SADSTIA Chairman Innocent Dwayi, has extended his congratulations to Dion George, newly appointed Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, and assured him of the Association’s intention to work constructively with government to strengthen the fishing industry in South Africa.
“We welcome the appointment of Dr Dion George as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and trust that we can work with him in making a stable and thriving fishing industry a vehicle for the creation of quality jobs, whilst ensuring the ocean continues to provide resources for future generations of South Africans,” said Dwayi.
Minister George was sworn in as a Minister in the Government of National Unity on 3 July. Prior to his appointment as Minister, Dr George served as a Member of Parliament for the Democratic Alliance. During his parliamentary career, he has been a vocal advocate for fiscal responsibility, transparency and accountability in government spending, which has earned him recognition both within his party and in the broader political landscape.
Supporting Dion George in his new role are two deputy ministers: Narend Singh of the IFP and Bernice Swarts of the ANC.
Over the course of a long career in Parliament, Mr Singh has served on several key committees including those responsible for public accounts, finance and environmental affairs. Ms Swarts’ career is rooted in public service and community activism; in Parliament she has served on committees related to social development, education and health.