In relation to the Coega project, Agusta, Thyssen and Ferrostaal all provide important elements of the industrial plan for the area. I am confident that agreement on these projects will give us the go ahead we have all been waiting for the development of the Coega Port and related projects. I can assure the people of the Eastern Cape that I will not hesitate to facilitate rapid development of the Coega Port and these projects, ensuring Portnet s active involvement at all stages. Government is awaiting a report concerning the potential for railage from Sishen to Coega and Saldanha. We envisage however that it will be necessary for upgrading of rail facilities in the Coega area in any event.
Government understands development to be a multi-faceted phenomenon.
Direct investment in a number of different areas will have positive spin-off effects in a whole range of geographic and industrial areas. We in Public Enterprises are excited by the prospects of sustained economic activity involving a number of our state-owned enterprises. That activity will enhance our capability to speed up transformation and restructuring of state-owned assets in a more confident manner.