Month: March 2020

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Covid-19 : Le gouvernement accorde Rs 5,100 aux travailleurs du secteur informel

GIS – 31 mars
2020 : Le gouvernement vient en aide aux travailleurs du
secteur informel qui sont impactés par le confinement. Un montant équivalent à
50% du salaire minimum, soit un montant de Rs 5,100, vont leur être octroyé.
Cet argent sera versé sur leur compte en banque ou leur sera envoyé par voie
postale.

 

Cette annonce a
été faite par le ministre des Finances, de la Planification et du Développement
économiques, Dr Renganaden Padayachy, au cours du point de presse quotidien par
visioconférence du Comité national de communication sur le Covid-19 ce matin,
au bâtiment du Trésor à Port Louis.

 

Le ministre a
appelé ceux travaillant à leur propre compte notamment les maçons, plombiers,
coiffeurs, marchands, artistes, entre autres, à s’enregistrer en ligne auprès
de la Mauritius Revenue Authority – www.mra.mu – ou de
téléphoner sur la hot-line de l’institution, 207 6000, pour bénéficier de cette
aide.

 

Rappelant que
le couvre-feu sanitaire imposé à cause du Covid-19 aura des conséquences
économiques graves, Dr Padayachy a déclaré que l’économie mondiale est à genou.
Il a souligné que le gouvernement œuvre pour maintenir au maximum les capacités de
production et consommation locales. Ainsi, un plan de
soutien de Rs 9 milliards a déjà été mis en place pour les entreprises et ceux
qui ont des prêts immobiliers.

 

Le grand
argentier est aussi venu de l’avant avec d’autres mesures en vue d’assister les
petites entreprises. Celles-ci comprennent :

·           
Un Special Relief Amount de la Banque de Maurice
pour les entreprises dont le chiffre d’affaires annuel ne dépasse pas Rs 50
millions ;

·           
Le moratoire de six mois proposé par la Banque de Maurice
pour le remboursement du capital sur les prêts sera étendu aux intérêts ;

·           
La Banque de développement avancera un prêt de Rs 1
million aux entreprises avec un chiffre d’affaires de moins de Rs 10 millions annuellement
ayant des difficultés à obtenir unprêtdes banques commerciales ;

·           
Landscope Limitedlèvera les
pénalités de retard de loyer pour le mois de mars pour les compagnies en
difficultés ;

·           
Les entreprises locataires pourront recourir au Loan
Revolving Credit Fund pour payer leur loyer. Les propriétaires privés sont également
appelésà faire preuve de compréhension face aux entreprises qui ne peuvent
payer leur loyer ;

·           
Les maraîchers n’auront pas
à s’acquitter des frais pour les étals pour le mois en cours. Ceux qui ont déjà
effectués le paiement verront le montant être déduit sur la prochaine facture.
13 000 personnes sont concernées par cette mesure ; et

·           
Le ministère travaille à l’application du Wage
Assistant Scheme pour le mois d’avril. Ce plan vise à contribuer à hauteur
de 50 % sur les premiers Rs 25 000 du salaire de base des employés percevant
jusqu’à Rs 50,000 par mois.


 ​ #ResOulakaz     #BeSafeMoris​


Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: [email protected]  Website: http://gis.govmu.org  Mobile App: Search Gov​

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Covid-19 : Le comportement irresponsable de certains Mauriciens décrié

GIS  – 28 mars 2020 : Le comportement irresponsable d’une partie de la population qui continue
à se rassembler dans les parcs ou à faire des files d’attentes malgré les
directives des autorités a été vivement décrié par le directeur des services de
santé au ministère de la Santé et du Bien-être, Dr Vasant Rao Gujadhur, lors du
point de presse quotidien du Comité national de communication sur le Covid-19 au
bâtiment du Trésor à Port Louis.

 

« Le pays compte déjà 102 cas
de Covid-19 et l’entêtement de certains Mauriciens à ne pas respecter le
couvre-feu sanitaire expose non seulement ces personnes, mais met en danger
toute la population, »a-t-il fait ressortir. Il a rappelé que les meilleurs
moyens d’enrayer la propagation du Covid-19 sont de rester à la maison,
d’adopter de bonnes pratiques d’hygiène comme de se laver les mains, et de
faire de la distanciation sociale.

 

Les autres principales
informations qui ont été données au cours du point de presse sont :

 

·        L’état des 102 patients
du Covid-19 est stable sauf pour deux malades dont l’état est préoccupant.

 

·    Sur les huit nouveaux
cas enregistrés, tous sont des hommes. Le plus âgé a 86 ans et les sept autres
sont dans la tranche d’âge  de 40 à 60 ans.

 

·        Trois professionnels
de santé sont parmi les nouveaux cas. Au total, six employés de santé ont été
contaminés.

 

·       L’hôpital ENT faisant
office de centre de traitement du Covid-19, les personnes souffrant de troubles
de l’oreille, du nez, ou de la gorge, sont priées de se rendre à l’hôpital
Victoria à Candos.

 

·     Le Comité ministériel sur
le Covid-19 se penche en ce moment sur le plan de réouverture des supermarchés prévue
le 1e avril prochain pour permettre aux Mauriciens de se
ravitailler. Le Premier ministre annoncera bientôt les modalités.

 

·        
Il n’y a pas de
pénurie de bonbonnes de gaz ménager. Les citoyens doivent faire preuve de
patience car la cargaison, arrivée il y a deux jours, est en cours de
distribution dans les points de vente à travers le pays.

 

·       Les opérateurs des
plateformes d’achat en ligne, mises en place pour approvisionner le public,
travaillent actuellement à améliorer leur système pour pouvoir répondre à la
demande de tous les consommateurs pour des produits de première nécessité. 

