(Madam Speaker in the Chair) Consideration of the Appropriation (2025-2026) Bill (No. IV of 2025) was resumed. The Chairperson: Please be seated. Thank you. Hon Members, the hon. Minister of Labour has asked me and I have agreed that his Ministry should be called out of turn during this examination. So, hon. Minister. Yes. I will guide you.

He was not aware. The Chairperson: Not but he was aware, young man. Young Member! We are just taking stock. It is not very difficult. So, you have to look at Page 370 – Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations. As far as we can, in this House, we try and arrange things so that everybody is happy.

(Interruptions)

We are not going to start on that kind… Let’s keep quiet, please. Le jour commence, gardons un peu de calme. Hon. DPM, I am starting! (3.11 p.m.) Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations: Programme 1601: Policy and Strategy for Labour and Industrial Relation was called. The Chairperson: I will give you a minute to put your question.

(Interruptions)

Of course! Go ahead! Go ahead!

May I ask the hon. Minister, on page 373, Item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance, we see Rs11,000,000 being budgeted for Advisers, may we have the name of the Advisers appointed, their qualification and remuneration package? The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Minister.

Yes, Madam Chairperson, in fact, there is an amount budgeted for the Redundancy Board. So, the Redundancy Board, the president is Mr Abdool Rashid Hossen and he has a monthly salary of Rs179,150 and the Vice-President is Mr France Christophe Lactive, his monthly salary is RS122,900. I have two Advisers, Mr Dawood Neerunjun who has a salary of Rs 42,350 plus an allowance of Rs5825 and Mrs Fadya Nazirkhan, Senior Adviser on information matters. She draws a salary of Rs62,200. The Chairperson: Thank you. So, if I understand well, we have already 370, 371, now we just did 372 and 373, okay. 374! Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations: Programme 1601: Policy and Strategy for Labour and Industrial Relation (Rs118,100,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (3.15 p.m.) Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations: Programme 1602: Labour and Industrial Relations Management was called. The Chairperson: Yes!

May I ask the hon. Minister, on page 375, Item 160202 –Occupational Safety and Health Management, may we know for the last financial year, the number of prosecutions that have been initiated and if he also has the number of successful convictions that have been …? The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Minister, very interesting issue.

I am informed, Madam Chairperson that for the period July 2024-April 2025, there has been 3005 inspections carried out. During this period, 156 cases in respect of 286 breaches of OSH legislation were lodged before the Industrial Court. The breakdown of the prosecution is as follows – • Enforcement section – 66; • Construction section – 47; • Employees lodging accommodation section – 17; • Accident unit – 26 The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson. May I refer the hon. Minister to page 376, Item – 22900.974 – Decent Work Country Programme (Second Generation), can we be provided with more information on that programme and why that increase?

Yes, Madam Chairperson, the Decent Work Country Programme (Second Generation), is long overdue. There has been a first generation and now a second generation. We have retained the services of consultants from University of Technology of Mauritius in collaboration with the ILO country office. The contract was awarded on 21 February 2024 for a sum of Rs950,410. An amount of Rs190,082 has been disbursed till date. The Chairperson: Yes, one more.

Yes. Still if I may ask the hon. Minister on the OSH programme – Occupational Safety and Health Management, may I know from the Minister, how many out of these cases, if any, have resulted in work permits being cancelled, employers’ work permit authorisation have been cancelled?

I do not have this information but usually, when you prosecute for an offense, you will get a fine. So, I have already told you the breakdown of the prosecution but to my knowledge, there has not been any cancelation of any permit. I will check and if there is anything, I will circulate it. The Chairperson: It seems that we have to go through pages 377, 378, 379, 380 and 381. Page 377! (3.18 p.m.) Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations – Programme Code 1602: Labour and Industrial Relations Management (Rs253,000,000) was called and agreed to. The Chairperson: Now, we move to page 380. (3.19 p.m.) Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations – Programme Code 1603: Regulation of Associations and Trade Unions was called. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Thank you, Madam Chairperson. Page 380. Item 22030 – Rent, there is an increase in the rent. Can we know why?

I am informed that the increase in provision is due to expected increases in rent payable to Silvercrest Court. The contract has already been terminated. So, we are anticipating an increase in rent in respect of that accommodation.

Madam Chairperson, I have a question. The Chairperson: Yes!

On the same page, on the heading Programme 1603 - Registration and regulation of associations and trade unions,may we know from the hon. Minister, how many workers in Mauritius are part of a recognised trade union?

I do not have the exact figures. I know that there are 407 trade unions registered as at May 2025. So, if I get the information about the number of workers represented by the 407 trade unions, I will circulate it. The Chairperson: So, you have the number of trade unions, but not the number of workers registered.

Not the number of workers who are represented by the trade unions. The Chairperson: You will let us know. Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations – Programme Code 1603: Regulation of Associations and Trade Unions (Rs27,900,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Now, Ministry of Labour. I have several pages. I would suggest you to just stand up when you have a question because I do not want to twist my back again today. Let me call the vote. (3.23 p.m.) Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations – Programme Code 1604: Employment Facilitation was called. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. A. Duval!

Page 382, Item 21110.005 - Extra Assistance, can the hon. Minister provide us with the names, qualifications and remunerations of these persons?

I am informed that presently, there is no Consultant/Adviser under this programme. The Chairperson: Okay, hon. Leader of the Opposition first. Then, hon. François.

Page 383, Item 22090 – Security, there is a new item for security. May we be provided with more information?

Madam Chairperson, provision is being made for security services, installation of alarm system to safeguard the premises of two record centres at Mapou, Rose Hill and the employment centres. So, currently, there is no security services available in 13 of these EICs. The Chairperson: Hon. François’s turn!

May I? The Chairperson: Yes!

Thank you, Madam Chairperson. I refer to page 383, Item 28212.028 - Employability Enhancement Programme. May I know from the hon. Minister, the number of persons who have benefitted under each programme for this financial year?

Sorry, can you repeat the code?

Item 28212.028 - Employability Enhancement Programme.

There are actually five Employability Enhancement Programmes – 1. Youth Employment Programme; 2. Women Back to Work Programme; 3. Trainee Engineer Scheme; 4. Training and Placement of Persons with Disabilities, and 5. Trainee Land Surveyor Scheme. So, I will table the number of beneficiaries under each of these schemes. The Chairperson: Hon. A. Duval.

On the same question, specifically for Training and Placement of Persons with Disabilities, you have already answered part of the question. The second part of the question is: does the hon. Minister know how many persons with disabilities are currently in employment? The Chairperson: In Mauritius, you mean?

Yes. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Minister, very interesting question!

Yes. This information will actually be available to the training and Employment of Persons with Disabilities Board, which falls under the Ministry of Social Integration. In my Ministry, I am just referred to any person with disabilities that needs to be employed. We contact them, we get the list, and then, we place them with the employer. But we will not have the actual number of people with disabilities who are looking for jobs. This will be with the Employment of Persons with Disabilities Board. They will have it. The board will have it. We just get the requests. Then, we do the placement. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition.

Hon. Minister, under the same item, I will take Item 28212.028 – (c) Trainee Engineer Scheme, can we know how many engineers have benefited from that scheme until now?

I am informed that since the start of the programme in September 2016, there have been 1,706 engineers who have been trained under this scheme. Presently, there are 108 trainees in post, out of which, 51 are in the public sector and 57 are in the private sector. The Chairperson: Yes. Question?

Yes, if you allow me. On the same page 383, Item 22900.948 - Employment Outreach Initiative, can the hon. Minister enlighten the House about this item, please?

This is Item 22900.948, right?

Yes, that is correct.

Provision is made for the organisation of up to six job and training fairs to help, uplift and support those who are in need of employment facilitation. One of these fair costs on average Rs250,000. The Chairperson: Mr Duval! Page 384?

May I ask the hon. minister under the Sub-Programme 160402: Recruitment of Foreign Workers, a general question, Madam Chairperson. Can the Minister provide to the House, the number actually of the foreign workers by category in sector where they are employed and by country, by nationality. Will he be able to provide that to the House? The Chairperson: Are you able to do that?

I will, not today. I will circulate a list and the breakdown of the number of foreign workers that we have country-wise. I will table it. The Chairperson: There was a PQ, it seems on that but never mind. You will give us the figures.

Yes, I will table the information. The Chairperson: No problem. Are we done with that one?

(Interruptions)

Mr Duval, please, don’t speak at the same time that I am! Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations – Programme Code: 1604 Employment Facilitation (Rs 265,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Now, we are going back because we were out of turn. So, now we are going to the Ministry of Agro-Industry, page 201. Minister, I am happy to see you back. (3.30 p.m.) Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0601: Policy and Strategy for Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries was called. The Chairperson: Okay no question.

Madame Chairperson, this is getting tyring. There is always an issue. May I ask the hon. Minister, on page 204 item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance. Can the Minister provide the House with the names, qualifications and remuneration of his advisers.

Madame Chairperson, it is quite a lengthy reply. I do not mind circulating it. The Chairperson: What did you say? You going to circulate. Yes, hon. Leader of Opposition.

On the same page 204, item 22102 – Fees of which Creation of Digital State Agricultural Land Bank. Can we know whether work has already started first and what is the timeframe?

Well, we are going to enlist the services of a consultant to provide touch button technology to matters and to all those who are willing to have access to this touch button service. Now, this is a specific question, it sounds more like a PQ but I will get the information from my staff and supply the relevant information. The Chairperson: Thank you. So, we are okay for pages 201 to 206. Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0601: Policy and Strategy for Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries (Rs 229,300,000) was, on question put, agreed to. Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0602: Cane Industry was called. The Chairperson: We have 3 pages: 207 to 209.

On page 208, item 263130.028 – (b) Maintenance of Irrigation Network. Can we be provided with the list of places where the maintenance will be carried out for the coming financial year?

Again, the reply is quite lengthy. I do not mind circulating it. Unless, you want me to spell it out. Thank you very much. The Chairperson: Next question!

Item 28225.014 – Cane Replantation Scheme. May we know from the Minister, for the last financial year, how many beneficiaries have benefited from that scheme?

It is Cane replantation scheme. There is a provision of Rs75 million made to continue to provide grant of an amount of Rs60,000 per acre and it has benefited 675 small and medium sugarcane planters for cane replantation. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition.

On page 209, item 28213.021 (d) Training of planters on Organic Agriculture. Can we have an indication, first of all, how many planters have benefited from the training and how many will benefit in the forthcoming financial year?

I do not have the number but the training, as the hon. Leader of the Opposition has said, is made for training of planters on organic production of sugarcane. But I know this is a programme which is quite attractive and there are many planters who have expressed and showed interest but I can give you the exact number. I am waiting for relevant information. The Chairperson: Thank you, Minister. Yes, Mr Beechook!

Page 208, item 25210.023 – Fertilizer Scheme for Sugarcane Planters. I see nothing had been earmarked for the previous financial year. Is it a new scheme to support our sugarcane planters?

Yes, it is quite a substantial sum that has been earmarked and provision is made for the payment of 50%, subsidies on fertilisers to sugarcane planters scheme previously financed under the National Residential Fund and as to the number, I cannot give you the exact number but certainly, as I have said earlier, many planters are forthcoming have expressed interest and they are all fully on board. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition.

On page 209, item 28213.021 (f) Drone Spraying. Can will be provided with more information on that item?

Yes. We have acquired two drones for obvious use, display the cane field and we hope they there will be delivered in due time. The Chairperson: Yes. Mr Duval.

On the same item 28213.021, Mauritius Cane Industry Authority (MCIA). Can we have the composition of the board? Will you be able to table same?

Well, the chair is, if my memory is right, is the Senior Chief Executive, but I can submit the list. The Chairperson: Yes. Mr Beechook!

Page 209, item 28213.021 (g) Development of Land Suitability Map. Can the Minister please enlighten us on this project?

Land suitability map is appropriate. Earlier, I talked of touch button technology, and it will tell us in where is it appropriate to grow which type of cultivation and as to the amount of water that it would require. So, we are moving not a step ahead of technology but we are being accompanied by constant breakthrough in technology. The Chairperson: Yes, we are done. Programme Code 0602: Cane Industry (Rs 1,096,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: So, we are still on Ministry of Agro-Industry. Page 210 until… The Chairperson: 210 until 219, we got a bit of work here. (3.39 p.m.) Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0603: Foodcrop and Livestock Sectors was called. The Chairperson: Yes?

Thank you, Madam Chairperson, on page 211, Item 22130 - Studies and Surveys (b) Standardisation of Local Agricultural Produce, can we have a timeframe please, hon. Minister?

Well, you can rest assured that there is going to be proper standardisation and the studies are going to be conducted as appropriate. I have been told that there is capacity building on identification of national priorities that we are prioritising and we are looking at a national legislation in respect of Codex Alimentarius. So, all these are being looked into to ensure that there is established norms to give satisfaction to planters and to consumers.

If you allow me, Madam Chairperson… The Chairperson: Yes, Mr Beechook? No? Mr François?

Yes, on the same Item 22130 - Studies and Surveys (b) Standardisation of Local Agricultural Produce, Madam Chairperson, will this programme concern Rodrigues? Especially our ti piman and zariko?

Yes, we always give differential treatment to our friends from Rodrigues and you can rest assured it is going to be taken care of. The Chairperson: Mr A. Duval!

Thank you. May I ask the Minister at page 211, Item 22090 – Security, Rs36 million is being budgeted for payment of security services. May we have the name of the service providers and also the other details relating to them, including the date of contracting their services?

I do not have a date, but I can tell you that there have been provisions made for payment of security services following 12 outstations operating under agricultural services and falling under non-sugar sector. The list is here; I can circulate it to you and in relation also as to whom contract has been allocated. That information will be imparted to you.

At the same page, Item 22900.099 - Miscellaneous Expenses of which (c) Assises de L'Agriculture, can we know when will the Assises de L'Agriculture be held?

Yes, we are all looking forward to the Assises de L'Agriculture and it is going to be celebrated with great pump. Everybody is going to be invited. It is the opportunity lot for all. It is a tentative date but 16 October, that is when they celebrate the World Food Day. Sorry, I am talking of Salon de l’Agriculture. For Assises, did you talk of Assises?

Assises, yes.

Assises, yes. Funds will be used for the organisation of the Assises de L'Agriculture to serve as pivotal forum and the outcome will be the launching of food security programme by December 2025.

Yes, Mr Beechook!

Yes, Madam Chairperson, page 212 at the top, Item 25210.009 - Fruit Growers (Litchi and Banana), we have a hefty amount of Rs15 million that have been allocated to fruit growers, litchi and banana. May I know from the hon. Minister how this amount will be disbursed?

Again, we provide a lot subsidy on the cost of purchase of plastic bags and the banana bag, what we call Banana Bagging Scheme.

Banana bags?

And the net for protecting fruit trees; litchis, longans, mangoes. Now, for the Financial Year 2024-2025, an amount of more than Rs5 million has been earmarked and it is going to be disbursed to 17 banana and 681 orchard owners and backyard fruit tree owners under the resilience fund. Now, for Financial Year 2025-2026, the implementation of the scheme will be pursued.

Yes, hon. Members, we have gone far beyond two minutes. So, I am putting the question now. Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0603: Food Crop and Livestock Sectors (Rs 1,826,400,000) was, on question put, agreed to.

