Minister gives MPs assurances on nuclear build programme
Tina Joemat-Pettersson insists Eskom has the necessary expertise to be the designated procurer for the new nuclear build programme
Energy Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson has confirmed a proposal would be taken to Cabinet that Eskom be the designated procurer for the new nuclear build programme and its balance sheet be used to raise funds for the programme.The recommendation has stoked fears that the move could result in the subversion of effective parliamentary oversight and increase the potential for corruption.But Joemat-Pettersson insisted in a briefing to Parliament’s energy portfolio committee on Tuesday that the programme would be transparent, above board and free of corruption. The sovereignty of SA would not be compromised and the integrity of the programme against risk would be protected. The fiscus would not fund the programme.Joemat-Pettersson said that Eskom had the necessary expertise — having operated the Koeberg nuclear plant successfully for more than 30 years — to play a central role in the new nuclear build programme."There is no basket of money in Treasury that will be used for this programme...
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