Hon Deputy Speaker, it has been a pleasure for me to serve on this committee, whose members have, despite minor differences, been largely of one mind in dealing with the challenges that are associated with the protection and conservation of our environment. The Bill before us seeks to further such protection and conservation and the IFP wholly supports this Bill.
The weather Bill and its amendments quite aptly deal with and update offences committed in terms of the principal Act and establish custodianship of the SA Air Quality Information System, and the national Air Quality Monitoring Network. The amendments to the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act implement further steps to ensure that our coastal zones remain productive, and their ecosystems stable.
We agree that their successful management will require a holistic approach. A multisector approach to this end is the right way to go, and concerted efforts to create government and business partnerships are essential in this regard. The tightening up of clauses dealing with the provisions for offences and penalties is also very necessary and most welcome.
In the Air Quality Amendment Bill, we particularly welcome the removal of discretionary power held by the Minister in terms of section 13 thereof and look forward to the establishment of the national Air Quality Advisory Committee. This particular amendment is a good example of committee and public interaction, and is evidence to us that there is a healthy and functioning portfolio committee.
Regarding the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Amendment Bill, there was a split function between the Department of Water and Environmental Affairs and the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries on matters relating to marine life. However, we trust that the departments remain of one mind regarding the protection our marine environment and that this split function will not be used as an excuse for any delays in regard to the mandate associated therewith.
According to a recent study conducted by the United Nations, over 75% of the world's fisheries are fully exploited, over-exploited or significantly depleted. Some species have already been fished to commercial extinction, while many more are on the verge. Sub-Saharan Africa is now the only region on earth where per capita fish consumption is actually falling, partly because foreign fishing fleets have removed so much fish. Our marine life and its habitat require the utmost protection.
In this regard, we also support all calls for a moratorium on applications for bulk extraction of minerals on the seabed until sensitive offshore marine ecosystems along our coastline are adequately protected, as habitat destruction will lead only to a greater depletion of the already depleted marine fish reserves.
In conclusion, the IFP supports these Bills. We support a healthy environment. We support a bounteous land for future generations and will do everything within our power to ensure that this occurs. I thank you. [Applause.] [Interjections.]
SEKELA SOMLOMO: Lungu elihloniphekileyo, Zikalala, kudala ixesha lakho liphelile, musa ukundixhaphaza. [Kwahlekwa.] [The DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon member, Zikalala, your time expired a long time ago; don't abuse me. [Laughter.]]