Hon Chairperson, South Africa's vast wealth of minerals and diamonds is a boon too often repeated amongst other countries of the world. As a result thereof our economy is greatly bolstered by a highly developed mining industry with all the concomitant socioeconomic spin-offs.
We must, therefore, do everything within our power to explore this advantage and maximise its potential benefits. We have considerable experience of mining at great depth, and let us not forget that we played a significant role in the rescue of the 700 miners trapped underground in Chile.
The department has handled its budget conscientiously, acknowledging that there has been a rollover of R9,5 million. This amount is within the 5% limit allowed. We must accept that the department has planned well. The IFP feels that there are, however, areas at which we must take a closer look in order to derive the full benefit from our natural resources.
With regard to beneficiation, we have been discussing this subject for a while and I believe that we have not come to a common understanding thereof. Yes, the mining houses have beneficiated in the initial stages. We are, however, also calling for more attention to be paid to beneficiation for finished products, as this will make a way to gain the full benefits of the raw materials. I recognise that this constitutes a major step forward. However, it is a step which must be taken. So, why not take it sooner rather than later?
When it comes to mine health and safety, the workers' safety remains a paramount concern in this industry, as there are still far too many accidents and fatalities that occur, which could have been avoided if the necessary safety equipment and procedures had been in place. Mining inspectors are very necessary and have been doing a great job thus far, but they are becoming an endangered species, as they are continually being lured into the private sector by higher salary offers. This is a challenge that requires urgently to be addressed, as the work done by the inspectors contributes greatly to overall safety and to a reduction in the deaths, ill health and serious injuries that currently plague the industry.
Illegal mining is proving to be most difficult to contain. It is not only illegal, but also extremely dangerous for those involved in such practices. The market for those illegal products must be thoroughly investigated by the SA Police Service, and the buyers thereof exposed and prosecuted to the fullest extent of our law.
On the Mining Qualifications Authority, the IFP believes that this is a good programme and therefore supports its promotion, as it plays an important role in the development and promotion of much needed skills.
I have raised the subject of small-scale mining on many occasions. Small- scale mining can and does play an important role in uplifting communities and job creation. The small-scale mining sector is faced with many challenges, such as finance and skills. It is common knowledge that without a bankable document the finance houses will never entertain any request for financial assistance. Therefore, we are faced with the challenge of looking at changing the way in which finance is granted and risk assessed - that is if we are serious about development of this sector.
It is encouraging, Minister, to have, as you say, your children here. That is promising.
Fronting is a serious issue, especially when it comes to historically disadvantaged South Africans. This is the only way in which they can be involved in the industry. It is, indeed, very sad. In most cases the person who is fronting ends up deprived of his or her only assets and becomes, if very lucky, a minority shareholder.
Regarding the Karoo gas project, I am hoping that the department is in a position to share some additional information about this project. All I know about it is what is available in the newspapers. The portfolio committee must be better informed.
In conclusion, the IFP believes that everything in our power must be done to rehabilitate ownerless and derelict mines, as these can be of great socioeconomic benefit to our country and people. The acid mine drainage problem must also be prioritised and dealt with as a matter of the utmost urgency, before it causes irreparable harm to the environment.
The IFP hopes that we can all work towards a South Africa in which reduced carbon emissions and sustainable, green environmental policy are the order of the day. Our future generations deserve nothing less.
The IFP supports the Budget Vote. I thank you. [Applause.]