Chairperson, when this Bill was discussed in the House, the IFP was strongly opposed to the structure as it was adopted, because it meant that a multibillion rand industry would work through the Sapra, and it had a structure that lacked transparency and accountability. It also meant there was merely a CEO who was accountable to the Minister in a public entity.
Since then, the NCOP introduced this amendment, which has introduced a further structure between the CEO and the Minister. It has resulted in the body not being a full public entity, and it has created transparency and accountability. It is an excellent amendment.
We commend those people who introduced it; it shows the value of having the NCOP as a check on what we do. We are very happy to support this Bill now that the structure is more transparent and accountable. It is going to be a much better body which will regulate our medicines and we are all going to be safer as a result.
So, the IFP would particularly like to put on record that we support the changes and also feel that the changes to the Ethics Committee and the Appeal Committee have been very constructive. Thank you.
Chairperson, I move:
That the Bill, as amended, be passed.
Motion agreed to.
Bill, as amended, accordingly passed.