Hon Deputy Speaker, the inclusivity of the definition of a military veteran is laudable and I am sure it will be welcomed by many who served in the military on any side. The truth is that when we talk about military veterans who are in dire straits we are not only talking of one side of the fence. The approach in this Bill is indeed fresh and truly represents a break from old thought patterns, where some think that their involvement was more noble because they fought on a certain side considered in some circles to have been noble.
However, there are a concerns that one has to raise. In particular, there is a difference in the amount that has been given by the consultancy Alexander Forbes, which estimated a cost of R65,2 billion. The department has its estimate of R34,6 billion, which is almost half of the former. The question is: Is it the department that has overstated or understated or is it Alexander Forbes that has gone a half beyond?
With this the UCDP supports this Bill 100%. It is long overdue and it will help our people. [Time expired.]