Ms V Siwela (ANC) agreed that the matter of the SMS had nothing to do with the Committee, and it should proceed with its work.
The Chairperson welcomed Members to the virtual meeting and asked them to observe a moment of silence in memory of Hillary Gardee, daughter of the former EFF parliamentarian.
The Chairperson thanked the Department for its well-informed responses, providing clarity for Members on the delay of the merger.