TO ALL IN THE UPCSA (SOUTH AFRICA)
In January 2021, the UPCSA leadership addressed the issue of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) at length with the Conveners of the General Assembly Committees and the officials of the Presbyteries, respectively. After the Consultation of the officials, the Clerk of Assembly forwarded the Presentation to the officials with an advice that they should share the same with all in their Presbyteries. That communique is shown below. It was envisaged that the item would even be included in the agendas for discussion at the February Council meetings.
As POPIA comes into force on 1 July 2021, this office is inundated with calls from many in the denomination on the matter. We resend the presentation and encourage all to comply with the provisions of the Act, as failure to do so may have serious ramifications. In addition to the presentation, you may download the copy of the act, as it is available online.
We are left with less than two weeks to comply and to do the necessary administration. Let us work together to prevent any sad occurrences that may be a result of non-compliance.
- UPCSA POPIA –
- Please receive the form that needs to be completed by each Presbytery and Congregation, Synod and GA Central Office, regarding POPIA.It must then be submitted and lodged with the Regulator.
The Regulator’s web page is https://www.justice.gov.za/inforeg/
- Information Officer Guidance Note
I TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO DRAW YOUR ATTENTION TO THE OTHER MATTERS OF CONCERN WHERE YOUR VIEWS ARE SOLICITED. THE ETHICS AND DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY HAS BEEN REQUESTED TO READ THESE AND ADVISE. YOU ARE REQUESTED TO SEND YOUR COMMENTS AND INPUTS TO THE CONVENER OF THAT COMMITTEE, THE REV PROF RZ RASHE at rrashe@ufh.ac.za.
- The Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (“PEPUDA”, also known as “the Equality Act”).
- The new marriage laws proposed for South Africa.
- The Protected Relationships Bill; and
- The Recognition and Registration of Marriages and Life Partnerships Bill.
- Legalisation of polyandry.
No single Committee can have all the wisdom to deal with these issues on behalf of the denomination. Hence, your participation is solicited. After the General Assembly, the Ethics and Discipline Committee will work hard on these and other issues.
Warmest regards,
Rev Dr Lungile Mpetsheni
Rhadebe
General Secretary
Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa
Secretary – Africa Communion of Reformed Churches
P O Box 12355
Aston Manor 1630