I thank the hon. Member for putting the question. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, with regard to part (a) of the question, I am informed that the Hog Plum Beetle was first detected in March 2025 in the region of Moka and since then, has spread to several other regions across the island. It should be noted that the pest has been found to feed only on the leaves of fruit de Cythère leading to significant defoliation of affected trees. It is suspected that the Hog Plum Beetle has entered the country through illegal importation of infested fruit de Cythère plant. I am further informed by the Entomology Division of the Ministry, and Food and Agricultural Research Extension Institute that as at 30 April 2026, a total of 765 complaints has been registered in relation to the invasion of the Hog Plum Beetle, out of which 18 cases of mainly grown-up trees have been attended and treated with neem-based insecticide, which is considered to be safe. For the remaining complaints, advice was tendered by officers of FAREI and during site visits to growers by my Ministry since its detection. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, furthermore, approximately 8 media interventions, including television and radio programme, as well as the publication of articles in the local press have been carried out to inform the public about the pest and recommended control measures, which include the application of insecticides such as neem-based products. With regard to part (b) of the question, actions have been initiated with the help of Foreign Institutions, including the Centre de coopération Internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (CIRAD) and the Centre for Agricultural and Bioscience International, otherwise known as CABI. CABI, which has responded positively, is working closely with officers of the Ministry to identify and introduce potential biological control for the management of the Hog Plum Beetle. Once, the most promising agent is identified, further studies will be conducted to determine its host range prior to any introduction in Mauritius. Now, this process is expected to be completed before the end of this year. I have also been informed that this pest has recently been detected in Philippines and an Integrated Pest Management Programme, including use of predators and application of biopesticides have been used. My Ministry is working in close collaboration with Customs authorities at border entry points to reinforce and enhance control measures to effectively prevent the illegal introduction of such pests into the country.

The hon. Third Member for Rivière des Anguilles & Souillac! BASIC INVALIDITY PENSION – APPLICATIONS (NOV 2024-APRIL2026) – REJECTIONS & APPEALS – PROCESS EFFICACY