The Federation of Parastatal Bodies and Other Unions (FPBOU) has recently submitted a memorandum to the Ministry of Finance in the lead up to the possible presentation of the 2024-2025 budget.
The twenty-page document highlights the urgent need for the implementation of a master plan to address flooding and save lives in Port-Louis.
One of the key points raised in the memorandum is the Land Drainage Master Plan 2022, which allocated a budget for the protection of citizens and their properties during natural disasters.
The FPBOU pointed out past incidents of flash floods in 2008, 2013, and 2024 which resulted in significant damage to vehicles, loss of life, and destruction of agricultural crops.
The organization emphasized the importance of preventing illegal construction on drains and buildings near drains, as this obstruction hampers water flow and exacerbates flood risks.
Furthermore, the FPBOU President, Deepak Benydin, stressed the need for the establishment of a Parastatal Bodies Services Commission to regulate recruitment practices within para-state bodies.
Benydin cited instances of unethical behavior in the past, such as the appointment of unqualified individuals due to nepotism, which resulted in legal consequences.
The proposed commission aims to promote transparency, fairness, and meritocracy in hiring, promotions, and disciplinary actions to combat fraud and corruption within parastatal organizations.
Benydin also addressed the issue of population aging in Mauritius, highlighting the declining birth rate and its negative impact on productivity.
He contrasted this with countries like India, which has a younger population and a brighter economic future.
The FPBOU recommended that the government implement policies to incentivize larger family sizes, such as the recent budget provision of a Rs 2,000 allowance for each child under the age of three.
Investing in children, according to Benydin, is an investment in the nation’s human capital and future prosperity.
Source: Le Mauricien
