Reply (The Prime Minister): This Government inherited a very precarious situation with regard to the sustainability of the Basic Retirement Pension (BRP). The previous government, in spite of warnings from several experts on the dangers ahead, completely turned a blind eye to the problem. This was most irresponsible and we could not let this situation continue. There was an urgency to save the pension system for future generations of retirees. If we had continued on the same path followed by the previous government, there would be no pension for future elderly citizens. We, therefore, brought about the necessary reforms. As a compassionate Government, we could not be insensitive to those persons relying mainly on the BRP for a living. That is why following the gradual transition of the eligibility age for the Basic Retirement Pension (BRP) to 65 years as from 01 September 2025, Government has decided to provide a monthly Income Support of Rs10,000, including an end-of-year bonus, to persons reaching the age of 60 years who will no longer be eligible for the BRP, but who rely mainly or solely on the BRP for their livelihood. The Income Support is payable to eligible individuals whose monthly income does not exceed Rs20,000 for a couple and Rs10,000 for a single person household. Beneficiaries of the Income Support include housewives, retirees, employed and self-employed that meet the criteria. In addition, beneficiaries of the Basic Invalidity Pension, the Basic Widow’s Pension and the Invalidity Allowance who turn 60 years are not concerned by the Income Support since they will continue to receive their respective pensions until they qualify for the BRP. As regards part (a) of the question, I am informed by the MRA that over the period 01 September 2025 to 04 December 2025, Rs63.8 million has been paid as Income Support, including an end-of-year bonus, to 1,803 beneficiaries comprising – (a) 455 single individuals, and

143 (b) 1,348 individuals who are married. As regards part (b) of the question, I am informed by the MRA that following an analysis carried out, it is forecasted that in the financial year 2026/2027, on average, 6,000 persons will benefit from the Income Support every month. This will represent an estimated amount of Rs780 million in that year as Income Support. As regards sustainability of our pension system, the Commission of Experts set up by Government is currently studying the issue and will make recommendation on appropriate reforms. FÉDÉRATION MAURICIENNE DE JUDO – CLUBS SEEKING AFFILIATION