Publication of discussion document
“Towards a White Paper on local government in South Africa”, March
1997
Extensive research
Primary as well as secondary research on both local and international
experiences
Consultation with government departments, provinces and other relevant
stakeholders
Consideration of inputs received on discussion document
Consultation with MinMec and technical MinMec
October 1997
Cabinet approval of Green Paper
October 1997
Green Paper published for comment until 1 December 1997
Provincial workshops/conferences
Parliamentary Portfolio Committee Hearings
Workshops on selected topics
National Conference on Local Government White Paper: 8-9 December 1997 to
finalise policy options to be contained in White Paper
White Paper submitted to Cabinet for approval and then published in March 1998
Legislation is drafted by the Minister and department after consultation with
key stakeholders such as MinMec
The draft bill is published in the Government Gazette for comment by the public
within a stipulated timeframe
The draft bill is redrafted taking into consideration comment received
Draft bill submitted to Cabinet for consideration of the
principles contained therein
Draft bill referred to State Law Advisers for certification
Draft bill introduced either in the National Assembly or the National Council
of Provinces
A bill is automatically referred to the relevant Portfolio Committee or Select
Committee for consideration. The committee may call for further evidence or
invite written submissions to refine the Bill, after which they may amend it.
They vote on the bill and submit a report to the relevant House
The committee submits its report for debate in the House in which it was first
tabled. Once the House has approved the Bill, it goes to the other House where
the same procedure is followed
When passed by both Houses, the Bill goes to the State President for his/her
assent
Finally, the Act is published in the Government Gazette and then becomes the
law of the land
