Countrywide "Clean Cement" Campaign

Green Scorpions Embark on Countrywide "Clean Cement" Campaign 27 May 2008

Media Statement Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism TUESDAY, 27 MAY 2008 On Monday, 26 May 2008 the Green Scorpions embarked on the first of a series of compliance inspections at various cement manufacturing facilities across the country. The blitz signals the start of the "Clean Cement" campaign. The blitz will see Green Scorpions (Environmental Management Inspectors) from the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism as well as six provinces conduct inspections. Other role players include the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry and local municipalities. The six provinces involved and the planned inspections include: Limpopo -  PPC inspection Gauteng (Tshwane) - PPC Hercules Inspection KwaZulu-Natal (Port Shepstone) - Cipmor NPC Inspection Eastern Cape (New Brighton) - PPC Inspection Western Cape (De Hoek and Riebeeck) - PPC Inspections An inspection of the Lafarge plant in the North West yesterday, 26 May 2008, signalled the start of the "Clean Cement" campaign. Green scorpions will monitor compliance with all environmental legislations, authorisations and permits applicable to each site. The campaign follows the success of the multi-year national environmental compliance campaign in the iron and steel and ferroalloy industry, known as Operation Ferro. "The cement industry has been prioritised in this new environmental compliance campaign because of the growing demand for its products. An increase in construction and development projects in the country and rapid expansions in the cement sector means that the industry may contribute significantly to pollution if not mitigated and managed properly," said Ms Joanne Yawitch, Deputy Director General for Environmental Quality and Protection at DEAT. On 30 April 2008, a Cement Industry Workshop was held where representatives from the sector were informed on what to expect during the compliance inspections and how to adequately prepare for it. "Inspectors will consider findings of significant non-compliances to environmental authorisations in a serious light, and appropriate enforcement action will follow," emphasised Yawitch. She added that other key industries will soon be subjected to similar assessments. In addition, to Operation Ferro, the Department is already leading a national environmental compliance and enforcement project in relation to the six big oil refineries in the country. The inspections will occur for the duration of this week. To schedule media interviews, contact : Roopa Singh on 082 225 3076 or rsingh@deat.gov.za ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Enquiries to: Mava Scott (Acting Chief Director: Communications) Mobile: 082-411-9821 E-mail: mscott@deat.gov.za

Rhino poachers nabbed

May 26, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	Rhino poachers nabbed Lesley Stephenson SIX persons alleged to be involved in the poaching and selling of a white rhino from the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve have been arrested. In a combined operation between the Organised Crime Unit (OCU) and Mtuba SAPS, Mandla Peter Manqele (32) from Ulundi, Zemizi Sihle Manqele (24) from Ulundi, Bafana Professor Gumede (34) from Mfekaye, Dumisani Bongani Gumede (50) from Matubatuba and Mashonisha Abram Mothlabane (66) from Krugersdorp were arrested following a tip-off. Evidence recovered OCU Investigating Officer, Insp Sitha Makhanya, with assistance from from Mtuba SAPS Inspector S E Nxumalo and student constables Mkhwanazi, Buthelezi and Mdletshe, recovered cash, possibly proceeds from the selling of the rhino horn and the R1 rifle which has been linked to the poaching incident. Street value Head of OCU, Supt Mthembu, confirmed the street value of the poached horn at R1-million, while the value of the rhino is R500 000. 'Poached horn is used for jewellery, ornaments or trophies, as well as for muti purposes,' said Mbatha. He added that the arrests followed a highly successful month for the Organised Crime Unit, who have also enjoyed some good convictions and arrests for armed robbery and hijacking cases.

 

MECs to Sign the Grasslands Conservation Declaration

Deputy Minister and MECs to Sign the Grasslands Conservation Declaration at Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens on the 22nd May 2008 21 May 2008

Media Alert Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism WEDNESDAY, 21 MAY 2008 A declaration committing Government to implement the national Grasslands Programme to conserve the deteriorating grasslands will be signed at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, on the 22nd May 2008. The Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Ms Rejoice Mabudafhasi, will be the first to sign the Declaration, and will be joined by Provincial Environmental MECs. MECs handling environment portfolios will also sign include Gauteng MEC Mr. Khabisi Mosunkutu, Limpopo MEC Mr. Collins Chabane and KZN MEC Mr. Mtholephi Mthimkhulu This is the first formal commitment towards conserving South Africa's grasslands that brings together all stakeholders to conserve biodiversity in the grasslands biome. Covering 29% of South Africa and crossing seven provinces, the grasslands biome is the second largest biome in South Africa. However, 30% of this important biome is irreversibly transformed, and less than 2% is formally conserved, falling far short of international conservation targets. Other VIPs expected to attend are the Acting Director-General of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, representative of United Nations Development Program (UNDP), CEOs of Conservation Agencies and senior officials and representatives of partner organizations. The media is invited to attend. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For more information please contact:: Moses Rannditsheni (Media Liaison Officer for the Deputy Minister) Mobile: 082-448-2450 E-mail: mailto:mrannditsheni@deat.gov.za OR Nandi Mgwndlamba (SANBI) Mobile: 078-702-9663

Berg Rescue - KZN Wildlife

Berg Rescue

May 23, 2008;

EZEMVELO KWAZULU-NATAL WILDLIFE
 NEWS ITEM No: 2008 - 05 - 23  

An 18 year old UK visitor to the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is lucky to be alive after falling 20 metres in the dark at Monk's Cowl on Thursday night 22 May 2008.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff at Monk's Cowl report that Mr Steven Hird (18) of Leeds in England went for a hike in the Sterkhorn area with a companion.
The pair stayed too long on the mountain and ended up walking back towards their lodge in the dark.

They lost the path they were walking on and eventually came to a cliff which Mr Hird attempted to climb down.
He lost his footing and apparently fell 20 metres to the bottom of the cliff.

This occurred at about 21.30.
A local resident Mt Sicelo Mtshali, heard Mr Hird screaming and on investigating found the severely injured man.
He immediately contacted EKZNW staff at Monk's Cowl who rapidly made their way to where Mr Hird was lying, arriving at about 10.40.
The EKZNW staff found that Mr Hird had broken his right leg in two places and suspected that he might have other internal injuries.
By this time Mr Hird was suffering from hyperthermia.
They administered first aid and called in local paramedics who, after stabilising the injured man with difficulty decided to call for further assistance in moving the badly injured man to safety.
The KZN Mountain Rescue Group was called in for assistance and arrived at the scene 02.30 and with their help Mr Hird was carried to the EKZNW base at Monk's Cowl, arriving at about 05.30 this morning 23 May 2008.
He was immediately placed in a waiting ambulance and taken to the Laverna Hospital in Ladysmith.

