I have taken note of the reports in the media today [31.05.04] regarding the Heads of Department for Local Government and Housing. While true in essence, it is disturbing that they reached the media through the leaking of correspondence and that the impression may be created that both individuals have been treated similarly.

I want to put the following on record:

1. I deplore the fact that leaked documents compromised what is an internal administrative procedure that affects the integrity of the people involved. Very clearly steps would have to be taken to ensure greater confidentiality in the management of such matters in order to protect the dignity of individuals concerned.
2. I want to dispel the notion that Mr Carel du Preez's resignation has anything to do with incompetence or any other negative factor. It was purely based on an administrative designation of salary scales.
3. In the case of Mr John Africa, this matter has been the subject of much media attention in the past and I am only following that to its logical conclusion as has emerged from a previous process.
4. I remain absolutely committed to a transformed civil service as indicated in my State of the Province address, but am as committed to ensuring that every civil servant be given a chance to understand, embrace and implement the vision, strategy and delivery plan of the new Provincial Government. Only those who cannot do this will be invited to make way for others who can.

Premier Ebrahim Rasool