SPEECH BY MS CN ZIKALALA
 

05 June 2007  

Chairperson,

The aim of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism is to lead the sustainable development of South Africa's environment and tourism for a better life for all. I am therefore pleased to note that this important department has once again received an increase to it allocation. This should assist the department in fulfilling its objectives and in reaching its aims.
The department will receive almost R2.6 billion in 2007/08.

The growth of the tourism industry, together with the ever increasing number of visitors to our beautiful country, is truly remarkable and the department, as well as the relevant role players, deserve congratulations for their fine work in making South Africa an increasingly popular destination. This remarkable growth is evident by the fact that more than 6 million people visited South Africa during the first nine months of last year. This is 14 percent more than the same period in 2005. It was also reported that the tourism industry now generates more foreign exchange than gold. I do believe that this is only the beginning and that the industry will continue to grow, especially with the 2010 FIFA World Cup looming.

A very unfortunate, yet significant, feature of this booming industry is that the benefits that have accrued are not yet enjoyed by all South Africans. Black South Africans are still not consistently participating at the level that they should be, such as owners or directors of businesses in this industry. This point was made clear by the honourable Minister earlier this year at the opening of the Tourism Black Economic Empowerment Charter Council Conference. The pace of transformation and the participation of black people at all levels, within this growing industry, have not progressed at the necessary pace. This has to be addressed and corrected.

The potential benefits that the soccer World Cup holds for the tourism industry, and for South Africa, are enormous. This prestigious event could elevate the tourism industry in this country to a whole new level, such is its magnitude and popularity. Our country will be under the world's focus as every soccer fan, and there are many millions of us around the world, will be fixated to their television screens or in the stadiums supporting their respective teams for the duration of this event. It is therefore imperative that all role-players and stakeholders in this industry are well prepared to deal with the influx of visitors who are expected to descend on our shores.

We must show them true African hospitality. This is an opportunity that we must maximise in order to create sustainable employment and growth that will continue long after the World Cup is over.

Chairperson, climate change is an issue that affects us all and therefore needs to be high up on the global agenda in terms of importance and priority. A global solution is needed to climate change. International climate change negotiations, such as the Kyoto Protocol which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, have not always achieved the level of success or support that was envisaged. This is, to some extent, understandable as the various countries around the globe have different priorities and goals. Although, as I mentioned earlier, a global solution is needed, the impacts of climate change are felt both nationally and locally, and should therefore also be dealt with and managed at these respective levels. This department can make a significant contribution to lessening the impact of climate change on our country.

It would be foolish of us to think that we can prevent climate change, as we cannot, but we can make a significant contribution to lessen its impact and to adapt to its consequences. It is in these areas where the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism can make the biggest difference, and play a leading role, and I must commend the Minister for his efforts in trying to raise awareness on this important issue. The creation of awareness and education on climate change are very important, and our efforts in this regard must be increased. Many people have heard of the term 'climate change', but now they also need to be aware of its devastating effects and the fact that it is a reality which is upon us. The public should also be educated about the individual contributions that they can make to the fight against climate change. There is so much about this topic that we are still learning, and I do believe that this department must be pro active in its actions and play a leading role in researching and discovering ways and means of dealing with and adapting to climate change, we must not rely solely on international guidance and support.

I find it somewhat ironic that although the developed and industrialized countries have been, and continue to be, the biggest emitters of the greenhouse gasses which have contributed to global warming and climate change, it has been reported that the developing countries will be first to start feeling its effects. Developing countries, including South Africa, are also in the delicate position of having to find a working and balanced relationship between our economic and social development, and the sustainability and protection of the environment. I do, however, believe that we can find a balanced relationship that will not compromise our development, and also not put excessive strain on our environment. We must strive for sustainable development.

The economic and social contributions of this department have increased over the years, and will continue to do so in the future. There are many significant challenges and obstacle that have to be overcome, such as climate change and black economic empowerment in the tourism sector, but there have also been many successes, most notably the growth of the tourism industry. This department has great potential and I do believe that it will continue to grow and eventually be afforded the recognition that it deserves.

I would like to conclude by stating that we can overcome the many challenges and obstacles that we are faced with, and that we, in the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee, through our oversight and monitoring work, can be an important part in the success of this department and the related industries. I would also like to congratulate the various role-players and stakeholders for the many successes that have been achieved as well as encourage them to work hard at overcoming the challenges.

The IFP supports this budget vote.

I thank you.