During our public hearings and interaction with the business sector, appeals were made to assist in the ease of doing business, to create an environment conducive for business and to reduce the burden of compliance.

The ACDP is relieved to see the truce between Israel and Hamas that invaded their country and kidnapped more than 200 Israelis and some foreign nationals as hostages. We welcome the release of some of the hostages including South Africans.

In 2013, BRICS accounted for around 27% of global GDP in purchasing power. Currently, BRICS accounts for 32% of global trade, surpassing the G7

Without Israel, we risk diplomatic tensions that can hinder communication channels for addressing regional issues and ending business collaborations that would reduce economic opportunities, trade, investments, and job creation.

Journalists have played a key role in exposing state capture and corruption in the country.

We are aware of the devastating impact that the usage of cannabis THC has had on lives and communities, particularly when mixed with mandrax and other drugs.

South Africa has a moral obligation to support a negotiated solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to distance itself from a radicalised position on Israel, a position which undermines any hope of a negotiated process and peaceful outcome.

The ACDP welcomes the opportunity presented by the recalling of South African diplomats from Tel Aviv to consult government on the current war between Israel and Palestine.

The Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Bill will limit and constrain production potential and lead to higher prices for petroleum products than could otherwise have been achieved for downstream businesses and customers.

The ANC will today vote to pass the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (BELA Bill). They will say this bill is going to transform education, but it is a dead man walking.

The ACDP commits to reducing harmful toxins and gasses, to restoring our ecosystems, air and waterways that have been contaminated by pollutants. We also commit to protecting our endangered wildlife, flora, and fauna, because we understand that this is our inalienable mandate, as custodians of our planet.

The ACDP is deeply concerned at the continuing deterioration of Transnet’s infrastructure and performance which we know threatens the entire economy.