Madam Speaker, motorsports, particularly rally and racing, are witnessing a surge in popularity in Mauritius. This growing interest reflects a broader global trend where young people are increasingly drawn to high adrenaline skill-based sports that require precision, discipline and teamwork. However, Mauritius currently lacks a dedicated and secure facility that allows for the structured development of this sport discipline. Motorsports enthusiasts often resort to informal and unsafe venues to practice or compete, which presents serious risks both to themselves and to public safety. This Government, Madam Speaker, not only preaches, but also practices compassionate governance, and in the 2025-2026 Budget, the hon. Prime Minister and Minister of Finance provided an amount of Rs6 million for a feasibility study on the construction of a rally circuit for our young rally enthusiasts.

82 The construction of a purpose-built motorsports track would provide a safe, regulated environment for training, competitions and recreational use. Such a facility would allow for the organisation of authorised events under the supervision of the relevant sports federations and institutions, thereby ensuring that all activities adhere to national and international safety standards and regulations. More importantly, the track would serve as a preventive measure against illegal street racing, which causes a growing danger on public roads. By offering an alternative legal outlet for motorsports enthusiasts to express their passion for racing, the project would contribute significantly to road safety awareness, instilling in participants a culture of responsibility, discipline and respect for traffic laws. The project aligns with Government’s vision regarding youth empowerment, social inclusion and sports development. It would serve as a hub for skill building, providing training opportunities in mechanics, driving techniques, event management, safety protocols, and even entrepreneurship in the motorsports industry. Madam Speaker, a technical committee comprising officers of my Ministry, led by engineers from the Ministry of National Infrastructure and officers of the Traffic Management and Road Safety Unit, was set up to draft a term of reference for the enlistment of the services of a consultant to conduct the feasibility study. Motor cycling clubs, NGOs for the protection of road users and other stakeholders have been consulted, and the term of reference has been finalised. The consultant will be required to objectively assess whether the construction of a motorsports track is practical and likely to succeed in Mauritius. By evaluating its potential viability from various perspectives, including technical, economic, legal, operational and venues generation, my Ministry is currently preparing the bidding documents which will be launched shortly.

Yes, Mr Ramdass!

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I thank the hon. Minister for his reply. Can we have an indication as to the timeframe for the realisation of this project?

I cannot tell you about the timeframe, but all I can say is that the technical committee has been established. They are from senior management – technical officers from my Ministry, project coordinator led by engineers of my Ministry, and

83 representatives of the Traffic Management and Road Safety Unit. The number of meetings held so far is four: 22.07.2025; 13.08.2025; 01.09.2025; 10.09.2025.

I am so sorry. I am checking my Standing Order. Yes, go ahead!

One last question. Can the hon. Minister give an indication to the House as to whether a site has been identified for this project?

Not yet, hon. Member. The technical committee will do the feasibility study. Then, they will tell us exactly where we can have the racing track.

Yes, Dr. Prayag.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Can the Minister even consider having more than one site available for such a project because it affects all the youngsters of our country? Many of them even lose their lives while doing illegal rallies?

Like I said, a speech was made in the Budget by the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and we are being given Rs6 million to do that project. I cannot say if we can have two, three or more than one, but we will start by one.

Alright. B/1072 has been withdrawn. RIVIÈRE DU REMPART DISTRICT COUNCIL – ALLEGED MISSING STREETLIGHTS – INQUIRY