 

 AJG/ News Item No: 2008 - 05 - 23 

Rapid breakthrough in rhino poaching case

May 23, 2008;

MEDIA RELEASE No: 2008 - 07  

 RAPID BREAKTHOUGH IN RHINO POACHING CASE

 

For immediate release
The SAPS in the Mtubatuba area, assisted by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff,  have arrested six people following the shooting of a white rhino bull on the western shore of LakeSt Lucia to the south of Charter's Creek in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on 6 May 2008.
The carcase of the rhino was found in open grassland adjacent to a thick patch of forest by a contractor involved in removing alien vegetation.
The scene of the incident was thoroughly examined by  SAPS and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife  investigators who found several cartridge cases and also recovered several spent bullet heads from the carcase.
These items have been sent to the SAPS for forensic testing.
The accused appeared in the Mtubatuba Magistrate's Court on Monday 19 May 2008 and the case has been remanded to 26 May 2008 for bail applications.
In the course of making the arrests, the SAPS officers recovered an R1 rifle and several rounds of live ammunition, which have also been sent in for forensic testing.
Close co-operation between the SAPS, iSimangaliso Wetland Park staff and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife investigators continues in the meanwhile.
 

 

 AJG/ Media Release No: 2008 - 07 

May 23, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	Not so dry Savannah Savannah and surrogate father Claud Lango share a moment at the pub counter Hey, that's my beer! Dalena van Jaarveld THE zebras in the Umlalazi Nature Reserve in Mtunzini have established cordial relationships with residents and regular visitors, but none of them are quite as well known as Savannah, the Mtunzini Backpackers' resident zebra. Kicked out of the Umlalazi herd (nature's way of controlling the population), Savannah nearly met her end soon after the birth of her younger sibling. Today, however, the two-and-a-half year-old zebra (a teenager in zebra years) is more than happy with the Lango family at the Mtunzini Backpackers where she moved in to find solace. A regular at the bar, Savannah loves carrots, apples and the occasional beer (or Savannah!). Although at first very skittish and prone to give the occasional kick at unsuspecting visitors, she is now tame enough to be stroked by her surrogate parents Aga and Claud Lango, and even follow them around the three hectare yard when she feels the need for attention. 'Mother' Aga says Savannah is one of a kind when it comes to eating habits, however, and will guzzle anything she can find - including biltong and bread. 'She can be a real nuisance when we serve food to customers!' Savannah is under tight supervision, though, since she has been caught wandering around town several times before in search of a fellow striped friend (not much different from the other teenagers in town!). But she might not be alone for long, as the Langos say the search is on for the most handsome of zebra suitors (they fear she might be insulted by the donkey friend they had planned on introducing to her). Applicants, they stress, should have their stripes in order.

 

Up in smoke!

May 19, 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

	Up in smoke! Conservation manager, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Anti-Poaching Unit - Johan Gerber and Sgt Fani Mthethwa, with aid from the SAPS, destroying 40km of illegal gillnets confiscated over the last few months in 30 operations in the Zululand coastal region

 

Plan (RMP) for Hartbeespoort Dam is nearing

Development of a Resource Management Plan (RMP) for Hartbeespoort Dam is nearing its final stages
19 May 2008
The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) started a process with stakeholders to develop a Resource Management Plan (RMP) for Hartbeespoort Dam in November 2007. This process is now nearing completion. A few key meetings with stakeholders are to take place in the next month and the draft RMP will then be available for public comment from 26 June to 17 July 2008. This plan which is part of the Harties, Metsi a me biological remediation of Hartbeespoort Dam will guide the use and management of the Dam.
Mr Petrus Venter, Deputy Regional Director for Department of Water Affairs and Forestry at Hartbeespoort and Project Manager of Harties Metsi a me, said that stakeholder involvement is crucial in the development of this plan. Although DWAF is guiding the development of the RMP the onus is on stakeholders to take ownership of it and to take responsibility for the implementation of the plan.
Stakeholders involved in the development of the RMP contributed to the process by participating in their respective interest groups, namely government, land owners, resource managers and industry (commercial and recreational users).
The RMP process ahead includes a Technical Task Team meeting on 5 June 2008, where certain questions from industry and land owners will be addressed. The RMP will be handed over to the stakeholders, who are co-authors of this plan, on 26 June 2008. This will then also be the start of the public review period.
Issues, concerns or aspects for clarity can however be discussed with DWAF officials on 11 and 12 June 2008 where the opportunity is created for one-on-one discussions during an open day. On 24 July 2008, the final comments received will be discussed with the stakeholders in order to finalise the draft RMP for hand-over to the Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry.
The draft RMP will be made available to the public at the start of the public review period at about 40 points around the dam, the relevant municipalities and DWAF offices, as well as the website (http://www.dwaf.gov.za/harties).
For more information on the RMP contact:Cilliers BlaauwTel: 082 802 0541
For information on Harties, Metsi a me contact:Petrus VenterCell: 082 807 6098
Information about the forthcoming meetings and the venues will be sent to stakeholders, but is also available on the DWAF website. The public is reminded that this is an open forum and anyone with an interest in Hartbeespoort Dam is welcome to attend.
Issued by: Department of Water Affairs and Forestry19 May 2008Source: Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (http://www.dwaf.gov.za/)

Speech 16 th Session UN Commision

News Room               

 

 

 

 Sixteenth Session of the United Nations Commission for Sustainable Development

 

Statement to the High Level Segment

By

H.E. Marthinus Van Schalkwyk

Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism

 

14 MAY 2008

 

 

Mr. Chairman, on behalf of the South African Government, I congratulate you on your leadership in this process.  South Africa associates itself with the statements made by the Group of 77 and China and by the Africa Group.

 

Mr Chair, as the world experiences a food price crisis and escalating levels of poverty we meet timeously to review implementation of work towards meeting the WSSD targets.  We are considering progress in Africa and the challenges of drought and desertification, land, agriculture, rural development and water as a firm basis for a constructive and action-oriented CSD17 policy session.

 

Mr Chair, in Johannesburg we agreed that the greatest challenge of our time was dealing with poverty. It is clear that whilst many countries have undertaken concrete actions and achieved progress in certain areas, much remains to be done to alleviate poverty, improve livelihoods and to enhance economic growth, particularly in Africa.

