Chairperson, the DA supports this budget as the budget allocations are in line with the stated objectives of the different programmes. However, concern has to be raised regarding the qualified audit reports it has received in the past, specifically the findings of the qualified Auditor-General's report of 2007-08, namely the underspending of more than R21 million on Programme 2: Arts and Culture in Society and Programme 6: National Archives, Records, Libraries and Heraldic Services; insufficient evidence to substantiate the amount of more than R49 million relating to subsistence and travel expenditure; a possible irregular expenditure in the amount of more than R54 million; and noncompliance with the applicable legislation.
Although the Minister has replied to these matters in the Budget debate, we have to realise that these matters are extremely serious and can impede implementation.
Concern was also raised regarding the qualified audit finding received by some of the arts and culture institutions such as the National Library of SA, the Northern Flagship Institution and the SA State Theatre.
The DA will monitor the progress and implementation of the budget closely by requesting quarterly feedback to the portfolio committee.
Vote agreed to.
Vote No 13 - Education - put.
Declarations of vote: