Old Assembly Chamber, 1st July 2009

Honourable Chairperson,

I'd like to begin this debate by congratulating Bafana Bafana on an outstanding display in the recent Confederations Cup and the Springboks for their victory over the British and Irish Lions. Well done.

The passion for sport that South Africans have should be utilised, as sport has so much more to offer than just entertainment. The potential impact that sports can have on our social and economic landscape is immense.

South Africa is plagued by many social problems, especially amongst our youth who need an outlet for their energy and creative spirits. It should be obvious that sport can play an important role in this regard and keep our youth occupied and away from crime and other illegal activities but this is clearly not happening. The facilities and opportunities to engage in sporting activities are very limited in our rural areas and townships. The Department should pay more attention to this area and allocate additional funding for the construction of various sporting facilities and the employment of skilled coaches who will be able to teach these youngsters different sports.

Transformation in sports is very important. This process should start at the grassroots level and this is another reason why there must be increased investment in grassroots sports as well as sports at school and club level. This is where the sports stars of tomorrow learn and are groomed.

The 2010 World Cup is the biggest sporting event that this country, and the African continent, has ever hosted. South Africans are eager for it to begin so that we can showcase our country and host the most colourful and successful event yet. The fact that we have just successfully hosted the Confederations Cup and the British and Irish Lions tour as well as the Indian Premier League within the space of a few weeks puts us in good stead for next year's event and proves that we are capable hosts. However there are areas that we need to improve upon and strengthen before the World Cup begins.

This event must not be seem as merely a sporting spectacle as its success has financial and social implication for the whole country and the benefits that could accrue are great. There must therefore be a co-ordinated team effort between various government departments, businesses as well as the general South African public. It's in all our best interests to successfully host this tournament and ensure that its leaves a sustainable and positive legacy.

The IFP supports this budget vote.

I thank you.

Contact: Eric Lucas, 082 557 2481.