2.1.4 South Africa is a signatory to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT). The JICS was concerned that, given its mandate, South Africa's ratification of the OPCAT would result in a duplication of functions. The rights and powers of the national preventative mechanism, which must come into being upon the ratification of the OPCAT, are similar to those already afforded the JICS and its ICCVs, and it is feared that should the above-mentioned 'national preventative mechanisms' be put in place, the JICS' functions would merely be duplicated.