Now, we go to page 220, still the same Ministry. (3.46 p.m.) Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0604: Forestry and Biodiversity was called.

Yes, Madam Chairperson…

Yes, stand up!

It is two minutes allocated per Item, not per programme.

No! We have given him a lot of time. We have given all of you a lot of time. Do not quarrel with me! We are doing…

I am not quarrelling. I just want to get it straight. Is it two minutes per Item or per programme? Because it makes a whole difference!

Programme! Programme!

It is just a question!

Even per Item, we went so long!

There were so many Items left!

Hon. Member, do not make as if I am a tyrant. I am not. I am trying to be as nice as possible and I am also interested in these issues. So, let us all try and collaborate. It is our country. If you have a question, now you have to stand. An hon. Member: They do not have! They do not have!

Nobody? Okay, c’est bon.

Page 221, I have a question to ask.

Okay, go ahead!

Item 22090 – Security, there is more than a 100% increase in security costs. May we have the list of service providers, the date of award and the reason for the doubling of costs?

Well, the cost is substantial, largely due to depreciation of the rupee under the previous Government. So, the cost has gone up. But it is made for payment of security services was provided…

It was in your financial year.

…to 13 compounds under forestry. The detailed list will be submitted to our good friend.

May I have another question?

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Yes. Try not to argue, please!

Yes. On the same page, Item 31410.401 – Rehabilitation, Upgrading of Nature Reserves & Parks, can the Minister provide the list of rehabilitation projects that will be done under this programme?

(Interruptions)

Pe fer delaying tactics expre!

Ki delaying tactics ena ladan la?

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Hon. Minister, please!

The increase in funds is to cater for the increase in the production of native species, to increase targets for reforestation and free biodiversity conservation, restauration work at Îlot Gabriel Nature Reserve. Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0604: Forestry and Biodiversity (Rs373,100,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: I am still on the Ministry of Agro-Industry on page 226.

(Interruptions)

Vous n’êtes pas en train de suivre !

Comme toujours !

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Chut ! J’ai dit que j’avais toutes ces pages-là. J’ai déjà avancé. Je comprends…

…le temps, Madame la présidente. The Chairperson: Mais je donne le temps !

On avait décidé deux minutes par item. The Chairperson: Mais meme ça…

Nous allons devoir passer toute la soirée…

Si certains n’ont pas envie de travailler, c’est leur problème !

(Interruptions)

Oh! Ah bon?

(Interruptions)

On est là pour faire notre travail, Madame la présidente. On était d’accord pour deux minutes par item. Là, c’est devenu deux minutes par programme.

(Interruptions)

And he keeps sitting down to address you!

Yes, so are you! So are you!

(Interruptions)

Twa to enn batiara!

We! Twa osi to…

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Ça suffit !

(Interruptions)

Ça suffit !

(Interruptions)

8 an to pa’nn poz kestion! To pa dakor kan to kamarad poz kestion?

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Oh, la, la ! C’est incroyable!

(Interruptions)

… malelve la!

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Est-ce que je peux faire mon travail ? Je vous ai dit deux minutes. Mais si personne n’a rien à dire, ça va être une minute ou trente secondes. Faites-moi savoir !

On vous a dit, Madame la présidente. The Chairperson: Mettez-vous debout ! Mettez-vous debout ! Ne vous bagarrez pas avec moi !

Je peux me mettre debout maintenant ? The Chairperson: Mettez-vous debout maintenant !

Merci. Page 223…

(Interruptions)

Al dormi do ta!

Madame la présidente, on n’a pas passé. C’est ce que je suis en train de dire !

Vandredi zordi ! Vandredi ! An hon. Member: Happy hour!

(Interruptions)

We! Ler dezene inn pase, to ena rezon ! We were at page 221. Now, we are at page 223. The Chairperson: No, I am…

But this is my point – to call the vote! The Chairperson: I called the vote because nobody stood up!

(Interruptions)

An hon. Member: Li bizin fer expre pou li…

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Chut !

Exactement, chut !

Li pe fer expre. Li pe fer Speaker perdi so letan! The Chairperson: I would like everybody to keep quiet so that I can carry on with my job! Hon. A. Duval, I am on page 226. Let me call it. Make yourself visible so that I can give you time to speak. Page 226! (3.53 p.m.) Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries - Programme Code 0605: Blue Economy was called. The Chairperson: Yes!

On page 227, may I ask the Minister, Item 22120.024 – Fees icw Capacity Building Programme - Aquaculture (EU funded), if we can have the list of aquaculture programmes that have been set up and that are now in operation? The Chairperson: Aquaculture, hon. Minister. Extremely interesting also.

I have the relevant information…

(Interruptions)

…but it is quite lengthy. I will circulate it.

Il faut venir avec une question parlementaire !

Premie fwa tonn vin assiz la !

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Chut!

Swadizan to ena experyans, to koumsa? The Chairperson: Ça suffit la ! Les backbenchers, arretez, s’il vous plait !

Li pe fer nou la leson ! Linn asiz la komie letan ek li pe vinn montre nou ?

Bien dit ! Très bien dit !

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Comme hier je vous ai dit, si vous continuez à m’empêcher de travailler, je m’en vais !

Ah bon ? …le contexte. The Chairperson: J’ai sept pages. Je vais vous donner le temps parce que blue economy est très important. Allez-y ! Question!

Page 227, under the same item, that is, Item 22120.008 – Fees to Consultants (EU funded). It is a new item. Can we be provided with details regarding that item?

It is mainly for consultants for the blue economy. Rs5 m. in connection with capacity building in aquaculture. I have it here and I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Yes, next question!

But he… The Chairperson: He will give it to you.

You want it?

Yes. The Chairperson: Allez-y ! Vous avez une question ?

Item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance…

(Interruptions)

Sel manier nou pou ressi konn sa la ! Will the Minister give us the names, qualifications and remuneration of the persons benefiting from this item?

Provision is made for the payment of salary to a Nautical Inspector and to fill other posts in scarcity areas because there is a shortage of skill. There is no Deputy Director of Shipping, no Nautical Surveyors, Marine Engineers also, a shortage of Marine Engineering Surveyors, and Nautical Inspectors, and Marine Engineering Inspector. We will probably have to advertise. Even if we have to recruit from overseas, we have no choice, but to do it. I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Yes!

On the same page, Item 22900.824 – Expenses icw GloFouling Project, may we know more about this item?

GloFouling is largely due to microorganism. Sometimes, they are stuck to the hull of ships and can have a deleterious effect on marine life. I will circulate the relevant information – the amount being spent. The Chairperson: Okay. Are we done? Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries - Programme Code 0605: Blue Economy (Rs 353,700,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (3.58 p.m.) Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries - Programme Code 0606: Fisheries Development was called. The Chairperson: Yes, question! Quelle page ?

Page 234. The Chairperson: 234. Okay. Yes, question! Quelle page?

Page 234, item 22900.042 – Reward for Sighting Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing Vessels, may we know from the hon. Minister, for the last financial year, how many reports have been made? How many of which have resulted also in payments of reward?

Reward for Sighting Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing Vessels, now this is a huge problem which is being addressed and made provisions for reward to fishing operators and to alert the Ministry on IUU Fishing in our EEZ. Now, there have been several articles published in the paper on this issue but it’s one of the problems in relation to depletion of stock in our sea is largely due to IUU Fishing. The Chairperson: Yes!

May I ask the hon. Minister, the amount has reduced by half, I wanted to know how many reports have been made last year, and also, if you could explain why, it is being reduced by half?

Yes, there was no disbursement made because there was no report made.

Reports!

Report in relation to, as far as I know, in relation to information being relate to me, there is being no report made in relation to IUU. But we rely on friendly countries sometimes to transmit the relevant information in our effort to wage war on IUU. The Chairperson: We had Mr François already!

I refer to page 235, item 28212.002 – Compensation to Net Fishermen, does this item concern the mandatory surrender of fisherman cards by the five large net fishing cooperatives in Rodrigues?

As far as I can recall, it should apply to Rodrigues also. We are talking about returning of fishermen cards and fishing nets and all that? And compensation that has to be made and now I can assure the House, let me reiterate what was discussed and approved by Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister that we are going to look on optional practice. The Chairperson: You got it? Hon. Leader of the Opposition, first and then you and then Mr A. Duval.

I will have to back to page 234, Madam Chairperson, item 22900.030 – Safety and Security Equipment for Fishers (Partly EU funded), there is a considerable decrease in the amount, can we know how many fishers have already benefited from safety and security equipment?

Decrease in provision as to 243 Personal Locator Beacons have already been procured and I will circulate all the relevant information in relation to those who have taken advantage of this facility being extended to our fishers. The Chairperson: Yes, Mr Beechook!

Page 235, item 28225.008 - Off Lagoon Fishing Scheme (a) Purchase of Canotte, (b) Purchase of Semi-Industrial Fishing Boat. Purchase of canotte has increased from Rs4 million to Rs24 million, and the purchase of Semi-Industrial Fishing Boat which has increased from Rs12 million to Rs48 million, may I know from the Minister how many Canottes and Semi-Industrial Fishing Boats, they look forward to subsidise through this item?

Yes, in relation to purchase of canottes, in fact, again in line to encourage fishers to move off-lagoon, they want to have a politics of repletion of our lagoon. Now, provision is made for the grant of Rs300,000 for the purchase of canottes. A selection committee at the level of the Ministry has been set up to assess applications which are submitted as per criteria. Now, the scheme was for the year 2024-2025, 35 applicants have been evaluated and approved and slightly more than Rs8 million were disbursed. I have the list of the beneficiaries and I will circulate. The Chairperson: Yes, last question, okay!

May I ask the Minister on page 235, item 28212.002 – Compensation to Net Fishermen and item 28212.003 – Compensation to Artisanal Fishermen, we see a substantial increase. May we know from the Minister how many permits is he expected to take back under the scheme as I understand it is to compensate them for taking back their fishing permits? Can he give us an indication for both artisanal fishermen and net fishermen?

I have a long reply which I am very willing to circulate and it could make good reading because, again, it’s in line with the politics of empowerment our fishers. The Chairperson: Thank you, everybody. Thank you, hon. Minister and you will not forget to circulate whatever you promised to circulate. Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries – Programme Code 0606: Fisheries Development (Rs581,500,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (4.06 p.m.) Ministry of National Infrastructure – Programme Code 0701: Policy and Strategy for National Infrastructure Development was called.

Page 243, item 22030.005 - Rental of Facilities for Events, there is a substantial increase for the next financial year, can the Minister explain why that sudden increase?

Normally it’s rental facilities for NGOs, for social cultural organisation for tents and toilets and everything.

Same item 22030.005 – Rental of Facilities for Events. Same question but can we know the reason the budget has doubled, Rs8 million to Rs17.5 million? Why is the budget doubling? The Chairperson: Hon. Minister, reason for doubling the job budget!

I’ll give information for the rental of buildings first and then I’ll give also for rental of facilities for events. For buildings, we are renting Moorgate House at Sir William Newton and we are renting Medine Mews on the 10th Floor 516 m2 and for Moorgate, it is 2,250 m2. As far as rental of facilities for event, it is an increase in provision to cater for tent services, podiums and other facilities for the organisations of socio-cultural activities at national, regional and community level. The Chairperson: Hon. Leader of the Opposition, carry on. Don’t get disturbed.

On the same page, Madam Chairperson, that is 243, item 22900 – Other Goods and Services. Here, again, there is a substantial increase. Can we be provided with the reasons for that substantial increase for the next financial year? Thank you.

Increase in provision is as a result of additional funds provided under item – provisions and stores to cater for procurement of logistics such as red carpet and national flags used during official functions and state visits and also for the procurement of additional mobile toilets which are used during religious events such as Maha Shivaratri pilgrimage. The Chairperson: Yes. Good.

Madam Chairperson, I have another one. The Chairperson: Another one, yes! Just stand up and put your question.

Yes, page 242, item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance, name, qualification and remuneration fees.

I presume you want to know the Advisers. One Senior Adviser, one Adviser and one Adviser on Public Relation Matters.

And remuneration?

Remuneration. The Adviser on Public Relation Matters, Rs39,350 …

You got their names?

The Adviser Rs68,000 and Senior Adviser Rs77,950.

So, you don’t have their names.

You want their names, we give you. We have Mr Shakeel Jadoo who is Senior Adviser, Mr Dinesh Boodoo is Adviser and Mr Taujoo who is Adviser on Public Relation Matters. You want qualification? I will give you this also.

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Okay, everybody.

… be tonn dimann kestion, tonn dir … The Chairperson: Are we done? I think we are done.

Kalifikation pou Speaker to pas ti ena, to pe rod kalifikation!

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Let me put the question. Hon. Bhagwan, let me put the question. Ministry of National Infrastructure – Programme 0701: Policy and Strategy for National Infrastructure Development (Rs169,000,000) was ….

(Interruptions)

Pas koz kalification!

Ar mwa! Ar mwa! The Chairperson: Oh, shut up! Ce n’est pas possible! I was in the middle of putting the question. Stop it, both of you!

He is threatening me, I can’t stay… The Chairperson: Yes, but you can pretend you didn’t hear him, at least. I am going to put the question again!

(Interruptions)

Imbécile! The Chairperson: And I don’t …

Is it Parliamentary…

(Interruptions)

Madam Chairperson, is it Parliamentary?

(Interruptions)

I heard the Deputy Prime Minister is calling me ‘un imbecile’. Is this Parliamentary?

(Interruptions)

How long this is going to treat us like this? I know it’s …, but he is calling me all sorts of names. Madam Chairperson, I would like the Deputy Prime Minister to remove that!

(Interruptions)

An hon. Member: To remove what?

The word ‘imbecile’!

You are an imbécile!

And to remove that again!

And I won’t remove anything!

You are Mr Bean!

(Interruptions)

An hon. Member: Al fer to video lor Facebook! Al montre!

Zot pe maltraite li….

Provoke! Provoke!

(Interruptions)

‘Cosson’ provoker sa? Ein ?

(Interruptions)

Li li koz kalification, twa ki provoke?

(Interruptions)

… to pa Speaker twa!

Madam Chairperson, I insist that he withdraws this word. He cannot call me an imbécile!

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: But you must keep quiet so that I can say a word!

Yes! The Chairperson: Now, you keep quiet! Hon. Deputy Prime Minister, so that we can move on with our work, just please withdraw that word – imbécile!

I withdraw, but he remains what he is.

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Thank you! Thank you!

(Interruptions)

Let me put the question.

(Interruptions)

… poz kestion ! The Chairperson: Ce n’est pas vrai ! Vous n’êtes pas dans une salle de classe ! Ce n’est pas possible.

(Interruptions)

Minister, it is your Ministry! Ministry of National Infrastructure – Programme 0701: Policy and Strategy for National Infrastructure Development (Rs169,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (4.13 p.m.) Ministry of National Infrastructure – Programme 0702: Technical Services for Construction and Maintenance of Government Assets was called. The Chairperson: Yes, question!

On page 246, item 31112.433 – Refurbishment of Office Buildings; can the hon. Minister provide us with the list of building and the works that have been undertaken? Can he provide that to the house, in due time?

