Mr Speaker, we thank the hon Schneemann for asking a question of such critical significance to our country. Hon members, SAPS, working in partnership with other departments, did an outstanding job in managing the safety and security aspects of the Confederations Cup. Our country received commendations on the success of the soccer competition.
We, as a country, as well as various other bodies, including Fifa itself, were, in fact, highly delighted and satisfied with the overall management of the Confederations Cup. There was a noticeable trend of a reduction in crime in the focal areas, suggesting, amongst other things, the positive impact of high police visibility. Twenty-five arrests were made in cases related directly to the event, including a case where two burglary suspects were arrested, convicted and sentenced within twenty-four hours to a total of ten years' imprisonment.
Hon members, we must indeed mention that we benefited immensely from the fact that our country has accumulated a wealth of experience in hosting major events. Whether this experience is enough or not, will of course be tested to the limit next year.
We are also mindful of the fact that the scale of next year's operation will be much greater. However, even this aspect should be weighed against the vast knowledge accumulated through managing a good number of elections. On the whole, we must reiterate that our government, the people of this country and the African continent are ready to work in partnership to make the next Fifa Soccer World Cup the best ever. I thank you.