Thank you. Deputy Chairperson, in answer to the question, I'd like to state that the values of constitutionality, patriotism, loyalty, dignity, professionalism and accountability are instilled in all members of the SA National Defence Force from the day that they enrol in the service.
That which differentiates a soldier from any other service are these values. What is central to the whole ethos of the Defence Force is embodied in the oath taken by each member and reinforced at each and every official function. And for the benefit of the House, I just want to read some of the elements of the oath, which we are very proud of. It says:
I pledge to serve and defend my country and its people in accordance with the Constitution and the law and with honour, dignity, courage and integrity.
I serve in the SANDF with loyalty and pride, as a citizen and a volunteer.
I will treat all people fairly and respect their rights and dignity at all times, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, culture, language or sexual orientation.
I will not abuse my authority, position or public funds for personal gain, political motive or any other reason.
I think these are very commendable elements in our code of conduct, and I would suggest that perhaps some of the Ministers here could enforce the same code of conduct for their services.
However, I read the oath in part response to the question that was asked by the hon member. Through the basic training, education is instilled and enforced through the command and control of the Defence Force. Specifically, there is a military responsibility for the Chief of the Defence Force, in terms of the Defence Act, to ensure that the training of members ensures that at all times they act in accordance with the Constitution and the law.
The strategic plan for 2009-11 builds on these basic foundations and emphasises the role of continuous education in the Defence Force to ensure that at all times our soldiers are seized with these values to carry out their role with distinction and pride.
Very specifically, in response to part (1)(a) of the question, the requisite training is done through basic military training, which is done over a period of six months for every member of the Defence Force at the point at which they enter the Defence Force.
The answer to part (1)(b) of the question is the following. The leader of the initiative, as prescribed by the law, is the Chief of the SA National Defence Force and he is overseen by the Minister through the secretariat. Part (1)(c) of the question asks how successful the initiative has been. Well, last year's incident on the grounds of the Union Buildings will indicate that continuous training is necessary in ensuring that, at all times, a soldier is a disciplined, dignified stalwart in defence of our democracy. We are prioritising this in our current strategy, supported by all the relevant mechanisms of redress.
In reply to part (2) of the question: yes, we have a written curriculum that is available to the member to investigate and peruse. Thank you.