Cabinet Appoints Dr Marie Claire Domaingue as New MSAW Chair

Renowned equine specialist Dr Marie Claire Domaingue has been appointed as the new chair of the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW) board, following a decision noted by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Dr Domaingue takes the helm of the nation’s primary animal welfare body at a critical juncture, succeeding Mrs A. Ghoorah-Ramkissoon, whose recent resignation triggered widespread commentary across animal protection groups amidst governance disputes and allegations of management interference.

As a highly respected figure in the Mauritian veterinary and equestrian sectors, the new chair faces an immediate baptism of fire.

She inherits a portfolio of sensitive issues, including stray dog management, sterilisation campaigns, animal cruelty enforcement, adoption programmes, and navigating the often complex relationships between the MSAW, public authorities, and animal welfare charities.

An Elite Veterinary Background

A graduate of the prestigious École nationale vétérinaire d’Alfort in France, Dr Domaingue specialized early in equine medicine.

She went on to establish herself as one of the most prominent names in Mauritian veterinary science, particularly within the horse racing industry.

Her career is deeply intertwined with the racing world, having served for many years alongside stables and racing institutions:

• Mauritius Turf Club: Long regarded as one of its primary veterinary authorities.
• Horse Racing Division (HRD): Selected to join during a sector-wide restructuring, eventually serving as Chief Veterinarian.
• Horse Racing Integrity Division (HRID): Continued her regulatory duties to oversee racing integrity and controls.

In these regulatory roles, Dr Domaingue has regularly led official inquiries concerning equine health, administered treatments, and enforced veterinary regulations and animal welfare standards.

A Turbulent Handover

The statutory mandate of the MSAW, under the Animal Welfare Act, places it at the center of the nation’s animal protection network.

The organisation is legally tasked with promoting animal welfare, preventing acts of cruelty, managing stray dog and cat populations, and executing state-approved programmes.

While supporters view Dr Domaingue’s appointment as a logical choice given her extensive hands-on experience and deep understanding of the animal world, others in the sector remain cautious.

Observers note they are waiting to see how she will navigate her new duties following a distinct period of turbulence within the institution.

Nevertheless, the government’s appointment places a professional who has dedicated her entire career to animal health and welfare at the absolute forefront of the MSAW.

Source: Le Mauricien