Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that during the past 10 years, the Forensic Science Laboratory has been functioning in a very inefficient and ineffective manner. This has led to delays in the submission of FSL reports, which has impacted, of course, the submission of case files to the Office of the Director of the Public Prosecutions. The FSL has scientists who analyse evidence from scenes of crime, suspects and victims. They analyse DNA from fingerprints, human remains, and also suspicious substances. It has, therefore, an essential role to play in evidence-based criminal investigations. The former Director who retired from the civil service in February 2023, was reappointed on contract for a period of two years. Her contract was terminated as of

30 26 November 2024, and it is the senior-most Chief Forensic Scientist who has been assigned the duties of Director. Madam Speaker, the House may wish to note that following several complaints from various institutions, I undertook a project for the revamping of the FSL. In this respect, the support of a foreign expert was sought as Director in October 2010. As soon as she assumed duty, she was systematically harassed; she was threatened. She claims she thinks she was poisoned. Fearing for her security, she preferred to resign in October 2011. But she did tell me that the way this is being run, we won’t get results; we will never get results. Madam Speaker, for the post of Director, the incumbent will have to be a high-calibre professional, preferably with international exposure in the field of forensic science, together with a combination of leadership and administrative skills. He or she will have to be assisted by a Deputy Director. Madam Speaker, with regard to part (a) of the question, I am informed by the Acting Director that the total current staffing stands at 71, including 51 who are technical staff. As regards part (b) (i) of the question, the Acting Director of Forensic Science Laboratory has stated that from January 2022 to November 2024, out of a total of 44,710 cases referred to the Forensic Science Laboratory, 39,836 cases have been completed and 4,874 are still pending. With regard to parts (b) (ii) and (iii) of the question, I am informed that 3,640 drug- related cases are still pending since December 2023 and 500 samples are awaiting DNA analysis since August of this year. Madam Speaker, it is clear that we need to ensure that the institution is restructured to restore its credibility and professionalism as an independent one forming an integral part of the criminal justice system.

Thank you. I have five minutes left for this PMQT. Yes, hon. Dr. Aumeer, please!

Can I ask the hon. Prime Minister whether he can inform the House if he has been made aware of very suspicious information of interference at a very high level

31 within the FSL as to corroborate results of DNA to match those of suspects in police custody in what was termed as “cases of planting”, particularly Mr A.K. and Mr B.L.?

I heard about this from people, but we are going to have to look into this if that is so. That is a very, very grave accusation if that is actually what happened. But if you see what I was telling you about the lady whom I got from Staffordshire University from a Mauritian, Dr. Ram Gopal, who did not take any fees from us, as far as I remember. He wanted to help Mauritius and he advised that we take this lady, Mrs Maclean who came as Director of FSL. From what she told me, I am not surprised that this could well have happened, but we are going to investigate it.

Yes, hon. Second Member for Rivière des Anguilles & Souillac! MAURITIAN RUPEE – DEPRECIATION/DEVALUATION – FOREIGN CURRENCIES INJECTION