 

·      La distribution des
vivres pour les personnes les plus vulnérables s’est poursuivie dans le calme
et pourrait être complétée d’ici demain.

 

·       Le ministère des
Finances, de la Planification et du Développement économiques informe les
petites et moyennes entreprises que des plans de soutien ont été mises en œuvre
avec la collaboration des institutions telles que la Banque de Maurice, la
Banque de Développement et le Sugar Investment Trust en vue de les soutenir. De
plus amples renseignements sont disponibles sur le site du ministère au mof.govmu.org.

 

·       Le fonds de
solidarité, Covid-19 solidarity fund, créé pour venir en aide aux
familles les plus démunies, a reçu Rs 7,5 millions. Les Mauriciens sont invités
à continuer à faire preuve de générosité. 


#ResOulakaz  #BeSafeMoris​

Government Information Service, Prime
Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius.
Email: [email protected]  Website: http://gis.govmu.org  Mobile App: Search Gov​

Posted on

Covid-19 : Distribution de denrées alimentaires pour les plus vulnérables

GIS – 25 mars
2020 : Un système de distribution de denrées alimentaires à
l’intention des personnes les plus vulnérables a été mis en place, et 35 000
colis alimentaires vont être fournis durant les quatre prochains jours aux
familles inscrites sur le registre social, aux bénéficiaires du carer’s
allowance, aux handicapées et à ceux se trouvant dans les maisons de retraite.

L’annonce a été
faite ce matin par le ministre des Finances, de la Planification et du
Développement économiques, Dr Renganaden Padayachy, lors du point de presse
quotidien du Comité national de communication sur le Covid-19 au bâtiment du
Trésor à Port Louis. Cette décision fait suite à la fermeture des supermarchés,
boulangeries et boutiques jusqu’au 31 mars 2020 dans le but de briser la chaîne
de transmission du coronavirus sur le territoire. Les services de santé et les
pharmacies resteront ouverts.

Face à la gravité
de la crise sanitaire, la priorité du gouvernement demeure la protection de la
population, a martelé Dr Padayachy. Il a ajouté que le ministère du Commerce et
de la Protection des Consommateurs, en collaboration avec la Chambre de
Commerce de l’Ile Maurice, travaille actuellement sur un mécanisme de distribution
alimentaire pour la population en général afin de prévenir les déplacements et
assemblées non autorisés. Les modalités et informations sur ces arrangements
seront communiquées au public à travers les médias au cours de la journée.

En outre, le ministre
a affirmé qu’un fonds de solidarité, Covid-19 solidarity fund, auquel les
parlementaires et ministres verseront 10% de leur salaire, a été créé. Ce fonds
aidera les personnes en difficultés et chaque Mauricien pourra également y
contribuer.

Couvre-feu
sanitaire

Le Deputy
Commissioner of Police (DCP), M. Krishna Jhugroo, est revenu, quant à lui, sur
la mise en place de la forte mobilisation de la police pour veiller à
l’application des mesures de couvre-feu. Les retombées des 126 patrouilles
effectuées et 14 barrages routiers installés à travers l’île hier soir sont la
verbalisation de 98 personnes pour non-respect des restrictions de déplacement.

Les fausses
nouvelles et désinformations qui ont circulées sur les réseaux sociaux à
l’annonce de la fermeture des supermarchés, boulangeries et boutiques dans la
soirée d’hier et qui auraient pu nuire à la paix sociale ont aussi été
sévèrement condamnées par le DCP. En conséquence, trois personnes ont été
arrêtées, et trois autres sont recherchées par la police.

Nombre de cas de
Covid-19 en augmentation

Le pays compte à ce
jour 48 cas positifs de Covid-19. Les tests de dépistage et recherches de
contact se poursuivent.

 Government Information Service, Prime
Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius.
Email: [email protected]  Website: http://gis.govmu.org  Mobile App: Search Gov​

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Covid-19 : Prévisions catastrophiques si les Mauriciens ne respectent pas les consignes

GIS – 23 mars
2020 : Si la courbe d’infection du Covid-19 ne fléchit pas, le nombre
de cas positifs passera à 735 cas dans une semaine. Cette prévision a été
donnée par le directeur des services de santé au ministère de la Santé et du
Bien-être, Dr Vasant Rao Gujadhur, lors du point de presse quotidien du Comité
national de communication sur le Covid-19 au bâtiment du Trésor à Port Louis ce
matin.

A ce jour, le pays
compte 28 cas confirmés de Covid-19 et a enregistré ses deux premiers décès
alors que 523 tests et 308 recherches de contact ont été effectués.

Dans son
intervention, le directeur des services de santé a souligné que les cas graves
de Covid-19 touchent plus particulièrement les personnes âgées et les groupes
vulnérables, notamment ceux ayant des antécédents cardiovasculaires, et des
pathologies chroniques respiratoires, ainsi que les diabétiques. Il a affirmé
que dans le pire des scénarios, il y aura au moins un mort par famille à
Maurice, d’où l’impératif pour chaque citoyen de respecter à la lettre les
consignes de confinement mises en place en vue d’enrayer la propagation du
coronavirus.

Couvre-feu dès 20
heures ce soir

Rappelant que le
couvre-feu sanitaire sera effectif dès 20 heures ce soir, le Deputy
Commissioner of Police (DCP), M. Krishna Jhugroo, a, pour sa part, mis en garde
la population sur le non-respect du confinement. Seront autorisés à circuler :

·        
Les détenteurs du permis de déplacement entre le domicile et le
lieu de travail ;

·        Ceux pouvant donner des raisons justifiées, et

·        
Les médecins présentant leurs cartes d’identité et d’enregistrement
du Medical Council.

 

Le DCP a exhorté la
population à rester à l’intérieur et respecter les règles. Le mouvement des
personnes sera strictement vérifié, et les contrevenants seront sanctionnés.

