My apologies, Chairperson. Chairperson, let me state from the outset that the IFP supports this Budget Vote, but we also support self-help and self-reliance. We assert that our people should not remain dependent on grants alone. We need a robust economy, in which everyone can participate, earn a living and enjoy meaningful lives.
The IFP also remains gravely concerned about the plight of NGOs such as Rape Crisis and Tears. These organisations are vital partners in our fight on behalf of the most vulnerable sectors of our society. We cannot fight this fight without them. However, the intended completion of the review of the funding model of NGOs by 2017 leaves us deeply concerned for those organisations that are already in crisis.
Moreover, the Children's Act, Act No 38 of 2010, continues to fail our orphans. The department's failure to comply with this Act by timeously processing paperwork to facilitate adoptions is grossly unacceptable. It has a detrimental effect on the lives of our orphans and, indeed, adoption rates have halved since 2009. Interim measures are urgently needed to compel the improvement of systems and processes within this department.
We are also concerned by allegations that Sassa has irregularly used millions of taxpayers' money and we are eagerly awaiting the Public Protector's report. The imminence of the 2016 elections also gives us cause for concern that this department could be used as a political tool by the ruling party. Allegations that food parcel distribution is linked to by- elections must be taken seriously.
Despite these concerns, the IFP will support this budget Vote. Thank you.