Deputy Speaker
The ACDP welcomes the removal of the very contentious VAT hike which we opposed. However, this has sadly been replaced by a much maligned fuel levy hike which can, many have argued, have an even greater impact on South Africans, and should this be supported when there was such vociferous opposition to the VAT hike? And if it is to be supported, what about the promised fuel levy review? When is that going to be presented to us?
The ACDP has also consistently expressed concerns about the overly optimistic economic growth projections of 1.4%. And yes, as Christians, we believe in miracles! We join Bishop Sauls and we pray and work towards a miracle — but it does seem far distant to achieve even 1% economic growth this year, particularly if you consider that in the past, the economic growth projections have not materialised with devastating impact on our government debt levels.
This Friday, we have our Youth Parliament and yesterday, we had a Youth Day debate. Is it fair or just to give inter-generational debt of R6 trillion to the next generation? To the youth that are here in this House? Are they able to hold us accountable? Where are those voices that are saying ‘we do not accept inter-generational debt service costs of R1.2 billion per day?’
It is also crucial that the economic growth models are improved as set out in the Report.
The ACDP believes that what is needed (as has been set out in the fiscal framework report) are interventions, infrastructure reform, power and water sector stabilisation, and logistics efficiency. This is required to achieve higher economic growth. We pray and we work hard towards achieving this so that we can create jobs and address high levels of unemployment.
And, when one speaks about Biblical parables, what are we doing with our talents? What are we doing? Are we being good stewards of every Rand the taxpayers entrust to us — those funds are not there to be looted and stolen. Taxpayers rightfully demand good stewardship. They demand servant leadership – which has been sorely lacking in the past.
With these reservations, the ACDP will support this report, but we’ll also be closely monitoring the Budget implementation. We support this Report because we want to be part of the builders and not the breakers.
I thank you.
