Chairperson, Sassa is indeed dealing with allegations of corruption in relation to the issuing of tenders, as asked by the hon member. An integral investigation was conducted to confirm reported irregularities in three regional offices, which were ultimately confirmed. The cases relate to allegations regarding the issuing of tenders to friends and relatives without following the correct procurement processes. The difference is that we deal with these things in the ANC, we don't hide them. I can hear an hon member saying yes. We never hear the story in the Western Cape.
The internal investigation identified a number of red flags that pointed to possible collusion between certain service providers and Sassa employees during the implementation of the Social Relief of Distress programme. The cases have been referred to the Special Investigating Unit, SIU, which we work with in the department, for a forensic audit to determine whether there has been any unlawful benefit by any Sassa employee from the service providers or any conflict of interest by Sassa employees. We are awaiting a report from the SIU to decide on how the process should be taken forward. Once we get that kind of report we will certainly act, as we have already done before. I thank you.