The MEC, in his opening remarks, mentioned that the district had a huge challenge in respect of the demarcation processes. Of concern was the role played by the unions in the province - this needed to be addressed since ultimately, it was the Department who employed and not the unions. Where there were issues of contention, the Department was committed to investigate these and to conduct proper reporting. Of concern was that the majority union in the District did not recognise the appointed District Director. A major problem facing the Department was the increased union activism at schools which was historical and much politicised. It was important that SGBs and communities started to become more involved in the education of learners, insisting on putting teaching first.