Deputy Speaker
We agree that elderly people should be the bedrock of our democracy and our society. They should be treated with dignity and respect.
The Department of Social Services is failing our elderly citizens at very basic levels. SASSA’s inability to answer calls, its persistently malfunctioning computer systems, and chronically understaffed offices leave our elderly vulnerable.
Late or non-payments of grants expose our elderly to exploitation and hardship. There are reports of pensioners dying in queues while trying to access their funds. This is an unacceptable reality for those who rely on SASSA grants for survival.
Scriptures admonish us to honour the aged and stand up in their presence as a sign of honour and respect. SASSA and the DSD appear to have no concern for the people they are mandated to serve.
While the Portfolio Committee has reviewed other key aspects of the Older Persons Amendment Bill, their effective implementation remains critical. Expanding the definition of caregivers, combating ageism, and tightening compliance measures are commendable, but without strong regulatory oversight, these provisions will remain empty promises. The ACDP believes that non-implementation must carry consequences, starting with sanctions and penalties for failing SASSA offices and systems.
The Committee has addressed temporary safe care with urgent placements requiring a court order within 48 hours, and ensuring that individuals with expunged criminal records working with older persons provide proof of rehabilitation. The ACDP does not believe elderly, defenceless people should be placed in the care of such people at all. Oversight must be improved to strengthen monitoring, ensure interdepartmental coordination, and guarantee service delivery.
This said, the Bill still faces serious challenges. Older people in rural areas lack access to essential care facilities, while underfunded institutions struggle to provide adequate caregiver support. The absence of daycare facilities for seniors is another critical gap. Furthermore, the criminalisation of harmful traditional practices, such as witchcraft accusations, must be carefully worded to prevent unintended consequences.
In addition, the Bill’s approach to mental health and dementia care has been scrutinised, with urgent calls for stronger preventative measures and better service integration. As highlighted by the parliamentary legal advisor, enforcement must be balanced with education to ensure that older people are protected without unnecessary legal burdens.
Deputy Speaker, strengthening protections for older people means nothing if implementation falters. This Parliament has a duty to ensure meaningful action, not just legislative promises.
The ACDP wants to see real oversight and accountability, safeguarding the dignity and well-being of our elderly.
I thank you.
