Chairperson, this is my pulpit. I am actually a preacher in disguise. I have a lot of things to say to you, hon Kholwane. I hope you listen very, very well. [Laughter.]
Hon Chairperson, hon Minister Collins Chabane, hon Members of Parliament, all the people in the gallery, all the media representatives - welcome. I want to thank the media for their role in informing us. I also welcome all the television viewers. Thank you. I know you are watching to hear the DA's view. Thank you. [Interjections.]
If we have to wait for the Government Communication and Information System, we will receive a lot of options. Who is trustworthy - the ANC, Cosatu, the Communist Party, or a child called Malema? [Interjections.]
Die GCIS kan 'n belangrike rol speel om die moedertale van Suid-Afrika te beskerm. Moenie net inligtingsdokumente of 'n groot gedeelte daarvan in Engels publiseer nie. 'n Mens kry nie 'n Grondwet in Afrikaans nie. (Translation of Afrikaans paragraph follows.)
[The GCIS could play an important role in protecting the vernaculars of South Africa. Do not publish informational documents or the greater part thereof in English only. One cannot find a Constitution in Afrikaans.]
Mr Minister, I tried to get hold of an Afrikaans translation of the Constitution. It was impossible. And I am speaking on behalf of all the language speakers in South Africa: the Zulus, the Xhosas, the Sothos, the Tswanas. They need the Constitution in their own language. [Interjections.]