In support of its mandate to promote industrial development, enterprise development, employment and economic integration, the dti relies on a group of specialised, regulatory and other development agencies and institutions. The National Consumer Tribunal is one of these. The work of the Tribunal dovetails with that of the National Credit Regulator, the National Consumer Commission, the various Ombuds offi ces, Provincial Consumer Courts and consumer-related industry bodies.
The NCT was established to adjudicate on matters referred to it in terms of the National Credit Act. It contributes to the strategic goals of the dti, in particular in relation to two of its core themes. The fi rst of these is that of broadening participation of previously marginalised groups in the mainstream economy. The second theme is that of regulation, which involves the development and implementation of a framework that facilitates easy access to redress. This is part of another key objective – to create a fair and competitive business environment in South Africa.
The Tribunal’ s main role is to adjudicate on matters of prohibited conduct. Judgments of the Tribunal set precedents that assist in advancing the growth of fair and non-discriminatory credit provision. Through its work, the Tribunal frees funding for investment and productive activities. It also contributes to the reduction of the compliance burden in the SA economy through its review of the Regulator’ s decisions in respect of the entities regulated under of the NCA and the CPA, and through constantly reviewing and simplifying its own processes for the adjudication of cases.
That the Tribunal is increasingly fulfi lling this role is clear from the increase in its case load from the previous fi nancial year, both in terms of the number of cases and types of matters before it, and its successful adjudication on these matters. Specifi cally, the increase in the confi rmation of debt rearrangement agreements, the reviews brought by regulated entities against the Regulator, and the number of cases in which the Regulator has brought regulated entities to the Tribunal for enforcement of its decisions, all point to the increasing confi dence with which stakeholders regard the Tribunal and its role as an impartial and credible arbiter.
With the introduction on 1 April 2011 of the Consumer Protection Act, the Tribunal’ s role will be extended beyond credit related matters to include broader consumer issues. Given the body of judgments that the Tribunal has established since its formation in 2005, I am confi dent of its ability to meet its extended responsibilities.
I am certain that the Tribunal’ s governance and operational structures will continue to enable to effectively fulfi l its mandate.
ASTERACEAE edmondia sesamoides
Edmondia sesamoides, Phaeno- cema prolifera, and the Syncarpha species are commonly referred to as“ everlastings”. The fl owers on the growing plants are dry in order to save precious moisture but at the same time still be attractive for the pollinators.
( Dr) ROB DAVIES, MP Minister of Trade and Industry
Annual Report 2011 national consumer tribunal | page 3