Thank you very much, Chairperson, MECs, Speakers, and all hon members. Thandi is saying right now, permanent and special delegates to the National Council of Provinces, I am proud to stand here this afternoon to accept the responsibility with which you have entrusted me as the Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces.
I wish to thank you for your belief in me. With your support, I promise to do my best to serve the people of South Africa in my new capacity.
I am very happy to join the leadership of South Africa's unique legislative body. The NCOP is unique in the sense that it is the only institution that brings together representatives of the three spheres of government under one roof. It is unique in that it demands of the elected representatives of the people from the different spheres of government to work together to deliver services to the people. This constitutional arrangement places the NCOP in a better position to play a critical role in the promotion of intergovernmental relations, co-operative government and integrated planning.
Working together, I am confident that we will be able to deal with the challenges that are facing our people with increased pace. It is indisputable that 15 years since we obtained our democracy we still have a long way to go to bring a better life to all South Africans, as envisaged by our Constitution. A lot of work has been done since 1994, upon which we must build a prosperous nation.
I would like to join the call made by the Chairperson of the NCOP, hon M Mahlangu, at the first sitting of this House for a close working relationship between the NCOP and local government. As somebody with experience of working at local government level, I am fully aware of the importance of this sphere of government in providing quality services to the people. Local government is central to achieving our vision of a better life for all.
It is indeed a great honour to accept, with humility, the new responsibility you have entrusted to me. Thank you. [Applause.]