By: Xolani Khumalo
Minister of Employment and Labour Nomakhosazana Meth has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s proclamation authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA).
The investigation relates to allegations of maladministration, corruption and unlawful conduct linked to training contracts intended to benefit more than 7,000 learners.
The proclamation empowers the SIU to examine the procurement and implementation of the training programmes, as well as any alleged irregularities involving the awarding and management of contracts.
Department of Employment and Labour spokesperson Thobeka Magcai says the investigation demonstrates government’s commitment to accountability and ensuring that public resources are used for their intended purpose.
Magcai says individuals who have compromised the integrity of skills development initiatives for personal gain must be held accountable and face the full might of the law. She adds that skills development programmes play a critical role in improving employment opportunities and should benefit the intended recipients rather than being undermined by corruption or mismanagement.
The department has pledged its full cooperation with the SIU as investigations get under way.
