I wish to provide a detailed update regarding the status of football ground under the purview of Flacq District Council. The Bel Air Rivière Sèche football ground which covers an area of 6400 m2 was cleared on Friday, 11 July 2025. I am pleased to report that the lighting system on this ground is currently fully operational. However, it is important to note that the perimeter fencing has been damaged and the cost estimate for the necessary repairs is around Rs1.8 million and the Council is in the process of securing financial clearance to proceed with these works. With regard to the St Michelle football ground which spans 7650 m², maintenance works were undertaken on Friday, 11 July 2025. Unfortunately, the lighting system at this ground was vandalised during March and April 2025. The required accessories and materials for repair have already been procured and the repairs works are expected to be completed by 28 July 2025.To mitigate future act of vandalism, the installation of overhead wiring for the lighting system is under consideration. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, regarding the Ernest Florent football ground which has an area of 6656 m2, clearing works were also completed on the 11 July 2025. At present, 6 out of the 12 floodlights are not functional. The District Council of Flacq has informed that repair works will be carried out using in-house labour with completion scheduled for 07 August 2025. Routine maintenance of all football grounds is conducted on a monthly basis by the Council to ensure the facilities remain in good condition. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, it has come to my attention that certain local authorities tend to act swiftly on maintenance and upgrading works only after a Parliamentary Question have been submitted regarding their jurisdictions. This reactive approach raises serious concerns regarding the commitment to proactive services delivery.

53 Regrettably, over the recent years, the quality of governance and public service within some local authorities have declined. This situation is largely attributed to a culture of comprehensive and a lack of accountability on the part of a few officers. The legacy of neglect and the indifference under the previous administration has undermined public trust and service standards, and its consequences are still being felt today. As previously stated in my PQ B/382 on 15 April 2025, disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against officers of Local Authorities who have failed to carry out their duties responsibly. The Government remains fully committed to restoring discipline, professionalism and accountability within the public service and will not tolerate negligence of duty by any public officer entrusted to serve the public. Thank you.

Hon. Second Member for Quartier Militaire and Moka! FUTSAL - SYNTHETIC FOOTBALL PITCHES – CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE COSTS