SPEECH BY MR. ELLIS THEMBA VEZI - MP
 

The aim of the Department is to provide an integrated, sustainable, reliable and safe transport system through implementation of transport policies and strategies.

In supporting this budget of R12.8 Billion, which is 19% more than the previous budget, the IFP wishes to raise what we consider to be very serious concerns. There were more that 12 000 road deaths in 2005 - 40% of which were pedestrians. Road deaths cost SA around R40 Billion per annum. It is estimated that up to 50% of drivers licences are fake. The estimates are that daily we have 38 deaths, 21 disabling injuries and 125 serious injuries. Most of these are caused by faults committed by drivers and unroadworthy vehicles. It is estimated that South Africans pay R43 Billion per year for Road use, but only R13 Billion of that goes to road maintenance and repair.  We spend about R23 Billion every year to try and address backlogs.

Another major concern to the IFP is the fact that after almost ten years the Taxi Recap. programme remains unresolved, resulting in instability, violence and job losses in some cases. One of the reasons for the Budget increase in the Establishment of Taxi Recap. Project office - why only now? Someone must have put the cart before the horse here.

Another major concern to the IFP is the Road Accident Fund. Capping up of compensation is indeed a short term solution. Unless there is a reduction of accidents on roads which lead to death and permanent injuries, the Financial problems of the Road Accident Fund will remain unresolved. The question of proper management of this Fund is very, very important. If this is not addressed as a matter of urgency, this Fund will remain a bottomless pit for many years to come.

As usual I am not here to pose as an Armchair. Having served as a Chairman of the Pietermaritzburg Transportation Board I am aware that the present Minister inherited some unfortunate problems.

It is unfortunate that in some Rural areas, there are no access roads to community facilities like schools and pension paypoints.

Some Officials who are able and willing to assist have their banks tied as they have to go through Forums. Some members of these forums do not attend meetings where such matters are supposed to be addressed.

In conclusion, the IFP supports the Budget.

ENDS

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Mr. Ellis T. Vezi: 076 287 8754
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848