Lutter contre les
conséquences économiques du Covid-19

Les mesures
économiques additionnelles pour limiter les dégâts dans le système économique
et soutenir les entreprises locales ont également été présentées par le
ministre des Finances, de la Planification et du Développement économiques, Dr
Renganaden Padayachy. Parmi :

·      Le Wage Assistant Scheme d’un montant de Rs 2,6 milliards. Le
gouvernement contribuera à hauteur de 50 % sur les premiers Rs 25 000 du
salaire de base des employés percevant jusqu’à Rs 50,000 par mois. Les
responsables d’entreprises sont priés de remplir le formulaire requis,
disponible sur le site web de la Mauritius Revenue Authority (https://www.mra.mu/) pour
bénéficier de cette assistance.

·        Un moratoire de six mois, proposé par la Banque de Maurice, pour
le remboursement du capital sur les prêts immobiliers. En outre, ceux avec un
salaire mensuel de moins de Rs 50,000 n’auront pas à payer les intérêts sur
leur prêt à partir du 1e avril jusqu’au 30 juin 2020. Cette aide représente un
montant de plus de Rs 800 millions.

 

Le gouvernement a
aussi pris des dispositions pour minimiser l’impact du confinement national sur
la vie des citoyens, entre autres :

·        
Pas de coupure de connexion en ce qui concerne les utilités
publiques ;

·        
Une extension du délai de paiement des factures d’eau,
d’électricité et de téléphone ;

·        
Une amélioration de la connectivité Wi-Fi au niveau du pays ; et

·        
Des facilités de Wi-Fi pour les personnes en quatorzaine.


Government Information Service, Prime
Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius.
Email: [email protected]  Website: http://gis.govmu.org  Mobile App: Search Gov​

Posted on

Cabinet Decisions taken on ​13 MARCH 2020

​

CABINET DECISIONS – 13 MARCH 2020
 
1.         Cabinet has agreed to a “Plan de Soutien” to give the necessary support to economic operators across all sectors of activities, including local manufacturing and SMEs so as to minimise the adverse impact of COVID-19.  At the macroeconomic and cross-sectoral level, the following measures would be taken –
 
(a)       the State Investment Corporation (SIC) Ltd would launch an Equity Participation Scheme to assist enterprises to overcome their financial difficulties in the wake of COVID-19;
 
(b)       schemes under the Investment Support Programme Ltd and SME Equity Fund Ltd would be reviewed;
 
(c)        a Revolving Credit Fund of Rs 200 million would be established at the Development Bank of Mauritius Ltd to help companies with turnover of up to Rs 10 million to ease their cash flow difficulties up to 31 December 2020;
 
(d)       enterprises being affected by COVID-19 would be entitled to a double tax deduction on their investment in Plant and Machinery for the period 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020;
 
(e)       all work permits that would expire this year would be extended automatically up to 31 December 2021;
 
(f)        to minimise human contacts, Government would give full support to promote the Work at Home Scheme that was announced in the 2018-2019 Budget Speech; and
 
(g)       an e-Government Digital Bureau would be set up to fast track the provision of public services through electronic means.
 
At the sectoral level, the following measures would be taken –
 
(i)         the Passenger Fee on Air Ticket would be suspended for tourists from Reunion Island, Australia and South Africa up to 31 July 2020;
 
(ii)        the Environment Protection Fee of 0.85% charged on the monthly turnover of hotels, guest houses and tourist residences would be suspended up to 31 July 2020;
 
(iii)       the training levy would be reduced from 1% to 0.5% for operators in the tourism sector as from 1 April 2020 up to 31 July 2020;

 
(iv)       Air Mauritius Ltd would pursue its promotional fare strategy to attract tourists from Reunion Island, UK, South Africa and Australia. Fares for travel from and to Reunion Island would be reduced by 50% while for the other destinations the reduction would be 40%.  These reductions would be applicable up to 31 July 2020;
 
(v)        hotels would provide a discount ranging from 15% to 35% for tourists from Australia, Reunion Island and South Africa;
 
(vi)       port charges imposed by the Mauritius Ports Authority and Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd would be waived for all exports up to 31 December 2020;
 
(vii)      the Freight Rebate Scheme would be extended for exports to South Africa and Tamatave up to 31 December 2020;
 
(viii)     the Speed to Market Scheme would be extended for exports of the manufacturing sector to Africa, Japan, Australia, Canada and the Middle East up to 31 December 2020;
 
(ix)       to boost local production of food crops and ensure greater food security for the population, sugar estates would be requested to also put at the disposal of small planters additional rotational land for the cultivation of crops like potato, onion, pulses and other vegetables;
 
(x)        seeds for the cultivation of potato, garlic, bean and onion would be provided through the Seed Purchase Scheme.  In addition, the Agricultural Marketing Board would purchase at a guaranteed price, products such as potato, garlic and onion on a long term basis;
 
(xi)       an amount of Rs100 million has been earmarked to encourage local production of food crops; and
 
(xii)      funds to the tune of Rs208 million are being made available to the Ministry of Health and Wellness for the acquisition of new medical accessories and equipment, of which Rs108 million have already been disbursed.
 
            A number of actions has already been initiated, namely –
 
(a)       the Agricultural Marketing Board has taken precautionary measures to increase significantly its Strategic Buffer Stock in potato, onion and garlic;

 
(b)       five new schemes are being launched by SME Mauritius Ltd, namely, the Internal Capability Development Scheme, the Technology and Innovation Scheme, the SME Marketing Support Scheme, the Inclusiveness and Integration Scheme, and the SME Utility Connection Assistance Scheme.
 
            An Implementation and Monitoring Committee under the chair of Mr Dev Manraj, GOSK, Financial Secretary, and comprising representatives of both the public and private sector has been set up.
 
