IFP applauds agencies for exposing and eliminating fraud & corruption

MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY:
MS INKA MARS MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

January 24, 2007

Ms Inka Mars, IFP spokesperson for Social Development, today said:

"The IFP is pleased about the reports of 43 000 cases of social grant fraud uncovered throughout the country by the Special Investigating Unit. We applaud the efforts of Willie Hofmeyr, the Special Investigating Unit and any other agency committed to uncovering and eliminating fraud and corruption within Government departments."

Ms Mars went on to say that although 43 000 cases of fraud had been uncovered, the IFP is dismayed to learn that only 43 of the 2 324 cases in Mpumalanga had resulted in prosecutions. She said: "The uncovering of these fraudulent acts by public servants is sending a clear message to all, that Government is no longer tolerating these acts, but the IFP would like to see more cases going to court, and to bring more culprits to book."

Ms Mars concluded by saying: "The efforts of the Special Investigating Unit since 2005 are commendable, and the IFP wishes them more success in the months to come."

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Ms Inka Mars MP: 083 303 6037
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848