(1) (a) Yes. The budget of the Central Drug Authority (CDA) for the 2016-2017 financial year by 6.2% according to Medium Term Expenditure Framework. The current budget is R6.1 million which covers both personnel and goods and services.
(b) Yes. The budget will to some extent enable the Department to collect baseline data against which we will measure the impact and efficacy of current interventions, at least in one province.
(2) To ensure a seamless and coordinated approach to the implementation of the National Drug Master Plan, the Department has commenced with the process to conduct an audit of all structures. I will furnish the Honourable Member with a comprehensive reply upon completion of this process.
(3) Yes. Measures currently underway include the upgrading of the Directorate to a Chief Directorate to ensure proper coordination and support to the CDA.