****
 
2.         Cabinet has agreed to –
 
(a)          amendments being made to the Catering and Tourism Industries (Remuneration) Regulations 2019 and the Private Hospitals and Other Related Health Services (Remuneration) Regulations 2019; and
 
(b)       a new Regulation being made to cater for payment of wages to employees, if ever they are placed in quarantine in respect of COVID-19 outbreak.
 
            The Catering and Tourism Industries (Remuneration) Regulation 2019 would be amended to provide for –
 
(i)         time off to be granted to workers of that industry in lieu of payment of overtime during the period of the outbreak; and
 
(ii)        a worker to resume work, with his consent, before a lapse of eleven hours after having completed a normal day’s work.
 
            The Private Hospitals and Other Related Health Services (Remuneration) Regulations 2019 would be amended to provide that a worker might, with his consent, work up to 12 hours a day instead of 8 hours.  New Regulations would be made to provide for payment of wages to workers, who are placed in quarantine, to be offset against their leave entitlement.
 
****
 
3.         Cabinet has agreed to instructions being conveyed to the Attorney General’s Office for the drafting of a Sports and Physical Activity Bill and to repeal the existing Sports Act 2016.  The Sports and Physical Activity Bill would, inter alia, –
 
(a)       provide for the setting up of a Registrar of Sports Organisations to facilitate the registration of Sports Clubs, National Sports Federations and other Sports Delivery Organisations;

 
(b)       provide for the setting up of a Sports Profession and Educators Council;
 
(c)        review the concept of sports regionalisation as a whole;
 
(d)       address the professionalisation of sports in the Republic;
 
(e)       safeguard the interests of athletes and protect them from any form of abuse;
 
(f)        regulate the sale of tickets during sporting events and deter the emergence of black markets; and
 
(g)       regulate the bidding and hosting of international sporting events in the Republic;
 
            Consultations would be held with relevant stakeholders.
 
****
 
4.         Cabinet has taken note that the Ministry of Health and Wellness would increase the financial assistance under the Overseas Treatment Scheme, from Rs800,000 to Rs1 million, as announced in the Budget Speech 2019-2020.  The Scheme would cover all medical expenses for a patient travelling overseas for medical treatment, including cost of airfare and other services.
 
****
 
5.         Cabinet has agreed to Mauritius adhering to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Joint Ministerial Statement on Investment Facilitation for Development.  The purpose of the Joint Ministerial Statement is to reaffirm the need to intensify work among WTO Member States with a view to developing a WTO Framework on Investment Facilitation by the next WTO Ministerial Conference to be held in June 2020, in Kazakhstan.
 
****
 
6.         Cabinet has taken note that the Ministry of Health and Wellness would sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mr Shashichandra Desai, proxy of late Dr (Mrs) Hansa Gunesee for the donation of Rs25 million for the purchase of equipment for the New Cancer Hospital.  Late Dr (Mrs) H. Gunesee was the first lady Gynaecologist employed in Mauritius and the first lady doctor to go on a tour of service to Rodrigues in 1969.  The contribution would help in the successful implementation of the new Cancer Hospital project and ultimately in the improvement of diagnosis and treatment of cancer in Mauritius.
 
****

 
7.         Cabinet has taken note that the 5th Trade Policy Review of Mauritius would be held at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Secretariat on 27 and 29 April 2021.  The purpose of the Trade Policy Review Mechanism is to contribute towards the improved adherence, by all Members, to rules, disciplines and commitments made under the various WTO agreements.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Mauritius would be based on the reports by Government and the WTO Secretariat.
 
****
 
8.         Cabinet has taken note of the setting up of an Organising Committee at the level of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Recreation for the 12th edition of the “Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien” (CJSOI) Games to be held in Mauritius in July 2021.  Six Member States, namely Madagascar, Mayotte, Seychelles, Reunion Island, Djibouti, and Union of Comoros have already confirmed their participation to the Games.
 
****
 
9.         Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of the 34th Council of Ministers of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) held recently in the Seychelles.  The main decisions taken at the Meeting were –
 
(a)          the adoption of the Moroni Declaration which defines the new strategic orientation of the IOC and highlights the needs for institutional reforms to respond to new challenges and exigencies of the new business environment;
 
(b)          approval of the “Accord de Victoria Révisé” which, inter alia, provides for the holding of a Summit every five years to be chaired by the host country, the creation of the post of Deputy Secretary-General and the extension of the duration of the term of office of the Secretary-General to five years instead of four years;
 
(c)          the grant of Observer Status to India, Japan and the United Nations;
 
(d)          the signing of an agreement with the International Organisation for Migration for the setting up of a platform on “Dialogue sur les Migrations au sein de l’espace de la COI”;
 
(e)          the approval of the Emergency plan proposed by the Secretariat in the context of COVID-19, which includes exchange of information among the health authorities of Member States on the status of Coronavirus;

 
(f)           the approval for the setting up of an “Agence Régionale de la Biodiversité” and for the holding of a Ministerial Conference on biodiversity; and  
 
(g)          the approval of the appointment of Mr Velayoudon Marimoutou, as the new Secretary-General of the IOC.
 
****
 
10.       Cabinet has taken note that Mrs Jenny Mootealloo has been appointed as Commissioner of the Utility Regulatory Authority for a period of five years and Mr Sadatmanund Narain has been reappointed as Commissioner for a period of five years.
 
****
 
11.       Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Mauritius Multisports Infrastructure Ltd with Mr Jean Pierre Sauzier as Chairperson.
 
****
 
12.       Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Civil Service College, Mauritius, with Mr Harry Ganoo, GOSK, as Chairperson.
  
