The Western Cape Legislature, in its standing committee on health and wellness on 27 November, rejected the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill.
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The rejection of the NHI Bill in the Western Cape legislature was based on concerns about centralisation, a lack of clear planning, and legal issues raised in the submissions. The debate revolved around the importance of universal healthcare and the need for a well-thought-out implementation plan.
During the meeting, Western Cape Provincial Parliament member Gerrit Pretorius mentioned that a committee negotiating mandate had been submitted to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Friday. The committee proceeded with deliberations despite not expecting a response from the NCOP.
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In principle, the committee did not support the bill, with the ANC being the minority vote in favour. The committee report submitted to the NCOP recommended conferring authority to the Western Cape’s delegation in the NCOP to support, not support, or abstain from the bill.
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On 24 November, the Standing Committee discussed a 600-page document from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness containing public and business viewpoints.
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Western Cape Premier Plato expressed concerns about creating a large national entity, fearing central procurement and pointing to similar entities like Eskom and Denel facing challenges.
Other committee members raised issues about the lack of a clear plan and funding source for the NHI Bill. The consensus was that universal healthcare is essential, but detailed planning and implementation are crucial.
Advocate Romeo Maasdorp highlighted legal concerns raised in the submissions, emphasising the need to address potential legal red flags in the bill.
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The ANC uses its majority to vote in favour of the controversial NHI Bill
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