Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele will appoint an independent Task Team to advise him on the way forward regarding the impasse between Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and its Regulatory Committee.
The Minister’s announcement follows a meeting between the Minister, officials from the Department of Transport, ACSA, the Regulatory Committee, Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) as well as other relevant stakeholders from the aviation sector held in Pretoria earlier today (Tuesday, 27 July 2010).
“This matter has occupied the public space for quite a while and besides the necessity to expedite the conclusion, there is an expectation that this matter is speedily resolved. This will bring about the necessary and expected finality and stability of all relevant stakeholders. Our resolve to see the speedy finalisation of this matter is unquestionable.
“Considering the fact that, as Minister of Transport, I am expected to grant approval to the proposed Permission, I have decided to subject this process to an independent Task Team that will, among others, consider and analyze all information tabled as part of the application for the Permission by all parties; interact with all stakeholders, and provide advice to the Minister on whether the proposed Permission and suggested tariffs are appropriate, considering all the circumstances.
“This process is aimed at assisting us arrive at a logical conclusion on the Permission. This does not in any way undermine the independence of the Regulator, but rather aims to complement the work they have done. This process will afford the Task Team an opportunity to synthesise all available information, receive appropriate presentations and derive the best conclusions.
“It is our intention to have the Task Team complete their work within the shortest possible time frame, particularly because most of the information is already available. We have therefore directed that the Task Team be appointed from August 2010 and submit their report to the Minister by the end of September 2010. This is informed by the fact that there are significant pressures to have this matter finalized as soon as possible. We are confident that all interested parties will welcome this process.
“As the Department of Transport, we remain committed to a more stable regulatory environment. In this regard, we are therefore looking at establishing a full-time Transport Economic Regulator to assist us to move away from an ad hoc approach. This will allow for improved planning, coordination and efficiency,” said Minister Ndebele.
Enquiries:
Logan Maistry
Cell: 083 6444 050
