Madam Speaker, in regard to the project at La Tour des Hollandais located at Vieux Grand Port, I am informed by the National Heritage Fund, which operates under the aegis of Ministry, that this National Heritage building was restored and renovated in October 2020. However, since then, the building has remained closed to the public. I am further informed that following its restoration, the site was subject to misuse and acts of vandalism. However, instead of implementing appropriate management and security measures to ensure its proper utilisation and valorisation, the previous government opted to restrict access to the public. As a result of the prolonged closure of the site and the absence of regular maintenance during that period, the building has progressively fallen into a state of neglect. Madam Speaker, I am further informed that recent technical assessments carried out by the NHF have revealed a number of maintenance issues affecting the structure, including the development of a rust hole on the roof as a result of prolonged exposure to weathering. This has led to vegetation growth within the tower causing potential safety risk concerns. Consequently, it has been deemed necessary to keep the site closed pending remedial works. The services of an engineer have been enlisted to look into the matter and propose remedial works. Madam Speaker, it is to be noted that in the past while investments were made in the restoration of certain heritage infrastructure, there was a clear lack of strategic vision regarding their post restoration management, valorisation and integration into a broader cultural and tourism framework. As a result, facilities such as La Tour des Hollandais remained underutilised after renovation which is with no public access. This situation not only undermined the intended purpose of such investments but also deprived both Mauritians and visitors to the opportunity to fully appreciate our rich historical heritage. Madam Speaker, this Government is now adopting a new and forward-looking approach by placing heritage as a key pillar of cultural tourism and sustainable development. As part of this approach, La Tour des Hollandais could be considered as potential site under the Heritage Stewardship Scheme. Once this scheme is finalised, whereby a partner could be engaged to ensure its regular opening to the public, proper upkeep and its valorisation for cultural educational and tourism-oriented activities. Madam Speaker, these measures will ensure that heritage infrastructure is no longer left dormant but is actively preserved, managed and utilised as a driver of economic activity, community engagement and enhance cultural visibility in line with the objectives of the Government Programme 2025/2029. Thank you.

Yes, hon. Ramdass!

Thank you, Madam Speaker. As rightly pointed out by the hon. Minister, we are here talking of a National Heritage Building, a potential place of attraction for tourists.

I do not hear you.

A potential place of attraction for tourists…

Yes!

… seeking to learn about the history of Mauritius. May we have a timeline or rather the opening, thereof, by the hon. Minister?

Short please, hon. Minister.

As soon as we Stewardship Award Scheme is ready, we will go forward to open the space you are looking for. Thank you.

Okay. Hon. Lobine! INDIA-MAURITIUS DOUBLE TAXATION AVOIDANCE AGREEMENT – MAURITIAN GLOBAL BUSINESS SECTOR – IMPACT ASSESSMENT