The Ministry of Transport has taken note of the stance by the Southern Africa Catholic Bishops’ Conference regarding its criticism of the e-tolling project in Gauteng. While we are taken aback by the Southern Africa Catholic Bishops’ Conference position, the department remains committed to meeting with stakeholders, including the religious community, to clarify its intentions regarding the introduction of e-tolling in Gauteng.
Government through the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) consulted with various stakeholders including the National Inter-Faith Leaders’ Council, South African Council of Churches, Congress of South African Trade Unions, Road Freight Association, and the SA Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, which also made representations in Parliament.
During these consultations, government committed itself that it would consider the views of the religious fraternity and other stakeholders when finalising regulations on the classes of motor vehicles that will be exempted from paying e-tolls. The second part of the regulations will deal with the tariff structure, which will show a significant reduction from the initially proposed tariffs.
The Department of Transport will deal with these outstanding issues as soon the Transport Laws and Related Matters Amendment Bill is passed. It is therefore incorrect to suggest that the department has neglected the socio-economic implications of e-tolling on the poor and the working class.
Contact:
Tiyani Rikhotso
Cell: 083 570 1275
