Speaker Defends R30 Million Cost Of Temporary Parliament Dome Ahead Of National Assembly Opening

National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has come under fire for the approximately R30 million spent on a temporary venue for Parliament. However, she has defended the cost, stating that it is necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of the legislature.

The temporary venue, known as the Parliament Dome, was constructed in the precincts of the National Assembly in Cape Town. It was built to accommodate the members of Parliament while the existing chamber undergoes renovations. The renovations are expected to take at least three years to complete.

The cost of the Parliament Dome has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the need for such an expensive temporary venue. Some have even criticized the decision to spend such a large amount of money during a time when the country is facing economic challenges.

However, Speaker Didiza has pushed back against the criticism, stating that the cost is justified by the need to keep the legislature fully operational. She emphasized that the Parliament Dome was not a luxury but a necessity to ensure that the work of Parliament continues uninterrupted.

In a statement, Speaker Didiza said, “The Parliament Dome is not a frivolous expense. It is a crucial investment that allows us to fulfill our constitutional mandate. As the legislative arm of government, we have a responsibility to ensure that our work continues without any disruptions.”

She further explained that the Parliament Dome was not just a temporary structure but a state-of-the-art facility that meets all the necessary safety and security standards. It has been equipped with the latest technology to enable members of Parliament to conduct their business effectively.

The Speaker also pointed out that the cost of the Parliament Dome was not just for the physical structure but also included the necessary infrastructure and services to support its functioning. This includes IT infrastructure, security, and maintenance, among others.

Moreover, the Parliament Dome is not just a temporary venue for the National Assembly but also for the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) and the Joint Sittings of Parliament. This means that it will be used by all three arms of government, making it a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Speaker Didiza also addressed concerns about the timing of the construction of the Parliament Dome, stating that it was necessary to start the project now to avoid any delays in the renovation of the existing chamber. She emphasized that the renovation of the chamber was long overdue and could not be postponed any further.

The Speaker’s comments come ahead of the National Assembly’s opening on Tuesday, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his State of the Nation Address. The Parliament Dome will serve as the venue for this important event, highlighting its significance in keeping the legislature fully operational.

In conclusion, the cost of the Parliament Dome may seem high, but it is a necessary expense to ensure the smooth functioning of the legislature. It is a long-term investment that will benefit not only the members of Parliament but also the country as a whole. Speaker Didiza’s defense of the cost is a reminder that sometimes, necessary expenses are unavoidable, especially when it comes to fulfilling our constitutional duties.