The decrease is mainly due to lower provisions being made following completion of projects such as replacement of transformers, supply and installation of new generator, installation of fire detection alarm system and main low voltage panel at Emmanuel Anquetil Building. The Chairperson: Okay. Ministry of National Infrastructure – Programme 0702: Technical Services for Construction and Maintenance of Government Assets (Rs689,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (4.15 p.m.) Ministry of National Infrastructure – Programme 0703: Construction and Maintenance of Roads and Bridges was called. The Chairperson: Page 250, we have 3 pages.

Yes, may I ask the hon. Minister, on page 251, item 31113.003 – (z) Motorway M4 from Forbach to Bel Air. Can the hon. Minister, table the updated feasibility study for this project?

I am sure the hon. Member will understand that I do not have the feasibility study now with me but any way, if need be, I can circulate it. The Chairperson: Yes, question, please!

On page 250, but it’s item 3113.003 – (z) Motorway M4 from Forbach to Bel Air - (aa) Ring Road Phase 2. These two projects have been announced in this year’s budget but there is no provision for the next financial year and even after that. It will be in the 2027-2028 budget, may we know why?

The Ring Road Phase 2 as the hon. Leader of Opposition must be knowing, that it starts from Forbach to Pont Blanc, first Phase, Pont Blanc to Bel Air, second Phase, and Bel Air to Grand Bel Air, third Phase. So, we are working on the projects; funds have been made available and for Ring Road, also, sums have been made available. We will start with the feasibility study for the second Phase of Ring Road but for M4, we have funds available and we will start the work. Everything is ready to start. The Chairperson: Yes.

On the same item, may I ask the hon. Minister, out of the sum budgeted for the studies, whether same sum has been catered for independent consultancy study on the cracks that have appeared on the Phase I of the Ring Road, which is linked to the Phase II? And whether this also entails the study for the cracks that have appeared now and damaged the road?

I am sure when the RDA will start the consultancy work for Phase II, they will take care of it because you will have to start somewhere from Phase I and then to go to Phase II. The Chairperson: Last question! Last question! Do not tell me how to work, please!

Can we be provided with the timeframe for both studies?

You mean for the ring road? But the project is scheduled to start in 2027- 2028. So, before that, the feasibility study must be over. The Chairperson: That is all now! Ministry of National Infrastructure – Programme Code 0703: Construction and Maintenance of Roads and Bridges (Rs2,516,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Hon. Members, just after this, we are going to call the vote for the NDU. I am telling the House that the vote for NDU will be called out of turn immediately now. So, please, follow page 512. (4.20 p.m.) National Development Unit – Programme Code 2503: Land Drainage and Community Infrastructure Development was called. The Chairperson: Yes!

Page 513, Item 31113.045 – Construction and Upgrading of Amenities, will the hon. Minister provide us with the list of construction and upgrading of amenities that are being budgeted? Also, the timeframe for its completion.

You mean the Construction and Upgrading of Amenities?

Yes.

There are many. If you want, I can circulate the list of amenities.

Yes, precisely my question. I have one, Madam Chairperson. The Chairperson: Yes!

Item 26313.155 – Drains Infrastructure Construction Ltd, may we have the composition of the board of the Drains Infrastructure Construction Ltd.? The names, qualifications and remunerations of board members.

I will circulate it.

I have another one. The Chairperson: You have another one. Yes, stand up!

Same Item 26313.144 – Land Drainage Authority, same question, if I may have the composition of the board? The qualifications and remunerations.

I will circulate it. National Development Unit – Programme Code 2503: Land Drainage and Community Infrastructure Development (Rs584,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Hon. Members, I think we can suspend the Sitting now for half an hour. At 4.22 p.m. the sitting was suspended. On resuming at 5.00 p.m. with the Deputy Speaker in the Chair. The Chairperson: Please, be seated! So, we go to the Ministry of Health and Wellness. (5.00 p.m.) Ministry of Health and Wellness – Programme Code 0801: Policy and Strategy for Health Sector was called. The Chairperson: Question? Page?

Page 256. The Chairperson: Pages 254-255, no question. Page 256!

Yes. May I ask the hon. Minister Item 21110.005 - Extra Assistance, Rs12 m. for Advisers, can he give us the names, qualifications and remunerations of all these Advisers.

Mr Chairperson, Dr. Pavadee, Senior Adviser, who was earlier the head of… The Chairperson: Just give the name!

Only the name? The Chairperson: Not the CV. If you want to circulate, circulate it.

• Dr. Pauvaday, Senior Adviser, monthly salary of Rs122,625; • Mrs Veerapen, Senior Adviser, earlier the Head of the Department, Rs119,500; • Dr. Ndlovu, Adviser in the field of nuclear medicine. It is in scarcity in Mauritius. Rs103,875, plus travelling allowance of Rs13,200, plus Rs12,000 monthly for rent allowance. • Dr. Bisnauthsing was the Head of the Eye Division. He is an actually Adviser in my Ministry with Rs103,875 per month. • Dr. V. Gujadhur, Senior Adviser on Health Matters. Monthly salary is Rs100,000, plus Rs20,000 duty allowance. • Dr. Nundlall, Senior Adviser on Non-Communicable Disease, Research and Clinical Trials. He is a double specialist. • Mr Jokun, Senior Adviser in Project Management and Strategic Planning. Monthly salary is Rs90,000, plus extra duty allowance of Rs40,000. The Chairperson: I would advise hon. Ministers, if your answers are long, please, circulate it, because we have only two minutes per item. So, we can have more questions. Thank you. Another question, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. On the same page, Item 22030 – Rent, there is a rental of building which has doubled. May we know why?

Rental of the building has gone up because before elections, the previous government has taken new buildings where we had to pay rent. Provision consists of rental of building Rs101 million – (i) NeXSky building, Rs5.5 million monthly, including 80 parking slots for parking. The lessor is NeXTeracom; (ii) Atchia building – Rs444,188; (iii) Bacha building – Rs160,780; (iv) NIC building, Castel… The Chairperson: If you have a lot of buildings, circulate the answer, hon. Minister.

Okay, I am going to circulate the list. The Chairperson: Let us move on. Page 257!

Yes. May I ask the hon. Minister, under Item 27210 - Social Assistance Benefits, can the hon. Minister table the list of the number of beneficiaries that have received assistance that is overseas, in private institutions locally and under the Child Cancer Treatment Scheme?

The list is so long. I am going to circulate it. The Chairperson: Very good! Thank you.

It is a lengthy list. The Chairperson: Page 257, hon. François!

Same question, but already canvassed. Item 22130 – Studies and Surveys, (e) Implementing Sustainable Low and Non- Chemical Development in SIDS (ISLANDS). Can we have more details about that?

Which page?

Page 257. It is Item 22130 - Studies and Surveys. There is a provision of Rs15m.

The provision is made for commissioning with a consultancy service for a feasibility study for the establishment of a treatment facility for health care waste and preparation of support document for project implementation. A provision of Rs15 m. is being made for payment to consultancy firm for submission of an inception report, submission of a feasibility study report, submission of an environmental impact assessment report, an environment and social impact assessment and an environment and social management plan. The Chairperson: Page 257? Hon. Dr. Aumeer!

Page 257, Item 27210.008 - Assistance to Patients Inoperable in Mauritius, Rs200 m. is being earmarked for the next financial year. Can the hon. Minister tell us whether that includes the amount that is still outstanding and that has not been paid by the previous government? The Chairperson: Do you have the answer? Otherwise, you can circulate it.

Yes. In fact, approximately, for the period 2018 to date, the Ministry owes an amount of Rs197 m. to various hospitals that provide overseas treatment for patients who cannot be treated. An additional Rs9.1 m. is also outstanding to Air Mauritius. The Chairperson: One last question on this page! The hon. Leader of the Opposition has not asked a question on this page.

Thank you. On page 257, Item 22130 - Studies and Surveys, (d) Consultancy on Solar PV panels for Hospitals, I see that there will be consultancy on solar PV panels for hospitals. Is it all the hospitals or we have specific hospitals? If yes, can we get the name of those hospitals? The Chairperson: Do you have an answer?

So, that concerns the digital health strategy. As of 2025, new separate financial allocations have been made for a standalone digital health strategy. Instead with implementation of e-Health software, priority was given to the development of digital health blueprint. Standards and guidelines will serve as the foundation for Mauritius’ digital health transformation. As of 2025, no financial allocation or commitment have been made towards the development of health law. This is due to the ongoing finalisation of digital health architecture and blueprint, which will serve as the foundation for establishing the necessary regulatory framework for comprehensive e-Health. The Chairperson: Okay, circulate it. Page 258?

Yes, I have one. The Chairperson: Yes!

May I ask the hon. Minister, Item 31132.118 - Digitalisation of Hospital Services, (a) e-Health, can we know for the e-Health project, first of all, how far has the project come by in terms of completion?

There was a PQ on that!

It does not matter if there was a PQ or ten PQs. It is my right to ask!

It has already been answered!

Yes, but….

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Hon. Members, let the hon. Member put his question! We will go faster then.

May I ask the hon. Minister, if I can have his attention, when can we expect the Digital Health Project to be fully operational and how far has it reached now in terms of percentage?

Now, the Digital Health Programme for the last 10 years, it was in a dormant state. Now that we have taken over, I have reassured the House already that, let us say, within a few months, it will be operational in at least one of the hospitals. We are going very fast and they were hastening very slowly. That makes the difference. The Chairperson: Page 259? Page 258, okay?

On the same issue, item 31132.118 – (a) e-Health. You are saying that it would be operational in one hospital. We are talking about digitalisation of patients records, here. So, can the hon. Minister tell us, first of all, how many patients records have to be digitalised and by when can it be done?

When you think of e-Health, the decision has been taken to take all the health institutions under one banner but we have to start somewhere and the work is starting as from the New Flacq Hospital. The Chairperson: You will start by one hospital. Page 259?

Just with regard to the same item 31132.118 (a) e-Health. May I know from the hon. Minister, whether the existing e-Health system in Rodrigues would be connected the one here in Mauritius? Very important for transfer of patients.

The answer is positive, yes. Ministry of Health and Wellness – Programme Code 0801: Policy and Strategy for Health Sector (Rs 1,340,200,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Now we go to page 261. (5.17 p.m.) Ministry of Health and Wellness – Programme Code 0802: Community and Preventive Healthcare was called. The Chairperson: Questions?

On page 262, item 22070 – Cleaning Services and item 22090 – Security. The amount has increased a lot for the next financial year. Can we have an indication why and the service providers also?

The answer is so long. I have to circulate, it is long. The Chairperson: Page 263?

No, I have a question.

Okay, you want to know the name of the service providers? I have here Top Security Service Ltd for health region as well as for the health institutions. Premier Security Solutions Ltd, for health regions and Rapid Security Services Ltd, for health regions.

Can asked the Minister on the item 31112 – Non-Residential Buildings. Can the Minister provide a list to the House of these projects in terms of details of the projects and when they are expected to be completed? Can you circulate, eventually?

Yes, I can circulate it because it is very lengthy. The Chairperson: Okay, you will circulate. Hon. Dr Prayag!

Thank you, Chairperson. The Chairperson: Which page, please?

Page 263, item 31112.006 – Construction of Mediclinics. Can the hon. Minister table, even afterwards, what comprised of the previous budget for the estimates of 2024-2025 out of the Rs88 million? The Chairperson: You circulate? Construction of Mediclinic. Any answer from behind?

Now, as far as the construction of Mediclinic is concerned, we have got provision for the construction of centres in Roche Bois, Grand Baie and Camp de Masque. In Roche Bois, the contract has been awarded to Ganessen Construction Ltd, and at the same time, we have other centres in line and the projects will be done in phases. It will not be at one go. The Chairperson: Page 264? Ministry of Health and Wellness – Programme Code 0802: Community and Preventive Healthcare (Rs 2,159,600,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Now we move to page 265. (5.14 p.m.) Ministry of Health and Wellness – Programme Code 0803: Public Hospital and Specialised Medical Care was called. The Chairperson: Question, which page?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Page 266 item 22140.001 – Medicine, Drugs and Vaccines. Will the Minister specify the outstanding amount owed for COVID-19 vaccines?

Following the outbreak of COVID-19 vaccines. The Chairperson: Just say the amount.

Oh, it is the amount you want. It is approximately Rs967 million not yet paid. Yet they had put a tax of Rs2 per litre of petrol supposedly to fund national COVID-19 vaccines campaign. The Chairperson: Next question?

Under the same item 22140.001 – Medicine, Drugs and Vaccines. May we know how many vaccines for Chikungunya have been ordered and administered by the Ministry?

For Chikungunya, there has not been any vaccine but we have been controlling it and I am pleased to announce to the House that as at now, we have got only five active cases and the rest is under control. The Chairperson: Hon. Lukeeram!

Under the same item 22140.001 – Medicine, Drugs and Vaccines. Will the hon. Minister, please state the quantity and total monetary value of expired drugs held by the Ministry over the past financial year?

18 million pharmaceutical products which were procured in the previous financial years have expired. 18 million and the items amount to nearly Rs68 million.

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Okay one last question to the hon. Leader of Opposition of this page. No, but we are going to next page.

Mr Chairperson, if I may please? The Chairperson: Let the hon. Leader of the Opposition put his question probably…

Please Mr Chairperson…agreement was made between the Chief Whip and myself that in big items such as this one. We would go over two minutes. So, I would appeal to you because we are talking about billions here. The Chairperson: You have two minutes. We are already in…

We are talking, Mr Chairperson of Rs14 billion. Can we have additional time? The Chairperson: Sit down. Hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Yes. Thank you, Mr Chairperson. On page 266, item 22070 – Cleaning Services and item 22090 – Security. There is a huge amount which has been estimated for next financial year. Can we be provided the reasons thereto and also the name of the service providers?

You are talking about cleaning services and security services? You have to bear with me; you are asking me the names. The Chairperson: No. You circulate it.

I will circulate it. It is too lengthy. The Chairperson: Page 267. Last question on 266 then we move.

Item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance. I presume this is for the appointment of doctors and other specialised services. Can the hon. Minister inform me provide this House with the list of the persons appointed under this item 21110.005 for Rs 84 million.

I do have the names of those top specialists and that too I will circulate. The Chairperson: Circulate it, please. Page 267? Page 268?

Under Item 31112.003 – Construction/Extension of Hospitals. Will the Minister be so kind as to circulate the list of the projects being undertaken and the estimated time of completion. That is, details of the projects and estimated time. Could you be able to circulate that?

Here also, the list is a long. I am going to circulate the list. The Chairperson: Circulate it! Page 268!

Yes, thank you, Mr Chairperson, page 268, Item 31122 - Other Machinery and Equipment, may I know from the hon. Minister whether the sum of Rs508 million caters for a much-needed scanner for Rodrigues?

No, as far as the scanner of Rodrigues is concerned, that does not fall in my estimates. That is in Rodrigues. The Chairperson: Page 269-274? You have a question, yes?

There is a reduction of nearly 200 staff, of which we note a medical health laboratory auxiliary, ward assistant etc. The list is long. May I ask the hon. Minister, why is it that there are 200 less funded positions and how is he going to ensure that service is provided?

