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The Portfolio Committee on Science and Technology began its programme for the year today with public hearings on the Protection, Promotion, Development and Management of Indigenous Knowledge Systems Bill.

Acting Committee Chairperson Ms Lindiwe Maseko said that the Committee heard academics and experts in the field, who provided input on the Bill.

The Committee is heartened to hear the differing views on the Intellectual Property Rights Act and the above Bill. All views and expressions are welcomed and will be considered during the finalisation of the Bill.

Public hearings will continue this week and next, and once deliberations are completed the Bill will be passed on to the National Council of Provinces to be taken to the provinces for provincial public hearings.

Said Ms Maseko: “This is a process and all interested parties and individuals must be given an opportunity to express their views and be heard,” as this is the objective of public hearings.

Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Acting Committee Chairperson