 
******

Posted on

Cabinet Decisions taken on ​13 MARCH 2020

​

CABINET DECISIONS – 13 MARCH 2020
 
1.         Cabinet has agreed to a “Plan de Soutien” to give the necessary support to economic operators across all sectors of activities, including local manufacturing and SMEs so as to minimise the adverse impact of COVID-19.  At the macroeconomic and cross-sectoral level, the following measures would be taken –
 
(a)       the State Investment Corporation (SIC) Ltd would launch an Equity Participation Scheme to assist enterprises to overcome their financial difficulties in the wake of COVID-19;
 
(b)       schemes under the Investment Support Programme Ltd and SME Equity Fund Ltd would be reviewed;
 
(c)        a Revolving Credit Fund of Rs 200 million would be established at the Development Bank of Mauritius Ltd to help companies with turnover of up to Rs 10 million to ease their cash flow difficulties up to 31 December 2020;
 
(d)       enterprises being affected by COVID-19 would be entitled to a double tax deduction on their investment in Plant and Machinery for the period 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020;
 
(e)       all work permits that would expire this year would be extended automatically up to 31 December 2021;
 
(f)        to minimise human contacts, Government would give full support to promote the Work at Home Scheme that was announced in the 2018-2019 Budget Speech; and
 
(g)       an e-Government Digital Bureau would be set up to fast track the provision of public services through electronic means.
 
At the sectoral level, the following measures would be taken –
 
(i)         the Passenger Fee on Air Ticket would be suspended for tourists from Reunion Island, Australia and South Africa up to 31 July 2020;
 
(ii)        the Environment Protection Fee of 0.85% charged on the monthly turnover of hotels, guest houses and tourist residences would be suspended up to 31 July 2020;
 
(iii)       the training levy would be reduced from 1% to 0.5% for operators in the tourism sector as from 1 April 2020 up to 31 July 2020;

 
(iv)       Air Mauritius Ltd would pursue its promotional fare strategy to attract tourists from Reunion Island, UK, South Africa and Australia. Fares for travel from and to Reunion Island would be reduced by 50% while for the other destinations the reduction would be 40%.  These reductions would be applicable up to 31 July 2020;
 
(v)        hotels would provide a discount ranging from 15% to 35% for tourists from Australia, Reunion Island and South Africa;
 
(vi)       port charges imposed by the Mauritius Ports Authority and Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd would be waived for all exports up to 31 December 2020;
 
(vii)      the Freight Rebate Scheme would be extended for exports to South Africa and Tamatave up to 31 December 2020;
 
(viii)     the Speed to Market Scheme would be extended for exports of the manufacturing sector to Africa, Japan, Australia, Canada and the Middle East up to 31 December 2020;
 
(ix)       to boost local production of food crops and ensure greater food security for the population, sugar estates would be requested to also put at the disposal of small planters additional rotational land for the cultivation of crops like potato, onion, pulses and other vegetables;
 
(x)        seeds for the cultivation of potato, garlic, bean and onion would be provided through the Seed Purchase Scheme.  In addition, the Agricultural Marketing Board would purchase at a guaranteed price, products such as potato, garlic and onion on a long term basis;
 
(xi)       an amount of Rs100 million has been earmarked to encourage local production of food crops; and
 
(xii)      funds to the tune of Rs208 million are being made available to the Ministry of Health and Wellness for the acquisition of new medical accessories and equipment, of which Rs108 million have already been disbursed.
 
            A number of actions has already been initiated, namely –
 
(a)       the Agricultural Marketing Board has taken precautionary measures to increase significantly its Strategic Buffer Stock in potato, onion and garlic;

 
(b)       five new schemes are being launched by SME Mauritius Ltd, namely, the Internal Capability Development Scheme, the Technology and Innovation Scheme, the SME Marketing Support Scheme, the Inclusiveness and Integration Scheme, and the SME Utility Connection Assistance Scheme.
 
            An Implementation and Monitoring Committee under the chair of Mr Dev Manraj, GOSK, Financial Secretary, and comprising representatives of both the public and private sector has been set up.
 
****
 
2.         Cabinet has agreed to –
 
(a)          amendments being made to the Catering and Tourism Industries (Remuneration) Regulations 2019 and the Private Hospitals and Other Related Health Services (Remuneration) Regulations 2019; and
 
(b)       a new Regulation being made to cater for payment of wages to employees, if ever they are placed in quarantine in respect of COVID-19 outbreak.
 
            The Catering and Tourism Industries (Remuneration) Regulation 2019 would be amended to provide for –
 
(i)         time off to be granted to workers of that industry in lieu of payment of overtime during the period of the outbreak; and
 
(ii)        a worker to resume work, with his consent, before a lapse of eleven hours after having completed a normal day’s work.
 
            The Private Hospitals and Other Related Health Services (Remuneration) Regulations 2019 would be amended to provide that a worker might, with his consent, work up to 12 hours a day instead of 8 hours.  New Regulations would be made to provide for payment of wages to workers, who are placed in quarantine, to be offset against their leave entitlement.
 
****
 
3.         Cabinet has agreed to instructions being conveyed to the Attorney General’s Office for the drafting of a Sports and Physical Activity Bill and to repeal the existing Sports Act 2016.  The Sports and Physical Activity Bill would, inter alia, –
 
(a)       provide for the setting up of a Registrar of Sports Organisations to facilitate the registration of Sports Clubs, National Sports Federations and other Sports Delivery Organisations;

 
(b)       provide for the setting up of a Sports Profession and Educators Council;
 
(c)        review the concept of sports regionalisation as a whole;
 
(d)       address the professionalisation of sports in the Republic;
 
(e)       safeguard the interests of athletes and protect them from any form of abuse;
 
(f)        regulate the sale of tickets during sporting events and deter the emergence of black markets; and
 
(g)       regulate the bidding and hosting of international sporting events in the Republic;
 
            Consultations would be held with relevant stakeholders.
 
