Chairperson, hon Minister and Deputy Minister, hon members of the House, officials of the department, we have been briefed by the Department of Public Works and the agencies under this department on their strategic plans, which gave us some idea of where the department and its agencies are going.
Unfortunately, on that specific day there was no time to interact with the relevant entities and because of that it was more of an information overload rather than a clarification session. But I am pleased that very soon we will be interacting with them.
What was missing from their presentation, which is of serious concern, were timeframes on the projects and measurable objectives. These are the tools that we must use to assess them and that they can also use to assess themselves. I think and hope that in future they will ensure that these tools are included in their strategic plans.
The Department of Public Works has properties all over the country and I wonder if they have all of these on record, especially those properties from the former TBVC and self-governing states.
When driving around in the rural areas, we still see some properties that are being vandalised or are in a state of decay, and you ask yourself whether the government is aware of these properties. About some of the properties you have no idea for which purpose they were built.
Some properties are being occupied by government departments but are not being maintained. I am not sure, Minister, if there is a plan by your department which indicates when such buildings are going to be maintained. I mean, there must be some sort of timetable with regard to the maintenance of properties.
Municipalities and provinces must come to your rescue to give you lists of properties that need to be maintained. The problem is that even those that should be maintained by the provinces are neglected. A proper programme of action is needed to address the maintenance of government properties.
The different departments must have an integrated plan to ensure that problems can be shared among the different departments. For instance, Minister, the Department of Sport and Recreation is in need of facilities as sports hubs for indigenous games, and I think some of these buildings can actually be used for such purposes if identified and renovated. I think it will not require much of the government's funds, but at the same time it will be for the right cause.
Hon Minister, the DA wishes you well in your endeavours to make this department a shining example. I thank you. [Applause.]