Speaker, the DA reiterates its call today for a full independent inquiry into all neonatal wards across the country after recent news of 29 babies deaths at the Cecilia Makiwane hospital in East London. The DA extends its condolences to the parents of these babies that died so tragically. It has been reported that 29 babies died in a three-week period from late December 2010 to mid January 2011, 13 due to bacterial infections. These deaths were entirely avoidable if the hospital had had proper hygiene procedures in place.
It seems nothing had been learnt from the tragic deaths at Vrede two and half years ago. Vrede forms part of the same hospital complex whose CEO, Vuyo Musani, is an ex ANC councillor, and is - we believe - unqualified for the position he holds as CEO of the hospital. It has been reported to the DA that the neonatal ward at Cecilia Makiwane has run out of basic supplies such as antiseptic soap, gloves and hands-free spray containers used to fight killer infections.
Despite these latest tragic incidents, Mr Musani's contract has again been extended - what a shame - this time, until the end of June this year. He also apparently received a performance bonus of R19 000. The DA has written to the Minister of Health and the MEC for Health in the Eastern Cape, calling for a copy of Mr Musani's performance contract. Thank you, Chairperson. [Time expired.] [Applause.]