Hon Speaker, the Minister of Social Development, the hon Bathabile Dlamini, recently launched an anti-alcohol campaign with the theme: "Towards an alcohol and drug abuse free South Africa - take a stand." The PAC applauds her courageous move.
The following are scary but sobering facts. South Africa has the world's highest prevalence of foetal alcohol syndrome disorder, or mother-to-child alcohol transmission. Over 30% of our population have alcohol problems. Alcohol affects 17,5 million South Africans. South Africa has 182 000 illegal shebeens.
On drug abuse, drug consumption in South Africa is twice the world norm. Fifteen per cent of South African citizens have a drug problem. Sixty per cent of crimes nationally are related to substance abuse. In the Western Cape the figure is closer to 80%.
We in the PAC stand for the re-establishment of the SA Narcotics Bureau, which was disbanded in 2004. Since its disbandment, drug-related crimes have increased by 30%. We do not subscribe to the myth that alcohol production, distribution and advertising create jobs. Yes, alcohol creates jobs - for the undertakers, panel beaters and marriage counsellors!
Let me conclude by quoting Prof Twerski:
... the source of addiction is spiritual deficiency. ... spirituality is the cornerstone of our recovery.
I thank you. [Applause.]