Before you actually answer the next question, may I inform all hon members that what we are smelling is coming from a burst pipe which is being repaired below us. They are now clearing whatever is there, so we might not have the problem for much longer. The hon Minister may continue.
Investigation into deaths of babies after birth in public hospitals and media reports and/or public concerns on similar issues
32. Ms D Z Rantho (ANC) asked the Minister of Health:
(1) Whether his department has launched any investigations into any reports on deaths of babies after birth in any public hospitals in the country; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) at which hospitals and (b) what were the main causes of such deaths;
(2) whether his department has put any preventive measures in place to ensure that public hospitals are safe and secure institutions for women to give birth successfully; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
(3) whether his department has noted any media reports and/or public concerns on similar issues; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so,
(4) whether his department has investigated or will investigate such media reports and/or public concerns; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?