Chairperson, unfortunately for the members who are making a noise, Cope will support the Budget Vote on Parliament, but with a strong word of caution and much reservation. We need to develop and build a strong culture of oversight, as this is one of the most important tools that we can utilise to strengthen our democracy and take our nation forward.
The necessary policy and tools are in place. However, implementation is the problem. We need to ensure that every Minister submits to the oversight mechanism so that the government is seen to be placing a high premium on accountability. This is what society is demanding and if we are the people's government, we should oblige.
Cope supports the demand for Ministers to respond to questions in earnest and on time in order not to render the process futile. Cope also urges the reintroduction of interpellations without any further delay. This is supposed to be the year of action and the Speaker of the House must actually lead from the very front. Thank you.