Is dit om? Wat van 'n bietjie tyd om af te rond! Ek dank u. [Tussenwerpsels.] (Translation of Afrikaans paragraphs follows.)
[On a more serious note, last year South Africa experienced one of the most serious energy crises in history. Energy is essential and I want to join the hon Greyling when he says that the solution for this crisis should be sought above the ground and no longer under the ground. We believe that it is the right approach and we believe that a competent Minister's undivided attention will hopefully end the crisis in which our country finds itself.
The FF Plus eagerly awaits the decision of the National Energy Regulator regarding Eskom's preposterous application to increase the electricity tariffs by 34%. We believe that it is irresponsible and not beneficial for the economy, and in this matter we really hope that Nersa will also play its role as independent regulator, acting in the interest of the South African population.]
Last year South Africa made the transition from a system of cheap, reliable energy to one of expensive, unpredictable energy. We want to wish the Minister well in his endeavours to rectify this problem in the near future.
In regard to mining there are only two matters that I wish to touch upon quickly. We want to congratulate the new Minister in that department, but at the same time place two matters on the agenda. Firstly, I think that the Minister should take note of the dissatisfaction among white as well as black businesspeople in the mining industry regarding the strict requirements of the black economic empowerment goals in these times. The stipulated limitation of 26% and ...]