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Security Industry Alliance launched

The private security industry in South Africa achieved another milestone last month, when the constitution of the newly structured Security Industry Alliance was ratified by its inaugural members.

"I think it is widely recognised that South Africa could not function as a democracy without the private security industry," said John Hammill, Chairperson of the Task Group, who has also been instrumental in structuring the new Security Industry Alliance (SIA). "International airports, the national transport system itself, harbours and ports, private business and industry, banks, shopping malls, mines - all are protected from looting, vandalism and theft by private security organisations. The country could easily descend into anarchy without the dedicated efforts of these companies."

Hammill went on to speak of the significant sacrifices which security officers make to uphold law and order. "Since November 2002, over 580 security officers have been killed while on duty - this exceeds the number of police killed on duty in the same time."

Mrs Alex Mathole, who holds both a B.Iuris and LL.B. degree from Wits University was elected chairperson by an overwhelming majority. Brian Adams was unanimously elected vice chairperson. Mathole commented, "We in the security industry consider ourselves a pillar of law and order which complements the Department of Safety and Security. And it is in the spirit of this passionate patriotism and concern for the present and future of our country that we saw the need for all stakeholders in the private security industry to join forces to become an influential voice and visionary spokesperson not only for the industry itself, but for our citizens."

According to Mathole, great concern is being expressed by the industry and private citizens over the proposed new legislation to regulate the private security industry. "Many of the proposed regulations raise constitutional and administrative law issues," she said. "In addition, we believe that little consideration has been given to the adverse effects of certain of these regulations on businesses. Cost implications for some of the regulations would be massive, having a negative impact on the security industry itself and consequently also on the consumer's pocket."

The SIA has, through its partners, prepared a comprehensive submission on numerous aspects of the proposed regulations which will have a direct impact on the security industry and the consumer alike. Mathole explained that among the objectives of the SIA was the need to build relationships with all stakeholders including government and to specifically ensure that government receives accurate information and understands the dynamics of the industry.

The meeting also marked the official submission through its legal representatives to the private security industry regulatory authority as well as to the Ministry of Safety and Security of SIA's comments on the proposed legislation.

For further information contact The Secretariat, Security Industry Alliance, 011 454 2474, [email protected]

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