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 AfriForum commented on various sections of the Weather Bill in order to avert the monopoly the Bill might bring about. “If left as is, the Weather Bill will create a monopoly regarding weather services in the country," said Julius Kleynhans, Head of Environmental Affairs at AfriForum.
 
Although the Weather Bill was debated in 2012, and amendments have been made, the civil rights organisation is still unsatisfied with the exclusivity given to the South African Weather Service. “There are various weather broadcasters in South Africa and around the world. There are also several amateur radio entities in the country which will be left in the cold if this Bill is enforced.”
 
In terms of Section 30(A) of the Weather Bill people can be fined millions if they send out warnings about extreme weather conditions or air pollution. A fine of up to R10 million or 10 years in jail may be issued for such an offence. “AfriForum agrees that those who negligently and purposefully foster a sense of panic in communities may be threatened with legal action. The Weather Bill as it is formulated now, however, will cause several job losses, increase the risk that communities will remain uninformed of extreme weather conditions and create a new source of income for the South African Weather Services through legal action.”
 
AfriForum opposes certain sections of the SA Weather Service Bill, 2013 because of the following:
 
·         The Bill may pose a threat to the safety of South African citizens.
·         The Bill unjustifiably violates South Africans’ rights to freedom of expression and
           access to information.
·         The Bill creates a monopoly by nationalising the weather, which may have a
           detrimental effect on similar business ventures.
·         The responsible party does not accept liability for negligence.
·         The negative practical effect the Bill might have on communities.
 
“Climate change has been evident and scientists say that extreme weather events such as floods and tornados are likely to increase in frequency in the future. The need for warning systems to protect people and property is undisputed,” Kleynhans concluded.
 
The Bill will be debated in Parliament in August 2013. AfriForum will monitor the outcome of the debate.
 
Join AfriForum to address these and other issues in our communities. SMS the name of your town to 31336. 50c/SMS.