Mr Chair, hon Minister, as part of its contribution to the national project of reconstruction, growth and development, the Department of Public Works has engaged the entire industry in a structured process of consultation which resulted in the launch of the White Paper, in order to create an enabling environment for reconstruction, growth and development in the construction industry.
This White Paper is like a mirror that reflects the soul of the Department of Public Works. It identifies the ideals and aspirations of the nation. The White Paper articulates the building values of the construction industry which impact directly on the communities and the public at large. The construction industry's improved efficiency and effectiveness will enhance quality, productivity, health, safety, environmental outcomes, and value for money for our country.
The Construction Industry Development Board Bill seeks to establish a statutory authority to be the specialist agency to co-ordinate the national endeavour through promoting our vision as set out in the White Paper. Owing to the nature of duties the board will have to discharge as part of Government's blueprint, we have given the board a justic personality as it will have an indispensable role in the South African economy in providing the physical infrastructure which is fundamental to the country's development. This Bill also regulates general powers of the board, such as the establishment of committees to assist the board in the performance of its functions. This Bill requires that a balance must be achieved in the appointment of members of the board with regard to the field of expertise required, and the board should reflect the race, gender and geographical composition of our country. It is an explicit requirement of this Bill that a member of the board may not be a political office bearer and must be a South African citizen.
The board is required, within a reasonable period of time, to introduce a best practice project assessment scheme, that is linked to the register of projects, and which will promote best practice client performance within the public and private sectors.
The Construction Industry Development Board must establish appropriate and uniform best practice standards and guidelines that promote improved industry stability; performance-improved industry and efficiency; and national and economic objectives, including growth of the emerging sector, labour absorption and skills training. The board must also promote uniform application of policy with regard to the construction industry throughout all spheres of government.
The Bill also requires that only the contractors and subcontractors who are registered with the Construction Industry Development Board in an appropriate category of registration will be permitted to practice in public-sector construction contracts. The establishment of a register of contractors and subcontractors must not constitute a barrier to access by emerging sectors. The register of contractors will categorise contractors in a manner that facilitates public-sector procurement and promotes contractor development as a primary. The register of contractors must reduce the risk relating to the selection of contractors, serve to promote minimum and best practice standards, regulate the behaviour and actions of contractors in relation to procurement and business practices, and reduce tendering costs and the administrative burden associated with awarding contracts. Lastly, the register must promote the development of emerging contractors by establishing their track records. This will mean the end of fly-by-night contractors. [Applause.]