Mr Raseriti Tau, Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Protection of State Information Bill, says the level of participation by the public today in Mangaung was encouraging.
“This is definitely an improvement from the initial round of these hearings, where people, for the better part and understandably so, raised issues not necessarily related to the Bill. Today, we have seen a step up as people gave input making specific reference to certain clauses of the Bill,” said Mr Tau.
The venue – Braam Fisher Hall in Mangaung, Bloemfontein – of the public hearings was filled to capacity. “The initial round of the public hearings which were held in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, respec tively where in other parts, community members raised service delivery concerns and some parts, the turnout was not ideal,” said Mr Tau.
According to Mr Tau, this was an indication that people had heeded the call by the Committee to familiarise themselves with the content of the Bill. Mr Tau said the Committee discouraged the booing of people with dissenting views whenever they give input.
“While all of us have rights, we need to respect the right of those differing with us. We need to give each and every person a chance to say their views on this Bill without being disturbed,” he added.
Participants said they hoped their views would be considered when a final decision on the Bill was made.
For enquires or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Mr Temba Gubula
Cell: 078 735 8809
Mr Mlindi Mpindi
Cell: 073 197 1315
Committee Chairperson says Bloemfontein public hearing participation “encouraging”
