Africa are frustrated that it is taking so long to deliver an improved quality of education to meet the human resource development needs of the country and to end poverty and inequality."


For more information contact Cheryllyn Dudley, MP, 082 890 6520 (SMS best for urgent response)

ACDP calls on Public Protector to leave no stone unturned in Gupta investigation

MEDIA RELEASE
Cheryllyn Dudley MP
2 May 2013

• The ACDP does not take issue with SA being a playground for the “rich and famous” if their presence and spending benefits our economy and increases employment opportunities - we take issue with them doing so at the expense of the people of South Africa – Cheryllyn Dudley

ACDP Member of Parliament and Member of the International Relations Portfolio Committee, Cheryllyn Dudley, today voiced concern over the landing of the Gupta family’s private aircraft at a national key point.

“Not only was the landing of the aircraft at the Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria a major breach of national security, it was also an abuse of state resources.

The ACDP calls on government to fully investigate how the recent fiasco - which is reported to have included a ‘blue-light brigade’ escorting guests from Waterkloof to Sun City - was allowed to take place and to hold those responsible accountable.

The ACDP further calls for an urgent investigation by the Public Protector into this matter as relevant Ministers and their departments clearly need to be scrutinized.

Money, we know has the potential to corrupt and Members of Parliament, as representatives of the people will, together with the media and other sectors of society, always have to be vigilant. What we don’t expect is the shockingly blatant and brazen manner in which this sort of disregard for the countries laws, security and public funds has been attempted right under all of our noses, as if those guilty expect to pull it off and indeed feel entitled to do so!

The ACDP calls on the Public Protector to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that those involved in these irregular and legally unauthorized activities - which included the landing of a private aircraft at a ‘national key point’ - are brought to book.

The ACDP notes the media attention and public out-cry over this matter which we welcome in the interests of the people of South Africa. We also acknowledge comments made by Hon Jeremy Cronin and agree with the sentiment he clearly wished to express. The ACDP, however, does not take issue with South Africa being a ‘playground’ for the ‘rich and famous’ if their presence and spending benefits our economy and increases employment opportunities – we take issue with them doing so at the expense of the people of South Africa.”