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The Minister of Social Services and Poverty Relief has today had a consultative workshop with stakeholders and Non-Governmental organisations of the Western Cape and created a forum where ideas could be exchanged freely between the stakeholders, the minister and the department.

At the workshop the Minister and the Management of the Department of Social Services discussed the main features of the budget for 2001/2 with those present.

In his introductory remarks the Minister said: " In my tradition and culture we work with the group as a basis and I believe that a group of people contributing ideas can accomplish far more than the individual and this is why it is important that I consult with you and the other stakeholders on a regular basis."

The Minister also stressed the need for the established Ministerial Advisory Council (MAC) to function effectively as soon as possible. This will keep him in contact with the role players and stakeholders who can advise him on issues from time to time.

The Minister further expressed his concern with respect to the fact that the delegates from various NGOs commented about the financial state their organisations are in. Their subsidies have not been increased in accordance with inflation and they now suffer as result. It was emphasised that the work these organisations are doing in the current state of affairs is essential and that if funds cannot be made available from the state finances, creative alternatives will have to be found. It is, however, important that government support these organisations financially and other wise in the work they do and the question should be raised on the national level.

Enquiries Derick de Villiers, Tel: 021 483 5457, Tel(GSM): 083 556 6165

Issued by the Office of the MEC of Social Services and Poverty Relief, Western Cape, 12 March 2001