 

At the heart the vision of an African Renaissance stands the challenge of ending the economic marginalization of Africa and attracting resources and investment to ensure its development. In this regard, South Africa is committed to the full implementation of NEPAD as Africa's premier development vehicle.

 

Mr Chair, agriculture remains the backbone of the economy for many developing countries, where the issues of drought, desertification and land degradation are closely linked to food security. In this context, meeting the MDG's and WSSD targets requires increased political commitment to address the challenges of agriculture and rural development. In Africa, this requires the full implementation of the NEPAD Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme which, in turn, is linked to efforts to address the inequities in access to land, its resources, and insecurity of tenure. Promoting women's equal access to and full participation in land decision-making; effecting new land rights and access to land and development opportunities remains a key challenge, requiring collective action.

 

Mr Chair, the current global food crisis highlights the impacts of climate change, a growing population and an ever increasing demand for food, which will require an intensification of agricultural development along with the integrated management of our natural resource base.  The implications these trends are most severe for the water and sanitation sector.  In particular, we must note that that many African countries will not meet the water and sanitation MDG and WSSD targets.  In this regard, South Africa supports and calls for international support for the full implementation of measures outlined in the eThekwini Declaration of the African Ministers Conference on Water.

 

Mr Chairman, our success in addressing the challenges of drought and desertification, land, water and sanitation is dependent on access to adequate finance, technology and capacity to fully implement agriculture, rural and African development programmes which are supported by comprehensive international science and technology cooperation initiatives.  For these programmes to effectively address the central issue of poverty they would have to include a focus on the development of entrepreneurs to add value to primary production.  In turn, these programmes must be supported by infrastructure development, including transport systems as well as information, communication and telecommunications infrastructure.  In this context, it is clear that trade distortions and access barriers in the form of tariffs, sanitary and phyto-sanitary barriers as well as other non-tariff barriers place huge constraint on development. Therefore a speedy and successful conclusion of the Doha Development Round is of crucial importance.

 

In conclusion, Mr Chair, the Commission on Sustainable Development must remain relevant as a global platform to review and measure progress in the implementation of the international sustainable development agenda. We have a responsibility to ensure that the CSD is strengthened in its role of holding all of us accountable for our commitments to achieving sustainable development.

 

I thank you. 

 

 

        

St Lucia Estuary and Wetlands

Forecast | Maps | Radar

 

St. Lucia Estuary, the town, is the Southern most entrance the world-renowned Wetlands Park. Since 1822 St. Lucia was world renowned as a wild life and fishing destination. British rule proclaimed it a township and with the increase in hunting, the crown foresaw to proclaim the Water area and Islands as a Game Reserve on 27 April 1895. The most prominent future of St. Lucia is its laid-back atmosphere and integration with wild life. The town's development is restricted to below the tree canopy. Hippo's, Bush Buck, Red duiker and Monkeys roam the streets freely. Hundreds of bird species can be observed through out the town.

St. Lucia has emerged as a tourist hub with many Restaurants, Curio Shops and various accommodations around town. Thee fairly sized Supermarkets and five bottle stores will feed the shopping needs of many passing through to the more remote areas of the Elephant Coast. A very well equipped Photo Lab futures at the entrance of the town.

RBM's wizard of Oz

May 12 , 2008

Zululand OBSERVER

RBM's wizard of Oz Cameron McRae - appointed Managing Director of Richards Bay Minerals in February Ronelle Ramsamy He may have had big shoes to fill at the beginning of the year, but newly appointed Managing Director Cameron McRae has smoothly taken over the reins at Richards Bay Minerals. The 49 year-old Australian assumed his biggest and most challenging role to date after former MD George Deyzel retired at the end of February. Displaying a calm disposition, McRae humbly admits at the onset of his interview with the Zululand Observer that he 'cannot be George'! However, offering a 'fresh set of eyes' the visionary leader immediately displays a strong sense of discipline, focus and charisma. 'I'm not bringing in a technical skill, but I will bring in a good understanding of working in complex organisations worldwide. I'm persistent and strategic and will bring an international outlook across countries and cultures to the table. 'Being objective, I will place a strong emphasis on getting leaders to lead effectively and teams to work cohesively and productively,' said McRae. Hurdles But his transition has not been exempt from hurdles. 'Within two weeks of taking the post, I was faced with the Eskom challenge and it certainly took up a lot of my thinking time. 'My goal is to get the company through the crisis without impacting on production, while still meeting long-term sales contracts. 'RBM is a very positive and strategic contributor to SA and making sure we operate at full sales capacity is vital. However, management has already worked collaboratively with Eskom and RBM has voluntarily shed load.' Other issues high on McRae's priority list include furthering the company's transformation requirements, stringently maintaining a good safety record and enhancing employee performance levels. 'I like to see people working well and productively together while showing respect to one another. If you treat people well, it will work better in the workforce. 'It's no use having a good strategy when you have a badly performing organisation. I try to support groups I work with and share success with teams. I try to understand and empathise different viewpoints, which is essential at senior management level.' Career Born in Melbourne, McRae was educated in Australia and Zambia before attaining his Bachelor of Commerce and MBA in Australia. He started his working life as a Commercial Graduate at a BHP steelworks in Australia in 1980 before joining Rio Tinto, where he has loyally dedicated 22 years of service. Describing his career as a 'chopping and changing one', McRae has travelled extensively, working and living among a number of different cultural environments. From Australia to Papua New Guinea, Taiwan and Zimbabwe, McRae holds a wealth of knowledge and experience at senior management level. In 2006, he was appointed as the Managing Director of Murowa Diamonds in Zimbabwe, before eventually taking the helm at RBM. Family man And when McRae is not preoccupied with managerial matters, the husband to Sue and father of five enjoys playing golf, fishing, exercising and sitting down to a good autobiography. His eldest daughter Amber and twin sons, Sam and Jake, live in Australia, while younger siblings George and Katie live with them in Richards Bay. Missing his steak on the Aussie barbeque, McRae says he is most appreciative of the braais in South Africa and looks forward to exploring the rest of the country.

