the importation of livestock, he will, for the benefit of the House, obtain information as to the – (a) pers…
(No. B/1057) Mr K. Rookny (Third Member for Pamplemousses & Triolet) asked the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries whether, in regard to the importation of livestock, he will, for the benefit of the House, obtain information as to the – (a) persons or entities currently holding permits therefor; (b) whether any monopoly or dominant position exists in the sector, and (c) number of import permit applications presently awaiting determination, indicating the reasons for the delay in processing same.
Madam Speaker, with regard to part (a) of the question, I wish to inform the House that the Division of the Veterinary Services of the Ministry has received applications for permit for the importation of livestock from three importers, that is – Socovia; Ubora Ventures Ltd, and Punjoo Mamade Ehsan Moussa in 2025. And all three importers have been issued with import permits during the year. As regards part (b) of the question, it is clear from my reply to part (a) that there is no monopoly or dominant position in the sector. Concerning part (c) of the question, two importers have made application in the month of October and November 2025. An import permit has been granted to Socovia (Belle Vue) Ltd, whereas the application of Ubora Ventures Ltd received on the 26th of 2025 for import of 700 cattle from South Africa is awaiting determination. I am informed, Madam Speaker, that the reason for the delay in processing the application of Ubora Ventures Ltd is because a preliminary environmental report is awaited from the Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change.
Yes, hon. Rookny?
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Could the hon. Minister advise the House if the whole approval process at the end of the day rests with the two veterinary officers of his Ministry?
No, it does not rest on two veterinary officers of the Ministry but it rests on the advice tendered by them and of course, you know, the matter is then referred to the Ministry to ensure that there is full assessment, in the light of which a decision is taken to serve the interest of all parties concerned.
Thank you. Yes, hon. Second Member for Belle Rose and Quatre Bornes, Chief Whip! SHELTERED MINORS – OVERSTAY IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS – ADMISSION & DISCHARGE DATE