****
 
4.         Cabinet has taken note that the Ministry of Health and Wellness would increase the financial assistance under the Overseas Treatment Scheme, from Rs800,000 to Rs1 million, as announced in the Budget Speech 2019-2020.  The Scheme would cover all medical expenses for a patient travelling overseas for medical treatment, including cost of airfare and other services.
 
****
 
5.         Cabinet has agreed to Mauritius adhering to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Joint Ministerial Statement on Investment Facilitation for Development.  The purpose of the Joint Ministerial Statement is to reaffirm the need to intensify work among WTO Member States with a view to developing a WTO Framework on Investment Facilitation by the next WTO Ministerial Conference to be held in June 2020, in Kazakhstan.
 
****
 
6.         Cabinet has taken note that the Ministry of Health and Wellness would sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mr Shashichandra Desai, proxy of late Dr (Mrs) Hansa Gunesee for the donation of Rs25 million for the purchase of equipment for the New Cancer Hospital.  Late Dr (Mrs) H. Gunesee was the first lady Gynaecologist employed in Mauritius and the first lady doctor to go on a tour of service to Rodrigues in 1969.  The contribution would help in the successful implementation of the new Cancer Hospital project and ultimately in the improvement of diagnosis and treatment of cancer in Mauritius.
 
****

 
7.         Cabinet has taken note that the 5th Trade Policy Review of Mauritius would be held at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Secretariat on 27 and 29 April 2021.  The purpose of the Trade Policy Review Mechanism is to contribute towards the improved adherence, by all Members, to rules, disciplines and commitments made under the various WTO agreements.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Mauritius would be based on the reports by Government and the WTO Secretariat.
 
****
 
8.         Cabinet has taken note of the setting up of an Organising Committee at the level of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Recreation for the 12th edition of the “Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien” (CJSOI) Games to be held in Mauritius in July 2021.  Six Member States, namely Madagascar, Mayotte, Seychelles, Reunion Island, Djibouti, and Union of Comoros have already confirmed their participation to the Games.
 
****
 
9.         Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of the 34th Council of Ministers of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) held recently in the Seychelles.  The main decisions taken at the Meeting were –
 
(a)          the adoption of the Moroni Declaration which defines the new strategic orientation of the IOC and highlights the needs for institutional reforms to respond to new challenges and exigencies of the new business environment;
 
(b)          approval of the “Accord de Victoria Révisé” which, inter alia, provides for the holding of a Summit every five years to be chaired by the host country, the creation of the post of Deputy Secretary-General and the extension of the duration of the term of office of the Secretary-General to five years instead of four years;
 
(c)          the grant of Observer Status to India, Japan and the United Nations;
 
(d)          the signing of an agreement with the International Organisation for Migration for the setting up of a platform on “Dialogue sur les Migrations au sein de l’espace de la COI”;
 
(e)          the approval of the Emergency plan proposed by the Secretariat in the context of COVID-19, which includes exchange of information among the health authorities of Member States on the status of Coronavirus;

 
(f)           the approval for the setting up of an “Agence Régionale de la Biodiversité” and for the holding of a Ministerial Conference on biodiversity; and  
 
(g)          the approval of the appointment of Mr Velayoudon Marimoutou, as the new Secretary-General of the IOC.
 
****
 
10.       Cabinet has taken note that Mrs Jenny Mootealloo has been appointed as Commissioner of the Utility Regulatory Authority for a period of five years and Mr Sadatmanund Narain has been reappointed as Commissioner for a period of five years.
 
****
 
11.       Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Mauritius Multisports Infrastructure Ltd with Mr Jean Pierre Sauzier as Chairperson.
 
****
 
12.       Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Civil Service College, Mauritius, with Mr Harry Ganoo, GOSK, as Chairperson.
  
 
******

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Cabinet Decisions taken on ​06 MARCH 2020

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CABINET DECISIONS – 06 MARCH 2020
 
 

1.         Cabinet has agreed to drafting instructions being given to the Attorney General’s Office for –
 
(a)       the review of the Environment Protection (Standards for Air) Regulations 1998;
(b)       the review of the Environment Protection (Declaration of Environmental Laws) Regulations 2005; and
(c)        amendments to be made to the Ninth Schedule (Fixed Penalty Fines) of the Environment Protection Act 2002 by way of regulations.
 
The objectives of the above proposals are to –
 
(i)         improve the ambient air quality;
(ii)        improve the enforcement mechanism; and
(iii)       reduce noise nuisances and illegal dumping.
 
*****

 
2.         Cabinet has taken note of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Standard Chartered Bank and the Government of Mauritius to formalise the collaboration with the Bank for the development of a Sustainable Financing Framework for Mauritius.  The aim of the Memorandum of Understanding is to secure the expertise of the Standard Chartered Bank to assist the Ministry of Financial Services and Good Governance in the elaboration of a financing framework through the issuance of new product offerings in terms of green, blue or sustainability bonds on the Stock Exchange of Mauritius.
 
*****
 
3.         Cabinet has taken note that a ‘Déclaration d’Intention’ has been signed between the Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping and l’Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, a French public research institution under the joint supervision of the French Ministries of Higher Education and Research and Foreign Affairs, during the official visit of the French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs to Mauritius.  The main objective of the ‘Déclaration d’Intention’ is to consolidate the cooperation and collaboration between the two institutions with a view to obtaining expertise and guidance relating, inter alia, to the blue economy.  The ‘Déclaration d’Intention’ provides for mutual agreement and cooperation in the fields of –
 

(a)     campaigns at sea;
(b)       marine biology and biotechnology;
(c)        marine ecology, biodiversity conservation and marine habitat recovery;
(d)       fishing and sustainable aquaculture;
(e)       assessment of plastic pollution and the impact of plastic on the environment and society;
(f)        research in physical oceanography; and
(g)       earth observation by satellite imagery.

