The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) has learnt with shock of the passing away of Western Cape Provincial Whip, Mr Theodorus Barnadus Byleveldt, on Sunday, 3 July after a short illness. On behalf of the House, his fellow provincial delegates and colleagues across Parliament, I would like to extend condolences to his family at Hermanus and his party the Democratic Alliance.
Since joining the NCOP on 12 October 2010, Mr Byleveldt (63) has served the House with honour, humility, dignity and commitment. His work ethic and disposition embodied the very nature and character of the institution he served. He was cooperative and willing to listen to views that were different to his own.
He understood the importance of bringing together into one melting pot the diverse interests of South Africans whose voices are represented in the local, provincial and national spheres of government. The NCOP is a House that brings together the three spheres of government under one roof.
As the leader of the Western Cape provincial delegation, Mr Byleveldt was central in ensuring that the interests of the people of this province were taken into account in national deliberations.
When reflecting on the short career of Mr Byleveldt in the NCOP, one cannot help but commend him for the seriousness with which he handled the work of this institution. The contribution he made to the advancement of parliamentary democracy will remain exemplary to current and future generations of MPs.
May his soul rest eternally in peace.
Source: Parliament of South Africa
