CHAIRMAN'S COMMENTS
Outlook
The difficult and exacting conditions, and the unique problems
facing the Corporation, reported on in its first annual report
1990/91, did not diminish during the year under review. In particular,
escalating violence did little to instill confidence, and stay-aways
caused a significant loss of income. In addition, the Corporation
suffered from fare evasion which continued at an unacceptably
high level. However, I am pleased to record that despite all these
difficulties, the Corporation has continued to ensure that rail
commuter services are provided to the benefit of the public of
South Africa.
The future of South Africa will be tested by two major challenges,
namely economics and politics. These apply equally to the Corporation.
By economics, I refer to funding which has been the Corporation's
biggest problem. I am happy to report that this matter is being
dealt with at the highest level, and arrangements are being made
to provide the Corporation with the funding it requires to meet
its operating deficit and essential capital programme in the year
ahead. Achieving political stability will require continued perseverance
and closer co-operation between political, business and labour
leaders. A solution to this will reduce violence and restore safety
in rail commuter travel.
The continued downswing in the economy caused all sectors to
suffer. A strong economy is needed to offer all our country's
people an improved standard of living. We should provide an environment
which will encourage entrepreneurs and commit to positive work
ethics by example. The Corporation in its new direction and future
plans, will aspire to do exactly that.
New direction and Future Prospects
My vision for the Corporation's future is a positive one. Not
only are measures being taken to improve security, but we are
striving tirelessly to recognise our commuters' right to a reliable
and safe passage between home and work.
I envisage a particularly bright future for our property division
which in the coming year will venture into commercialisation in
an effort to develop the Corporation's valuable asset base to
its fullest potential.
Acknowledgements
The Corporation owes the Minister of Transport and of Posts
and Telecommunications, Dr Piet Welgemoed, gratitude for his unfailing
support and guidance. His is not the most enviable of roles in
a changing South Africa. We thank him for his support, and for
his encouragement, and wish him success in his endeavours.
As always, the involvement and support of the Metro Division
of Transnet Ltd was invaluable to the quality of the Corporation's
service rendered.
I would also like to thank the previous Chairman and Managing
Director of the Corporation for their considerable efforts during
the past year. Dr Keeve Steyn took on the chairmanship at a time
when the Corporation needed leadership, and I thank him for his
example. I welcome the Corporation's Mr Wynand Burger, who has
assumed the heavy responsibilities of Managing Director and Chief
Executive Officer. He has a strong team to support him. I also
wish to acknowledge the significant contribution of my fellow
Board Members during the past year. I thank them for their understanding
and support.
Last, but not least, my thanks go to the staff of the Corporation
for their dedication and hard work.
With such support the Corporation will successfully meet any
future challenges.
JTM Edwards
Chairman
27 August 1992
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