CTSP Threatens Supreme Court Action as 2,500 Foreign Workers Head to Mauritius

The leading trade union has warned it will seek a Supreme Court injunction to halt the recruitment of 2,500 foreign workers for the cane industry, citing fears of constitutional discrimination and “extreme exploitation.”

The Confédération des travailleurs des secteurs public et privé (CTSP) issued the challenge following an announcement by Agro-Industry Minister Arvin Boolell that a first contingent of 1,000 workers is set to arrive.

The union claims the government is attempting to bypass labour protections by introducing a new “multi-skilled” legal framework.

Constitutional Challenge

Reeaz Chuttoo, president of the CTSP, argued that the proposed legal changes violate Section 16 of the Constitution, which forbids discrimination based on origin.

“We cannot create a system of over-exploitation reserved solely for foreign workers,” Mr Chuttoo stated. He expressed particular alarm over a new “Remuneration Order” that would require workers to be “multi-tasking” across both sugar and non-sugar sectors.

Under this plan, an employee could be moved between roles as a labourer, a mason, or a factory operator.

The union leader described the move as a “first” for the industry and warned it would lead to foreign workers being “rented out” across sectors, a practice he previously likened to “pimping.”

Lack of Consultation

The CTSP expressed shock at the Minister’s announcement, claiming the issue of foreign labour was never raised during the recent National Labour Conference (Assises du travail).

According to the union:

• Previous Bans: A similar plan was reportedly suspended in 2024 by the former Prime Minister following union protests.
• Broken Assurances: The CTSP claims they were previously assured by Minister Uteem that the project would not proceed.
• Regulatory Gaps: Concerns were raised that contracts issued via the Economic Development Board (EDB)—now set at a threshold of Rs 22,500—bypass Ministry of Labour checks and skip mandatory Lodging and Accommodation Regulations.

Impact on Local Workforce

The union warned that the scheme would have a dual negative impact, stating that while foreigners face exploitation, Mauritian workers would simultaneously become “less competitive” in the domestic labour market.

Questions also remain regarding pay scales. Mr Chuttoo noted that if these multi-skilled workers are employed in firms with collective agreements, they may not benefit from the established conditions.

Next Steps

The government maintains that the workers will be housed in Metro Express Limited dormitories in Richelieu, which reportedly meet International Labour Organization standards.

However, the CTSP has demanded the immediate withdrawal of any legal clauses permitting these practices.

If the government fails to provide a satisfactory response, the federation intends to move forward with its Supreme Court injunction and escalate the matter to international bodies.

Source: l’Express