Chairperson, the role of the Department of Arts and Culture is often underestimated in the broader context of government activities. It is, therefore, necessary for the department to aim for and achieve its objective of developing and preserving South African arts and culture to ensure social cohesion and nation-building.
In line with the objectives of the New Growth Path, the department must implement strategies that will allow the department's projects to be a catalyst for job creation. It is also important that the department addresses its own very high vacancy rate of 26,8% and a comprehensive recruitment plan must be adopted and implemented.
The IFP wishes to compliment the department on its community library services and conditional grant initiatives. We want, however, to encourage the department to ensure that the guidelines for the allocation and monitoring of the project are finalised and made public as soon as possible.
The department will find it difficult to achieve its overall aims if it continues to fail to meet its targets. The department, for instance, set itself the target of funding over 600 projects via investing in the Culture subprogramme; however, it has not met this target. The subprogramme was suspended after receiving unfavorable audit reports. The hon Minister will have to inform us what will be done to ensure the sustainability of this programme. It is of great importance that the department's financial management practices are improved and streamlined.
Lastly, the IFP is excited about the newly established performing arts programmes, which aim to give vulnerable groups access to the arts, culture and heritage. The involvement of schools, and especially the establishment of a research hub and centres or platforms for dialogue, are commendable. The decrease of 22,5% in the budget of this subprogramme is, however, of concern.
The IFP is heartened by the department's plan to establish a National Centre for Human Language Technologies. The IFP has always been in favour of promoting all our languages equally. This is certainly a step in the right direction. The increase in the budget for PanSALB is to be welcomed, even though it should have been more.
The IFP supports this Budget Vote. Thank you. [Applause.]