Department of Correctional Services faces R1.4bn over-expenditure

THE Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services has expressed deepening concerns regarding the alarming budgetary excesses plaguing the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), as projections indicate an over-expenditure of R1.4 billion.

- IOL REPORTER

This situation has arisen amid increasing operational costs, which could severely hinder the department's ability to fulfil its mandate effectively.

During a briefing on the DCS's second and third quarter performance report for the 2024/25 financial year, committee members were informed that the year-to-date expenditure for the department stood at a considerable R21.6bn, constituting 78% of the projected annual spending of R29.2bn.

This figure starkly overshadows the adjusted budget of R27.8bn, thus highlighting the pressing need for fiscal accountability within the correctional system.

The committee identified several contributing factors to this over-expenditure. Chief among them is a cost-of-living adjustment implemented in April 2024, which has compounded existing financial challenges.