The Department of Environmental Affairs and Department of Water Affairs received appropriations by Parliament, and there was a Proclamation that gave a Vote to each of the Departments. The Portfolio Committee, from 2009 to date is dealing with two departments, Department of Water Affairs and Department of Environmental Affairs, under one Ministry. To effectively undertake its work during the transitional period, the Portfolio Committee undertook joint meetings with the Portfolio Committee on Tourism, as well as the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to conclude and jointly draft reports relating to the strategic plan and budget vote of respective departments for the 2008/09 financial years.