We have a problem; it is in the scarcity area. We have not been able to get enough of employees. That is the only reason. Programme Code 0803: Public Hospital and Specialised Medical Care (Rs 14,679,500,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Now we move to page 275. (5.20 p.m.) Programme Code 0804: Public Health and Disease Control was called. The Chairperson: Page 275, no? Page 276, yes?

Yes, on page 276, Item 22030 – Rent, there again there is a considerable increase for the next financial year. May we be provided with additional information regarding that expenditure?

Yes, I am going to circulate it. Very lengthy. Plenty of small readings…

I have one too on that page. The Chairperson: Page 276, okay.

Item 22900.982 - Synthetic Drugs Prevention Programme, may I ask the Minister how many persons have been treated under the programme and out of it, how many have been successfully treated?

The number of how many have been able to get out of the problem is difficult for us to assess but I can circulate the entire number, the amount of works which have been done as far as Synthetic Drugs Prevention Programme is concerned. Programme Code 0804: Public Health and Disease Control (Rs 320,700,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Ministry of Tourism! (5.22 p.m.) Ministry of Tourism – Programme Code 0901: Policy and Strategy for Tourism Development was called. The Chairperson: Page 281, yes?

Yes, thank you, Mr Chairperson. I will refer the hon. Minister to Item 22900.825 - Expenses i.c.w Cultural Tourism. This is a new Item. Can we be provided with details with regard to those expenses? The Chairperson: Hon. Minister?

Yes. Which page? The Chairperson: Page 281.

New provisions of Financial Year 2025-2026 for expenses of cultural tourism – this is the new Item emanating from Government Programme. Audit Survey will be carried out in Financial Year 2025-2026. The Chairperson: Hon. Ms Anquetil!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Page 281, Item 22120.008 – (c) Consultancy Services for Development of a Year Round High Season Strategy (MTPA). May I know from the Minister what the need is? Does not the Ministry already have strategies for this? Thank you. The Chairperson: It is a policy question. Do you have a reply?

Yes, it is provision made for fees for payment to Department Bid Committee, Bid Evaluation Committee, fees for training and fees to consultants. The Chairperson: Okay, hon. A. Duval!

From page 281, may I ask the Minister, Item 21110.005 –Extra Assistance, yes – zot pa kontan kan mo poz zot sa kestion la ein ! Can I ask the hon. Minister if he could you kindly circulate the reply? The names of the Advisors, qualifications and renumeration… The Chairperson: If it is long, you circulate it.

It is easier to just circulate it. The Chairperson: Circulate it! Circulate it! Page 282?

On 281, please. The Chairperson: 281, come on, last question on this.

Page 281, Item 26210.184 – Vanilla Islands Organisation, may I know whether Rodrigues forms part of this organisation?

Yes, of course. The Chairperson: Page 282, please.

I refer the hon. Minister to Item 311130.450 - Improvement of Sites, can we be provided with more information regarding that specific Item?

New provision has been made for Financial Year 2025-2026, for project improvement of sites. The project aims to enhance customer experience by… I can table it; it is a bit long.

Mr Chairperson, I have one on page 282. The Chairperson: Page 282, yes.

Yes, may I ask the Minister, under Item 31, if he can provide/circulate the list of the construction projects, the projects, that is the areas and details? Just circulate it and the estimate time of completion. So, the details of the project, the areas etc.

Yes, I will circulate the list. Ministry of Tourism – Programme Code 0901: Policy and Strategy for Tourism Development (Rs 122,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.27 p.m.) Ministry of Tourism – Programme Code 0902: Regulation and Control of Tourism Related Activities (Rs 159,000,000) was called and agreed to. (5.28 p.m.) Ministry of Tourism – Programme Code 0903: Destination Promotion was called. The Chairperson: Question, page 284.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. With regard to Item 26313.047 – Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, can we be provided with the list of road shows, fairs and events since the beginning of this year, that is, 01 January, the names of countries where the road shows, fairs and events were organised, and the cost incurred?

I will table it. Ministry of Tourism - Programme Code 0903: Destination Promotion (Rs541,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.29 p.m.) Ministry of Tourism - Programme Code 0904: Capacity Building in the Hospitality Sector (Rs 79,000,000) was called and agreed to. The Chairperson: Now, we go to the Ministry of Social Integration. Hon. Ministers, to save time, as there is one question which is being repetitive – Extra Assistance, please, prepare your answer. This question will surely come. That way, we can go fast. (5.30 p.m.) Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity - Programme Code 1001: Policy and Strategy for Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity was called. The Chairperson: Pages 286-287? Page 288? Yes, go on. Stand up!

Well, you said it yourself, Extra Assistance. I am calling it. Can the Minister circulate his list Advisers, tell us now the names and how much they draw, please.

I will file the answer. The Chairperson: Page 289, 290? Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity - Programme Code 1001: Policy and Strategy for Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity (Rs 140,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.31 p.m.) Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity - Programme Code 1002: Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment was called. The Chairperson: Any questions on page 291?

I have one. The Social Integration Division/National Empowerment Foundation, page 291, Programme 1002: Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment, says 36 houses have been delivered for the last financial year. The question is: can the Minister provide us with the list of beneficiaries for the 36 houses?

I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Page 292? Yes!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. I refer to page 292, Item 27210.014 – Social Assistance Benefits in cash, Poverty and Empowerment (Marshall Plan Against Poverty), can the hon. Minister circulate the number of beneficiaries under this programme for Rodrigues, for all the 6 programmes?

I will circulate it with pleasure. The Chairperson: Hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Under the same item, can we have the same information for the main island, Mauritius? The Chairperson: Same information for the main island.

Yes, I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Hon. A. Duval!

Item 27210 – Social Assistance Benefits in cash, can the Minister provide us with the list of the total number of beneficiaries? I am not asking individually, but the number of beneficiaries under (a) and (b) i. to vi. So, for the seven sub-items, can we have the total number of beneficiaries that have benefited during the last financial year and are expected to benefit for this new financial year? The Chairperson: You will circulate it?

Yes, I will circulate it. It is a long list.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. On page 292, can the hon. Minister inform us, Item 26313.135 – (d) Other Programmes, which entity has been removed from the 2025 budget, please? Thank you.

On which page, please? The Chairperson: Page 292. We are still on page 292.

On page 292, Item 26313.135 – (d) Other Programmes, which entity has been taken down in the budget?

No entity has been removed. The Chairperson: We will take another question in the meantime. Anyone? We finish on that page.

Page 292, Item 26323.135 – National Empowerment Foundation Social Housing for Vulnerable Groups, i. Construction of Social Housing Units, may we know the number of units that will be built for the next financial year? The Chairperson: The number of housing units.

Perhaps, he can circulate it?

The provision has been made for the construction of 25 fully concrete housing units of 50 m2 to SRM households who are land owners. For Financial Year 2024- 2025, the construction of 12 FCH units have been completed and 15 units are ongoing, and are expected to be completed in November 2025. The Chairperson: Page 293? Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity - Programme Code 1002: Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment (Rs 1,051,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.37 p.m.) Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity - Programme Code 1003: Social Protection was called. The Chairperson: Any question on page 294? Page 295?

Item 27210 – Social Assistance Benefits in Cash, again, can the Minister provide us with the different categories of assistance that has been given and the number of beneficiaries?

Item 22010 – Cost of Utilities, provision is made for payment of electricity, gas charges…

No, page 295, on social assistance.

It is a long answer. I will table the list. The Chairperson: Page 296? Page 297?

Yes! On page 297, item 27210.012 – Assistance and Training of Disabled Persons, may I ask the hon. Minister how many persons have been trained under the programme and if he has the figure of how many persons being recognised as disabled is currently in employment in Mauritius?

Yes, I have the answer, it’s here, I will circulate it.

Under that same item 27210.017 – Social Aid for Assistive Devices, may we know the number of persons benefiting from this social aid?

I have a long answer. I have for people with spectacles, wheelchairs, hearing aid and dentures. The Chairperson: Table it. Thank you. Page 298, 299.

Page 299, item 22060 – Maintenance, why has maintenance cost doubled Rs25 million to Rs45 million, can the Minister, please, provide details? Thank you.

Provision is made for maintenance and engineering services of recreational centres and Bois-Savon Résidence. Increase in provision is to cater for salary adjustment in relation to minimum wages. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Duval!

Yes, may I ask the hon. Minister, for item 22090 – Security and item 22070 – Cleaning Services, to provide us with the list of service providers currently giving security and cleaning services and also explain the substantial increase in budget for this financial year?

Yes, I have the list of contractors: Keep Clean Ltd, Pest Killer Services Ltd, it’s a long answer… The Chairperson: You can lay it on the Table, it’s a long answer. Thank you.

We have four recreational centres.

And also, why it has been increased?

On page 299, under capital expenditure item 31111.409 - Upgrading of Residence/Day Care Centres, there is a considerable increase for Financial Year 2025-2026 with regard to Upgrading of Residence/Day Care Centres, can we have the list of the Day Care Centres to be upgraded?

Yes, it’s a long list, we have 22 Day Care Centres. The Chairperson: You will circulate, okay. Thank you.

For recreational centres, if he can also circulate? The Chairperson: Circulate for recreational centres as well!

Yes, I will circulate it. I have the information. Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity - Programme Code 1003: Social Protection (Rs2,011,000,000), was, on question put, agreed to. (5.43 p.m.) Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity – Programme Code 1004: National Pensions was called. The Chairperson: Page 301, 302.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Page 302, item 27210.101 – Basic Retirement Pension, can I know whether that amount includes the increase promised by Government with regard to the Basic Retirement Pension? The Chairperson: Do you have an answer for it?

The expenditure is the for benefits for period of July 2024 to May 2025 and the increase is being paid since January 2025.

May I ask the hon. Minister on the items 27210.102 – Basic Widows Pension and 27210.103 – Basic Invalidity Pension, if it has been budgeted to pay for up to 65 years old according to this budget or is it to 60 years old? Can he clarify?

All provisions made in the budget has been catered for in this estimate.

The question is the Basic Widows Pension for the next three years, is it for the payment up to which age? This is what we want to know.

Up to 60 years old.

We are talking about the widows and invalidity.

Yes, from 60 to 65 years old too. The Chairperson: Yes, which page you are?

Same page 302, item 27210.301 – Assistance to Ex-Servicemen, just if the hon. Minister can circulate the number of Ex-Servicemen alive both for Mauritius and Rodrigues?

I will circulate the information. Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity – Programme Code 1004: National Pensions (Rs68,420,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.47 p.m.) Attorney-General’s Office – Programme Code 1101: Policy and Strategy for Legal and Drafting Services was called. The Chairperson: Question, page 304, 305, 306. Yes!

Can I ask the hon. Attorney-General the item 26313.029 - Law Reform Commission, may we know the composition now of the Commission and if the Attorney- General could provide us with the latest report of the Law Reform Commission, if there is any?

Law Reform Commission has its own website where all the reports are there. The Commission is chaired by Mrs Yanilla Moonshiram and the composition, I will file the list here. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 307, 308, 309. Attorney-General’s Office – Programme Code 1101: Policy and Strategy for Legal and Drafting Services (Rs350,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.49 p.m.) Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning – Programme 1201: Policy and Strategy for the Financial Services Sector and Economic Planning (Rs54,000,000) was called and agreed to. (5.50 p.m.) Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning: Programme 1202: Financial Services Sector Development was called. The Chairperson: Page 315.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. May I refer the hon. Minister to page 315, item 22120.008 – Fees to Consultants (b) Consultant for Africa Strategy for Financial Service. Can we have an indication of the time frame for that study of Africa Strategy for Financial Services?

So, that’s a provision, Mr Chairperson, to appoint a consultant for the Africa Strategy. Appointment has not taken place yet. The Chairperson: Thank you. Yes, hon. Beechook.

Page 315, item 26313.152 – Extra-Budgetary Units Financial Services Institute Co. Ltd. The budget has increased by almost Rs3.5 million. Can the hon. Minister provide information as to who is managing this institute?

So, the Financial Service Institute Ltd, FSI, in line with our strategy, we will enhance the capacity building for the financial services sector. So, there will be more training provided by the FSI. The Chairperson: Hon. Leader of the Opposition.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. May I refer the hon. Minister to page 315, item 22900.828 – Expenses i.c.w Financial Services Visibility. This is a new item; may we be provided with more information?

So, that’s again a provision for the promotion of the financial services sector such as, you know, a social media partner and overall branding and visibility of the sector. The Chairperson: Page 316, yes hon. A. Duval.

Item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance. Can I have the names, qualification and remuneration of the Minister’s Advisers? Can she circulate same?

We have two Advisers. I will circulate the list;there is one who is employed by the Ministry and one who is seconded from the Economic Development Board. The Chairperson: Thank you. Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning - Programme 1202: Financial Services Sector Development (Rs189,900,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.53 p.m.) Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning – Programme 1203: Promotion of Good Governance (Rs77,300,000) was called and agreed to. (5.54 p.m.) Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning – Programme 1204: Economic Planning was called. The Chairperson: Page 321.

Yes. May I ask the hon. Minister, item 22120.008 – Fees to Consultant (Vision 2050 and 10-Year National Development Plan). We see that Rs15 million are being budgeted. Can the hon. Minister, first of all, tell us if the necessary procedures for appointment of consultant have been undertaken? And, if so, can she share more details?

This is just a provision for the moment; we have not yet started the appointment of the consultants. Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning – Programme 1204: Economic Planning (Rs45,800,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.55 p.m.) Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities – Programme 1301: Policy and Strategy for Energy and Public Utilities was called. The Chairperson: Page 322.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson, under Programme 1303 – water services – Outcome: Improved water supply and accessibility. L’honorable Ministre peut-il dire quel pourcentage du pays a déjà était desservit par le projet de pipe replacement ? Merci.

I will circulate. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 325. Yes, hon. A Duval.

Page 325, item 21110. 005 – Extra Assistance. Can the hon. Minister circulate or give us the names of your Advisers and the remuneration drawn?

Yes, you want my Advisers or for the previous minister?

Your advisers.

Ah okay, I have both.

But you can give us the remuneration for his Advisers and yours.

Of course! My Advisers are Mr Laurent, Adviser in Information Matters – Rs69,600, Mr Mamade Bundhoo, Technical Adviser on Water Matters – Rs51,075, Mr Barbosia, Adviser – Rs70,000. Pour l’ancien ministre c’était, Tirat Moosun. Senior Adviser – Rs94,500, je continue ou…

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Circulate it. Okay

(Interruptions)

Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities – Programme 1301: Policy and Strategy for Energy and Public Utilities was, on question put, agreed to. (5.58 p.m.) Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities – Programme 1302: Energy Services was called. The Chairperson: Page 328. Yes, Leader of the Opposition.

I refer the Minister to page 328, item 22130 – Studies and Surveys (d) Feasibility study on Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). May we be provided, first, with the terms of reference of that study and the timeframe of the study? Thank you.

Yes. This provision caters for studies and project cooperation for the energy sector. Studies and project are listed in the new outline. I will circulate it. Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities – Programme Code 1302: Energy Services (Rs79,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (5.59 p.m.) Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities – Programme Code 1303: Water Services was called. The Chairperson: Page 330? Yes, page 331!

May I refer the hon. Minister to Item 22130 - Studies and Survey.

Which page?

