The independent investigator appointed to conduct an investigation into the current state of affairs at the National Consumer Commission (NCC), which is one of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (the dti) agencies, will deliver its findings in three weeks.
An independent investigator was appointed following complaints from Nehawu regarding non-adherence to the terms of the transfer agreement and other concerns raised by staff members. The investigation is also necessitated by a request from eleven employees who have requested to be transferred back to the dti.
The Director-General of the dti, Mr Lionel October, says Minister Rob Davies has decided to appoint an independent investigator as he did not want to make any pronouncement on this matter before obtaining independent advice from a third party. Mr October said the investigation will determine the status of reports about transgressing the terms of the transfer agreement, including relevant policies as outlined in the agreement.
This will include also determining the validity of claims about employees being made redundant and whether employment contracts adhere to relevant legislation. “The focus of the investigation will also have to assess the impact of any transfer of officials from the NCC to any other entity,” said Mr October.
He emphasised that the intention of conducting this investigation is to provide Minister Davies with an independent assessment report that can enable him to act decisively and bring the situation back to normal. “However, there is no presumption of wrongdoing,” said Mr October.
Furthermore, Mr October emphasised that the NCC has sufficient funds to carry out its mandate. The Commission was allocated R33 million and R11 million was used by the end of September this year. According to Mr October, the NCC has sufficient budget for the remaining months and its expenditure pattern shows that they may in fact underspent.
The dti had also committed to the NCC that in the event of a shortfall in this financial year, which is unlikely, the dti will assist them with additional donor funds.
Enquiry:
Sidwell Medupe – (Departmental Spokesperson)
Tel: 012 394 1650
Mobile: 079 492 1774
E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
