I am sorry, Madam Deputy Speaker. Yes, the rate of absenteeism is a big problem. I agree with you, and I am sure all members of the portfolio committee are aware of it. Actually, we have just discovered that we have officers who have been on leave for more than two years. [Interjections.] We have had to give a deadline for them to report to work; otherwise, medical boarding will be the next step. This is because most of them are said to be on sick leave. These are big numbers we are talking about; this, when in fact we could actually use the posts they have been occupying.
So, I do agree. But this is not as a result of the 12 x 2 shift system. You should remember that the 12 x 2 shift system was introduced in September last year. So the high rate of absenteeism has everything to do with a lack of management and supervision by managers who are supposed to be managing at the centres; and, secondly, with the laissez faire attitude of officials, something that all of us need to tackle. This certainly cannot be tackled by us on our own.
That is why we are also encouraging the portfolio committee to embark on unannounced visits, but not only that; individual members of the committee or MPs in their constituencies, where there are centres, have the right to go in. So whatever you pick up, you sensitise us about it, so that we can deal with it. Thank you very much. Your thing must now work. [Laughter.] [Applause.]
Position regarding impact of Zimbabwe's refusal to comply with rulings of SADC Tribunal
165. Mr H T Magama (ANC) asked the Minister of International Relations and Co-operation:
(1) Whether she has found that Zimbabwe's refusal to comply with the rulings of the Southern African Development Community Tribunal has had an impact on (a) the credibility and effectiveness of SADC and (b) the regional integration process; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details in each case;
(2) whether the Government will propose measures to SADC that will ensure that member states do not repeat such behaviour; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?