Page 331. The Chairperson: Page 331. Item 22130 - Studies and Survey.

Item 22130.005 - Studies on Water Resources and Development, (c) Integrated Water Masterplan and (e) Feasibility study for the implementation of desalination plant, again, can we be provided with, for the first one, where matters stand with regard to the study on the integrated water masterplan? With regard to the feasibility study for the implementation of desalination plant, may we be provided with the terms of reference and the timeframe?

For the first one, Integrated Water Masterplan, assistance technique pour accompagnement d’études, includes water policy, socio economic assessment, gender budgeting, communication and transparency. The second one is a feasibility study.

First one is where matters stand?

I will circulate it. Feasibility study for the implementation of desalination plant – provision is made for preparation of a comprehensive feasibility study for the setting up of a utility scale desalination plant in the northern part of the island. The expression of interest is being finalised, as you know, and is expected to be launched by end of August this year.

Mr Chairperson, may I ask the hon. Minister, Item 22120.

Which page?

Same page 331, Item 22120.008 - Fees to Consultant, (a) Review of legislation for water sector, will the hon. Minister be able to provide the House with the study and proposals made for the new legislation?

There is a study. I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Page 332, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Yes, thank you, Mr Chairperson. On page 332, Item 28223.010 - Central Water Authority - Pipe Replacement Programme, (k) Water pipes replacement projects (Indian LOC funded), can we have an indication for the Financial Year 2025-2026, what are the protects that will be covered under that line of credit?

It is a long list. You want be to read it or you want me to circulate it? The Chairperson: No, it is not necessary. Table it.

Are you sure? The Chairperson: Table it.

Are you sure? The Chairperson: He will read it at his leisure. Hon. Jhummun!

Page 332, Item 31113.002 – Construction of Dams, Rivière des Anguilles Dam. According to the Estimates for 2024-2025, I can see that there was Rs930 m. budgeted, may I know what has been done so far? Thank you.

Item?

Item 31113.002 – Construction of Dams, Rivière des Anguilles Dam.

Rivière des Anguilles Dam !

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Chut! Let him reply!

Bidding exercise for the prequalification of contractors for the construction of Rivière des Anguilles Dam has been launch on 21 février 2024. Awaiting no objection from funding agencies by mi-juillet 2025 to launch bid. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. A. Duval!

On the same item you just read, Item 31113.011 - Drilling of boreholes, may I know from the hon. Minister, the list of boreholes that have been drilled for the past financial year? If he can also kindly the boreholes that are in the pipeline to be drilled for this new financial year?

Drilling of boreholes are ongoing. Is it for ongoing projects?

Yes, ongoing and done.

The contract for the drilling of twelve boreholes was awarded to Water Resources Co. Ltd on 01 December 2023. There are also nine boreholes which mainly service the New Social Living Development (NSLD) housing units. Drilling of boreholes have been completed on five sites, namely – (i) New Goodlands Reservoir; (ii) Côte d'Or; (iii) Beard; (iv) Camp Levieux; (v) Rampe Le Moirt. Four boreholes for CWA – (i) Bois Mangue; (ii) Fond du Sac, and (iii) Solitude. New drilling – (i) Vale, and (ii) Riche Terre. Total volume of additional water mobilised around 20,000 m3 daily. The amount disbursed as at 16 June 2025 is Rs5,150,000. The Chairperson: Thank you. You have one more question on this page?

Page 332, Item 28223.015 - Central Water Authority - Other Water Distribution Works, (d) Construction of service reservoir at Nouvelle France, may I ask the hon. Minister whether it is the Cluny Reservoir? May I know whether that reservoir has already been pulled down?

The reservoir has not yet been pulled down. We are still making some tests dans ce réservoir. On attend les clearances pour pouvoir finaliser les choses. Mais, entre-temps, l’enquête à la Financial Crimes Commission continue.

(Interruptions)

Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities - Programme Code 1303: Water Services (Rs3,282,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.06 p.m.) Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities - Programme Code 1304: Wastewater Services was called. The Chairperson: Pages 355-336?

Yes. May I ask the hon. Minister Item 32145.517 - Wastewater Management Authority - Repairs/Maintenance/Upgrading of Sewerage Infrastructure, may we have the names of the members of the board and the remuneration drawn? If you can circulate it if you do not have it here.

Board of?

Waste Water Management Authority.

Non, le board n’a pas encore été constitué.

But once it is, can you?

No, there no name to circulate. There is no board.

When it is constituted.

I will let you know. The Chairperson: You will have an opportunity to ask questions. Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities - Programme Code 1304: Wastewater Services (Rs1,264,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.08 p.m.) Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities - Programme Code 1305: Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security Services was called. The Chairperson: Page 337?

Yes, page 337 I have one. With regard to Programme 1305 - Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security Authority, can the hon. Minister provide us with the 50 inspections that have carried out, the list of inspections that has been done?

Programme 1305?

We see 50 inspections have been carried out. If you can provide us with the list of inspections carried out?

Which item?

1305: Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security Services. The Chairperson: Le title: Regulate radiation sources and practices.

Mais c’est le title même. There are 50 inspections done. Could you provide us with the list of inspections that have been done?

I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Page 338? Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities – Programme Code 1305: Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security Services (Rs22,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Now we go to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade. (6.09 p.m.) Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade – Programme Code 1401: Policy and Strategy for Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade (Rs110,000,000) was called and agreed to. (6.10 p.m.) Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade – Programme Code 1402: Foreign Relations was called. The Chairperson: Page 344?

May I ask the hon. Minister with regard Programme Code 1402: Foreign Relations –140202: Overseas Missions. We see that there is an increase of Rs94 million. May I ask the hon. Minister, if he will provide us all details of the cost associated with all diplomatic missions – I understand there are 19 – that is, in terms of expenses broken down in expenses paid for rent, transport et cetera for all the 19 diplomatic missions, firstly, and secondly, explain why there is Rs94 million additional being voted for the diplomatic missions.

Yes, I have the details and I will circulate answer. Chairperson: Thank you. Page 335?

May I refer the hon. Minister to item 22100 – Publications and Stationery. There is a considerable increase for next budget. Can we be provided with information as to that substantial increase?

Yes, these are in relation to paper and materials, printing and stationery publications. The increasing provision is based on the trend of expenditure and to cater for rising prices of paper, toners and stationeries. The Chairperson: 346, yes.

May I ask the hon. Minister, under Human Resources, will the hon. Minister table the list of all ambassadors and deputy ambassadors that have been appointed since the coming into the new government under this administration and also remuneration drawn for each?

You mean under this government? Okay, I will circulate it. The Chairperson: 347, 348?

Item 31112.408 – Upgrading of Chanceries, Ambassador's and/or Staff Residence. May I ask the Minister with regard to the upgrading works that are carried out under (a) - (e) to circulate the list and the description of the works being carried out and reason to justification for it?

I have the details of the five items and I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Page 348,349? Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade – Programme Code 1402: Foreign Relations (Rs 1,695,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The following Programme Codes were called and agreed to – 1403: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade – International Trade (Rs43,000,000) 1404: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade – Industrial Property Rights (Rs22,000,000) (6.15 p.m.) Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade – Programme Code 1405: Human Rights was called. The Chairperson: Page 355?

Under the heading Programme 1405: Human Rights – Promote human rights, Human Rights Division. May I ask the hon. Minister, how many complaints, if any, has he received by foreign persons working in Mauritius with regard to human right violations at his Ministry and if any such complaints have been received by Madagascar?

I do not have the answer with me but I will definitely circulate it when I have it. The Chairperson: Page 356? Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade – Programme Code 1405: Human Rights (Rs30,000,000) was, on question put and agreed to. (6.16 p.m.) Ministry of Youth and Sports – Programme 1501: Policy and Strategy for Youth and Sports was called. The Chairperson: Page 357, 358?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson, on page 358, Development Policies and Strategies for Youth and Sports – New Sports Bill being finalised. May we know from the hon. Minister, whether the sports community in Rodrigues has been consulted so far?

Mr Chairperson, I have held meeting with the Commissioner in Mauritius and went to Rodrigues to hold consultations with all stakeholders regarding New Sports Bill. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 359?

Yes, may I ask the hon. Minister, item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance, will the Minister state the name, rank and remuneration drawn of his advisers in kind and in cash? The Chairperson: You can circulate it if it is long.

It is not long. Maubarakahmad Boodhun, Senior Adviser in Youth and Sport Matters.

And the remuneration as well, please.

I will, it is too long. I will give you the names, if you will allow. The Chairperson: Circulate both their names and their remuneration.

I will circulate. The Chairperson: It is better. Thank you. Page 360?

(Interruptions)

I said, I will circulate. The Chairperson: He will circulate.

Is that clear?

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Yes, you will circulate it, of course, in due course. Ministry of Youth and Sports – Programme Code 1501: Policy and Strategy for Youth and Sports (Rs85,600,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.19 p.m.) Programme Code 1502: Promotion and Development of Sports was called. The Chairperson: Page 361!

Yes, page 361, under Sub-Programme 150201: Development of Grassroots and High-Level Sports, Outcome: Improved performance of Mauritian Athletes in regional and international competitions, may I ask the hon. Minister if he can circulate the number of athletes and para-athletes supported with regard to Support to high-level athletes?

I will circulate. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 362! Yes, hon. Apollon?

Yes, Item 22900.944 - (d) Kids in Action, can the Minister circulate details?

Okay, I will table it. The Chairperson: Okay. Yes hon. François.

Page 362, Item 22900.944 - (f) Jeux de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l'Ocean Indien, there is a new provision of Rs15 million. May the hon. Minister inform where will this game be held and when?

In 2027, in Comoros. The Chairperson: Thank you. Yes, Mr Lesjongard.

The same page 362, the last Item 22900.944 - (l) High Performance Sports Programme. Can we be provided with details of the programme? Thank you.

Yes, I will circulate all the information. The Chairperson: Page 363?

Yes, Item 26313 - Extra-Budgetary Units, will the Minister circulate the Board members of both institutions falling under this Item? A Trust Fund for Excellence in Sports and the Mauritius Multisports Infrastructure Ltd. So therefore, circulate the composition, name, qualification and remuneration of the Board members.

Yes, hon. Member, I will circulate. The Chairperson: Thank you. Hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. On page 363, Item 31113.006 - (c) Rallye Track (Consultancy) to be carried out. Can we have from the hon. Minister, the terms of reference of that consultancy and the timeframe?

We are working on it through consultancy for construction of a Rallye circuit, terms of reference are being prepared. The Chairperson: Hon. Apollon!

Yes, Item 26313.141 - Mauritius Multisports Infrastructure Ltd of which Sports Academies, can the Minister circulate the details?

Yes, we are working on it and we shall communicate in the near future. The Chairperson: Yes. Hon. Duval.

Thank you. Same issue, Item 31113.006 - (c) Rallye Track (Consultancy). May we know from the Minister whether a location has been earmarked for the construction of a Rallye track ?

A committee has been set up. Let the committee work and then we are going to communicate. Programme Code 1502: Promotion and Development of Sports (Rs 832,600,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.24 p.m.) Programme Code 1503: Youth Development Programme was called. The Chairperson: Now we go to page 368.

May I ask the Minister Item 22900.951 - Smart Youth Programmes, from (a) to (j), can the Minister circulate the total number of beneficiaries for the last financial year under this programme and the number which is expected for this new financial year to be taken under this programme? Also, can he circulate to the House a brief on each programme for the benefit of the House?

Yes, I will circulate. The Chairperson: You will circulate. Okay, yes hon. Lesjongard.

Thank you, Item 26313.068 - National Youth Council of which Programme for Youth Development, this is a new programme. Can we be provided with more details, hon. Minister? Thank you.

Previously funds were provided under the National Resilience Fund to meet operational costs. For Financial Year 2025-26, fund is provided in the Ministry’s budget. If you want some additional information, I can table it. The Chairperson: Table everything! Programme Code 1503: Youth Development Programme (Rs 166,800,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.27 p.m.) Ministry of Land Transport –Programme Code 1701: Policy and Strategy for Land Transport (Rs 623,000,000) was called and agreed to. (6.28 p.m.) Programme Code 1702: Road Safety and Traffic Engineering was called. The Chairperson: Page 388-389…

Wait, one second. The Chairperson: Page 390.

Wait. The Chairperson: If you have a question, you stand up. Which page?

These programme numbers are not… The Chairperson: We are on Programme Code 1702. We are at page 391.

But we already skipped the others? The Chairperson: No, I have followed. You did not follow me!

(Interruptions)

An hon. Member: Too late!

There was a mistake, Mr Chairperson. The Chairperson: No, I am writing on all the pages which I call. I have…

You did not call. The Chairperson: I called it!

(Interruptions)

No, you were reading another page.

I promise you; you called 389. The Chairperson: No, no, no…

There was a mistake, Mr Chairperson.

Yes. The Chairperson: I write on all the page which I called. I have…

You did not call it. The Chairperson: I called it. You were reading another page.

I promise you, you called… The Chairperson: No, I have done it. You can rest assured I won’t mislead you. Don’t worry.

Mr Chairperson, there is only two of us. You understand that it is difficult…

(Interruptions)

No, no. Mr Chairperson, please, I am talking. I am talking to you, please! The Chairperson: Okay, I…

Allow me to talk. There is two of us. I will kindly request that you give us, at least, 10 seconds to turn the page and to see what is there. The Chairperson: You have been there before. Normally, the practice is for you to do your homework and you already underline your question. So, when I call the page, you are already aware which question you have to ask.

Are you insinuating that we are not doing our homework? The Chairperson: No, I am not saying this. I am telling you about the practice. The practice is like this.

Mr Chairperson, I am not arguing with you. I am just saying… The Chairperson: I do not want to argue. On which item do you want to put a question?

Page 389. The Chairperson: Okay, let us go to page 389. No problem!

May I ask the Minister with regard to Item 32155.061 – Metro Express Ltd, there are shares and equity participation of at least Rs4 billion for the next three financial years. May we have details of how the shares and equity participation is going to be used in turn by the Metro Express Ltd, firstly? Secondly, if he would be so kind to give us the composition of the Metro Express Board, the names and qualifications and remuneration?

I will start with the beginning. The board of the composition of the Metro Express Ltd is being chaired by Dr. Arvin Soonarane, who was a former Director at the Ministry of Public Utilities. I can table the full names. As regards the equity participation, as you may be aware, in the next financial year will begin the reimbursement of the loan contracted by the former government with respect of Metro Express Ltd. So, it is going to be a tough year, as you know. If you want more information, it is here. The Chairperson: Thank you. (6.30 p.m.) Ministry of Land Transport - Programme Code 1702: Road Safety and Traffic Engineering was called. The Chairperson: Page 391, 392?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. With regard to Item 22900.952 – Implementation of National Road Safety Strategy, since it is related to the road safety strategy studies, campaigns and programmes, can we be provided with detailed information with regard to that item number, please? You can table it if you want.

Okay. It is a full page. The Chairperson: Table it. Page 393?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Item 31113.018 – Road Safety Programme (a) Road markings and traffic signs, can the Minister provide further information regarding the increase allocated for the year 2025-2026, please? Thank you.