Budget Vote Media Breakfast

Invitation to DEAT Budget Vote and Media Breakfast - 20 May 2008 13 May 2008

Media Alert Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism TUESDAY, 13 MAY 2008 The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr Marthinus van Schalkwyk, and Deputy Minister Rejoice Mabudafhasi, cordially invites you to the National Assembly DEAT Budget Vote on Tuesday 20 May 2008 and to the NCOP Budget Vote on Tuesday 5 June 2008. You are also invited to a Budget Vote Media Breakfast hosted by the Minister and Deputy Minister at the Cape Diamond Hotel, Cnr Parliament and Longmarket  Streets, from 08h00 to 09h30 on Tuesday 20 May 2008.  Join us as we outline the plans for the Environment and Tourism sector for the current financial year. Please note that, at the breakfast, a presentation will be done on the Cabinet-mandated Long Term Mitigation Scenario (LTMS) study which will set the pathway for our long-term climate policy. Please RSVP with Natasha Rockman by 10h00 on Friday 16 May 2008  -  076 429 2264 or 021 465 7240 or email nrockman@deat.gov.za ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Enquiries to: Mava Scott (Acting Chief Director: Communications) Mobile: 082-411-9821 E-mail: mscott@deat.gov.za

KZN Wildlife inviting public coment

Managing our Heritage from grass roots up in a very transparent manner KZN Wildlife invites people for public comment on certain issues... We found this article on the web site


PUBLIC COMMENT
Issues Of Strong Public Interest
MANAGEMENT OF PRIMATES Draft Recommendation to the MEC on management of ex situ and problem primates in KwaZulu-Natal DRAFT KZN Recommend Primate 30June07.pdf (2.5 Megs ) Extended deadline for comment = 15 October 2007 Draft revised Norms and Standards for care and management of ex situ vervet monkeys Note Vervet Norms and Standards 7Sept07.pdf (30kb) Extended deadline for comment = 15 October 2007 MANAGEMENT OF EX SITU (CAPTIVE) WILD ANIMALS Draft Recommendation to the MEC on management of ex situ wild animals in KwaZulu-Natal KZN_RecPolicy_exsitu wildanimals_DRAFT10Sept07 Ver2.pdf (3megs)
NOTE: Stakeholders please note that the draft posted on 7 September 07 has been replaced with a draft dated 10 September (VERSION 2) which has edits for clarity and minor corrections of a few errors that were brought to our attention. Please disregard the draft dated 7 September 07, and use the draft dated 10 September 2007, referred to as Version 2, which is posted here. Deadline for comment = 30 November 2007

KZN Wildlife welcomes your contributions to, and comments on the following processes that are being initiated for the protected areas in KwaZulu-Natal:
Current Developments in Protected Areas
Zululand Region
NIL
Coastal Region
NIL
uKhahlamba Region
Integrated Management Plan for Umgeni Vlei nature Reserve
"Integrated Management Plan for the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site"
uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site, CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT PLAN (CDP) 2006 -2011
Concept Development Plans for Protected Areas
About Concept Development Plans
Hluhluwe iMfolozi Concept Development Plan
The e-mail address is public_comment@kznwildlife.com
fax to +27 033 845 1499. In all correspondence, please include the Project Title in the subject line. With regret we are unable to enter into correspondence directly with you, but be reassured your comments will be retained and considered.

KZN Wildlife Game Auction

 

state of environment of our school

School in Community

Our schools should be a healthier environment for us to learn, share together, and
enjoy ourselves. Often we blame others when schools don’t come up to standard.
But actually it is ourselves who can do the most to help improve our schools,
including our local community, of course.
This guide helps us assess the state of environment of our school and supports us
to take action to make things better.
This resource has been designed keeping in mind the ‘Active Learning Framework’
method of learning adopted by the National Environmental Education
Programme (NEEP). The Active Learning Framework involves the interaction
between four core processes: Information Seeking, Enquiry, Reporting and Action

Tourist Indaba

Indaba
Location
Venue
Durban Exhibition Centre Albert Lithulu Convention Centre
Date
2008/05/10 to 2008/05/13
What is the Tourism Indaba all about?Indaba, one of three most visited trade shows in the world, brings together a showcase of Southern African tourism products and services for the international travel trade. Exhibitors in the DEC (Durban Exhibition Centre) include provincial authorities and provincial products. In the ICC (International Convention Centre), exhibitor categories include accommodation, tour operators, game lodges, transport, online travel, media publications and industry associations. Outdoor exhibitors include transport, camping and safari companies.
Tourism, the new gold of South AfricaFor some a blessing, for others an evil in disguise, for us at SafariNow.com it is an opportunity to make a difference.We'll be there. Hope to see you!

Black Rhino calf born at Somkhanda

May 12, 2008;
First Black Rhino Calf Born in Somkhanda Game Reserve The WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project leader Dr Jacques Flamand reports that one of the female black rhinos released into the community-run Somkhanda Game Reserve near Mkhuze town in November 2007 has given birth to a calf.
"When the group of 11 black rhinos were released into the Somkhanda Game Reserve one of the females was already pregnant and it is this female that has given birth," said Dr Flamand.
"Both WWF and our partner in the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, are very pleased with this birth as it does confirm that the animals have settled down well into their new homes," he added.
Sokhanda Game Reserve is the property of the Gumbi community and is the first community-run game reserve to be included in the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project.
Apart from the initial group of eleven black rhinos delivered by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife to the area in November 2007, 10 White Rhino captured in the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park will be delivered in the course of this week, bringing the total number of rhino in the reserve to 21.
The Black Rhino Range Expansion Project is a co-operative effort between WWF SA and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife to increase the range of the black rhino and in so doing to improve the breeding potential of the species.
MNZ News Item 17 April 2008

Appeal decision - proposed construction of a 765kV

Appeal decision - proposed construction of a 765kV transmission line and its associated infrastructure from Zeus substation, Mpumalanga, to Mercury substation 09 May 2008

