Madam Speaker, at the outset, let me point out that the question relates to the Ombudsman as section 96 of the Constitution has not yet been amended and we still refer to Ombudsman as opposed to Ombudsperson unlike Ombudsperson for Children and Ombudsperson for Financial Services. Madam Speaker, I am informed by the Office of the Ombudsman that according to its record, no investigation was initiated in relation to the dismissal of 234 general workers from the Public Service in Rodrigues. However, the matter was the subject of judicial proceedings and a judgement was delivered by the Supreme Court on the 5th of March 2015. I am informed that following the termination of employment, several former general workers of the Rodrigues Regional Assembly appealed to the Public Bodies Appeal Tribunal which concluded that the termination was in accordance with law. The aggrieved former general workers then applied to the Supreme Court for a judicial review of the determination of the Public Bodies Appeal Tribunal. The Supreme Court held that the Public Bodies Appeal Tribunal did not have jurisdiction to hear the appeal and declared the tribunal’s decision to be a nullity. The Ombudsman has also informed that in light of the said judgement the decision to terminate the employment of the temporary general workers emanated from the Public Service Commission and in accordance with section 97 (2) (g) (iii) of the Constitution, the Ombudsman is not empowered to enquire into the decision of the Public Service Commission. Madam Speaker, at the level of my Ministry, I am informed that there is no record of any complaint received from the former general workers recruited by the Rodrigues Regional Assembly.

Yes, Mr Edouard, you alright? Okay. Let us carry on. Hon. François. INTERTOWN GAMES – PARTICIPATING MUNICIPAL COUNCILS