Mauritius to End Private-Sector Discrimination in Extreme Weather Legislation

The Mauritian government is set to amend the Workers Rights Act to ensure private-sector employees receive the same life-saving protections as public servants during torrential rains.

Ashok Subron, Minister for Social Integration, Social Security, and National Solidarity, announced that legal changes are “imminent” to eliminate the current “public-private discrimination” regarding worker safety during extreme weather events.

The move follows high-level consultations with Labor Minister Reza Uteem.

New Protocols for Climate Extremes

The legislative overhaul comes in direct response to safety failures during Cyclone Belal in January 2024.

A ministerial committee is currently finalising a new legal protocol for torrential rain to ensure all workers are protected regardless of their employer.

This reform sits alongside a broader review of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act 2016.

Minister Subron highlighted that as a Small Island Developing State, Mauritius remains acutely vulnerable to cyclones and flash flooding, requiring a more robust legal framework.

Financial Aid and Infrastructure

To bolster immediate disaster response, the government confirmed that:

• 156 evacuation centres are ready for mobilisation, providing essential supplies.
• Displaced persons will receive an allowance of MUR 250 per person, per night.
• Financial assistance of MUR 250 is available for those suffering food losses due to flooding.

A Long-Term Strategy for Climate Victims

The Ministry has established a dedicated climate unit to integrate the concept of “climate victims” into national policy.

A comprehensive Climate Victims Plan is currently in development, which will include flood protection measures, better-equipped evacuation facilities, and relocation projects for the most vulnerable citizens.

To ensure these measures remain sustainable, the government is also planning a Climate Victims Compensation Fund.

The fund is designed to guarantee rapid disbursements and long-term financial resilience for those affected by the increasing frequency of climate disasters.

Source: Le Mauricien