The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has initiated a comprehensive departmental spending review to ensure that every rand is utilised effectively.

‘This process is designed to scrutinise our expenditures, identify areas where we can achieve greater efficiency, and reallocate resources to priority programs that deliver the greatest benefit to our environment and citizens,’ Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

Addressing the media on his 100 days in office, the Minister said his department was committed to upholding the highest standards of fiscal responsibility and in understanding the importance of prudent financial management.

‘By eliminating wasteful spending and streamlining operations, we aim to ensure that every rand is utilised effectively. Over the medium term, the department’s budget has been reduced by nearly R2 billion.

‘In recognising that effective conservation and environmental initiatives require substantial res
ources, we have been actively working to attract donor income and ensure financial efficiency within our department and its entities,’ the Minister said.

In the past 100 days, the department has embarked on a strategic campaign to engage with international donors, private sector partners, and philanthropic organisations.

‘These efforts have begun to bear fruit, with several promising discussions underway to secure funding for key conservation projects and community-based environmental programs. By diversifying our funding sources, we are enhancing our capacity to implement impactful initiatives without placing additional strain on the national budget,’ the Minister said.

He was reflecting on the milestones of the work that has been done since his appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa to lead the department.

The President appointed George and Deputy Ministers, Bernice Swarts and Narend Singh, on 03 July 2024 to lead the department under the Government of National Unity (GNU).

In the short to medium ter
m, the department will prioritise climate change and energy; fisheries, particularly small-scale fisheries, and aquaculture; wildlife and biodiversity; and conservation efforts and environmental protection initiatives.

Reducing red tape

The department has also embarked on a comprehensive review of its regulatory frameworks to identify bottlenecks and areas in need of improvement.

‘I am pleased to share that we have made substantial progress in starting to simplify procedures and reducing unnecessary red tape. We have also started to engage with industry leaders, environmental organisations, and community representatives to gather feedback on regulatory obstacles.

‘By collaborating closely with these stakeholders, we are developing practical solutions that reflect the realities on the ground. This approach ensures that our policies strike the right balance between environmental protection and economic development,’ George said.

As part of these efforts, as the appeal authority over decisions taken by the
officials within the department in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, the Marine Living Resources Act, the Integrated Coastal Management Act and the Promotion of Access to Information Act, the Minister has prioritised the finalisation of appeals.

‘In my first 100 days I have considered 65 appeals, ensuring that outstanding matters are addressed promptly and fairly.

Source: South African Government News Agency