Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi: Media briefing on Mineral Resources Budget Vote 2015/16

Deputy Minister
Director-General
Members of media
Ladies and gentlemen

Thobela

This afternoon, we shall present the Mineral Resources Budget Vote for consideration. The budget vote will deliberate on the

Department’s plans in the 2015/16 financial year.

Key Areas that will be covered by budget Vote speech are the following:   

• The performance of the mining industry within the current climate and its long-term sustainability. The strengthening of the Mining Growth, Development and Employment Task Team (MIGDETT) and its streamlined technical working streams to optimise functionality and enhance efficiencies.
• The department’s support on the implementation of the Framework Agreement for Sustainable Mining Industry.
• Commemoration of ex-mineworkers to honour the memory of victims of mining related incidents and diseases and the goal to ensure that the goal of zero harm on mineworkers is ultimately achieved.
• The interim assessment report on the implementation of the Mining Charter  which was recently released and that  the final report has been completed.
• The finalisation of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Amendment Bill which was referred back to Parliament and that we will provide any support during its processing in Parliament.
• The Mine Health and Safety Amendment Bill currently being processed through NEDLAC.
• The Re-prioritisation of the Bill on State-Owned Mining company (SOMCO).
• The development of a coal policy framework.
• The  intent to put special focus on the Mining Phakisa..
• The Consultative processes, in the form of public engagements, on shale gas will be held.
• The Upgraded SAMRAD system.
• The Establishment of the Enforcement and Compliance Unit.
• On Skills development programs , the collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and other stakeholders through the Mining Qualification Authority (MQA).
• The upgrading  of the geo-scientific infrastructure and the 2016 International Geological conference
• The Mintek e-waste (recycling) project  which is currently underway.
• Local beneficiation on diamonds.
• Mintek’s Small Scale Mining and Beneficiation programmes.
• Regional Participation in multilateral platforms such as ADPA and the Kimberley process Certification to domesticate the Africa Mining Vision.

I thank you.

Enquiries:
Phuti Mabelebele
Cell: 076 402 7521