Media Statement Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism FRIDAY, 09 MAY 2008: The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr Marthinus van Schalkwyk, has considered the appeals against the Department's decision to grant authorisation to the applicant for the proposed construction of a 765kV transmission line and its associated infrastructure from Zeus substation, Mpumalanga, to Mercury substation, North West Province. After evaluating all the appeals and relevant information submitted to him, the Minister has come to a decision as attached hereto. APPEAL DECISION APPEALS AGAINST THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION OF THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A 765kV TRANSMISSION LINE AND ITS ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE FROM ZEUS SUBSTATION, MPUMALANGA, TO MERCURY SUBSTATION, NORTH WEST PROVINCE 1.INTRODUCTION In terms of section 22 of the Environment Conservation Act, 1989 (ECA), read with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations published in Government Notice No. R1182 of 5 September 1997, the Director-General of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) on 2 March 2007 authorised Eskom to proceed with the construction of a 765kV transmission line and its associated infrastructure between the Zeus substation near Secunda, Mpumalanga, and the Mercury substation near Orkney, North West Province. After the record of decision (ROD) had been issued, eight appeals were submitted against the authorisation. 2.BACKGROUND 2.1 This transmission line will form part of an important component of the Alpha (near Standerton, Mpumalanga); Hydra (near De Aar, Northern Cape); Gamma (near Koeberg, Western Cape) 765kV network. This network will also be extended with a 765kV link between the Hydra substation and the Grassridge substation near Port Elizabeth. Thus, the current 400kV transmission network providing the Eastern and Western Cape will be substantially upgraded. The 400kV network is expected to reach its transfer limits during 2008. 2.2 The development will comprise of a transmission line of approximately 260km in length and of the expansion of the Mercury and Zeus substations to accommodate the new 765kV transformers. At Zeus the additional area will be 28 ha (700m x 400m), while at Mercury the additional area will be 44 ha (1100m x 400m). Access and service roads will also have to be constructed where necessary. 3.APPEALS 3.1 Eight appeals were submitted against the authorisation of the proposed transmission line by the DEAT. The appeals originated from an area limited to a stretch of line approximately 12km in length, situated between Potchefstroom and the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site (VDWHS). Three different route alternatives had been identified in this area, namely an eastern alternative (closest to the VDWHS), a western alternative (farthest away from the VDWHS) and a central alternative, which follows the route of the existing 400kV transmission line. While the eastern alternative was singled out as the preferred option in the environmental impact report (EIR), the western alternative was authorised by the DEAT. All the appeals were submitted by land owners along the western alternative. 3.2 The following emerged as the major grounds of appeal: The authorisation of the western alternative is contradictory to the recommendation of the eastern alternative as the preferred route in the EIR. No reasons were provided the authorisation of the western alternative. None of the land owners along the western route were consulted about the identification of that route as the preferred route. Although the visual impact on the VDWHS of a line along the western route will be minimal, the line will have a major visual impact as well as an impact on land use in the area which it will traverse. 3.3 The appellants persuaded Eskom to undertake an extended study of the three alternative route alignments as well as of any other reasonable route options in the area. During the EIA phase of the project, the study of the three alternatives focused mainly on visual aspects. It was then agreed that the study team for the extended study, in addition to a visual impact specialist, would also include an ecologist, archaeologist, ornithologist and a social . In view of the additional information assembled during the extended study, it concluded that the anticipated impact of a line along the central route will be more acceptable than on any of the other alignment options. 4. DECISION 4.1 In reaching my decision on the appeals against the authorisation of this proposed development, I have taken the following into consideration: 4.1.1 The information contained in: The project file (ref. 12/12/20/433). The appeals submitted by the eight appellants against the authorisation of the construction of the transmission line along the western route alignment in the area between Potchefstroom and the VDWHS. The response of the applicant and the DEAT to the grounds of appeal. The report on the Vredefort Dome Extended Study. 4.1.2 The dire need for the establishment of this 765kV link to ensure a stable supply of electricity to the Western Cape and to essential development initiatives such as the Coega Industrial Zone near Port Elizabeth. 4.1.3 The indication in the Vredefort Dome Extended Study that, with the exception of its visual impact, the anticipated impact of a line along the central route on the biodiversity of the area, on the avifauna, on land-use, on sense of place and on social attributes is more acceptable than on any of the other alignment options. 4.1.4 The fact that none of the alternative route alignments identified encroaches upon the buffer zone of the VDWHS. With a buffer zone of 5km, the direct impact on the Dome area itself of a transmission line along any of the identified routes will be minimal. 4.2 Having considered the above information I have concluded that: 4.2.1 The need for the development has been adequately demonstrated. 4.2.2 The appeals against the construction of the transmission line along the western route alignment are substantive. 4.2.3 The anticipated impacts associated with the construction of the transmission line along the central route alignment will be more acceptable than along any of the other identified route alignments. 4.2.4 The VDWHS will be minimally affected by the construction of the transmission line along the central route alignment option. 4.2.5 The conditions enclosed in the attached Record of Decision are deemed adequate to mitigate the identified impacts to acceptable levels. 4.3 Hence, in terms of section 35(4) of the Environment Conservation Act, 1989 (Act 73 of 1989) I have decided to - 4.3.1 Uphold the appeals against the environmental authorisation of this development the Director-General of the DEAT; and 4.3.2 vary the original environmental authorisation in that, in the area between Potchefstroom and the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site, the transmission line must be erected along the central route alignment option, as is described in paragraph 1(a) of the attached Record of Decision and in accordance with the conditions set out in paragraph 3 thereof. MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK, MP MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM RECORD OF DECISION ISSUED BY THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM: APPEALS AGAINST THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION BY THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM OF THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A 765kV TRANSMISSION LINE AND ITS ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE FROM THE ZEUS SUBSTATION, MPUMALANGA, TO THE MERCURY SUBSTATION, NORTH WEST PROVINCE (PROJECT REFERENCE 12/12/20/433) In terms of section 22(3), read with section 35(4) of the Environment Conservation , 1989 (Act No. 73 of 1989) ("the Act") I, Marthinus van Schalkwyk,, hereby authorise Eskom to undertake the activity described below, subject to the conditions contained herein. 1. DESCRIPTION, EXTENT AND LOCATION OF THE ACTIVITY: The proposed project comprises of the following: Construction of a 765kV transmission line from the Zeus substation near Standerton in Mpumalanga to the Mercury substation, near Orkney in North West Province. The proposed transmission line will be approximately 255km in length. It will follow the ZM 1 corridor as recommended in the environmental impact report (EIR) dated July 2006. Eskom will acquire an 80m servitude (40m on either side of the centre line) within this corridor. In the area north-west of the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site (VDWHS) and south-east of Potchefstroom the ZM1 corridor must follow the central alignment. Between the point where the central alignment crosses the boundary between the farm Rooipoortje 453 IQ and the farm Roodekraal 454 IQ, and the point where the central alignment crosses the road on the farm Vogelzang 467 IQ, the ZM 1 corridor will be extended south eastwards for a distance of two kilometres. Within the extended corridor thus formed (hereinafter called the "Extended Corridor"), Eskom must complete the determination of the final alignment of the transmission line through negotiation with every land owner whose property will be traversed by the line. Once the final alignment in the Extended Corridor has determined, it must be submitted to me for approval. The line will consist of 55m high cross-rope suspension towers with strain towers on difficult terrain and on bends greater than 3º. ; Expansion of the Mercury and Zeus substations to accommodate the new 765kV transformers. At Zeus the additional area will be 28 ha (700m x 400m), while at the additional area will be 44 ha (1100m x 400m). Construction of access roads where necessary and the installation of gates where the line crosses farm boundaries. The project falls within the ambit of items 1(a) and (d) of Government Notice R.1182 promulgated under section 21 of the Act. 2. KEY FACTORS INFORMING THE DECISION: 2.1 In reaching my decision on the appeals against the authorisation of this proposed development, I have taken the following into consideration: 2.1.1 The information contained in: The project file (ref. 12/12/20/433). The appeals submitted by the eight appellants against the authorisation of the construction of the transmission line along the western route alignment in the area between Potchefstroom and the VDWHS. The response of the applicant and the DEAT to the grounds of appeal. The Vredefort Dome Extended Study which was produced by Margen Industrial Services (Eskom's consultants) in response to a request by affected land owners. 