Fundamental changes to power given to land claims commissioners will streamline and speed up the restitution process, said Limpopo commissioner Mashile Mokono.

"The Minister (Land and Agricultural affairs) has agreed to delegate some powers to approve and finalise land claims to the Chief Land Commissioner as well as the Regional Land Claims Commissioners, which will shorten the finalisation of land claims in all provinces and will make the Commissioners more accountable for their own actions," said Mokono.

Mokono had resigned earlier this year in order to further his career in the private sector.

"But I have agreed to suspend my personal career development as I still have a role to play in public service especially now that the environment is more conducive to me staying," he said.

After lengthy deliberation with Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs Lulu Xingwana and Chief Land Claims Commissioner Tozi Gwanya it was decided that more power would be given to regional commissioners.

"The commissioners will not have to wait months to get approval through a bureaucratic system but are given more powers to take decisions themselves," said Mokono.

"It removes stress as we can deliver on promises and have full control of the situation. It is a total departure from the way things were done."

In the past commissioners would negotiate with farmers and if an agreement is reached they would have to submit it to the chief land claims commissioner and then the minister for approval, a process which often took months.

"This decision changes the face of land restitution in the country, we are completely in charge and have more power as well as more responsibility. We can also be held directly accountable for failures," said Mokono.

Financial incentives for the new role being taken on by commissioners is "still being negotiated".

Sapa

SA COMPANIES & BUSINESS INFO Trying to find your way around South Africa's corporate landscape? Looking for a info on a particular company or sector? After the latest business, financial or market news? Here's a quick directory of links to get you started.

MORE BUSINESS NEWS China-Africa deals should be transparent Gates to receive Maties award Cutters fret over diamond bill Bank charges discourage saving New car records in October Govt, business to talk crime Bank competition is 'alive and well' Onion prices to make you cry Land restitution streamlined Hearings into bank charges start Electricity hurdles remain Trade deficit shrinks dramatically Airline price war erupts Minister welcomes power revamp New Clicks happy with drug fees