Thank you, Chairperson. During the budget we have devised programmes of expenditure that we hope will bring delivery in the various portfolios, which will bring us closer to poverty alleviation and develop South Africa.
In view of the Joint Budget Committee's report, the MF is confident that we are well on our way to making this delivery a reality, especially when noting that in comparison to last year's first quarter there is an increased aggregate expenditure this year.
The MF is confident that departments have acknowledged their challenges in the last year's spending trends and are working hard to alter this. At the end of the day we have allocated funds that need to be filtered to the necessary role-players if we are to have effective and efficient delivery and results. The JBC plays a vital role in keeping us informed of the loopholes and the progress we have made to date. The MF supports the report and applauds all departments.
Chairperson, if I can just take half a second to say, this is Women's Month and today I have participated in six debates at this podium. The day when I am not here, and none of you should miss me, then this podium will miss me. I thank you. [Applause.]