Speaker, thank you, Mr President, for your answer. Mr President, whilst financial accountability is important, I think equally important is optimal service delivery, and these two aspects are not mutually exclusive.
We know that directors-general signed contracts with the President, and provincial heads of departments signed contracts with the Premiers. Contained in the Public Finance Management Act is a set of responsibilities of accounting officers. For example, in terms of section 38 an accounting officer must take effective and appropriate steps to collect all money due to the department, etc.
We also find in section 86 offences, penalties and criminal proceedings that can be instituted against heads of departments or directors-general who transgress the law. Up to now we know there have been instances where directors-general and provincial heads of departments have transgressed the Public Finance Management Act, but we have yet to institute criminal proceedings against any of these officials.
Isn't it about time that we draw a line in the sand and use the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act and make sure that criminal proceedings are instituted against these officials who wilfully and grossly negligently transgress the laws? I thank you. [Applause.]