Bureaucratic red tape is the bane of their existence for many a businessman or woman.
With South Africa sliding ever further down in global surveys on the ease of doing business, the Western Cape government realised it was time that something was done to improve matters.
The Red Tape Reduction unit was established in the provincial Department of Economic Development and Tourism.
The motto of the department is to make it faster, easier and cheaper to do business in the Western Cape.
Since the unit opened its call lines in 2011, more than 4 540 cases have been opened, Raybin Windvogel, director of the unit, told the West Coast Business Chamber. He addressed the chamber at its last networking session for 2015.
He said most of the calls are handled by an external call centre, but more in-depth problems are referred to the unit. and the West Coast District Municipality is one of four municipalities helped by the unit to improve their effectiveness when dealing with local businesses, such as construction companies and the approval of plans and the registering of a new business.
The unit can also assist with fast-tracking the approval of liquor licences for festivals, issues with SARS and general inconsistent decision-making as well as lack of reaction from government departments.
Local businesswoman Dianne Schaafsma testified that she had tried in vain for three years to get a response from a government department, but after she contacted the unit they gave her a response within three weeks. “I may have to contact you again soon,” she said. Windvogel said she could do so anytime.
Business call line: 0861 888 126.
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za/redtapereduction/
