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The Congress of the People does not support the inclusion of COSATU in the public hearings on the Interconnection rates on account of the fact that they do not qualify to participate in these sessions.

COSATU did not meet the deadline of 2 October 09, and have therefore disqualified themselves, said Juli Kilian, COPE spokesperson in the Portfolio Committee. They requested the Chairperson on 8 October to participate. If the Chairperson and ANC want to include them, the complete process must be reopened.

The media advert inviting public comment on interconnection rates clearly stipulated that the deadline for written submissions was 12:00 on 2 October 09. It also stipulates that invitations to the public hearings would be based on written submissions made. COSATU did neither and therefore do not qualify.

COPE is concerned that the tensions within the ruling alliance is now having a negative impact on parliamentary processes. It is clear that the ANC in parliament is willing to bow to every whim of COSATU. COSATU is part of government and should engage the ruling alliance within Cabinet and in alliance discussions. They should not receive red carpet treatment whenever they insist on it.

COPE lodged an urgent appeal with the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Mr Ismael Vadi, and the Speaker of the National Assembly to reconsider COSATU's inclusion. (Letter enclosed)