Mr Speaker, the value of the rand is under severe pressure, having reached a record low in four years. Many factors have an influence on this, some of which are totally out of National Treasury's control. It is therefore vital to deal with those factors that are under the control of government departments in such a way that they do not add to the insecurity.
Against this background, the Auditor-General's report is a concern. It reflects on the past, but confirms without a doubt the institutional and political decline in the country, which is fuel for the credit rating agencies. The days of carrying on with the business as usual culture are over. The red warning lights are flashing. Misspending and bad management border on theft.
What has happened in the past is clearly reflected in the Auditor-General's report. Nobody can question it any more. We are at a point where commentators are asking just how long some departments and provinces will remain governable. The goal of clean audits by 2014 is now just a pipe dream. We need to see real action. We need to see steps taken against those who are not performing.
The fact is, irregular expenditure is up by 30% in one year, now representing R28,3 billion. Even if we raise that by 1%, we will have a shortfall of R10 billion to pay for this. Can somebody in government tell us when this will stop. The fact is, there are plans to rectify this, but implementation is found wanting.