 
*****
 
4.         Cabinet has taken note of the setting up of an Incubator at the Financial Services Institute to train current and prepare potential persons for board readiness in the public, private and third sectors.  The rationale for the setting up of an Incubator is to promote good governance through effective contribution of boards and their members.  The Incubator would develop and execute strategies for outreach as well as for attracting deserving and qualified potential directors.  It would also provide high-quality coaching and advisory support to directors and facilitate understanding and practice of the National Code of Corporate Governance.
 
 
*****
 
 
5.         Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of an operation carried out recently by the Ministry of Commerce and Consumer Protection to crackdown the illegal use of domestic Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in small cylinders for commercial purposes.  Out of 500 traders visited, some 140 were found to be using the domestic LPG cylinders in their business and contraventions were established against them accordingly.
 
 
*****
 
 
6.         Cabinet has taken note of the findings contained in the “Corruption Perceptions Index 2019” Report released on 23 January 2020 by Transparency International and of the follow up action undertaken after the publication of the “Global Corruption Barometer – Africa 2019” Report.  A Committee has been set up at the level of the Ministry of Financial Services and Good Governance to chart out an Action Plan on how to enhance the Corruption Perceptions Index score and ranking of Mauritius.
 
 
*****
 
 
7.         Cabinet has agreed to Mauritius signing the Revised “Accord général de Coopération entre les Etats Membres de la COI” at the 34th Indian Ocean Commssion (IOC) Council of Ministers, in Seychelles.  The revised agreement would now provide for, inter alia, –
 
(a)       the holding of the IOC Council of Ministers twice a year;
 
(b)       the institutionalisation of the IOC Summit of Heads of State and Government; and
 
(c)        the establishment of a new post of Deputy Secretary General.
 
 
 
*****
 
 
 
8.         Cabinet has taken note of the Stamp Issue Programme for the year 2020.  Postage Stamps would be issued on the following –
 
(a)       the extinct species of Mauritius and Rodrigues, including the dodo, the parrot and the solitaire;
 
(b)       the commemoration of the decade of biodiversity;
 
(c)        the 50th year of existence of the “Centre de L`Audition et du Langage” for people with hearing disabilities situated in Beau Bassin;
 
(d)       the 150th anniversary of the historical postal building situated at the Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis;
 
(e)       the 200th anniversary of the Port Louis Theatre;
 
(f)        the 50 years of diplomatic relations between Mauritius and Australia; and
 
(g)       the building of the First Cube Satellite for Mauritius.
 
 
*****
 
 
9.         Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of the recent mission of the Minister of Housing and Land Use Planning to the United Arab Emirates where he participated in the tenth session of the World Urban Forum.  The World Urban Forum is a non-legislative technical forum set up in 2002 by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT).  The theme of the Forum was “Cities of Opportunities: Connecting Culture and Innovation”.  Participants were given the opportunity to take stock and debate emerging innovative approaches and practices in harnessing culture and innovation as drivers for sustainable urbanisation and provide greater insights into the linkages between urbanisation, culture and innovation.  The Minister also had bilateral meetings with Heads of delegation from the United Arab Emirates, the USA, Uganda and the Seychelles and various international organisations.  The “Abu Dhabi Declared Actions” was adopted at the Forum.
 
 
****
 
 
10.       Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of the recent mission of the Minister of Labour, Human Resource Development and Training to Uganda where he participated in the 46th Session of the African Regional Labour Administration Centre (ARLAC) Governing Council Meeting and High Level Symposium on the Strategic Objective on Social Protection.  The main objectives of the Symposium were to –
 
(a)       pursue policies based on the following four strategic objectives as items for recurrent discussions, namely employment, social protection, social dialogue, and fundamental principles and rights at work; and
 
(b)       prepare the ARLAC family for informed participation during the recurrent discussion on the Strategic objective on Social Protection (Social Security) and to exchange information on existing practice for comparative advantage on the different efforts made by Member States on Social Protection.
 
The Governing Council recommended Member States to, inter alia, –
 
(i)         develop strategies for Resource Mobilisation for Social Protection;
 
(ii)        promote and develop strategies for job rich growth and decent work for the youth;
 
(iii)       invest in the strengthening of Social Protection Management Information Systems;
 
(iv)       strengthen coordination and coherence of Policies for Social Protection and Interventions; and
 
(v)        ensure ratification of Convention 102 and other relevant instruments on Social Protection;
 
In the margins of the meetings, the Minister of Labour, Human Resource Development and Training had discussions with Ministers from Uganda, Namibia, Zambia, Botswana and Malawi on possible areas of cooperation.
 
 
*****
 
 
11.       Cabinet has taken note of the appointment of Mr Sarwansingh Purmessur, Permanent Secretary of the National Development Unit as Chairperson of the Land Drainage Board.
 
 
******

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New multi-purpose support vessel to support training and research in the blue economy

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GIS – 06 March, 2020: Investigator II, a new multi-purpose support vessel to support important training and research in the blue economy, was officially launched, yesterday, by the Prime Minister, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, at Quay E, Mer Rouge. The vessel, co-funded by the Australian and Mauritian governments, will be used by the Mauritius Oceanography Institute, the Mauritius Maritime Training Academy and other Government institutions.

Speaking at the launch, Prime Minister Jugnauth underlined that the fisheries sector is a priority area for Mauritius in view of our large Exclusive Economic Zone which spans over 2.3 million square kilometres. He added that the blue economy, which has an immense potential for Mauritius, can drive the country to another stage of its development. Hence, the need for necessary expertise, state-of-the-art tools, appropriate technology and the required framework.
 
