Hon Chairperson, hon Minister, colleagues, the IFP supports clauses 1 and 3 of the Bill, which allow the Minister to establish the council. We are aware that some structures may provide for contestation of powers and it is for this reason that we wish to give the Minister space to provide for better and quality education.
We support the setting of minimum norms and standards. We also support random searches, seizures and testing. Our real bone of contention with the Bill is part 4 of clause 8, which deals with the functions and responsibilities of principals of public schools. Our problem lies with the prohibition on the principal giving evidence against the Minister and MEC or head of department, where they are cited as parties to a case.
We have sought legal opinion on this provision and, after studying this legal opinion, the IFP, unfortunately is compelled to throw the baby out with the bath water. Therefore, we cannot support the Bill. [Applause.]