2.1.2 The grounds of appeal which focused on the following areas: Dissatisfaction with the process followed: none of the owners along the western alternative were consulted about the identification of that route as the preferred one. Concerns about the contradiction between the EIR, which recommended the eastern alternative, and the record of decision (ROD) which authorised the western alternative. Concerns about the visual impact and the impact on the land-use of a line along the western route on the area it will traverse. 2.1.3. The dire need for the establishment of this 765kV link to ensure a stable supply of electricity to the Western Cape and to essential development initiatives such as the Coega Industrial Zone near Port Elizabeth. 2.1.4. The indication in the Vredefort Dome Extended Study that, with the exception of its visual impact, the anticipated impact of a line along the central route on the biodiversity of the area, on the avifauna, on land-use, on sense of place and on social attributes is more acceptable than on any of the other alignment options. 2.1.5. No one of the alternative route alignments identified encroaches upon the buffer zone of the VDWHS. With a buffer zone of 5km, the direct impact on the Dome area itself of a transmission line along any of the identified routes will be minimal. 2.2 Having considered the above information I have concluded that: The need for the development has been adequately demonstrated. The appeals against the construction of the transmission line along the western route alignment are substantive. The anticipated impacts associated with the construction of the transmission line along the central route alignment will be more acceptable than along any of the other identified route alignments. The conditions enclosed in this ROD are deemed adequate to mitigate the identified impacts to acceptable levels. By implementing the mitigation measures contained in this ROD, the principles of section 2 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA) can be substantially complied with. 3. CONDITIONS 3.1 Specific conditions 3.1.1 Environmental Control Officer (ECO) 3.1.1.1 Eskom must appoint an ECO one month before construction commences. The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) must be notified of such an appointment. 3.1.1.2 The ECO will be responsible for monitoring, on a daily basis, compliance of the project with these conditions as well as with relevant environmental legislation and with the recommendations contained in the environmental management plan (EMP). 3.1.1.3 The ECO must ensure that independent environmental performance audits are undertaken quarterely for the duration of construction. The audit reports must be submitted to the Director-General of the DEAT (attention Director: Environmental Impact Evaluation). Copies of the audit reports must also be submitted to the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture and Land Administration, the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment, the Northwest Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment and to the Free State Department of Tourism, Environmental and Economic Affairs. 3.1.1.4 The ECO shall maintain the following on site: A daily site diary A non-conformance register A public complaint register A register of audits 3.1.1.5 The ECO shall submit an environmental compliance report on a two-monthly basis to the Director-General of the DEAT of which copies must also be submitted to the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture and Land Administration, the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment, the Northwest Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment and to the Free State Department of Tourism, Economic and Environmental Affairs. 3.1.1.6 The ECO shall remain employed until all measures required for the rehabilitation of construction damage have been completed and the site has been handed over to Eskom by the contractor. 3.1.1.7 The ECO shall report to and be accountable to Eskom. 3.1.2 Environmental Management Plan (EMP) 3.1.2.1 Eskom must submit a construction EMP, subject to clause 3.1.2.2 below, to the DEAT for approval before commencement of any of the activities referred to in this ROD Copies of the EMP must also be submitted to the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture and Land Administration, the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment, the Northwest Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment and to the Free State Department of Tourism, Environmental and Economic Affairs to enable them to comment to the DEAT on the EMP. The envisaged construction EMP must cover, but must not be limited to, the following aspects: Rehabilitation of areas to be disturbed during the construction of the transmission line and associated structures. Location and management of construction camps. Access roads to individual construction areas. Plant search and rescue before commencement of any construction related activity. Waste avoidance and minimisation during construction. Management of traffic during the construction phase, especially where the power line crosses roads and other transportation networks. Measures to reduce soil erosion during the construction phase. Measures to control invasive plant species and weeds. 3.1.2.2 A construction EMP for that section of the line within the Extended Corridor, must be compiled after the route alignment in the Extended Corridor has been completed and approved in terms of paragraph 1(a). After approval of the EMP for the line in the Extended Corridor by the DEAT, that EMP must be added as an addendum to the EMP for the rest of the line. 3.1.2.3 The EMP, as approved by the DEAT, will be regarded as a dynamic document. However, subsequent changes in the EMP must be submitted to the DEAT for approval before such changes could be implemented. 3.1.2.4 Compliance with the EMP must form part of the project documentation of all contractors working on the project, and must be clearly indicated in all contracts. 3.1.3 Rehabilitation after construction Eskom must ensure that no exotic plant species are used for rehabilitation purposes. Only indigenous plants endemic to the area may be used. 3.1.4 Monitoring and auditing 3.1.4.1 The DEAT reserves the right to monitor and audit the development throughout its full life cycle to ensure that it complies with the conditions stipulated in this ROD as well as with the mitigation measures contained in the EIR dated July 2006 and with the construction and operational EMPs. 3.1.4.2 The ECO must ensure that the records relating to monitoring and auditing to in 3.1.1.2 and 3.1.1.3 are made available on a quarterly basis to officials of the DEAT and of the Mpumalanga, Northwest, Gauteng and Free State provincial environmental authorities. 3.1.5 Land acquisition 3.1.5.1 This development is authorised on condition that Eskom acquires the necessary servitude for the corridor of the transmission line. Eskom must negotiate with all affected landowners within the preferred corridor prior to commencing with construction. Proof of negotiation with affected land owners must be made available on request to the DEAT. 3.1.5.2 Any route adjustment outside the corridor necessitated by local circumstances must be reported to the DEAT in writing. Construction of the transmission line may only commence once such route adjustments have been accepted by the DEAT. 3.1.6 Compliance with other legislation 3.1.6.1 Artificial features and structures older than 60 years and archaeological remains are protected in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999). Should any archaeological artefacts or such artificial features and structures be found during construction or be exposed during excavation, all construction or excavation activities in the vicinity of such a find must be stopped. Under no circumstances shall such artefacts, features or structures be destroyed or removed from the site. The ECO must call an archaeologist to the site for an inspection and evaluation. Should it be concluded that the finds are of real , the South African Heritage Resources Agency must be consulted in this regard. Their recommendations must be included in the EMP and must be adhered to. 3.1.6.2 Eskom must ensure that no prospecting or mining activities or extraction of any material is conducted within the proposed project area, or in relation to the proposed project without necessary authorisation in terms of the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No.28 of 2002). 