Chairperson, the ANC has always recognised the unacceptably high levels of overcrowding and the challenges that were raised by the previous speaker. However, the ANC also understands that seeking sound bites will not resolve these problems.
We, as the ANC, welcome the initiatives that the department has put in place, namely an electronic monitoring system to deal with overcrowding, the implementation of the Correctional Matters Amendment Act and the recognition that alternative sentences will contribute to a reduction in overcrowding.
We also welcome the Minister's commitment to stabilising the leadership by filling vacancies at the top level. We, as the ANC, welcome the commitment by the department to improve the information technology, IT, system and to introduce technology to improve conditions of detention.
It is a long journey from an institution designed for incarceration and torture, as was the case prior to 1994, to an institution geared towards rehabilitation and reskilling as we have now. We believe that this budget is the vehicle that will take us to that destination. The ANC supports Budget Vote 21. Thank you. [Applause.] Vote agreed to (Economic Freedom Fighters dissenting). Vote 22 - Defence and Military Veterans - put.
Declarations of vote: