SECONDARY INFRASTRUCTURE
YEAR 2009
SCHOOL PREMISES – SPORTS FACILITIES (31/03/09)
(No. B/58) Mrs S. Grenade (Second Member for GRNW & Port Louis West) asked the Minister of Education, Culture and Human Resources whether, in regard to the practice of sports, he will state if the sports infrastructural facilities on school premises are still being put at the disposal of the people of the localities thereof, after school hours and, if so, indicate if they are being charged a fee for same.
Dr. Bunwaree: Mr Speaker, Sir, the reply is in the affirmative. I understand that the Ministry of Youth and Sports is impressing the need to develop the sports culture and is taking measures to enable the public to have greater access to Government-owned sports infrastructure.
It is to be noted that my Ministry was already putting at the disposal of the public the sports facilities available in the State Secondary Schools through the educational zones and against payment of a monthly fee. This practice is still ongoing.
In addition and in furtherance of the policy of Government to open up, as far as possible, the sports facilities available in our schools to the public, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed in September 2006 between my Ministry and the Ministry of Youth and Sports to allow sports associations, organized groups of members of the public and the public at large to have access to sports infrastructure in ten State
Secondary Schools after school hours and non-school days, but through the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Mauritius Sports Council.
These facilities are granted against the payment of a nominal fee except for Saturdays, between 8 and 11 hours when the Sports Federations are allowed to use such facilities free of charge.
Mrs Grenade: May I know when this fee was asked to be paid and when this was decided?
Dr. Bunwaree: I think this was decided as soon as the implementation started after the memorandum of understanding.
Mrs Labelle: May I ask the hon. Minister whether he has an idea of the fee being claimed by the different sport federations?
Dr. Bunwaree: Well, there are two things: one for the general public which is Rs25 per month, which is not much. In fact, we are starting to review this. For the memorandum of understanding, 10 schools are involved because many sports infrastructure are put at the disposal of the institutions that I have mentioned. The fees are for week days, between 16 and 21 hours; Rs35 per sport facility per hour. On Saturdays: Rs35 per sport facility per hour between 8 and 18 hours; between 18 and 22 hours: Rs50s per sport facility per hour.
Mrs Labelle: Mr Speaker, Sir, may I ask the hon. Minister whether he is aware that there is a public secondary institution which is asking for Rs200 per hour?
Dr. Bunwaree: I have to look into this. In fact, this falls outside the categories that I have mentioned. But, in some cases, there have been cases where "il y a eu des dégâts" and maybe this could explain that.
But, I am going to look into that.
Mrs Labelle: Because it is a small club, a small village and they have been asked to pay Rs200 per hour and, of course, they can't afford it.
I am going, Mr Speaker, Sir, to table a copy of this letter.
Dr. Bunwaree: I am going to look into that, Mr Speaker, Sir.
Mr Gunness: The Minister mentioned a Memorandum of Understanding. There are 8 to 10 State schools. Can we have the list of the 10 schools?
Dr. Bunwaree: In fact, I have the list with me, Mr Speaker, Sir: La Tour Koeing SSS, Pointe-Aux-Sables, Prof. Hassan Raffa SSS, Terre Rouge, Ramsoodur Prayag SSS, Rivière Du Rempart, Rajkumar Gajadhur SSS, Flacq, Indira Gandhi SSS, Quartier Militaire, Marcel Gabon SSS, Beau Bassin, Sir A. R. Osman SSS Phoenix, Vivekananda SSS, Souillac, Sangilly SSS Surinam and Bissondoyal SSS, Rose Belle.
Mr Jugnauth: With regard to the secondary school at Quartier Militaire, I have a slightly different information than what hon. Mrs Labelle just mentioned, that the fee has been increased. With regard to the football ground, I am informed that the fee has, in fact, been substantially increased and the criteria is according to member of the team. Would the Minister confirm whether that is correct?
Dr. Bunwaree: Officially I have given the figures as they ought to be. In fact, they have to be like that. But I have just got the information that things have been changed here and there. I am going to look into the matter seriously.
Mr Varma: Mr Speaker, Sir, could the hon. Minister inform the House whether all States Secondary Schools are made available to members of the public?
Dr. Bunwaree: Not all, but wherever the sports facilities can be made available.
