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The IFP has taken note of claims by the KZN Provincial Department of Social
Development that the registration of functioning children's homes in KwaZulu
Natal is not being blocked.

However, the IFP's research reveals that many children's homes face an
uphill battle with regard to registration.

"It is clear that in order to meet the required criteria these homes are
sent from pillar to post in an effort to get themselves registered. The
process is confusing and arduous," said Liezl van der Merwe MP, the IFP's
Representative on the Portfolio Committee on Women, Children and People with
Disabilities.

Van der Merwe said that, despite protestations to the contrary, Government's
processes and long list of requirements are making it far too difficult for
the registration of functioning children's homes.

"It's simply untenable that these institutions, which look after destitute
children without the assistance of Government, are made to jump through
hoops in order to get themselves registered. Both the Department of Women,
Children and People with Disabilities as well as the Department of Social
Development have a responsibility to protect the interests of our children.
The IFP therefore calls on these Departments to urgently devise a plan to
ensure that children's homes that are finding it difficult to meet
Government's requirements receive the necessary assistance and attention.
Without such interventions, far too many of South Africa's destitute
children will continue to face a bleak future," concluded Liezl van der
Merwe MP.