The media report on "NIA staff shortage stalls vetting of MPs for oversight committee" is unfortunately incorrect because the National Intelligence Agency has not as yet received the proposed names of committee members from Parliament.
The process of political parties submitting names for the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence (State Security) only closes Friday, 5 June 2009.
The NIA will immediately begin vetting once the names of members have been received and the Agency has indicated to the Minister of State Security Dr Siyabonga Cwele that the screening will be attended to as a priority.
The NIA's capacity was significantly boosted when Cabinet and the JSCI approved a new vetting strategy in November 2006 resulting in the establishment of Vetting Field Units in major government departments, the expanding of capacity in the NIA vetting directorate and improved technological support.
Minister Cwele shares the JSCI Chairperson's enthusiasm to begin the Parliamentary Committee work and be ready for the State Security Budget Vote which is scheduled for 1 July 2009. However, we have to await the finalisation of the Parliamentary process first.
Enquiries may be directed to:
Lorna Daniels
Cell: 082 418 3389
Issued by: National Intelligence Agency
4 June 2009
