Business welcomes Cabinet reshuffle

LEONARD NEILL THE CABINET reshuffle could well work to the advantage of the freight industry. Former trade and industry minister Alec Erwin, who takes over the demanding public enterprises portfolio, which controls all aspects of ports, rail and air movements in and out of the country, is likely to maintain a close bond with his predecessor, Jeff Radebe, who now becomes minister of transport. Radebe pushed for the privatisation of certain parastatals, particularly the ports. Erwin is known to be a champion of the privatisation cause, and was a prime mover in the decision to develop the port of Coega. This may not meet with the full approval of trade unions, and is likely to provide one of the first major challenges in his new portfolio. But as Erwin demonstrated in his former role, when he stood doggedly at times against World Trade Organisation (WTO) decisions, he is certain to adopt a determined attitude towards getting the country’s harbours - especially Durban - into shape. He will also need to deal with Spoornet’s shortage of infrastructure and rolling stock, something that Radebe has battled in recent times. Radebe stood in as transport minister when the late Dullah Omar fell ill, and clearly knows the ropes. He is likely to take a strong hand in the development of border post operations. He knows the problems, and with an eagerness to keep the transport system moving as rapidly as possible across the country’s borders, can be expected to give this priority attention. New trade and industry minister Mandisi Mpahlwa has a sound enough finance background - moving as he does from the role of deputy minister - to continue with Erwin’s international trade efforts. In his favour will be South Africa’s growing ties with China, which is now becoming a major global player. “We see them as positive,” said Nolene Lossau, executive director of the SA Shippers Council (SASC) - commenting on the ministerial appointments. “We believe that (Alec) Erwin’s background in international trade gives him the tools and knowledge to recognise how vital an efficient transport system is to the SA economy. “We are very pleased that there is now a permanent Minister of Transport after the lengthy illness and untimely demise of former minister Dullah Omar,” she said.