3.1.6.3 The provisions of the following Acts must be adhered to: the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993); the National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998); the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act No. 39 of 2004); the Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Act, 1965 (Act No. 45 of 1965); the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) any other relevant legislation. 3.1.6.4 Eskom must obtain a permit from each relevant provincial department of nature conservation for the removal of indigenous protected plant and animal species. 3.1.7 Construction and operational impacts The construction team must make use of existing access roads where possible. In addition Eskom must ensure that the following conditions are adhered to during the implementation of the project: 3.1.7.1 The route of the transmission line must be planned in such a way that areas with a high potential for bird strikes are avoided. Overhead earth-wires must be used to increase visibility; Anti-collision devices must be installed along those sections of the line which have been identified by an avi-fauna specialist as sections with a high risk for bird strikes. 3.1.7.2 A safe distance from sensitive bird habitats and breeding areas such as wetlands, dams and river crossings must be maintained. 3.1.7.3 No towers or access roads must be placed in wetlands. If this is unavoidable, authorisation from the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry must be obtained prior to construction. 3.1.7.4 Vegetation, avi-fauna, wetland and heritage resources specialists must undertake a site inspection of the position of each tower and of any new access roads to assess and ensure that no endangered vegetation, sensitive avi-faunal habitat or heritage resources are compromised and to advise on mitigation prior to construction. 3.1.7.5 Self-supporting strain towers must be protected with bird guards. 3.1.7.6 The route must be aligned in such a way that either distance or a suitable topographical screening backdrop will mitigate the visual impact of the line. 3.1.7.7 Alignment of the route along the top of ridges must be avoided. Should it be necessary to cross a ridge it is preferable to cross the ridge directly over rather than at an angle. This will limit the visibility of the line. Where possible, ridges must be crossed at a depression such as a neck or saddle in the ridge. This will limit the visual effect of any pylon standing above the ridgeline. 3.1.7.8 The final route of the transmission line must cross main roads at an angle as close to 90º as possible. 3.2 GENERAL CONDITIONS 3.2.1 This authorisation is granted only in terms of section 22 of the Act and does not exempt holder thereof from compliance with any other legislation. 3.2.2 This authorisation refers only to the activity as specified and described in the EIR dated July 2006. Any other activity listed under section 21 of the Act which is not specified above, is not covered by this authorisation and must therefore comply with the requirements of the NEMA and the environmental impact assessment regulations issued there under. 3.2.3 This authorisation is subject to the approval of the relevant local authorities in terms of any legislation administered by those authorities. 3.2.4 One week's written notice must be given to the DEAT before commencement of construction activities. Such notice shall make clear reference to the site location details and must include the reference number given above. 3.2.5 One week's written notice must be given to the DEAT before commencement of the operation of the transmission line. Such notice shall make clear reference to the site location details and must include the reference number given above. 3.2.6 The applicant shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the conditions contained in this ROD by any person acting on his behalf, including but not limited to, an agent, servant or employee or any person rendering a service to the applicant in respect of the activity, including but not limited to, contractors and consultants. 3.2.7 The applicant must notify the DEAT in writing, within 24 hours if any condition of this authorisation cannot, or is not, adhered to. The notification must be supplemented with reasons for such non-compliance. 3.2.8 A copy of the authorisation and of this ROD shall be available on site during construction. All staff, contractors and sub-contractors shall familiarise themselves with or be made aware of the contents of this ROD. 3.2.9 Compliance/non-compliance records must be kept and shall be made available on request to any relevant authority within five days of receipt of such a request. 3.2.10 Any changes to or deviations from the project description contained in this ROD must be approved, in writing, by the DEAT before such changes or deviations may be effected. In assessing whether to grant such approval or not, the DEAT may request such information as it deems necessary to evaluate the significance and impacts of such changes or deviations. 3.2.11 The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism may from time to time, by notice in writing to the applicant, amend, add or remove a condition contained in this ROD. 3.2.12 In the event of the anticipated impacts exceeding the significance as predicted by the independent consultant in the EIR dated July 2006, the authorisation may be withdrawn after proper procedures have been followed. 3.2.13 In the event of any dispute concerning the significance of a particular impact, the opinion of the DEAT will prevail. 3.2.14 The applicant must notify the DEAT in writing at least ten days prior to the change of ownership, project developer or the alienation of any similar rights for the activity described in this ROD. The applicant must furnish a copy of this ROD to the new owner, developer or person to whom the rights accrue and inform the new owner, developer or person to whom the rights accrue that the conditions contained herein are binding on them. 3.2.15 Where any of the applicant's contact details change, including the name of the responsible person, the physical or postal address and/or telephonic details, the applicant must notify the DEAT as soon as the new details become known to the applicant. 3.2.16 National, provincial or local government institutions or committees appointed in terms of the conditions of this ROD or by or in terms of any other public authority or authorisation shall not be held responsible for any damages or losses suffered by the applicant or his successor in title in any instance where construction or operation subsequent to construction is temporarily or permanently stopped for reasons of non-compliance by the applicant with the conditions contained in this ROD or in any other subsequent document emanating from these conditions. 3.2.17 If any condition imposed in terms of this ROD is not complied with, the authorisation of this development may be withdrawn in accordance with Part 3 of Chapter 4 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2006 (the Regulations), published under the NEMA. 3.2.18 Failure to comply with any of these conditions shall be regarded as an offence and may be dealt with in terms of regulation 81(1)(d) and regulation 81(2) of the Regulations, as well as any other appropriate legal mechanisms. 3.2.19 Unless otherwise specified, the applicant shall be responsible for all costs necessary to comply with the conditions contained in this ROD. 3.2.20 Any complaint from the public during construction must be attended to as soon as possible to the satisfaction of the parties concerned. A complaints register must be maintained and shall be produced upon request. 3.2.21 DEAT officials shall be given access, at all reasonable times, to the construction areas referred to in the project description above for the purpose of assessing and/or monitoring compliance with the conditions contained in this ROD. 3.2.22 All outdoor advertising associated with this activity, whether on or off the property concerned, must comply with the South African Manual for Outdoor Advertising Control (SAMOAC) which is available from the DEAT. 3.3 Duration of authorisation If the activity hereby authorised does not commence within 4 years from the date of signature of this ROD, the authorisation will lapse and the applicant will need to reapply in terms of the applicable legislation. 4. CONSEQUENCES OF NON-COMPLIANCE The applicant must comply with the conditions contained in this ROD. Failure to comply with any of the above conditions may result in, inter alia, the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism withdrawing the authorisation, issuing directives to address the non-compliance - including an order to cease the activity - as well as instituting criminal and/or civil proceedings to enforce compliance. 5. APPLICANT: Eskom Holdings Limited P O Box 1091 JOHANNESBURG 2000 Contact person: Ms J M Mashiteng Tel: (011) 800 4623 Fax: (011) 800 3917 6. CONSULTANT: Margen Industrial Services P O Box 12822 LERAATSFONTEIN 1038 Contact person: Mr M Mahlangu Tel: (013) 699 0749 Fax: (013) 699 0917 MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK, MP MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bill to protect our coast lines