This is new to my portfolio. The full responsibility for maintenance of road markings, improve traffic control and safety, the upgrade of our signage system and introduction of new road hierarchies for c-roads were not in the portfolio of the former Minister. Now, it is. Hence, the increase in the budget. The Chairperson: Yes!

Can I ask the hon. Minister on Item 31113, if he can circulate to the House, the details of all these projects, instead of asking individually? If you can just provide the House with the full details of these projects?

Sure. It is here with me. The Chairperson: You will circulate it. Yes!

Same page, Item 31122.999 – (a) Traffic Lights and (d) Belisha Beacon Blinking Lights for Zebra Crossings, may we be provided with the list of where the traffic lights and the zebra crossings will be implemented?

Provision is made to cater for the procurement and supply for the installation and commissioning of 20 traffic signal equipment with pedestrian countdown timer around the island. I can certainly provide you the list of the 20 places. The Chairperson: Okay, hon. Ms Anquetil, last question on this page.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Page 393, Item 31113.018 – (d) Traffic calming measures, again, can the Minister provide further details regarding the sum allocated? Thank you.

Yes, certainly, I can do that.

Thank you. Ministry of Land Transport - Programme Code 1702: Road Safety and Traffic Engineering (Rs 442,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.35 p.m.) Ministry of Land Transport - Programme Code 1703: Regulating Land Transport and Light Rail Operations was called. The Chairperson: Page 395?

With regard to the main programme1703 – Implementation of the Fleet Management System for public buses, can the Minister provide the House with the feasibility study for this project? Also, if he has the information, tell us how many buses will fall under this fleet management system, and how many smart bus stops and bus stations will feature in this programme by 26 March? If he has it! If he can also table the feasibility study for us to look at .

There is a consultant that is working on this. It is a foreign consultant named Grant Thornton from India. The Fleet Management System is a first time ever item in the budget exercise. It seeks to provide commuters with lot of facilities online, on their mobile phones, as to where the buses will be. But, more importantly, it will allow the NLTA to disburse some Rs2.5 billion judiciously. It is a sine qua non requirement for proper traffic management. It is about 2,400 buses.

Will you be able to provide us the feasibility study? The Chairperson: If you do not have the report, once you get it for that project, you can provide it. Thank you.

Yes, I can get it. The Chairperson: Next question, please. Your question, hon. Jugurnauth!

Item 25500.001 – Free Travel Scheme, can we have more details from the Minister?

The increase is due to increase in cost, of course. It seeks to provide financial assistance to the five big companies, that is, NTC, UBS, TBS, RHT, MBT, and the individual bus owners in Mauritius and in Rodrigues. It is a subsidy provided by Government.

Thank you. Under the same item, hon. Minister, can you provide information to the House as to when the whole population will benefit from free transport?

Mr Chairperson, the hon. Member is a seasoned politician; this is a policy matter. The Chairperson: This is a policy matter. Hon. François!

Item 25500.002 – Bus Modernisation Scheme of which Promoting Low- carbon Electric Bus Transport in Mauritius supported by GEF, may we know from the hon. Minister whether, this provision caters for the promotion of same in Rodrigues as well?

Yes, the Bus Modernisation Scheme is across the Republic of Mauritius…

Low-carbon bus!

This is part of the bus modernisation. It has extended to bus operators acquiring high floor diesel buses to encourage bus operators to transit to a modern, efficient… The Chairperson: The question is: will this apply to Rodrigues as well?

Yes, I said so. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Yes, thank you. Under that same item 25500.002 – Bus Modernisation Scheme of which Promoting Low-carbon Electric Bus Transport in Mauritius supported by GEF, Mr Chairperson, may I ask hon. Minister to inform the House where the charging stations will be located around the island for those electric buses?

Yes, electric buses for the moment, they are being chartered across by the CNT and the charging stations will be at the CNT Depot.

Only at CNT?

Yes!

Thank you. Item 25500.003 – Support to Bus Industry, we see that for 2027, this programme is going to be reduced by half, can the hon. Minister provide us with the breakdown of how funds are disbursed to bus industry companies, firstly, and secondly, if there is a study on the impact that it will have on these industries and if he can also provide the House with that study?

Okay, as regards to the first part of your question, I am going to table it. As regards to the impact that is going have, it’s a new budgetary measure, we are working on it. The Chairperson: Page 397. Ministry of Land Transport – Programme Code 1703: Regulating Land Transport and Light Rail Operations (Rs3,145,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.41 p.m.) Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme Code 1801: Policy and Strategy for Gender Equality and Family Welfare was called. The Chairperson: Page 398, 399, 400, yes!

May I ask the hon. Minister, item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance, can the hon. Minister provide us with the names, qualifications and remunerations in kind and in cash being drawn by these advisers?

The information sought for, will be circulated.

(Interruptions)

… si zot gagn duty free, zot gagn… The Chairperson: No cross talking, please!

(Interruptions)

Hon. A. Duval, let’s listen to the hon. Leader of the Opposition! The Chairperson: Hon. Leader of the Opposition, please, you have floor!

Mr Chairperson, item 22900.903 – Awareness Campaign, may we be provided with more information with regard to the awareness campaign? The Chairperson: On page 401, please.

New provision and allocation of Rs5 million earmarked for all relevant units of the Ministry to organise awareness campaigns in collaboration with the MBC. These campaigns will focus on key issues related to gender equality, children’s rights and broader family and social welfare concerns. The Chairperson: You have a question on this page?

Yes. We are on page 401, right? But it’s for page 400; it’s the heading of this programme? The Chairperson: Okay, carry on!

Yes, thank you. So, the heading programme 1801 – domestic abuse. The service is to Develop Policies and Strategies for Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection and Family Welfare, may we know from the hon. Minister, with regards to domestic abuse, pending the new bill, under the present legislation, may we know how many cases have been reported which were followed by arrest and prosecution? Could you provide the House with these figures?

I will provide the information if possible. The Chairperson: Page 402! Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme Code 1801: Policy and Strategy for Gender Equality and Family Welfare (Rs140,400,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.44 p.m.) Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme Code 1802: Women's Empowerment and Gender Mainstreaming (Rs194,500,000) was called and agreed to. (6.45 p.m.) Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme Code 1803: Child Protection, Welfare and Development was called. The Chairperson: Page 405, 406.

Yes, page 406, may I ask the hon. Minister with regards to 22900.912 - Running Expenses of Shelters for Children, may we know from the hon. Minister how many children are presently housed in those shelters and if she will be kind as to provide the House with the budget for each shelter, financial support that is given to each shelter in Mauritius?

The information sought for, will be circulated.

I have a second question! The Chairperson: Yes!

May I also ask for 26313.050 – National Adoption Council, may we know from the hon. Minister, firstly, how many adoptions have been successfully completed for the last financial year and also, if there is any project in the pipeline to streamline adoption and to facilitate it?

This information will also be sought out and circulated. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 407. Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme Code 1803: Child Protection, Welfare and Development (Rs275,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.47 p.m.) Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme Code 1804: Family Well-Being and Protection from Gender-Based Violence was called. The Chairperson: Page 408, 409.

Page 409, with regards to the item 22900.908 – Women & Children`s Solidarity Programme, there is a list of programmes (a) to (k), will the hon. Minister provide details to the House, firstly, the number of persons that have benefited from this programme for the assistance part? Secondly, with regards to the other programmes, can the hon. Minister provide us details on whether all these programmes are now up and running?

From information that I have been provided, this is the following – • Funds available under assistance for victims of domestic violence are meant for the payment of capitation grants to… The Chairperson: Hon. Minister, there is a list from (a) to (k). Can you please circulate it? If you are going to read from (a-k), it will take us some time.

Yes, I will. The Chairperson: Thank you. Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme 1804: Family Well- Being and Protection from Gender-Based Violence (Rs60,100,000) was, question put, agreed to. (6.49 p.m.) Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme 1805: Social Welfare and Community-Based Activities was called. The Chairperson: Page 411, yes.

May I ask the hon. Minister, item 28211.022 – Social Welfare Centres. May we be provided, first of all, with the list, breakdown of how these sums is going to be spent? Also, does the hon. minister know if the cost associated with the operation of social welfare centres include the purchase of mattresses and pumps to remove water etc, and if so, can she give us more details?

Mr Chairperson, the information sought for will be circulated. The Chairperson: Thank you. Yes, hon. Leader of Opposition.

Under Capital Expenditure, Item 26323.085 – Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund. May we be provided the list of community centres, first, that will be upgraded or refurbished and the list of community centres that will be converted into wellness centres?

The list will be circulated, Mr Chairperson. The Chairperson: Yes, hon A. Duval!

Thank you. Mr Chairperson, item 26323.085 – Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund. May we have from the hon. Minister, the list of all the boards constituted, island wide, of community centre and falling under the Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund, island wide, the list of all the boards that have been appointed?

This is a very long list. The list will be circulated as well. The Chairperson: And, it will take a long time to prepare, I am sure. Hon. Dr. Prayag!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Madam Minister, pertaining to item 26323.085 – Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund. – (a) Upgrading Works in Community Centres. Does this upgrading works include placement of air-conditioners in all community centres around the island? Thank you.

Mr Chairperson, I don’t have this information. The Chairperson: Thank you. Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare – Programme Code 1805: Social Welfare and Community-Based Activities (Rs520,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.52 p.m.) Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection – Programme Code 1901: Policy and Strategy for Commerce and Consumer Protection was called. The Chairperson: Page 413. Yes.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. I refer to page 413, Supply of strategic and essential commodities State Trading Corporation – Percentage of reserves of strategic commodities maintained at any point in time. May we know from the hon. Minister, whether he has information as to the capacity of reserves of commodities at the STC warehouse at Port- Mathurin, Rodrigues, for the population of Rodrigues?

It is a long list; I will circulate the details. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 413, yes, hon. Ms Anquetil!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Under the same item, can the hon. Minister update the House, on the status of the Price Stabilisation Account of the STC, please? Thank you.

Mr Chairperson. I am pleased to inform the House that the PSA, Price Stabilisation Account, has again decreased to Rs2.3 billion compared to when the MSM was in power, it was Rs4.3 billion.

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Page 414. Yes, hon. A. Duval.

May I ask the hon. Minister, item 21110.005 – Extra Assistance, will he table the list of his Advisers, competence, qualification and remunerations?

Mr Chairperson, I have only one Adviser, one Senior Adviser. I will table the details. The Chairperson: Page 415.

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. May we know why there is a decrease in the post of Management Support Officer, from 38 to 37, in Human Resources? Thank you.

I can see that the funds have not been provided for one post of Management Support Officer. The post of Management Support Officer falls under the purview of the Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms. Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection – Programme Code 1901: Policy and Strategy for Commerce and Consumer Protection (Rs123, 000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (6.55 p.m.) Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection – Programme Code 1902: Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance was called. The Chairperson: Page 416.

Yes. May I ask the hon. Minister, under the programme heading 190201 – Price setting for commodities and market investigation Price Analysis and Monitoring Division, for the last financial year, how many investigations have been carried out for contraventions with regards to price setting regulations, and how many of these contraventions have been successfully determined?

Mr Chairperson, concerning the investigation, I can see that there were 9287 and concerning contravention – 1151. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 147.

Yes. May I refer, the hon. Minister to item 22120.008 – Fees for Consultants - Smart Cards for distribution of subsidised products. May we know what will be the terms of reference of that study and also what type of smart cards are we talking about here?

It will be a smart card for subsidised products and for the terms of reference, we are working on it. The Chairperson: Page 418. Yes, hon. Jhummun!

Page 418, Sub-Programme 190202: Legal Metrology Services and Enforcement. May I know the number of instruments verified, calibrated and the number of trade inspectors?

Concerning the number of instruments verified, it is 10,413. Number of instruments calibrated, 1,792. Number of inspections of trade premises, 3,732. The Chairperson: Page 420, yes.

Yes, Sub-Programme 190203: Consumer Protection – Ensure effective consumer protection – Consumer Affairs Unit. May we ask the hon. minister, how many investigations have been done? How many contraventions out of these investigations and also how commercial licenses have been revoked if any?

I have answered concerning the contraventions. Before, it was 1,151. Concerning trade license, I do not see it here, but I will circulate the answer.

We are talking of the Consumer Protection Unit. Let me rephrase the question. How many complaints have been received by consumers? How many investigations have been carried out into those complaints? How many have resulted in contraventions and in revocation of licences?

Concerning complaints, it is 2,300, out of which, 2,051 have been resolved. Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection – Programme Code 1902: Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance (Rs103,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.00 p.m.) Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection – Programme Code 1903: Compliance to Import and Export Obligations was called. The Chairperson: Page 422!

With regard to Programme 1903, Delivery of permits for imports and exports of goods - Trade Division, may we know from the hon. Minister if parallel importation is now being allowed?

We are working on it. Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection – Programme Code 1903: Compliance to Import and Export Obligations (Rs26,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.01 p.m.) Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research – Programme Code 2001: Policy and Strategy for Tertiary Education, Science and Research was called. The Chairperson: Page 426, 427?

Yes, page 427, Item 22130.001 – Studies and Preliminary Project Preparation - National Higher Education Strategy, may I ask the hon. Minister with regard to the National Higher Education Strategy, will the hon. Minister provide the strategy paper to the House?

We had a Higher Education Summit. We have collected all the information. This is being compiled into a strategy. Once it is compiled, it will be submitted. Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research – Programme Code 2001: Policy and Strategy for Tertiary Education, Science and Research (Rs72,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.02 p.m.) Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research – Programme Code 2002: Higher Education was called. The Chairperson: Page 429?

I have a question. The Chairperson: Yes!

With regard to Item 26313.50 - Higher Education Commission, may I ask the hon. Minister for the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), for the last financial year, may we be provided with the number of beneficiaries that have benefit full-time and part-time? May we also know the estimated number of beneficiaries to benefit for the next three financial years, as budgeted, full-time and part-time?

For the last year, 16,770.

Full-time?

Full-time. For the FTES, last year, it was 16,770. For the current year, we cannot say because recruitment is ongoing. So, we will table the number as soon as we have it.

Just to clarify, Mr Chairperson, if the list for full-time and part-time, under this scheme, can be provided for the last financial year and also provisions for the coming financial years?

Yes. Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research – Programme Code 2002: Higher Education (Rs1,964,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.05 p.m.) Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research – Programme Code 2003: Science and Research was called. The Chairperson: Page 431? Page 432?

Yes, Mr Chairperson, I refer to page 432, Item 26323.042 - Mauritius Research and Innovation Council, (b) Research and Innovation Projects, may the hon. Minister circulate the list of projects and beneficiaries under this vote item for Rodrigues for this financial year?

Will do so. The Chairperson: Thank you. Yes!

May I know from the hon. Minister, with regard to the same page, Item 26313.077 - Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre; Item 26313.150 - Higher Education Commission, and Item 26313.042 - Mauritius Research and Innovation Council, o/w Gender-Based Violence Observatory (GBVO), can the hon. Minister provide us with the composition of the board for the three institutions?

Unfortunately, we have not yet constituted the board. But once it is constituted, it will be tabled. The Chairperson: You have a question, hon. Dr. Prayag?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. May the hon. Minister give us more details about Item 26313.042 - Mauritius Research and Innovation Council, o/w Gender-Based Violence Observatory (GBVO), please?

