Hon Deputy Chair, in his 2011 state of the nation address, the President mentioned tourism as one of the major drivers of job creation. Given this, we had to assess the readiness of all stakeholders in this industry, which is mainly driven by the private sector. Among other things, the Portfolio Committee on Tourism convened a summit and invited major stakeholders in the industry: from the private sector, the public sector, academic institutions, relevant state departments, civic organisations and entrepreneurs from the disadvantaged communities, to discuss the performance of the sector and to create a platform that would enhance understanding of relationships in the industry.
The committee thus presents its recommendations that are intended to better support promotion of the sector in order to achieve an inclusive and accelerated growth in jobs and sustainable livelihoods.
This oversight was quite a revelation for all stakeholders. And as we closed and departed, every stakeholder was full of vim, verve and vigour. The industry was happy that it met, and it was revived and ready for a bright future.
For this, we sincerely thank the chairpersons of the following portfolio committees that participated in the summit: Sport and Recreation, Arts and Culture, Transport, and Home Affairs. The cherry on top was the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, who really set the tone for a very successful summit.
We humbly submit the report to this august House. I thank you. [Applause.]