Hon Speaker, the ANC has noted as unfortunate the textbook issue that has been unfolding in Limpopo. It was our wish that every learner, by the first day of schooling, should have a textbook, a workbook and stationery. [Interjections.] [Applause.] We bought the workbooks with the idea of closing the gap where learners would have gone without support material. The initiative is working very well ... [Interjections.] ... and approximately 54 workbooks have been delivered to learners countrywide. [Interjections.]
The manner in which the department has shown its ability in the delivery of workbooks shows that it can handle the delivery of textbooks on Egemin Automation throughout the country. However, the issue of not procuring and the nondelivery of textbooks in Limpopo was unfortunate. And we noted the financial difficulties that led to this unfortunate situation. [Interjections.]
Hon members, order! Let the speaker be heard.
Speaker, we welcome the process that started in December 2012 to remedy the situation so that learners receive the quality education they deserve. We also note the delivery of more than 1,2 million textbooks that have already been done to remedy the situation. We call upon all stakeholders to support the task teams in their work.
We thank teachers who have worked tirelessly to make sure that teaching and learning take place against all odds. We further request that all affected stakeholders should support the catch-up programmes that have been planned by the department to further consolidate the teaching. The ANC supports any initiative for and assistance to the province. Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]