News 18:00

BULLETIN 14 February 6 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The ACDP stresses the recognition of Israel’s right to exist in the Gaza conflict
# A Treasury report reveals the alarming state of S-O-E finances 
# And Cricket: Sunrisers and Durban dominate the SA-20 team of the season

# ACDP leader Kenneth Meshoe believes government efforts won’t resolve the Gaza war and suggests influencing Hamas to release hostages as a solution. During the state of the nation address debate, Meshoe called on the international community to demand the destruction of tunnels by Hamas and acknowledge Israel’s right to exist. He issued a warning citing Biblical quotes:

# The DA says the National Treasury’s recent release of the third-quarter government expenditure report reveals a distressing financial spiral for state-owned enterprises. Eskom, slated for a 254-billion-rand bailout, reports a substantial 7.5-billion-rand loss, and municipal debt skyrockets to 75.4-billion-rand. Other troubled enterprises include the Land Bank, South African Airways, Transnet, and Denel, all facing significant losses. The DA’s Ashor Sarupen criticises the ANC’s bailout approach, warning of a death spiral that endangers long-term fiscal sustainability, essential services, and overall economic growth:

# The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has denied environmental clearance for Jindal (gin-dal) Steel and Power’s 15-billion-rand iron ore mine in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. Concerns include potential impacts on aquifers and water runoff to nearby farms, as well as the relocation of many households. The proposed mine, situated 70 kilometres inland from Richards Bay port, faces rejection over insufficient research on its potential impact on nearby water sources. Jindal aimed to advance its mining venture, but the department mandates a thorough assessment before approving large-scale projects.

# The South African Poultry Association has voiced apprehension regarding certain assumptions made by the Competition Commission in its announcement of a market inquiry into the poultry industry value chain. The commission cites concerns about potential impediments to competition within the poultry market. The association objects to the commission’s remarks about ongoing demands for bailouts via increased tariffs and anti-dumping duties. It calls for increased support for the industry in light of these challenges.

# Cricket: Champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape and losing finalists Durban’s Super Giants have the most players in the SA20’s team of the season, compiled with assistance of cricket analysts CricViz. Sunrisers are represented by Tom Abell, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Dan Worrall and Ottniel Baartman, and Durban by captain Keshav Maharaj, Heinrich Klaasen, Wiaan Mulder, Noor Ahmed, and 12th man Matthew Breetzke. M-I Cape Town’s Ryan Rickelton and Paarl Royals’ Jos Buttler completes the 12 names.

Stay tuned for more news………….