GOOD Speech by Patricia de Lille,
GOOD Leader & Member of Parliament
02 April 2025
Note to editor: This speech was delivered by GOOD Leader and Member of Parliament, Patricia de Lille, during today’s consideration of the 2025 Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposal
Now is not the time for party posturing and politicking, but for courageous national decision-making on identifying and meeting South Africa’s priorities. Political parties must work together to put the needs of the country first. The economic growth forecasts remain dire and insufficient to seriously dent poverty and unemployment, or narrow inequality. The way the nation collects and spends its money is a key lever to address these injustices.
GOOD commends the increased allocation to education and infrastructure spending, as well as the retention of the Social Relief of Distress Grant. However, R370 per month remains provisional and is vastly inadequate. We welcome the recommendation that the SRD grant be used as a basis to implement a more permanent Basic Income Grant and be referred to the Appropriations Committee. Section 27 places the onus on the state to take reasonable steps to ensure the rights to basic needs, including healthcare, food, water, and social security, are met.
The National Treasury alone cannot be held responsible for Economic Growth. Every Minister in the Executive has a role and responsibility to contribute to the economy. As a matter of urgency, all Ministers need to table plans, based on the budget allocated to them by Treasury, to create jobs. GOOD will support the adoption of the Fiscal Framework and revenue proposal.
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