This is a research project that has been given as a consultancy from the Ministry of Gender. It is being conducted by the MRIC. Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research – Programme Code 2003: Science and Research (Rs211,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.07 p.m.) Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research – Programme Code 2004: Pathways to Higher Education (Rs63,000,000) was called and agreed to. The Chairperson: Now, we go to the Ministry of Industry, SME and Cooperatives. Hon. Minister, Ms Arianne Navarre-Marie, will step in. (7.08 p.m.) Ministry of Industry, SME and Cooperatives – Programme Code 2101: Industrial Development was called. The Chairperson: So, you have a question on which page?

Page 437. The Chairperson: Okay!

May I? Thank you, Mr Chairperson. With regard to item 22120.008 – Fees to Consultants (Strategic Plan for Industrial Sector including SMEs), can we be provided, first, with the terms of reference of that study or plan and the timeframe?

From the information I have been provided, the information is as follows: the Ministry proposes to elaborate an industrial strategic plan 2026/2030 with the objective to re-industrialise the country and accelerate the pace for the sustained development of the manufacturing sector capable to generate higher industrial growth. Funding to the tune of Rs7 million has been earmarked in Budget 2025/2026 for this purpose. The Ministry will initiate actions for recruitment of appropriate consultants to undertake the assignment which is expected to be completed by March 2026. The Chairperson: Hon. Minister, if the reply is long, please circulate it. Page 437? Hon. A. Duval!

May I know from the hon. Minister on item 26313 – Extra Budgetary Units, can the hon. Minister circulate the composition of the Board of the Academy of Design and Innovation, the Mauritius Standards Bureau and the National Productivity and Competitiveness Council as well as qualifications and renumeration drawn by each board member?

We will do, Mr Chairperson. The Chairperson: Thank you, Hon. Minister. Page 438?

Item 28215.016 – Manufacturing Support Schemes, these are new schemes. Can we be provided with further information on those schemes, hon. Minister?

This is a very long answer, Mr Chairperson, I will table it. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 438?

Item 26323.064 – National Productivity and Competitiveness Council, may we know with regard to (b) Enterprise Go Digital Project, the number of SMEs that have benefited from this scheme, can she also provide us with a brief of the scheme?

Which page please? The Chairperson: Page 438!

What is the question please?

Can you give us the number of SMEs that have benefited from these schemes and also a brief on these schemes, all of them (a) – (e), please?

This information will be circulated. The Chairperson: Page 439, 440, 441, 442? Ministry of Industry, SME and Cooperatives – Programme Code 2101: Industrial Development (Rs434,900,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.13 p.m.) Ministry of Industry, SME and Cooperatives – Programme Code 2102: SME Development was called. The Chairperson: Page 443?

Under the general programme, the heading Programme Code 2102: SME Development, the Small and Medium Enterprises, can the hon. Minister provide us with the number of SMEs that are registered in Mauritius and by category of turnover those who fall under Rs3 million and over Rs3 million, the number?

This will be circulated, Mr Chairperson. The Chairperson: Page 444?

On page 444, item 222900 – Other Goods and Services of which National SME Award 2025, can we be provided with information regarding that item? What is it about?

This is a very long answer, I will circulate it.

Item 26313.147 – SME Mauritius Ltd (b) SME Support Schemes (including training), can the hon. Minister provide us with a breakdown of the schemes and details of the schemes that are going to be implemented and the number of persons that are expected to be trained under the schemes?

Yes. Schemes from SME Mauritius Ltd, registered SMEs may apply for the following schemes to obtain grants up to a maximum of Rs250,000 – • Business Transformation Scheme; • Market Readiness Scheme; • Technology and Innovation Scheme; • Greening Support Scheme, and • Agri-business Scheme. The Chairperson: Page 444? 445? Ministry of Industry, SME and Cooperatives – Programme Code 2102: SME Development (Rs211,100,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.16 p.m.) Ministry of Industry, SME and Cooperatives – Programme Code 2103: Registration, Development and Supervision of Cooperative Societies (Rs169,500,0000) was called and agreed to. The Chairperson: Ministry of Education and Human Resource. (7.17 p.m.) Ministry of Education and Human Resources – Programme Code 2201: Policy and Strategy for Education and Human Resource Development was called. The Chairperson: Page 450, 451, 452, 453?

Page 453. Item 22900.801 – Health and Wellness Activities and item 22900.826 – Foundation Programme in Literacy, Numerary and Skills (FPLNS). Can the hon. Minister inform the House, how the amount of money will be used, please?

This amount will be used for the Foundation Programme in Literacy, Numeracy and Skills. The Foundation Programme in Literacy, Numeracy and Skills is a new government initiative for students who have not achieved the minimum requirements of the PSAC examinations. The Chairperson: Thank you.

Mr Chairperson, I have a question on page 453. The Chairperson: Okay.

May I refer the hon. Minister to Item 22900.801 - Health and Wellness Activities (a) Drug Use Prevention (Rebound) Programme? Can we know how many students have benefitted from that programme? Can we be provided with the information with regard to (d) Psychosocial wellbeing in schools? Can we have detailed information on that? On all programmes.

It is a long answer. I better table. The Chairperson: Yes, circulate it. Thank you.

I have a question, Mr Chairperson. With regard to Item 22120.008 - Fees to Consultants of which Audit of Primary and Secondary Schools Infrastructure and secondly, Item 22120.024 - Capacity Building Programme. Firstly, can the Minister provide the House with the details of how many schools are being contemplated for audit? Are they all the schools in Mauritius or a number of them? And secondly, with the Capacity Building Programme, can we know from the hon. Minister how many training staff are expected to go under this programme?

Yes, let me begin with the Capacity Building Programme. This is meant to train rectors, deputy rectors, senior educators and educators in connection with the Foundation Programme and it is an ongoing exercise. As regard to fees to consultants, I better table it. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 454-456? Programme Code 2201: Policy and Strategy for Education and Human Resource Development (Rs 423,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.21 p.m.) Programme Code 2202: Pre-Primary Education was called. The Chairperson: Page 457!

Yes, I have one. With regard to the Capital Expenditure, Item 26323.071 - (c) Acquisition of Pedagogical Equipment (Public Pre-Primary Schools). Can we know under which pedagogical programme are the pre-primary schools running?

The answer is here. I better table it. The Chairperson: Okay. Do you have another question, hon. Leader of the Opposition?

Yes, with regard to grants, that is under Recurrent Expenditure, Item 26323.071 - Early Childhood Care and Education Authority, can we know the number of public pre-primary schools and private pre-primary schools in the country?

We have 186 public pre-primary schools. Programme Code 2202: Pre-Primary Education (Rs 1,093,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.23 p.m.) Programme Code 2203: Primary Education was called. The Chairperson: Page 458? 459?

Yes, with regard to Item 22090 - Security, there is a huge amount of nearly 36% increase for security. Can the hon. Minister provide us first with the service providers for security and secondly, the date of appointment, and thirdly as well, a reason why there is such a considerable increase?

This in one sentence; the increase is due to the revision in the national minimum wage and I will table the others. The Chairperson: Hon. Beejan! On which page?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. On page 459, Item 22900.833 - Promotion of STEM Education, I note that provision of the sum of Rs2.5 million has been made for the promotion of STEM education. Will the hon. Minister provide some details regarding same?

Briefly – the school STEM programme will provide schools with materials and equipment and infrastructure as may be required for schools to encourage pupils to become young scientists, which later in the education will result in more engagement with science and technical studies. The Chairperson: Yes.

May I ask the Minister, Item 22900.996 - Natation Scolaire, premièrement, combien de piscines sont opérationnelles actuellement dont les écoles ont accès et deuxièmement quel est le nombre d’élèves qui ont réussi à passer les…

I have a list of figures if you want, zone-wise also the number and the schools.

Do you have the success rate pour la natation?

They may not be swimming like you but definitely we are initiating them.

Is it a successful programme?

Yes. The Chairperson: Page 460-462? Programme Code 2203: Primary Education (Rs 5,164,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.26 p.m.) Programme Code 2204: Secondary Education was called. The Chairperson: Page 463? 464?

Regarding page 463, Total Expenditures, Recurrent Expenditure – increases from Rs11,263,000,000 in 2024-2025 to Rs11,803,000,000 in 2025-2026. Will the hon. Minister provide some details regarding this?

Yes, this increase is due mainly to provision for compensation of employees, provision under maintenance of buildings, introduction of new Items like Awareness Campaign for Cyberbullying, increased provision for Mauritius Secondary School Sports Association etc. The Chairperson: Page 464!

Yes, Mr Chairperson, may I ask the hon. Minister on Item 28212.012 - S.C and H.S.C Examination Fees subsidy. May I ask the hon. Minister the total number of students that have benefitted from this subsidy for the last financial year and the total number of students that have benefited from the second attempt subsidy, and thirdly, for the upcoming financial year, how many students will now be off the subsidy given the new budgetary measure not to subsidise the second attempts anymore?

I will circulate the list and also provide you with further information regarding SRM kids as well. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. Apollon!

Item 22900.903 – Awareness Campaign (Cyberbullying), can the Minister provide details? He can table them.

I will. The Chairperson: Page 465?

Can I ask the Minister, Item 31112.002 – Construction and Extension of Schools and Item 31112.402 – Upgrading of Schools, to provide details to the House? Can he circulate the list?

I will circulate the list. The Chairperson: Pages 466-467?

Yes. For human resources, may I ask the Minister, there is a reduction of over hundred staff in various positions in his Ministry, but worryingly that of Educator. Why is there such a reduction and what does he intend to do?

Funds have not been provided for 64 posts due to financial constraints. Bad governance of MSM! But rest assured that we are going to manage.

Koup lapey Adviser! Ministry of Education and Human Resource – Programme Code 2204: Secondary Education (Rs 11,803,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.30 p.m.) Ministry of Education and Human Resource - Programme Code 2205: Technical and Vocational Education and Training was called. The Chairperson: Page 468, 469? Do you have one?

I have one on page 468. May I ask the hon. Minister with regard to the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development (MITD), the Programme 2205, the heading, TVET full time pass rate, there is a considerable increase for the MITD, there is more than Rs15 m. being given, how much of these are going to go into actually improving the success rate which is still rather low?

I thought you would ask the question differently! Let me inform the House that the increase is due principally to waive examination fees for full-time students. We are waiving the fees for full-time students. This is the reason why there is the increase.

May I know, out of the budget of the MITD, what sum has been earmarked in actually improving the success rate, the quality of education, which I repeat, is still quite low?

It is not under one item. It is under capacity building. A series of actions are taken in order to improve the quality.

Will you be able to provide it?

Yes, a series.

That is what I wanted to ask. The Chairperson: Page 469? Ministry of Education and Human Resource - Programme Code 2205: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (Rs617,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.33 p.m.) Ministry of Education and Human Resource - Programme Code 2206: Special Education Needs was called. The Chairperson: Page 470? Yes!

Mr Chairperson, may I ask the hon. Minister, Programme 2206, the heading, Regulation of Special Education Sector, Special Education Needs Authority, we see that there is a substantial targeted increase, in fact, planned over the next three years…

(Interruptions)

Yes, it is a good thing. But may I ask the Minister, out of the investigation carried out for the last financial year, we want to know how many have resulted in legal actions being taken as well as if there has been any revocation of licences of the private specialised schools?

I will circulate that. The Chairperson: Page 471? Hon. François!

Thank you. Item 26313.149 – Special Education Needs Authority (SENA) (b) Grant-in-Aid for SEN Schools run by: ii. RCEA, may we know from the hon. Minister whether, from the provision of the Rs32.2 m. for this financial year, any additional payment has been effected to RCEA Rodrigues following the request for budgetary flexibility to pay, I think, around 7 carers recruited for an effective support thereat?

From memory, this provision has been made for the reallocation from the Poverty Reduction Fund to the Ministry’s vote item. Definitely, I will check for Rodrigues and circulate that information.

Thank you. The Chairperson: Page 472?

On the same programme, may I ask the Minister, out of the cases of the Special Education Needs school, is he is aware if there have been any cases resulting in injury or physical abuse? Can he provide this information to the House?

Hon. Member, these are our kids. Rest assured that whatever be the issue, the Ministry is taking care of that.

The number?

I will table the number. The Chairperson: Okay, one last question, hon. Member.

Can I ask the hon. Minister, on the same item, on the same page, 26313.149 – Special Education Needs Authority (SENA) (b) Grant-in-Aid for SEN Schools run by: i. NGOs, how will the funds be available to the NGOs? Some details on that, please.

I will definitely circulate that. The Chairperson: Page 472? Ministry of Education and Human Resource - Programme Code 2206: Special Education Needs (Rs562,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (7.36 p.m.) Ministry of Education and Human Resource - Programme Code 2207: Human Resource Development was called. The Chairperson: Pages 473-475? Yes, stand up!

Item 28212, that is, under the various scholarship programmes that have been awarded to beneficiaries, there is a list of them, hon. Minister: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Scholarships, Post-Graduate Scholarships Schemes, State of Mauritius/Additional Scholarships, etc. You will see the list. Can the hon. Minister provide us with the number of beneficiaries that have been awarded scholarship and the amount awarded to them? If he could provide the House with this information for the last financial year?

Yes, at the outset, I can tell you, it is 481. But I better table it. You will have all the information. The Chairperson: Thank you. Yes!

Can the hon. Minister inform the House, under the same item, Item 28212.010 – Post-Graduate Scholarships Schemes (b) Post-Graduate Scheme for Laureates, why is there a decrease of almost Rs14 m.?

Again, I will table the information because I have for various scholarships. Ministry of Education and Human Resource - Programme Code 2207: Human Resource Development (Rs 863,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Hon. Members, I will now suspend for one hour. At 7.40 p.m., the Sitting was suspended. On resuming at 8.52 p.m. with the Deputy Chairperson of Committees in the Chair. Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation – Programme Code 2301: Policy and Strategy for ICT was called. The Chairperson: Page 476, 477, 478, 479.

Page 479, item 22120 – Fees, I just wanted to know why is there a decrease for fees from Rs14,545,000 to Rs7,345,000, please?

Thank you, hon. Member. This reduction in fees is due to the fact that the budgetary measures preparation or provisions for preparing the blueprint was done by internal teams. So, for 2025-2026, we wouldn’t need that because the blueprint is ready and that was done by internal teams, saving millions of rupees to the Government. The Chairperson: Hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. May I refer the hon. Minister to page 479, item 22900.904 – Running cost of Government Online Centre (GOC), can we be provided with more information regarding the other operating costs because there is an increase of almost Rs10 million? The Chairperson: Hon. Minister!

So, the other operating costs, there has been an increase to cater for laboratory equipment, for digital forensic lab, workshop on data protection and videos for awareness of diffused national data strategy.

May I ask the hon. Minister, item 22900.904 – (a) Rental of Data Centre/s, we see a considerable increase and may I ask the hon. Minister, firstly, why is there an increase, and secondly, if he will provide us with the list of the service providers from which these data centres are being rented?

Sure, there has been an increase because as you may well be aware that there was no data centre earlier. The disaster recovery site for the data centre was not there. So, as a responsible government, we established a Disaster Recovery Centre and the supplier has been selected as Mauritius Telecom but discussions are at the finalisation stage and that’s just one. The Chairperson: Page 480. Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation – Programme Code 2301: Policy and Strategy for ICT (Rs 554,900,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (8.56 p.m.) Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation – Programme Code 2302: Citizen-Centric Digital Services was called. The Chairperson: Questions? Page 482.

