#PODCAST MTBPS REACTION: Extension of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant without an increase brings about criticism #sabcnews

By Newsbreak Producer Taliesha Naidoo - Les Govender, member of the Social Development Portfolio Committee in the KwaZulu-Natal legislature says extension of the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant without an increase does not give recipients much hope. Minister Godongwana announced during his Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement yesterday that R34 billion will be allocated to extend the grant by another year from 2024 to 2025. Godongwana announced that while a comprehensive review of the entire social grant system is finalised, the grant retains its allocation over a medium term. Govender says the extension is helpful, but government should have taken into consideration the rising cost of living and inflation...