Chairperson, in 2005, the United Nations, UN, Working Group on Arbitrary Detention noted that South Africa's awaiting-trial population is placed in conditions that are often far worse than those of convicted detainees, and that the lack of adequate facilities is so blatant that they do not meet minimum standards, even for those suffering from illnesses. This results in the aggravation of health problems and even death for some detainees.
The Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services also noted in the annual report of 2009 and 2010 that overcrowding in the Correctional Services facilities leads to unhygienic conditions. The other problem is access to adequate health care. It is limited, resulting in the possible spread of contagious diseases and a lack of treatment for more serious illnesses like HIV/Aids and diabetes.
Having said that, my question is whether the Minister is aware of these observations; and what has been done to improve the conditions of facilities keeping awaiting-trial detainees across our country, South Africa? Thank you, Chairperson.