Madam Speaker, the ACDP wishes to highlight certain aspects of the Adjustments Appropriation Bill. As pointed out by speakers, we again have a special adjustment of R2,5 billion for the RAF. It seems the RAF continually needs additional adjustments, and this is an issue of serious concern.
Secondly, in view of the escalating building costs, we support the R1,4 billion adjustment to the 2010 Fifa World Cup stadium development, as well as the R600 million for unforeseen expenditure of the last mile access network.
As far as projected underspending is concerned, we note that there is a net reduction in the Department of Defence's 2008-09 baseline in the amount of R1,128 billion. This is explained mainly due to delays in the delivery of strategic defence equipment, and R1,9 billion will be added back in the next financial year. However, the question arises: What impact will our weakening currency have on payments due when this equipment is delivered? Will we have to pay more or will we be tied into a contract that will protect us in that regard?
In general, the ACDP supports the additional allocations for the school nutritional programme, the Occupational Specific Dispensation for nurses, and particularly the R50 million for new vaccines to combat infant and child mortality.
To conclude, I just want to thank Mr Nene for taking the fall the other morning as I would have been in that seat. So, thank you for your good work and for taking the fall for the ACDP. Thank you.