the Child Development Unit (CDU), she will state – 87 (a) if her Ministry will consider reviewing the curren…
(No. B/110) Dr. Ms B. Thannoo (Second Member for Quartier Militaire & Moka) asked the Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare whether, in regard to the Child Development Unit (CDU), she will state – 87 (a) if her Ministry will consider reviewing the current procedures to ensure prompt and professional services in urgent cases of child trauma; (b) the ongoing professional training provided to new and existing employees of the Unit, and (c) if access to therapy services is provided to employees at the CDU to support them in their professional performance.
Madam Speaker, my ministry has already initiated the necessary actions to review the current procedures of the Child Development Unit (CDU). A contract for consultancy services for a reform in child services was awarded to the University of Technology Mauritius in December last year. This initiative aims to undertake a comprehensive reform of child services. The objective of the consultancy services is to gain insights into the current structure, policies, procedures, and practices within the CDU, identify gaps, and adopt necessary remedial actions. Madam Speaker, I am also informed that the consultancy team will submit a final report with recommendations by the end of September 2025. I further wish to inform the House that my Ministry organised an Assises de la femme et de la famille on December 10 last year with the collaboration of NGOs and other stakeholders to explore, among other matters, ways and means to enhance our services related to the protection of children in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Mauritius is a signatory. Madam Speaker, regarding part (b) of the question, as far as ongoing professional training is concerned, I understand that we are already providing such training to new and existing employees of the unit. These trainings are conducted by the psychologists of the Ministry, ensuring that child trauma cases are handled professionally and in line with the best international practices. I am further informed that through interactive sessions, case studies, and practical exercises, some 52 officers of the CDU have gained valuable insights into, inter alia, the trauma-informed approach, which is a way of working that considers the impact of trauma on people, including children, groups, and communities, among others. Madam Speaker, with regard to part (c) of the question, I am informed that during the period 2024-2025, free psychological services have been available for 10 staff members at
88 the CDU to help them overcome any emotional trauma. These psychological services, including psychotherapy and counselling, are provided free of charge upon request.
Yes! Hon. Second Member for Quartier Militaire and Moka! I am sorry, one moment. I thought you had another question?
I am sorry. Yes!
I was right!
You were right! Thank you, Madam Speaker. B/111, please! FOREIGN WORKERS – RECRUITMENT & ILLEGAL OVERSTAY (2019 TO 2024)