Mr Jhugroo: M. le Président, maintenant je vois pourquoi on n'a pas eu des bons athlètes dans ce pays.
(Interruptions)
On ne peut pas demander de l'argent aux jeunes pour pratiquer le sport. Et maintenant, vous voulez qu’on ait de bons athlètes dans ce pays ! Moi je crois qu’il faut cesser de demander de l'argent à tous ces clubs et à ces jeunes pour venir pratiquer le sport dans ce pays. Il faut que cela cesse ! Si on veut avoir de bons athlètes, il faut .....
Mr Speaker: The hon. Member has made his point.
Dr. Bunwaree: L’honorable membre pourra nous dire comment on va maintenir l'infrastructure, d’autant plus qu’il y a des casseurs aussi parmi eux.
(Interruptions)
Mr Speaker: Order!
Mrs Martin: Can the hon. Minister tell us whether it is envisaged to increase the number of schools where those facilities could be used by more people?
Dr. Bunwaree: In fact, this is being done, Mr Speaker, Sir, and we are going to improve the sports infrastructure for the students themselves.
Mr Speaker: Last question, hon. Gunness!
Mr Gunness: May I know from the hon. Minister, apart from the football ground and the volleyball ground, whether the gymnasium is put at the disposal of the public?
Dr. Bunwaree: Yes, on payment of Rs25 per month.
HOLLYROOD SSS – PHASE II – IMPLEMENTATION (04/07/09)
(No. B/145) Mrs F. Labelle (Third Member for Vacoas and Floreal) asked the Minister of Education, Culture and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Hollyrood State Secondary School, he will state if his Ministry is contemplating the implementation of the Phase II of the construction plan and, if so, when works are likely to start and, if not, why not.
Reply: I would like to inform the House that in respect of Hollyrood State Secondary School (SSS), Phase II of the construction project has been completed and Phase III of the project has been completed as well. According to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Land Transport and Shipping (MPI), procedures are underway in relation to Phase IV of the project, which will be completed by August 2010.
SSS PAILLES – SCHOOLYARD – EXTENSION (24/07/09)
Mr J. C. Barbier (Third Member for GRNW and Port Louis West): Mr Speaker, Sir, my concern is about the project of extension of the schoolyard at SSS Pailles which is a college for girls.
Mr Speaker, Sir, to implement this project, the Government bought in the past two plots of land on one side of the schoolyard. There exists two public roads on the side where next to the land where the Government bought these two plots of land for the extension of the schoolyard for the purpose, we were told, for a laboratory for the students of the school.
According to what we know also, they were supposed an overhead passage from the schoolyard to the laboratory. But, in fact, on Monday last, a contractor stepped in and started excavating the land to have the erection of a wall. They were told that it was for a football ground which was not what the project was for in the first instance. People have to demonstrate, unfortunately, and they stopped the project where it is.
My request to the Minister is to try to find a solution for every party to have a win-win situation, be it for the inhabitants, the students or the school. I am made to understand that we can find a solution, that is, having the building, but leaving the passage, the street as it is. I am not an expert, I am not a technician. So, I would suggest that the Minister could put together his technicians, the inhabitants and elected Members also of the region so that we may have a solution to the satisfaction of all parties.
Thank you, Mr Speaker, Sir.
The Minister of Education, Culture & Human Resources (Dr. V. Bunwaree): I am well aware of the problem. In fact, my colleague, the Minister of Local Government, Rodrigues & Outer Islands, hon. Dr. David, has raised the matter. We have had a few meetings. He, himself, chaired a meeting a few days ago. This is a problem that started in 2002. In fact, we have to correct again, Mr Speaker, Sir.
(Interruptions)
In 2002, the decision was taken and lots of works have been done. In fact, …
(Interruptions)
Let me explain! It started and then land was acquired compulsorily to have an extension of the school, but the necessary plans did not take into consideration all the aspects that have been raised today by the hon. Member. In fact, for a problem that was caused by the then Government in which he formed part. I am sure we can find a solution.
I have asked to stop the works as they are, because we can’t block that public road. I think the hon. Member himself won’t be agreeable to that. We will find a solution.
We will be able to use the land for the extension of the classes, but we will see to it that the public road is not blocked.
Thank you, Mr Speaker, Sir.
Private Members’ Motion: (24/07/09)
Ms Deerpalsing: I am going to be very brief. The first issue that I would like to raise concerns the Minister of Education at the SSS Ebene Boys, the fencing at the back of the football field and the basket ball field has been damaged and the boys come out there at any time. I would like to ask the Minister of Education to look into it urgently.
The other issue that I would like to raise is the situation of parking and that concerns the Minister for Public Infrastructure, the situation for parking at Ébene City is completely clogged and there is a huge problem of parking there, so if he can look into that.
The last issue concerns the Minister for Public Infrastructure and this one is quite urgent Mr Speaker, Sir, because the Ministry of Public Infrastructure had undertaken to redo the electrical rewiring at Dr. Régis Chaperon SSS in Belle-Rose. This is very dangerous because there are wires just hanging in classrooms and there is really an urgent need of redoing the electrical wiring at Dr. Régis Chaperon SSS in Belle Rose. Thank you.
The Minister of Public Infrastructure, Land Transport & Shipping (Mr A. Bachoo): Sir, I will look into both issues as soon as possible.
The Minister of Education, Culture & Human Resources (Dr. V. Bunwaree): Mr Speaker, Sir, necessary action is being taken.
At 07.23 p.m., the Assembly was, on its rising, adjourned to Tuesday 20 October 2009 at 11.30 a.m.
YEAR 2010
LA GAULETTE SSS – LYCÉE POLYTECHNIQUE – CONSULTATION (29/06/10)
(No. 1B/213) Mr A. Ganoo (First Member for Savanne & Black River) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether he will state if his Ministry has taken any decision to convert the La Gaulette State Secondary School into a Lycée Polytechnique and, if so, whether any prior consultation has been held with the inhabitants of the region.
Reply: The reply is in the negative.
MGSS, MOKA - FOOTBALL GROUND (06/07/10)
(No. 1B/236) Mr S. Dayal (Third Member for Quartier Militaire & Moka) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the project for the putting up of a football playground at Mahatma Gandhi State Secondary School at Moka, he will state where matters stand, indicating the estimated cost and the expected dates of commencement and completion of the works.
Dr. Bunwaree: Mr Speaker, Sir, the construction of a football ground forms part of the Phase IV of the construction project at Mahatma Gandhi Secondary School (MGSS), Moka, which comprises also a Dance/Music Block, Communication, Design Technology/Home Economics Block, and a Computer/Library Block.
Given that similar Phase IV of the construction projects have also to be implemented at the MGSSs at Nouvelle France, Solferino and Flacq, my Ministry and the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport and Shipping adopted a holistic approach, with a view to harmonising the works to be undertaken and to be provided to these schools remaining facilities.
I am informed that this fourth phase of the MGSS at Moka will cost around Rs142 m. I am also informed that, presently, the MPI is working on the detailed drawings and draft bidding documents for the Phase IV works in these MGSSs. It is expected that bidding documents will be finalised in October 2010, and tenders will be launched in November 2010.
Works are expected to start in February 2011. I would like to point out that, during implementation, the football ground will be undertaken in the first part of the project. According to this time frame, the football ground could be completed by August 2011, should the tendering exercise and implementation of the project proceed smoothly of course.
TRIOLET STATE SECONDARY SCHOOL – LAND ACQUISITION (03/08/10)
(No. 1B/372) Mr E. Guimbeau (First Member for Curepipe & Midlands) asked the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Home Affairs and External Communications whether, in regard to the Triolet State Secondary School, he will, for the benefit of the House, obtain from the Commissioner of Police, information as to if an inquiry is being carried out on the compulsory acquisition of land therefor and, if so, the outcome thereof.
The Prime Minister: Mr Speaker, Sir, I am informed by the Commissioner of police that on 13 November 2009, the hon. Member himself made a declaration at the Central Crime Investigation Division (CCID) regarding the payment of compensation for the compulsory acquisition of three portions of land situated at Triolet for the extension of the State Secondary School. He requested the Police to enquire as to how the Board of Assessment reached the amount of compensation paid to the three landowners.
Mr Speaker, Sir, police enquiry into the matter is ongoing and one officer of the Ministry of Housing and Lands, responsible for the acquisition of land for Government projects, has been interviewed.
I am further informed that on 10 April 2008, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has, on its own initiative, started an enquiry in this issue. All documents pertaining to the matter have been produced to ICAC which has completed its enquiry and has referred the case to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.
YEAR 2011
FOREST SIDE - STATE SECONDARY SCHOOL (BOYS) - FOOTBALL PITCH (29/03/11)
(No. A/48) Mr S. Obeegadoo (Third Member for Curepipe and Midlands) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Forest Side State Secondary School (Boys), he will state if measures are being taken during the present financial year for the provision of a football pitch thereat and, if not, why not.
Reply: The construction of a football pitch at the Forest Side State Secondary School (Boys) has already started since June 2009 by the District Contractor of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport and Shipping and is now nearing completion.
A high level fencing around the football pitch as well as levelling and turfing works have been completed. However, some relatively minor snags have been identified and the contractor has been requested to complete the outstanding works during the coming Easter holidays.
Should no unexpected problem arise during the execution of the remaining works, the football pitch should be ready for next term’s resumption of studies in Mid-April 2011.
MGSS – PHASE IV PROJECT (05/04/11)
(No. B/119) Mr S. Dayal (Third Member for Quartier Militaire & Moka) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Mahatma Gandhi State Secondary School at Moka, he will state where matters stand in relation to the -
(a) putting up of the football playground, and
(b) construction of the -
(i) design and art room;
(ii) music and dance room;
(iii) computer and library room, and
(iv) physical education department.
Dr. Bunwaree: Mr Speaker, Sir, I am informed by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport and Shipping that the bidding documents for the Phase IV of the Mahatma Gandhi Secondary School Project comprising the construction of a Music/Dance Block, a Design Technology Workshop/Home Economics Block, a Computer/Library Block, a tarmac courtyard, a sports area including a football ground, a basketball/volleyball pitch and a changing room, and other related works would be ready by May 2011 - next month.
It is expected that tenders would be launched by June this year and, should matters proceed smoothly, the contract for the Phase IV may be awarded by September 2011, and works may start by October 2011.
Mr Obeegadoo: Mr Speaker, Sir, in the list of amenities given by the hon. Minister, I did not hear football pitch. May I ask the hon. Minister, whereas all school constructions begun before 2006 were supposed to include a football pitch, why is it that it has taken six years for the launch of tenders concerning football facilities here?
Dr. Bunwaree: In my answer, I replied: including a football ground - I believe this is what we are talking about. The same question concerning the delay has already been put by my colleague, hon. Dayal, on a few occasions, and I have already given the reply. May I probably remind the House and the hon. Member who could not have taken into consideration the coming into operation of the New Procurement Act, that there were four phases, and we are talking of the fourth one, for which I gave the answer. But there have been three phases before, and by the time the phases were going on, there had been the coming into operation of the New Procurement Act, and the need to go by new bidding procedures. This caused a delay, especially in phase III, and on essaie de rattraper the delay. There was also the fact that works had to be undertaken at the other MGSSSs apart from Moka; Flacq, Nouvelle France and Solferino, which were in similar nature, and works were thus being harmonised.
Mr Obeegadoo: When this particular school was first planned, it was planned to be a Form I to V Secondary School and, therefore, was going to benefit from a footbridge with students being able to use the facilities available at the MGI school proper. Is this still the case?
Dr. Bunwaree: They are going to have all the amenities there and, by next year, I think, everybody will be happy.
SCHOOLS - SPORTS FACILITIES - LOCAL COMMUNITY (18/10/11)
(No. B/776) Ms S. Anquetil (Fourth Member for Vacoas & Floreal) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the sports facilities available in the schools, he will state if consideration will be given for same to be put at the disposal of the local community, after school hours.
Dr. Bunwaree: Mr Speaker, Sir, at the very outset, I wish to inform the House that my Ministry has already a policy to optimise the use of school infrastructure, be it for sports activities or for other purposes, subject to , of course, certain established guidelines.
As regards the use of sports facilities in the schools, members of the local community may have access to such facilities upon request and against payment of a nominal fee and subject to certain conditions. These facilities mainly cover gymnasia, badminton courts and football grounds and can be availed of from 16 00 hrs to 21 00 hrs during weekdays and during weekends from 08 00 hrs to 21 00 hrs depending upon request.
Furthermore, I wish to add that my Ministry has signed MoUs with -
(i) The Ministry of Youth and Sports for access to and utilisation of infrastructural facilities for physical education and sports activities in certain schools.
(ii) The Ministry of Local Government and the Municipal Council of Port Louis for access and utilisation of playground in a primary school by inhabitants.
Arrangements also exist with other Municipal Councils for use of premises of some schools.
Mr Speaker, Sir, the use of school premises is not limited to the use of sports facilities.
My Ministry has been adopting a flexible policy with regard to the use of school infrastructure in respect of the following, upon requests:
(i) educational seminars, conferences, talks;
Mr Speaker: No, I am sorry! The hon. Minister will have to stop there. The question is about sports facilities and not about other issues.
Dr. Bunwaree: I will circulate the fields in which this can be held.
Mr Speaker: The question is about sports facilities.
Dr. Bunwaree: I wish to add also that school infrastructure is used for other purposes, for IT also and 45,600 people have been…
Mr Speaker: I am sorry! The hon. Minister is persisting. I have said this is about sports facilities. The answer should be about sports facilities.
Dr. Bunwaree: But sports facilities also is being shown, education is going through sports facilities.
Mr Speaker: But that is not education, it is sports facilities.
Dr. Bunwaree: That is what I am saying and I am very thankful for that question. The question was raised by other Members before just to inform the public that school infrastructure is being used by the community around for various activities.
Mr Speaker: One thing I have to inform the House is that there are so many other questions which have been put by hon. Members and it is their legitimate right that their question be called within the time prescribed for questions. So, if we take so much time to answer one question, then it is a disservice to the other Members of the House.
Mr Jugnauth: Can the hon. Minister circulate a list of schools and the fees that are requested with regard to different facilities constituency-wise so that Members are aware?
Dr. Bunwaree: For the fees, it is a deposit of Rs1,000 for the season of one year and each time it is used it is Rs35 per hour.
Mr Obeegadoo: Mr Speaker, Sir, the fact that Ms Anquetil, a backbencher of
Government has raised this question, confirms me in the belief that in practice this is not the case. Will the hon. Minister…
(Interruptions)
Mr Speaker: I am sorry! The hon. Member cannot put in doubt the words of the Minister.
Mr Obeegadoo: No, you have the words of the Minister.
Mr Speaker: I am sorry, I have given my ruling. You are saying in practice this is not the same, that is, you are putting the Minister’s words in question, in doubt.
Mr Obeegadoo: With all due respect, Mr Speaker, Sir, you have misconstrued the meaning of what I have said.
Mr Speaker: This is my ruling, that’s all.
Mr Obeegadoo: I have a supplementary. I would wish to ask the Minister since this apparently is a long established policy, what he proposes to do to ensure that in actual fact, in reality, local communities are made aware of this and can benefit from the huge amounts of money spent on the schools?
Dr. Bunwaree: I mentioned it a few times in this very House. I thanked the hon. Member because of this reason to allow the public to know. Now, the request must come from the public and it is there.
Mrs Labelle: Mr Speaker, Sir, in July last the House was informed that a monthly fee of Rs100 is being asked for the use of football grounds and so on. But I think I have just heard the hon. Minister mentioning Rs1,000. Moreover, with your permission, Mr Speaker, Sir, we were also told that a fee of Rs10 per hour is paid for the services of a school caretaker and I think I have heard Rs35. May I know from the hon. Minister whether there has been such a substantive increase?
Dr. Bunwaree: M. le président, un match de foot dure trois heures. R 35 par heure, cela fait environ R 100 pour trois heures.
Mr Uteem: Mr Speaker, Sir, may I know from the hon. Minister what are the criteria used to allocate the sport facilities, is it on a first come first serve basis or priority is given to registered clubs?
Dr. Bunwaree: The application must go through the heads of schools to the zone director and then the work is done there.
Ms Anquetil: M. le président, le ministre pourrait nous informer si ces services sont aussi applicables dans les collèges?
Dr. Bunwaree: Oui, primaire et secondaire.
Mrs Labelle: Mr Speaker, Sir, may I ask the hon. Minister whether he can review the way people apply for these services, because truly most of the Members of the community do not have access to that? May we see to it that facilities are being offered so that they can really have access?
Dr. Bunwaree: I have no problem with that. In fact, I am inviting all the public.
Mr Jugnauth: I just heard the hon. Minister saying that this applies also to secondary schools. I can provide probably details or information that with regard to Quartier Militaire SSS, there have been requests by people in the surrounding, especially clubs where they have been denied access even against payment. So, I can liaise with the Minister to give him the information.
Dr. Bunwaree: This surprises me, but I will have to look into that. It goes against the policy of my Ministry.
B/940 The Honourable Fourth Member for Savanne and Black River (Mrs Radegonde) (06/12/11)
To ask Dr the Honourable Minister of Education and Human Resources:-
Whether, in regard to the Savanne and Black River District, he will state if consideration will be given for the construction of a National College in the region thereof?
The Deputy Speaker: The Table has been apprised that Parliamentary Questions Nos. B/939, B/940, B/945, B/948, B/949 and B/950 have been withdrawn. We move now to next question!
YEAR 2012
GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS – RENOVATION AND UPGRADING – ALLOCATION (15/05/12)
(No. B/69) Ms S. Anquetil (Fourth Member for Vacoas & Floreal) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the allocation of Rs500,000 budgeted for the renovation and upgrading of the Government Schools in Mauritius and in Rodrigues, he will state where matters stand as to the use made thereof.
Dr. Bunwaree: Mr Speaker, Sir, my Ministry has already initiated arrangements for the disbursement to every Government Primary and Secondary School of the grant of Rs 500,000 provided for in this year’s budget.
The objectives of the special grant are to enable Government Primary and Secondary Schools to renovate and improve the school infrastructural environment and purchase modern pedagogical ICT equipment to enhance teaching and learning.
This will give more autonomy to heads of Schools and respective PTAs in the improvements of school infrastructure and thus develop a greater sense of ownership in the management and enhancement of the school environment.
The modalities and conditions for allocation of the special grant are as follows -
(a) Government Primary School with one stream - Rs 300,000 per school
(b) Government Primary School with two streams and Above - Rs 500,000 per school
(c) State Secondary Schools - Rs 500,000 per school
To be eligible for the grant, PTAs should -
(i) be fully registered with the Registrar of Associations,
(ii) produce audited accounts showing evidence that funds have been used for the benefit of the schools, and
(iii) the accounts should be available for verification by my Ministry, as and when required.
PTAs have been requested to ensure proper utilisation of funds, in line with sound financial and procurement procedures, with quotations and tenders being sought from at least three prospective suppliers.
Furthermore, schools are required to submit their projects in line with their respective School Development Plan. A circular to that effect was issued to heads of Government Primary and Secondary Schools in December 2011 requesting them to make proposals by 27 January 2012.
As at 11 May 2012, 207 out 214 Government Primary Schools and all the 69 Secondary Schools have already submitted their projects. A total of Rs105,019,530 out of the Rs150 m. provided for this item has been disbursed.
As regards Rodrigues, a sum of Rs4.8 m. has been transferred to the Rodrigues administration to cater for the needs of the 10 Government Primary Schools.
Ms Anquetil: Je remercie le ministre pour sa réponse. Est-ce que le ministre pourrait informer la Chambre si cette allocation de R 500,000 concerne uniquement le upgrading et la rénovation des bâtiments ou si cette allocation s’adresse aussi à la maintenance des infrastructures sportives des écoles ?
Dr. Bunwaree: For maintenance, we have a specific budget for that. It’s for the work that I have already mentioned. Even for ICT infrastructure, there is a list of projects. This has to be discussed at the level of the school with the collaboration of the zone.
Mr Jhugroo: Mr Speaker, Sir, can the hon. Minister circulate a list of all schools that have been allocated this fund?
Dr. Bunwaree: Almost all schools. I have mentioned 207 out of 214, and the rest will be forthcoming. As regards secondary schools, all the 69 schools have been allocated this fund.
Mrs Hanoomanjee: Mr Speaker, Sir, the hon. Minister has just given us the amount which has been disbursed. Can he tell us how many schools, in fact, have benefited from this Rs500,000?