Integrated Coastal Management Bill - To preserve the integrity of SA's coastline 08 May 2008

Speech SPEECH BY MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK, MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM, INTRODUCTION OF THE INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT BILL IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ON THURSDAY 8 MAY 2008 Introduction The coast is a unique part of our environment. It is a distinctive system in which a range of considerations - biophysical, economic, social and institutional - interconnect, in a manner which requires a dedicated and integrated management approach. Unfortunately, our coastline is currently not being managed and developed in a way that optimizes its resources and opportunities. Economic and social opportunities for wealth creation and equity are being missed while coastal ecosystems are being systematically degraded. This Bill sets out to correct this. The Integrated Coastal Management Bill which I am introducing today will replace the existing 1935 Seashore Act. The Bill also replaces the 1980 Control of Dumping at Sea Act and introduces, for the first time, a comprehensive national system for planning and managing South Africa's spectacular and valuable coastal areas. I am therefore pleased that the Environmental Affairs and Tourism Portfolio Committee has approved this Bill for tabling in Parliament. It should therefore be enacted speedily to safeguard both people and property, while at the same time promoting access to the coast and facilitating integrated development. PURPOSE OF THE BILL Fundamentally, the purpose of the National Coastal Management Bill is to: Provide a legal and administrative framework that will promote cooperative, coordinated and integrated coastal development; Preserve, protect and enhance the status of the coastal environment as the heritage that belongs to us all. Ensure coastal resources are managed in the interest of the whole community; Ensure there is equitable access to the opportunities and benefits derived from the coast; and To give effect to certain of South Africa's international legal obligations. This Bill declares the seashore, coastal waters (including estuaries) and South Africa's territorial seas, to be coastal public property. It therefore also requires the state to act as the trustee of coastal public property. This Bill will also require that appropriate public access servitudes are established along the coast to ensure that access for our people to our natural heritage, remains unhindered. You will recall the devastating effects of the sea storms this time last year - especially along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. The cost to property and municipal infrastructure has been estimated at well over R1 billion rand and repairs are still underway, one year later. Unfortunately, with the increase in sea levels and the forecast of more frequent storms due to erratic weather patterns which is attributed to climate change, the situation will only get worse. This Bill will therefore establish a coastal protection zone inland of the high-water mark within which certain activities will be prohibited and additional development controls will be applied - such as stricter Environmental Impact Assessments. It also gives government the power to prevent development too close to the sea by establishing 'set-back lines'. These measures are important not only to preserve the beauty of coastal landscapes but also to respond to threats posed by, for example, rising sea-levels associated with climate change or dynamic coastal processes. Excellent coastal water quality is not only essential to our burgeoning tourism sector but also to ensure the maintenance and expansion of the aquaculture industry. There have been a number of recent reports in the media about sewage spills and sub-standard effluent from fish factories being discharged into harbours and the coastal zone - with devastating effects. This Bill makes provision for coastal waters discharge permits and dumping permits and stipulates that all existing effluent discharges into the sea and estuaries should be critically reviewed. Another innovation of the Bill is the establishment of a comprehensive system of coastal planning. National government, coastal provinces and coastal municipalities will be given powers to establish coastal management programmes ("CMPs") that set specific, enforceable, coastal management objectives that will guide decision-makers. I would like to draw your attention to an important amendment that was introduced following the consultative public participation process. A subtext has been added to Section 49 that now places an obligation on municipalities with regard to their Municipal Coastal Management Programmes. This means that their strategies and priorities will make provision for the equitable designation of zones for the purpose of mixed-cost housing. This not only takes into account the needs of previously disadvantaged individuals but will also ensure that people across all income groups are able to own property along the coast in the future. In all four the coastal provinces government is involved in legal action against people that have erected illegal structures, often on state land, with no regard for the environment and the existing laws of the country. These are normally costly and drawn out processes. For example, a civil court case against a group of illegal developers along the Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape has taken some 5 years. The Bill provides for government to exercise better control over structures erected illegally in the coastal zone e.g. houses, jetties and retaining walls. Bad catchment management practices coupled with development pressures have had severe impacts on many of our estuarine systems. The Bill makes provision for improved estuarine management in South Africa through the development of an over-arching national estuarine management protocol and management plans for individual estuaries. Conclusion The new Integrated Coastal Management Bill is both far-reaching and progressive. We are now on an accelerated path to decisive action that will provide clear parameters for the planning of future coastal developments, and create economic and recreational opportunities by increasing access to our coastal public property. Honorable Members, I'm sure that I can provide you with numerous examples where indiscriminate decisions have adversely affected our coast and coastal communities. We can, as a country, no longer afford to take decisions without taking all relevant factors and stakeholders into account. And this includes considering the inputs of all coastal stakeholders. This Bill requires the Premiers of the coastal provinces to appoint lead agents for coastal management in their provinces. This Bill further provides for coordinating structures in the form of a national and four provincial coastal committees - which will be mandatory. The Bill will also empower municipalities to establish municipal coastal committees. While the latter will not be mandatory, we hope that municipalities will see the benefits of establishing these structures. In conclusion, this Bill promotes a holistic way of thinking by promoting coordinated and integrated coastal management, which views the coast as a system and emphasizes the importance of managing it as such. Madam Speaker, I cannot adequately express my appreciation and thanks to the Chairperson and Members of the Portfolio Committee for their thorough deliberations, guidance and support for this Bill. I thank you. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------