I'll mind my time.
The recent Western Cape High Court decision in the matter of Kumba v ICT also confirms the inability of the department to regulate the mining licence process justly and correctly.
I conclude by saying that the mining lekgotla next month, to be attended by unions, government and business to discuss risks in the mining industry, and its competitiveness, social pressures and growth opportunities, is an ideal opportunity to resolve some of these issues.
Interaction must lead to the tabling in Parliament of the long overdue amendments to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, thereby doing away with the dangerous impression that the department is tabling the amendments subject to the whims of the next ANC congress in Mangaung. We need to keep the South African mining sector globally competitive. I thank you, Mr Chair. [Applause.]