Hon House Chair, allow me to agree that the country is facing serious challenges particularly in terms of crime. South Africa is becoming one of the most violent countries in the world. But I think I must also agree that we need to take responsibility as well. Let me tell you why. The statistics that we have heard had proven without any
doubt that one of the main contributing factors to crime in South Africa is alcohol.
My question goes to both the FF Plus and the DA. Will you assist us in ensuring that every tavern, every shebeen in every township particularly in the Western Cape will close at six o'clock everyday? I am telling you now, three quarter of your crime will be down. You are not going to be willing to do that. Let me tell you why. This is because you have the interest of a certain group like the SA Brewery. This is an issue of commercialisation, not the lives of the poorest of the poor. [Interjections.] Let us be honest about it because that is what the statistics is saying. The issue of drinking alcohol is taking place during the early hours of the morning or late hours of the night. The next issue has to do with firearms, which you are also promoting.
So, are you willing to address that and come together as a united South Africa? Let us find common ground and solve those problems because there are indeed serious problems out there.
Now, let us talk about the socioeconomic conditions our people are living in. If you have heard what SAPS has said - if you take issues of areas like Delft, Crossroads and Blikkiesdorp, they have been caused by some of us here; the police cannot even gain access to those areas because there are no roads. There is no electricity. Now, tell me how are the police able to go there and conduct their affairs and ensure that they protect the people. Let us be honest about these things. Now gangsterism continues in those areas.
Let me come back to the issue of alcohol. Remember, in this country our people used to be paid with alcohol many years ago. They have acquired what we call alcohol fetal syndrome. Will you be willing to tell all these farmers to make a contribution to a fund because the De3partment of Social Development does not have the funds to deal with those things? Are you willing to do that so that you can meet us halfway in order for us to deal with the issues of alcoholism? [Applause.] You are not willing to do that. So, let us take collective responsibility for what is going on in the country.
Let me come to the issue of the legal system in the country. Yes, we believe as the NFP, there is too many privileges afforded to the criminals in South Africa particularly with your Legal Aid because you commit a crime, Legal Aid is there to provide the services with the very same money people have paid as taxpayer with unscrupulous lawyers all only interested in money, not according to the expenditure. So, let us work together in finding a common goal. [Interjections ]Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]