He must put into practice his predecessor's vision
EXPORTERS AND importers have hailed the retention of Alec Erwin as South Africa's Minister of Trade and Industry, but are more circumspect about the appointment of former justice minister Dullah Omar to the demanding role of Minister of Transport.
"He's a top ranking politician, but we will have to wait and see just how he will fit into the transport scene. I think we will all be a little guarded on the matter to see if he can perform as well as his predecessor," said one exporter who declined to be identified.
It is an opinion which has been endorsed by the South African Chamber of Business (SACOB), which works in close co-operation with both departments.
"I don't think we have much to worry about regarding trade and industry," said Peggie Drodskie, who heads the portfolio of transport as well as those of energy, water affairs and travel and tourism at SACOB.
"Erwin has done a marvellous job, and we have worked well with him throughout his stay in office. We look forward to the next five years dealing with him."
How Omar will progress as head of transport, she says, will only be revealed once he has moved into his stride in his new office.
"Transport is one department that has been totally restructured. There is very little left over to be done. The policies have been formulated, and we have both the White Paper and the Moving South Africa paper as a guideline for the future.
"Maharaj did an excellent job, and the new minister will find he moves into an office where everything is in order for him to continue the work.
"Putting matters on paper and then putting them into practice are, however, two different matters. We will be meeting the new minister in due course, and we look forward to building a sound relationship with him. I am sure it will all go well. He certainly has a solid foundation to work on."
The Road Freight Association (RFA) has welcomed Omar's appointment, and is satisfied that his experience as a politician will enable him to fill his new role competently.
"Not much is known of him apart from his portfolio as justice minister, but the RFA is looking forward to getting to know him and working with him," says c.e.o. Herman Lemmer.
"The transport department is very well organised and we are certain that it has geared itself for the change of ministers. We look forward to meeting with minister Omar, co-operating and assisting him wherever we can.
"He is an experienced politician and we are certain he can benefit our industry."
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