The Social Assistance Amendment Bill before us today consists of half a page - however, notwithstanding its size; this Bill will impact on many of our most deserving citizens. 

In the first instance, and very importantly so, the Bill gives effect to the right of equality enshrined in our Constitution by removing discrimination against men on grounds of gender in the qualifying age for social assistance. 

This must be welcomed as it finally removes one of the last forms of statutory gender discrimination still existing in South Africa. 

The IFP would have liked to have this amendment implemented immediately, however accepts that the phasing in of the age equalisation over a period of time must be deemed a prudent approach as it allows the funding implications to be more easily managed over a 3-year MTEF period. 

With staggering increases in transportation and basic food prices, any cash injection into poor households must be welcomed and as such, this house should seriously consider re-looking at the issue of the Basic Income Grant. 

The IFP welcomes the creation of an independent Appeal's Tribunal because it creates an alternative to the courts to adjudicate disputes. 

This, we feel will alleviate the pressure on the courts and avoid the build-up of massive backlogs currently experienced. 

We are however concerned that, although the budgetary implications of creating Provincial Appeals' Offices are obvious, that the fully-fledged Tribunals only come into effect from April 2016. This raises the question as to whether the interim arrangements would be able to effectively deal with the current backlog of 45000 cases. 

We suggest that Parliament maintains careful oversight of this process and ensures that all deadlines regarding the full implementation of deadlines are observed. 

The past accumulation of massive backlogs remains a matter of great concern.

How long can we expect an aged person to wait for a decision as to their eligibility to qualify for social assistance? 

Fully fledged tribunals are met the accumulation of these massive backlogs remain a matter of concern.   

The IFP supports the Bill. 
 

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Ms Inka Mars MP: 083 303 6037