DIRCO Annual Report

Strategy to overcome areas of underperformance Area of underperformance

Strategy to overcome areas of underperformance

Formulate codes, directives and regulations as may be appropriate

The work streams working towards a project plan that is regularly monitored at the Top Management meetings Reporting on the institutional response to the COVID-19 pandemic Interventions in the internal environment DIRCO continued to manage measures implemented to create a safe working environment at Head Office, as well as at its satellite offices, namely missions abroad, the state guesthouses, state protocol lounges and the Parliamentary Office. Adherence to COVID-19 protocol as it related to personal protective equipment (PPE), access control and sanitation allowed DIRCO to play a significant role in supporting government processes to manage the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Departmental Workplace Plan, developed during Quarter 1 of the reporting period, continues to provide up-to-date information in line with the provisions of the National Disaster Regulations and the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) Guidelines. SMS group messages continued to keep DIRCO staff informed of changes to work rosters as a result of changes to the COVID-19 alert levels as announced by the President. During the reporting period, interventions to ensure the continued protection of the working environment and safety of all staff members were implemented. The department, through the COVID-19 Steering Committee and the Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) Directorate, facilitated and ensured the implementation of all COVID-19 health and safety protocols. A Departmental COVID-19 Steering Committee was established during Quarter 1 to conduct a risk assessment and to develop measures to mitigate identified risks. Responsibility to advise the Director-General and the Minister and ensure implementation of interventions was allocated to the COVID-19 Steering Committee. The cooperation and commitment of members of the Steering Committee continue to assist the department in achieving the implementation of COVID-19 prevention measures.

Department of International Relations and Cooperation

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