MOKGORO J indication that the section 27(1) right is to be restricted to citizens as in other provisions in the Bill of Rights, the word “everyone” in this section cannot be construed as referring only to “citizens”.53 The reasonableness of the legislative scheme [48] A court considering the reasonableness of legislative or other measures taken by the state will not enquire into whether other more desirable or favourable measures could have been adopted, or whether public resources could have been better spent.54 A wide range of possible measures could be adopted by the state to meet its obligations and many of these may meet the requirement of reasonableness. Once it is shown that the measures do so, this requirement would be met. [49] In dealing with the issue of reasonableness, context is all important. We are concerned here with the right to social security and the exclusion from the scheme of permanent residents who, but for their lack of citizenship, would qualify for the benefits provided under the scheme. In considering whether that exclusion is reasonable, it is relevant to have regard to the purpose served by social security, the impact of the exclusion on permanent residents and the relevance of the citizenship requirement to that purpose. It is also necessary to “[The] Bill of Rights is a cornerstone of democracy in South Africa. It enshrines the rights of all people in our country and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom.” (Emphasis added.) 53 Commissioner for Inland Revenue v NST Ferrochrome (Pty) Ltd 1999 (2) SA 228 (T) at 232. 54 Above n Error! Bookmark not defined. at para 41. 31

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