Deputy Speaker, the Bill before us today seeks to consider the future survival of indigenous languages. Over the years, we have consistently called for steps to be taken to stem the looming extinction of indigenous languages.
Dealing with languages is a very sensitive issue because languages are not just means of communicating one's thoughts and ideas but are also tools for forging friendships, cultural ties and economic relationships. Languages are the fundamental expression of our distinctive identities, cultural values and knowledge systems.
It was therefore heartwarming to observe us, the committee, working together as a team to tackle the challenges plaguing our indigenous languages. As my colleague, the hon Van den Berg of the DA, correctly indicated here before me, this was not a walk in the park. There was a clause on which we, the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture, did not see eye to eye during our deliberations. However, the committee chairperson, Ms Sunduza, worked very hard to ensure that we reached consensus. We commend you, madam, for your sterling leadership on this issue. [Applause.]
We would also like to take this opportunity to commend the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture for its hard work, commitment and maturity in ensuring that this Bill came to fruition without unwarranted delays. The UDM supports the Bill.