Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS) At its regular meeting today, 13 May 1998, Cabinet received a report on progress towards the Presidential Jobs Summit, and it noted with appreciation the application of all relevant stakeholders to the issues at hand. Cabinet agreed that the Summit should be held not later than July 1998. It urged all sectors to speed up the process of working out practical and sustainable proposals on job creation.
Cabinet was also briefed on the review of competitions policy, and it agreed that the Competition Bill should be released for public comment pending its finalisation and submission to Parliament. The meeting also expressed its support for the draft NEDLAC Framework Agreement on the Social Plan.
Cabinet decided that the report of the Presidential Review Commission should be released to the public; and it appointed a Committee of Ministers to oversee evaluation of the report and to recommend how government should respond to it. The Minister of Public Administration will hold a press conference tomorrow in this regard. Cabinet also expressed its support for the Batho Pele strategy for 1998.
In examining the related question of new Public Service Regulations, Cabinet resolved among others that no overtime should be paid to government officials from the rank of Director upwards. This matter will be negotiated with the relevant labour unions.
Cabinet approved the submission of the following legislation to Parliament.
Cabinet was informed of the pending Regional Forum organised by SADC and the world Economic forum, which will take place in Namibia next week. A delegation of Ministers led by Deputy President Thabo Mbeki will attend the Forum.
The meeting also approved the final chapters of the Defence Review, which, it resolved should include an element of long-term certainty regarding budget allocations.
The various Ministries and Department will elaborate on these and other matters.
13 May 1998
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