Speaker, the ANC welcomes the recent signing by social partners and government of the Green Economy Accord, which commits signatories to a partnership to build and grow the green economy.
The accord, one of the most comprehensive social partnerships on the green economy anywhere in the world, came about through discussions conducted in terms of the New Growth Path. It was signed by representatives of business organisations, the trade unions, community organisations and a number of Cabinet members, and contains commitments by each party, as well as monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure that the goals of the accord are met.
The accord notes that up to 300 000 jobs are possible within a decade if we begin investing in the green economy. It is proposed that the green economy can create a large number of jobs and provide and help to create a sustainable future for this and future generations. The accord is part of an ambitious plan to shift the economy to one having lower carbon intensity, whilst increasing jobs and industrial development. It contains commitments in 12 areas, ranging from the installation of solar water heating systems to increased investment in green industrial activities and the promotion of green skills at technical levels. I thank you. [Applause.]