Honourable Speaker
Honourable Deputy Minister Malusi Gigaba
Honourable Members of the National Assembly
I am indeed privileged to introduce the Births and Deaths Registration Amendment Bill for the consideration of this house.
May I take this opportunity to thank the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Honourable Ben Martins, and the esteemed members of the committee for their support and cooperation in creating an enabling environment in which this bill is being presented for ratification by the house today.
It is only correct, that we today, assert without fear, favour or prejudice that births and deaths are cardinal stages in the life cycle of any human being. Birth is indeed an embodiment of all that which is new, developing and representing the future. As the late Oliver Reginald Tambo said, "a nation that does not care for its children has no future".
It became necessary for us as a department to take stock of the provisions in the current Birth and Deaths Registration Act to ensure that the registration of births and deaths is as humane, secure and dignified as possible.
We have identified several weaknesses that require attention including gaps in securing the process of registration of births and deaths, protecting the rights of citizens; and alignment to other relevant legislation, such as the Children's Act of 2005.
The bill seeks to streamline the procedures related to the following:
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who should register the birth of a child other than the parents. this includes the next of kin or a legal guardian
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the registration (who and how) of orphans and abandoned children
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simplify the process for the change of surnames of children and adults
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the issue of paternity including steps to be followed when a mother registers a child under one father and later changes to another
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birth registration after 30 days; and
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the registration of adopted children to ensure alignment to the Children's Act 2005.
The amendment bill also outlines procedures for persons who choose to change their sex status.
The bill now makes provision for the registration of deaths by registered undertakers. This is in addition to family members taking responsibility for death registration. This amendment will minimise the opportunity for fraudulent death registration and contribute towards eliminating the scourge of corruption.
The bill also provides for stiffer penalties for those implicated in fraudulent birth and death registrations.
May I express my sincere hope and wish that Honourable Members will support the bill, thus, ensuring the protection of the rights, dignity and security of all citizens at birth and death.
Thank you.
