Mr S H MBUYANE (ANC): Chairperson, we welcome the initiative by the Premier of Gauteng in partnership with Eskom and City Power, aimed at restoring transformers in townships that have not had power in the Gauteng province. Some areas in the province have been malfunctioning transformers for some time but are now receiving new transformers, which will ease their electricity woes. Power utility Eskom and the province are carrying out a transformer replacement programme launched last month.

The new transformers consist of new smart meters to curb illegal connections and the purchase of electricity from unauthorised vendors. The ANC calls upon communities of Gauteng to take responsibility safeguard their infrastructure, and report illegal connection and cable theft to the authorities.

## RAND WATER SUPPLY SHORTAGES PLAGUE GERMISTON

(Member's Statement) Mrs MOCLARKE (DA): Chairperson, I rise today to address the pressing issue that plagues the Germiston area within my constituency. For long periods our community has been deprived of one of the most fundamental means, access to clean water. This dire situation is a result of critical shortages of water supply from the Rand Water, which plays a vital role in providing water to the municipalities within Ekurhuleni. A blame game between the municipality and Rand Water has erupted, each pointing fingers at the other, but what we need right now is swift, decisive action.

The incompetence and mismanagement that has brought us to this point is inexcusable. The lack of consequence management only exacerbates the problem, leaving our constituents in a vulnerable and dire situation. As we speak, our children are sitting for their end-of-year exams and the lack of access to water not only disrupts their studies but also undermines the basic human rights as enshrined in our Constitution. Clean water is not a luxury, it's a fundamental right and our residents are suffering due to unavailability.

This is not just a local issue it's a matter of national concern within the broader South African context. It highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges facing our water supply systems and to ensure accountability at every level of the government. In conclusion, I call on the ANC government to get their house in order and urgently address this very urgent matter, essential service is at risk. Thank you. [Time expired.]

## ACDP WELCOMES SA DIPLOMATS TEL AVIV RECALL

(Member's Statement)

Rev K R J MESHOE (ACDP): Chairperson, the ACDP welcomes the opportunity presented by the recalling of South African diplomats from Tel Aviv to consult the government on the current war between Israel and Palestine. We believe it is important that South Africans be truthfully informed regarding the recent developments in the Middle East. It is a known fact that this war, where many innocent lives have been and continue to be lost, was started by Hamas. When Hamas abducted, raped, paraded and killed innocent people, South Africa did not condemn their actions, but when Israel responded to the atrocious acts, the ANC government was quick to condemn their actions. The international community is fully aware that Hamas does not recognise the state of Israel and wants the state annihilated. During the 1967 Arab League Summit that was held on 29 August in Khartoum, the summit took a resolution that became famous as the three noes; No peace with Israel; no recognition of Israel; and no negotiations with Israel. So, how does one then broker a peace settlement with somebody who does not acknowledge your existence? House Chairperson, it is no secret that Hamas uses places like hospitals ... [Inaudible.] ...