Page 482, may I refer the hon. Minister to item 22900.903 – Awareness Campaign - Marketing Communication Strategies for Government Projects, can we have more information related to that item, please?

So, this is a new item to cater for a communication campaign to promote key digital government initiatives including raising awareness on major e- government systems, e-services and Mobile Apps. The Chairperson: Hon. Chief Whip!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Page 482, item 22030.007 – Rental of Lines for Government Intranet Network, can the hon. Minister provide further details regarding the increase allocated for the year 2025-2026, please? Thank you.

Yes, thank you. This is due to the increase for additional lines for GINs connectivity to connect schools across Mauritius. The Chairperson: Hon. Beejan!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Item 31132.300 – E-government Transformation Initiatives – (a) MAIA 2.0. Will the hon. Minister provide details as to how the MAIA 2.0 AI Platform will serve as a central pillar for integrating AI across all government projects, aligning with the blueprint for Mauritius vision? Thank you.

Thank you. So, the MAIA Project was implemented in isolated manner, rendering no value add to the public but now we are implementing it in a centralised manner so that all government agencies and departments would be connected to MAIA. So, this is what this stands for. The Chairperson: Hon. A. Duval, last one.

Yes, thank you. Under the same item – E-government Transformation Initiatives – (b) Revamped MauSign CA Platform – (c) Revamped EQMS/MoRendezVous. May we know from the hon. Minister are the services for the revamping going to be provided by the initial service providers and is there going to be new contracts to new service providers, being awarded? At least, are new service providers going to be considered or the same one?

Our assessment reveals quite a bit of mess and we are still evaluating as to what should be the way forward but we will do what is needful within the right framework for procurement guidelines. Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation – Programme Code 2302: Citizen-Centric Digital Services (Rs547,000,000) was on question put, agreed to. (9.00 p.m.) Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation – Programme Code 2303: Cybersecurity was called. The Chairperson: Page 487.

Yes, thank you, Mr Chairperson. May I ask the hon. Minister, under the Programme 2303: Cybersecurity – Enhance cyberspace security IT Security Unit/CERT-MU, may we know how many times have social media, including Facebook been successful in complying with the requests from CERT-MU, to take down post or groups in the last financial year? Because we know this is a huge issue. Do you know how many times?

What I can tell you is that there have been a lot of reports, at least 5,221 reports, last year and we have, out of those reports, requested Facebook for some takedowns, but as you are aware already, it seems there are challenges in that. But we are in negotiation, in discussions with them.

May I just know – has it happened in the last financial year that, Facebook, for example, did in fact comply, if at all, with the request to take down?

You know, last financial year, consisted of two parts – the previous government and this government.

(Interruptions)

Can I answer, please? You asked me a question and I am answering, right. I listened to you; you listened to me now. So, there were situations where we requested; some of them were complied to, others were not. But I can tell you that there is no official agreement, as of now.

But how many times …? The Chairperson: Address to the Chair.

(Interruptions)

Hon. Minister, are you done?

Yes, I am good, thank you. Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation – Programme Code 2303: Cybersecurity (Rs73,100,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.03 p.m.) Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms – Programme Code 2401: Policy and Strategy for Public Service was called. The Chairperson: Page 491.

I have a question on page 491. May I ask the hon. Minister, under the general header – Policy and Strategy for Public Service, where does PRB fit in this with regards to expenditure that is being voted here? Has this been taken into consideration?

This concerns the strategies and framework of the Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms and PRB is not even concerned with this matter. The Chairperson: Page 492, 493.

Actually, Mr Chairperson, Page 492. May I ask the hon. Minister, with regards to item 31112.058 – Construction of Civil Service College. May we know the completion stage, now, for the Civil Service College, firstly? Secondly, may we know what will be the capacity for training of the Civil Service College for the financial year?

Mr Chairperson, during the last financial year, hardly 9000 people were trained there from the Public Service. I am pleased to inform you that 20,000, public officers, at least, will be trained during the financial Year 2025-2026. The more so, the project is completed and has been inaugurated already by his Excellency Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms – Programme Code 2401: Policy and Strategy for Public Service (Rs 115, 900,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.06 p.m.) Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms – Programme Code 2402: Administrative Reforms and Innovation (Rs26,500,000) was called and agreed to. (9.07 p.m.) Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms – Programme Code 2403: Strategic Human Resource Management and Development was called. The Chairperson: Page 498.

Item 22120.002 – Continuous Professional Development for Civil Servants. May we know from the hon. Minister, how many civil servants have assisted CPD training course, firstly and secondly can he also give us a brief of the CPD programme?

Mr Chairperson, may I, please point out to the House, that this is a new sub-programme because this government believes in capacity building, in sustaining the development of our public officers and in supporting their upgrading. Therefore, as you can see as per the heading itself, Mr Chairperson, it is enhanced performance management system which is being put in place right now.

If I may, Mr Chairperson? The Chairperson: Yes!

Hon. Minister, I am referring to Item 22120.039 - Continuous Professional Development for Civil Servants, Rs14 m. was disbursed last year; Rs20 m. will be disbursed this year. It is not a new programme. How many civil servants have undergone CPD and if you could give us a brief of the CPD programme?

All the programmes and the training of public officers was done by the past Civil Service College. I explained to the House before, Mr Chairperson, for the last financial year, 9,000 officers were trained. We are targeting 20,000 officers this year. The Chairperson: Okay. Hon. Dr. Prayag!

Can the hon. Minister clarify whether the CPD programme, under the same item number, comprise the training of officers who will be trained for the newly instituted softwares in various Ministries or will it be done by the Ministry of Information Technology itself? Thank you.

Mr Chairperson, may I answer the hon. Member of the House. The IT programmes, which are going to be a compulsory part of the training subjects, would be run in collaboration with the Ministry concerned. We are working on the current syllabus. The Chairperson: Okay. Thank you. Page 499, no question? Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms – Programme Code 2403: Strategic Human Resource Management and Development (Rs 168,300,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.11 p.m.) Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms – Programme Code 2404: Occupational Safety and Health for Public Officers was called. The Chairperson: Page 500, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Thank you. Item 22900.934 - Enhancement of Work Environment in the Civil Service, may I know from the hon. Minister why is there a decrease in the budget allocation?

Mr Chairperson, we just want to set the example that we can do more with less. Unlike the previous government!

(Interruptions)

The Chairperson: Order, please! Silence! Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms – Programme Code 2404: Occupational Safety and Health for Public Officer (Rs34,300,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: The Deputy Speaker will now take the Chair. An hon. Member: Bravo, Ehsan! At this stage, the Deputy Speaker took the Chair. The Chairperson: Please be seated! (9.13 p.m.) Ministry of Local Government - Programme Code 2501: Policy and Strategy for Local Government and Fire Services was called. The Chairperson: Pages 502-505?

Yes, I have one on page 505. The Chairperson: Yes, hon. A. Duval!

Can the hon. Minister tell us under Item 22090 – Security, it has more than doubled. May we know who will be the security service providers and the reason why there has more than 100% increase?

Provision is made for security services at the Field Services Unit. There is an increase from one security guard to two security guards per shift. This is why. The Chairperson: Pages 506-507? Ministry of Local Government - Programme Code 2501: Policy and Strategy for Local Government and Fire Services (Rs120,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.15 p.m.) Ministry of Local Government - Programme Code 2502: Facilitation to Local Authorities was called. The Chairperson: Pages 508-509?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. I refer the hon. Minister to Item 22120.008 - Fees to Consultants - Study on Grant-in-Aid Formula, can we have an indication of the terms of reference and the timeframe for this study to be completed?

Provision to meet costs to devise formula in relation to grant-in-aid allowance to all local authorities.

No, I said the terms of reference. The Chairperson: If you do not have the terms of reference, you can circulate it.

Yes, I do have it. I can circulate it. The Chairperson: Circulate it, please. On the same page hon. A. Duval?

Yes. Item 26312 - Grant to Local Authorities, may we know from the hon. Minister, out of the local authorities falling under his Ministry, how many applications for Building and Land Use Permit have been turned down by reason of falling within the flood prone areas?

I do not have that.

Can you find it?

I can circulate it later.

I have a second question on this. The Chairperson: Okay, quickly!

Can I please ask the hon. Minister, Item 26322 - Local Authorities to kindly provide to this House with the detailed breakdown of the projects? There are about 30 projects. If you could kindly provide the House with the details of these projects? Circulate it, of course.

Okay, I can circulate it. Ministry of Local Government - Programme Code 2502: Facilitation to Local Authorities (5,622,400,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.18 p.m.) Ministry of Local Government - Programme Code 2504: Fire and Rescue Service was called. The Chairperson: Page 515? Page 516, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Yes, thank you, Mr Chairperson. On item 31112.024 (e) Satellite Fire Stations (Consultancy), can we have an indication when that study will be completed?

The construction of the new fire station will improve the standard of the fire emergency coverage and response time in the region; it was served and also function in reserve fire prevention office. So ... The Chairperson: The question is about the consultancy, hon. Minister. If you have a reply otherwise you can circulate it.

We have several, we have Goodlands, we have Montagne Blanche, we have … So, I do not have the… I can circulate it. The Chairperson: You can circulate it once it is available. Page 517? Hon. François!

It is a question of general nature with regard to human resources Serial Number 8 - Firefighter. Provision is made for 24 additional funded posts. May we know whether for the 13 Rodriguan-born firefighters who have applied for permanent transfer to the Regional Assembly establishment, their dossiers have been finalised for them to serve Rodrigues? The Chairperson: Do you have answer? How many peoples have applied to go back to? Do you have an update? Otherwise, you can circulate answer.

This is still on the discussion stage. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 518? Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service – Programme Code 2504: Fire and Rescue Service (Rs961,900,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.22 p.m.) Ministry of Arts and Culture – Programme Code 2601: Policy and Strategy for Arts and Culture was called. The Chairperson: Page 519, 520, 521?

Yes, may I refer the hon. Minister to item 22130 – (a) Strategic Plan for the Arts and Creative Sector, (b) Development of Cultural Indicators. Can we have an indication for both studies, when will they be completed?

Mr Chairperson, as soon as it is completed, I will circulate the reply. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 522? Ministry of Arts and Culture – Programme Code 2601: Policy and Strategy for Arts and Culture (Rs 46,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.22 p.m.) Ministry of Arts and Culture – Programme Code 2602: Promotion of Arts and Culture was called. The Chairperson: Page 523, 524, 525?

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. I will refer the hon. Minister to item 22130 – Studies and Surveys (Directory of Musical Heritage in the Indian Ocean), because this is a new item, can we be provided with more information? The Chairperson: Hon. Minister!

I can table the reply. The Chairperson: Hon. Beechook!

Page 525, item 28212.014 – (e) Artist Incubator Scheme, Rs5 million was previously earmarked and now I see this year it is Rs500,000 only. Can the hon. Minister please explain why this budget has been reduced that much?

Mr Chairperson, the Artist Incubator Scheme was a budgetary measure announced in financial year 2022/2023. The objective of which was to enable artists, groups to ride… The Chairperson: The question is simple, why you have reduced it? Just give an answer.

I will circulate it then. Okay, good. The Chairperson: Thank you. You will circulate the answer. Yes?

Page 525, and the two items 26313.105 – Mauritius Tamil Cultural Centre Trust and 26313.116 – Speaking Unions. Can the hon. Minister inform the House whether provision has been made for the construction of the (i) Mauritius Tamil Cultural Centre Trust and (ii) of the Urdu Speaking Union?

Mr Chairperson, this issue is still under discussion and we can circulate a reply later on. The Chairperson: Hon. Duval!

Page 525, item 28212.014 – Financial Assistance to Artists. Mr Chairperson, we see a substantial reduction on all the schemes (a)-(g), for example, scheme for concerts et cetera has been cut by half. May we know in the last financial year, how many persons/artists have been benefited from these schemes and what this reduction means in terms of how many persons will be benefiting going forward?

Mr Chairperson, this also will be circulated later. The Chairperson: Last question on this page, Hon. Beechook!

Page 525, item 28212.014, I find at (h) Production Grant Scheme (Rs12,900,000) the ambition investment, can the hon. Minister please explain to us how this mechanism will work?

Mr Chairperson, this also I have a long reply, I will table it. The Chairperson: Last question on this page 525, hon. Duval!

On item 26323 – Extra-Budgetary Units. Can the hon. Minister provide us with the composition of the boards, the qualifications and remuneration drawn for all the institutions listed under item 26313 – Extra-Budgetary Units? The Chairperson: Sure, you will. You will circulate same.

It is a long list, Mr Chairperson, and some boards have not yet been constituted. This also will be circulated. The Chairperson: Page 526, 527? Ministry of Arts and Culture – Programme Code 2602: Promotion of Arts and Culture (Rs 333,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. (9.22 p.m.) Ministry of Arts and Culture – Programme Code 2603: Cultural Heritage Conservation and Development was called. The Chairperson: Page 528, 529? Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Under item 22900.922 – Conferences/Seminars/Workshops with regard to (a) Conference on UNESCO Routes of Enslaved Peoples, (b) Conference on Indentured Labour Route Project, can we have an indication from the hon. Minister of what has been achieved until now? The Chairperson: Hon. Minister!

The list is long again. I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Okay, thank you! Yes, hon. A Duval.

Item 22120 - Fees of which (a) Masterplan for Cultural Heritage District, can the Minister table the master plan in due time or if it is ready now?

Yes, okay. The Chairperson: Yes, page 530. Yes, hon. Leader of the Opposition!

Thank you. Under Item 26313.030 - Le Morne Heritage Trust Fund of which Consultancy for revision of Local Economic Development Plan (UNESCO Funded), can we have the terms of reference and the timeframe for that study, please? Thank you.

Mr Chairperson, it is long again. Do you want me to circulate it or I read it? The Chairperson: No, no, circulate it!

I circulate it.

Mr Chairperson, may I? The Chairperson: Yes, of course.

For Item 26313 - Extra-Budgetary Units, can the Minister provide us with the composition of the Board, qualification and remuneration drawn by the Board members for all of the six institutions that fall under this Item?

Okay, Mr Chairperson, I will circulate it. The Chairperson: Thank you. Page 531? Programme Code 2603: Cultural Heritage Conservation and Development (Rs 458,000,000) was, on question put, agreed to. The Chairperson: Hon. Members, we have omitted to consider the Civil Aviation Services under External Communications. So, I will put the question now. The page is page 104 and under the responsibility of the hon. Prime Minister. (9.31 p.m.) External Communications - Programme Code 0221: Civil Aviation Services (Rs 404,800,000) was called and agreed to. The Estimates 2025-2026 & Indicative Estimates 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 were considered and agreed to. The Appropriation (2025-2026) Bill (No. XIV of 2025) was considered and agreed to. On the Assembly resuming with the Deputy Speaker in the Chair, the Deputy Speaker reported accordingly.

Hon. Members, I have to report to the House that the Estimates of Expenditure 2025-2026 & Indicative Estimates 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 and the Appropriation (2025-2026) Bill (No. XIV of 2025) have passed the Committee of Supply without amendment.