NCOP Launches 2025 Policy Debates on Budget Votes

Cape Town, Monday, 30 June 2025 — The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will this week hold policy debates on four budget votes during its scheduled plenary sittings, continuing its constitutionally mandated role in reviewing government spending plans through a provincial lens.

The NCOP is a vital component of the national legislative process, ensuring that provincial concerns and priorities are considered in the formulation and execution of national policies — including the national budget. Policy debates on budget votes give Ministers and Deputy Ministers the opportunity to present departmental objectives, outline funding allocations, and explain programme priorities for the financial year.

These debates form part of Parliament’s broader oversight function and are critical to promoting financial transparency and sound governance. The process is guided by the Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act of 2009, which empowers Parliament to amend both the national budget and the budgets of specific departments.

In line with parliamentary procedure, the same rules for media coverage that apply to NCOP plenary sessions also govern these debates.

Media Protocols:

• Filming: External videographers are not permitted. Broadcasters must request a live feed from the Parliamentary Broadcast and Audiovisual Unit at least one day in advance.

• Photography: Permission must be obtained via the Parliamentary Communication Services Media Relations Unit at least one day before the session.

  • Flash and tripods are prohibited.

  • Approved photographers must follow instructions from designated parliamentary officials.

  • Media photographers must be officially commissioned and wear identifiable bibs while in session.

  • Government photographers must submit requests through official departmental emails.

Schedule of NCOP Policy Debates: 1–3 July 2025

• Tuesday, 1 July
  • 14:00–16:00 – Budget Vote 17: Higher Education and Training

• Wednesday, 2 July
  • 14:00–16:00 – Budget Vote 3: Cooperative Governance
  • Budget Vote 15: Traditional Affairs

• Thursday, 3 July
  • 14:00–16:00 –

  • Budget Vote 5: Home Affairs

  • Budget Vote 40: Transport