1. Any institution, body or formation that puts value on its mandate apportions a sizeable amount of time and effort to develop a master plan or blueprint which would pioneer the overall guidance and direction. The IES Branch is not an exception.
2. I've reliable learned that the last strategy that was developed by the Branch was in 2009. Needless to say that the Labour Market has invariably evolved into a complex phenomenon which is characterised by, among others, atypical forms of employment. These features elements such as: rising levels of the Informal Economy, Platform and Gig work etc.
3. The need to adapt at a policy and operational level cannot be overemphasised.
4. I hail the initiative of developing a new IES strategy which has richly harvested pointers from the previous strategy.
5. It has taken several years to develop the strategy that we are going to discuss today. This strategy is complemented by a few Sub- Strategies that include the following:
   
   OHS Strategy
   
   Enforcement Strategy
   
   Advocacy Strategy
   
   Employment Equity Strategy
6. You have an opportunity to shape these strategies by adding a Provincial flavour. We should be alive to the fact that Provinces aren't homogenous. A well rounded and holistic strategy should take such dynamics into consideration. Whilst the overarching strategy is the flagship one, it would be hollow if it has a deficiency of inputs from the gamechangers in the inspectorate, you, the inspectors.
7. It is equally important to listen and embrace the voice of the Provincial leadership, I am particularly pleased that they are here today.
8. Give yourself permission to be part of the shapers of the trajectory of the Branch.
9. Remember, we don't have to always agree, but we certainly must listen to each other. This should be done with an intent to enrich the work of our Branch
10. I encourage you to be part of the history of the Branch. Participate freely but respectfully and make your points sharply and with precision.
11. Have a blessed and restful festive season. Contain your excitement and make sure that you come back sharper. There are still many mountains to climb as we move the Labour Market towards compliance

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