He reiterated Government’s commitment to making the blue economy an important industry to sustain economic diversification, job creation and wealth generation adding that the fisheries sector is one of the mainstays of the blue economy. He recalled that in order to provide fisheries operators with new facilities, the Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA) is investing some Rs 2.2 billion in another breakwater at Fort William which will allow for the safe mooring of some 120 ocean-going fishing vessels, thus creating a fully functional fishing port. Moreover, the navigational channel will be dredged further to a depth of 18 metres to make Port Louis the deepest port in the region, he said.
 
Furthermore, the MPA will be setting up a Maritime Single Window for the processing of vessel clearances which would facilitate the arrival and departure of vessels at the Port of Port-Louis, enhancing its competitiveness in the region. Other measures include: the setting up of an online and physical fish auction market which will act as an interface between local fishers, fishing companies and buyers, both local and international; and increase in daily rate of Bad Weather Allowance to assist fishers who have not been able to go fishing due to bad weather conditions from Rs 310 to Rs 365.
 
Since regional cooperation in fisheries management and development, and marine conservation, is of utmost importance to small island States, Mauritius will actively participate in the activities of the relevant Regional Fisheries Organisations such as the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources, and the South West Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission, stated the Prime Minister.
 
Also present on the occasion, the Minister of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping, Mr Sudheer Maudhoo, stated that Investigator II will help his Ministry in assessing marine resources and providing better facilities to enhance fish production through sustainable exploitation of untapped resources especially on the banks.
 
For her part, Australia’s High Commissioner to Mauritius, Ms Jenny Dee highlighted that the launching the multi-purpose vessel coincides with the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between Mauritius and Australia. According to her, the sustainable use of marine resources is critical for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region, and hinges on strong regional cooperation, sound research and innovative technologies.
 
Investigator II
 
The 61 ft Investigator II which will be operated by the Fisheries Training and Extension Centre of the Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for the conduct of exploratory surveys, fisheries research, oceanography projects, placing of Fish Aggregating Devices and their maintenance as well as training of fishers and skippers, in order to develop the fisheries sector. It is also fitted with sophisticated equipment to carry out acoustic surveys for the stock assessment of unexploited demersal fish on the banks and slopes drop-offs.
 
Investigator II will also be used to undertake a stock assessment to better manage and protect species such as lobsters, squid and other small commercial pelagic fish. The results of these studies will consolidate knowledge and facilitate the diversification of our fisheries and seafood industry.
 
The total cost for the acquisition of the multipurpose support vessel is estimated at Rs 57 M and the Government of Australia has provided Rs 20 M under the Australian Food Aid Programme for the purchase of the vessel.
 

Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: [email protected]  Website: http://gis.govmu.org  Mobile App: Search Gov

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Promoting Mauritius as an important financial centre in Africa

​GIS – 03 March, 2020: The promotion of Mauritius as an important financial centre in the African continent was at the fore of discussions today during a courtesy call by the Group Chairman of the Standard Chartered Bank PLC, Mr. José Viñals, on the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Home Affairs and External Communications, Minister for Rodrigues, Outer Islands and Territorial Integrity, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, at the New Treasury Building in Port Louis.

In a statement, Mr. José Viñals underlined that he had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister while adding that discussions pertained to developing Mauritius as a leading sustainable financial centre.
Mauritius, he said, plays an important role as a financial hub for Asia, the Middle East and Africa. To this end, he expressed his commitment to strengthen the collaboration with the Government of Mauritius as well as to create a synergy between the public and private sectors with a view of contributing further to the economic development of the country.

Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: [email protected]  Website: http://gis.govmu.org  Mobile App: Search Gov

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HSC 2019: Proclamation of Laureates

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​GIS – 07 Februay, 2020: The Cambridge Higher School Certificate (HSC) 2019 results were proclaimed this morning and the pass rate for the Republic of Mauritius totals to 74.95%. The Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Home Affairs and External Communications, Minister for Rodrigues, Outer Islands and Territorial Integrity, Mr  Pravind Kumar Jugnauth signed the official documents at the New Treasury Building in Port Louis.
 
The Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Education, Tertiary Education, Science and Technology, Mrs Leela Devi Dookun Luchoomun proclaimed the names of laureates and commended their achievements. She acknowledged their sacrifices, dedication and hard work as well as the efforts and support of their families and respective academic institution.
 
The Vice-Prime Minister encouraged the laureates to cultivate the values of courage, hard work and perseverance so as to face the upcoming challenges of the next phase of their academic career. She also conveyed her best wishes to the laureates in their future endeavours.
 
HSC 2019 Results
A total of 8975 candidates sat for the 2019 HSC examinations that is, 8657 for Mauritius and 318 for Rodrigues. The pass rate for 2019 for the Republic of Mauritius totals to 74.95% as compared to 74.90% in 2018.
The number of laureates by school is as follows: Royal College Port Louis – 9; Queen Elizabeth College – 7; Royal College Curepipe – 6; Dr Maurice Curé State College – 6; Rabindranath Tagore Secondary School – 3; Droopnath Ramphul State College – 2; Mahatma Gandhi Institute Moka– 2; G.M.B Atchia State College – 2; Collège Du Saint Esprit – 2; Loreto College Quatres Bornes – 1;  Modern College – 1; and Rodrigues College – 4.  
Government offers 68 scholarships each year based on the HSC examinations.  A scholarship is also offered by the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) under the MCB Foundation Scholarship. 
Forty-five scholarships are offered purely on the basis of performance and merit.  Twenty-four additional scholarships are allocated on academic, merit and social criteria basis.  The list will be proclaimed after a selection exercise by the Ministry  of Education, Tertiary Education, Science and Technology  and the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity. 
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: [email protected]  Website: http://gis.govmu.org  Mobile App: Search Gov