The SRD grant, initially introduced during the Covid lockdown, was intended as a temporary solution to assist millions of people in need. However, its current extension is set to expire on 31 March 2026.
Court Ruling on SRD Grant Regulations
In January, the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled that the regulations restricting access to the SRD grant were deemed unconstitutional and invalid.
In its ruling, the court also instructed the government to increase the grant amount and raise the income threshold required for eligibility.
Government’s Response to the Court Ruling
In a recent address to the portfolio committee on social development, advocate Luyanda Mtshotshisa, representing the department, informed MPs that the government had filed an appeal against the judgment, asserting that it was based on a flawed interpretation.
The department, alongside SASSA, submitted an application for leave to appeal on 13 February. Additionally, the National Treasury also provided supporting documents to the court for the upcoming appeal hearing, as conveyed by Mtshotshisa during the committee meeting.
Implications of the Appeal
Should the court grant leave to appeal, it would suspend the current ruling against the regulations until the appeal process is concluded. As of now, the department is awaiting the court’s decision, which will determine the subsequent course of action.
Key Points Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| SRD Grant Introduction | Introduced during Covid lockdown as a temporary solution |
| Grant Extension End Date | 31 March 2026 |
| Court Ruling Date | January |
| Court Decision | Regulations limiting access were unconstitutional and invalid |
| Government’s Appeal | Filed on 13 February, requesting leave to appeal |
| Impact of Appeal | Appeal decision may suspend current ruling until conclusion |
The SRD grant, which was initially a temporary relief measure during the Covid pandemic, continues to play a crucial role in providing financial assistance to millions of South Africans.
Despite a court ruling against certain restrictive regulations, the government’s appeal process is ongoing, which could potentially impact the eligibility criteria and grant amounts.
The final outcome of the appeal will guide future decisions on the grant, with the current extension set to expire by 31 March 2026.
FAQs
What is the SRD grant?
The SRD grant (Social Relief of Distress grant) is a temporary financial assistance program introduced during the Covid lockdown to help those in financial distress.
Why did the court declare the SRD grant regulations invalid?
The court ruled the regulations limiting access to the grant as unconstitutional, arguing that they were overly restrictive and unfair.
What happens if the government’s appeal is successful?
If the appeal is granted, the suspension of the court ruling will remain in effect until the appeal process is completed, and the current eligibility regulations will stay in place.
When will the SRD grant extension end?
The current extension of the SRD grant will end on 31 March 2026, unless further extensions or changes are made by the government.
