Chair, we are in support of the proposal containing the report under discussion not to restore Ms Meyburgh to office.
The role of Parliament in dealing with matters of discipline and incapacity on the part of magistrates is too fold.
Firstly, it's to oversee whether the Magistrates Commission and the Executive, the Minister in dealing with these matters performed the role and functions in a proper and lawful manner. In this regard we are satisfied that the commission followed the correct procedure and came to the correct conclusion namely, that due to continued ill-health, Ms Meyburgh is unfortunately no longer fit to hold office.
We are also satisfied with the Minister in dealing with the matter followed the prescripts of the law and ultimately had no choice but to suspend Ms Meyburgh from office on 27 November last year.
Secondly as part of our systems of checks and balances, this Parliament now has the duty to resolve to either restore MS Meyburgh to office or not. Our role is therefore more than questioning and holding to account the executive and matters like these.
Hon members, we are of the view that in light of the information contained in this report, there cannot be any other conclusion that the continued and nearly permanent absence from office on the part of Ms Meyburgh enjoins this Parliament not to support her restoration to office. I thank you.