The DA remains intimidated. [Laughter.]
We applaud the foresight illustrated by the Minister, because transformation is not only about numbers. We must not simply parachute women into senior management positions. Attitudes, policies and perceptions need to be changed from the grass roots up, so that this Bill benefits all South African women, not just the elite.
The focus on the education and health sectors is crucial. President Zuma alluded to the fact that education is a ladder out of poverty, and the MF agrees. The MF welcomes the emphasis placed on the high dropout rate of teenage mothers and their re-entry into the education fraternity. I am reminded here of the old saying, "If you educate a woman, you educate a nation."
The additional focus on women's health is crucial. However, we register a concern about the phrase in clause 5(1), "within its available resources". What is meant by "available resources"? Does this mean that if a health facility in a rural area does not have the available resources, it is not incumbent upon them to obey this law? We request that amendments be made to make it mandatory, while simultaneously synchronising all levels of government to ensure that we develop and implement a model for delivering women's health in rural areas.
We also welcome the inclusion of public education on gender-based violence. Not a single day passes without news of rapes and other crimes against women. We must identify clear strategies that are relevant to communities, so that we can end the scourge of violence.
The focus placed on the economic empowerment of women with disabilities is commendable. However, right here in the Western Cape the DA-led government offers the Dial-a-Ride service. The waiting list to access this service is two years. Is this the constitutionality and feasibility that you came here and talked about today? Why does the DA selectively choose to undermine legislation promulgated at national level? The answer is very simple. What a sad story! They have no empathy to address the concerns of the suffering masses.
The MF requests that it be made compulsory for all such bodies, public and private, including the DA, to submit their plans and measures to the Ministry. The phrase, "may ... require", is inappropriate and the MF calls for it to be mandatory.