Dear Deputy Minister Holomisa,
I listened and studied the Ministers Budget speech, and I have the follow question which I really would appreciate some clarity. I am hoping that you would be able to assist us.

PENSION BUDGET – The Minister stated “R158 million earmarked amounts for the rollout of the military veterans’ pension benefits”. May the Minister:
a. Confirm that the budget was R331m for last financial year in order to get 4 000 Military Veterans paid out in that year.
i. What amount was spent during that year,
ii. how many payouts were made
iii. What amount was returned to National Treasury
b. Why has the amount been reduced for this current financial year
i. If the maximum payout per Military Veterans is R5 400 per month, this would allow for 2,500 Military Veterans to be paid. Is this correct
ii. Does this budget include the GPAA administration costs
iii. The proposed budget appears to be the same as last year of 4 000 and not all of them were paid out last year - why so few when there are 19,000 applicaitons