Chairperson, the problems associated with the SA Police Service are too numerous to mention. Some of the most chronic shortages are in the detective services, crime prevention, forensic science laboratories and criminal record centres. There is simply no way crime will be under control while this situation is allowed to continue.
It is estimated that some 150 women and children are raped and 51 people murdered every day in South Africa. As a result of this, the public is losing faith in the police to protect them. A large number of South Africans fear using public transport or letting their children play in public open spaces or allowing their children to walk to school.
The government's primary duty is to protect its citizens from harm. The Minister and his department have the power to prevent the ever violent and escalating crime. The hon Minister of Safety and Security says that crime victims should rather emigrate but his wife, the Minister of Home Affairs, cannot process the necessary passports. Until crime is brought down to acceptable levels and there is the certainty that criminals will be caught and punished, the DA cannot support this Budget Vote. [Applause.]