The Department of Social Development intends on introducing the Social Service Professions Bill in Parliament during 2008.

The aim of the draft Bill is to replace the outdated Social Service Professions Act, 1978 (Act No. 110 of 1978).

The draft Bill envisages to:

(a) provide for the establishment of a South African Council for Social Service Professions;

(b) control the registration of social workers, student social workers, social auxiliary workers and persons practicing other professions in respect of which professional boards have been established; and

(c) deal with other related matters.

The Forum is particularly concerned by the fact that the Council stands to be entirely appointed by the Minister. The fact that a number of members will be elected members of Professional Boards does not do away with the potential hazards of such a situation.

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