Chairperson, the ACDP would like to commend Statistics SA for its commitment to providing accurate social and economic statistics on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis. The work of Statistics SA is held in high regard, both domestically and internationally, and this is not a standard government body as its independence is vested in its own law, which prevents political interference.
Let us be reminded that official statistics are used for evidence-based decision-making for information planning, for monitoring programme implementation and performance, and for research and historical value. This information should and does assist us as parliamentarians in monitoring a broad range of indicators, from economic indicators such as GDP growth, CPI and PPI to employment and job creation - that is, the whole spectrum of society.
In the absence of statistical evidence, policy-making and oversight would be well-nigh impossible. So, we are pleased that the quality of statistics is better than it was five years ago, and, significantly, internal governance has improved since the days of qualified audits.
The ACDP wishes to compliment Statistics SA on the relatively successful completion of Census 2011. Notwithstanding the yellow suit, this is definitely no lame duck and has become a swan.
Whilst we appreciate that the results will only be available from November, we are hopeful that undercounting will be lower than the previous census and will be in line with international best practice. Accurate statistics as to the size of the population will enable us as parliamentarians to ensure that resources and services are better allocated and that we win the fight against poverty and unemployment. As indicated by the Minister, every survey that Statistics SA will be doing afterwards will be measured against the statistics produced in this census.
As far as the budget is concerned, we do share concerns about the lack of funding, but we tend to agree with our colleague Mr Harris about the head count and that one should have expected a reduction in salaries and that that is possibly an area in which there could be a saving. However, Statistics SA said that there would be significant constraints resulting in its underfunding and that gains achieved in establishing statistical infrastructure may also be reversed. What is most alarming is Statistics SA's assertion that: "If the current status continues, statistics will become inaccurate and irrelevant".
We cannot allow this. South Africa has a very proud tradition of keeping statistics, which we cannot lose. An additional R204 million is requested for the present financial year, and this request should be seriously considered by us parliamentarians to ensure that statistics do not become inaccurate and irrelevant. The ACDP will support this Budget Vote. I thank you. [Applause.]