Department of Public Service and Administration welcomes the adoption of the Public Administration Management Amendment Bill and the Public Service Amendment Bill by the National Assembly
Adoptions Pave the Way for Professionalization of the Public Service
The National Assembly of the Republic of South Africa has adopted the Public Service Amendment Bill and the Public Administration Management Amendment Bill. These bills mark a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the professionalism, efficiency, and responsiveness of the public service and administration in South Africa.
These two bills, the PSA Bill and PAMA Bill, introduce provisions aimed at enhancing administrative powers, strengthening accountability mechanisms, and improving efficiency in the public service. These reforms align with President Cyril Ramaphosa's vision for a professional, efficient, and ethical public service, as emphasized in the State of the Nation Address.
The Public Service Amendment Bill, presented by the Minister of Public Service and Administration, aims to address policy reform commitments and strengthen the public service. It proposes amendments to the Public Service Act to empower heads of departments with administrative powers, enhance the role of the Director-General in the Presidency, clarify the role of the Public Service Commission, and provide clarity on the appointment and career incidents of heads of departments. These reforms are crucial for improving accountability, addressing corruption, and delivering efficient public services.
Similarly, the Public Administration Management Amendment Bill, also presented by the Minister of Public Service and Administration, seeks to harmonize critical aspects of public administration across all spheres of government. The bill emphasizes the improvement of state capacity and capability through the transfer and secondment of employees, the promotion of ethical standards for public servants, the reconfiguration of the National School of Government, the removal of disparities in conditions of service, and better coordination of determinations of conditions of service for all employees in the public administration.
The adoption of these bills underscores the commitment of the National Assembly to the vision of a capable, professional developmental state that serves the interests of the people of South Africa. These progressive reforms align with the African National Congress' resolutions and the National Development Plan, which prioritize the transformation and improvement of the public service.
The Minister of Public Service and Administration, Ms Noxolo Kiviet, expresses gratitude to the National Assembly for the opportunity to present these bills and commends the extensive work undertaken by the Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration in their processing. The Minister urges the National Council of Provinces to support the progression of these bills to the next phase of approval by President Cyril Ramaphosa, ensuring their continued advancement towards implementation.
Adopting the Public Service Amendment Bill and the Public Administration Management Amendment Bill represents a significant step forward in the ongoing journey to professionalize the public service, enhance efficiency, and better serve the needs of the people of South Africa.
Media enquiries:
Moses Mushi
Cell: 082 972 6595
Email: mosesm@dpsa.gov.za
