Deputy Speaker, Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers and Members of Parliament, we remember that the main objection from the portfolio committee was that the candidate that the ANC preferred had actually been suspended for a long time. The chairperson did explain that. He was suspended, but like in many cases in the country, there were no grounds for his suspension. We ultimately thought that because of the skills that are needed in the area of activity and also the fact that he comes from one of the minority groups, it is appropriate that we appoint him.
We must remember that communication is something that we can't play games with. It is one of the infrastructural needs of the country, which is a pillar of the economy that must address poverty and unemployment. We have planned it and it needs to be established. As you will remember, the communications, roads and rail, electricity, water intrastructure, and all those other infrastructural facilities, are needed as they are pillars of the economy. I have said that the economy must address unemployment and social needs in the country. This is a very important facet of social development and it is not something that you can play games with.
As we have all emphasised, like our chair, we have appointed this particular candidate because we think he has the necessary skills that are needed and also because he comes from the minority group. We cannot entertain any other reason based on an unfounded suspension. Therefore, we would like this candidate to be supported by the House. Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Question agreed to (Democratic Alliance and Independent Democrats dissenting).
Mr Roland Williams accordingly recommended for appointment to the Media Development and Diversity Agency Board.