4.10.7 Coordination mechanisms

DEA and the dti have established the Interdepartmental Committee for the Sound Management of Chemicals to coordinate the implementation of national legislation and action plans to manage chemicals in line with international agreements and instruments. This committee integrates the previously separate coordination structures for activities relating to the Rotterdam Convention (the Chemical Review Committee) (CRC) and the Stockholm Convention (the POPs review committee) (POPRC).

The committee consists of representatives from all affected government departments, including the SABS, ITAC, South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and South African Police Service (SAPS). The committee also convenes a multi-stakeholder forum that includes representatives from provincial and local government, labour, business, civil society, and academic and research institutions.

The work programme for the Interdepartmental Committee includes recommendations on whether to accede to international agreements, and advice on programmes of action for agreements to which South Africa has already acceded, including proposals for drafting the necessary regulations.