House Chair, the DA is concerned about the allocation of more than 5% of the actual budget to the rectification programme. In our view, this money would be unnecessary if the National Homebuilders Registration Council, NHBRC, a national institution, were in a position to do its work properly and work closely with other spheres of government.
We are also concerned about the track record of underspending in this department, particularly in the rural household infrastructure grant programme, which is meant to empower people in the rural areas. We are also concerned about the underspending with regard to housing opportunities across all provinces.
Whilst the budget of the department has increased over the years, the increase is not aligned with delivery on the ground. The number of housing opportunities is decreasing year after year, but the budget is increasing.
Notwithstanding these issues, the DA supports Budget Vote No 31 and will continue to monitor the progress of this department very closely. Thank you.