Deputy Chairperson, firstly I would like to congratulate the Minister for the work done so far. But I am quite concerned about the issue of empowering people. I was actually wondering if there is any criterion for appointing a councillor or whether the department is working on something like that. Is there any educational programme in place or are we just pumping in money trying to rectify and better our lives? We can pump in money, but if education is not there, it is fruitless.
In as far as ward committees are concerned, which are the grass roots of a municipality, I would like to know from the hon Minister if there is anything on the table or in the pipeline in this regard? We as Cope are prepared to put something on the table. I would appreciate your response. Thank you, Minister.