Dr. Bunwaree: I have a list of all the projects. I can circulate that list school by school.
(APPENDIX)
Mrs Ribot: Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to know from the hon. Minister whether a close monitoring is done to make sure that the fund is being rightly used and what measures are going to be taken against the PTAs and the schools that are not making proper use of that grant?
Dr. Bunwaree: Well, they will be taken to task, Mr Speaker, Sir.
Mrs Ribot: I would also like to know from the hon. Minister, Mr Speaker, Sir, whether it is the common procedure to give the cheque of that grant to heads of schools in presence of Ministers and MPs as was the case in Quatre Bornes?
Dr. Bunwaree: Well, this is a question for the PTA to decide.
WOOTON – MOTORWAY – PEDESTRIAN FLYOVER (12/06/12)
(No. B/287) Dr. R. Sorefan (Fourth Member for La Caverne & Phoenix) asked the vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport and Shipping whether, in regard to the motorway at Wooton, in Curepipe, in the vicinity of the Doha Secondary School, he will state if he has received representations in relation to the inconveniences caused by students crossing the motorway and, if so, indicate if
consideration will be given for the construction of a pedestrian flyover thereat.
The vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport & Shipping (Mr A. Bachoo): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the reply is in the affirmative. The request also came from the Prime Minister of this country. Two lay-bys have already been constructed. Bid for the construction of two foot bridges in the Wooton area have been received and is being evaluated. The contract would be awarded shortly.
Mr Bérenger: Can I ask the hon. Minister if his Ministry has carried out an inquiry to find out how useful most of those bridges are? A good number of those footbridges are of no use at all, and I don’t think we can say that it is good for the environment. Has a survey been carried to conclude whether some of these footbridges should be done away with?
Mr Bachoo: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Leader of the Opposition is right because in many places we have not undertaken any such special investigations, but we are aware that in many places people are not using those flyovers. Unfortunately, there are certain places where we have got no other alternative than having recourse to this, particularly in the Doha area because we have got about 900 students going to that school, and there is no other alternative than to provide it. If you go for let’s say underpass, that too is risky.
There are a few places where we have put underpass, but those are not being properly utilized. For example, at St. Jean, we have one, and at Grande Rivière also.
REGIS CHAPERON SSS – RENOVATION WORKS (26/06/12)
(No. B/398) Mr K. Ramano (Second Member for Belle Rose & Quatre Bornes) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Regis Chaperon State Secondary School, he will state if -
(a) a tender has been launched for major renovation works to be carried out
thereat, and
(b) he has received representations from the Parents Teachers Association thereof, in relation to the overall state of the infrastructure thereof and if so, if consideration will be given for the taking of urgent remedial measures in relation thereto.
Reply: In regard to part (a) of the question, major extension and rehabilitation works at the Dr Regis Chaperon SSS are being carried out in two phases.
Phase I of the project consists in the construction of -
a) a new two-storey toilet block;
b) a new three-storey specialist room block that will accommodate one laboratory each for Biology, Chemistry, Physics and 2 computer rooms;
c) a boundary wall, and
d) covering of the canal crossing the school compound.
The contract has been awarded on 05 June 2012 and works are expected to start by end of June 2012 for a contractual duration of fourteen (14) months.
Renovation works to existing building and gymnasium will be undertaken in Phase II of the project and comprises -
(a) waterproofing works;
(b) review of the whole electrical system;
(c) conversion of the existing laboratories into classrooms;
(d) replacement of damaged naco frames, and
(e) remedial works to any spalled concrete and cracks.
Preliminary drawings are being finalized and, as per tentative implementation schedule, it is expected to launch tenders by September 2012. Works are expected to start early January 2013.
Regarding part (b) of the question, I am in presence of representations from the members of the Parents Teachers Association of the school regarding the defective state of the toilet and cracks and spalling in the existing school buildings due to their old state. I had a meeting with the PTA on Monday 18 June 2012 and members were apprised of the latest development concerning both Phase I and Phase II of the projects at Dr Regis Chaperon SSS.
Furthermore, the advisability of shifting students to ex-Marcel Cabon SSS on a
temporary basis has also been raised. The matter is being discussed at the PTA level after which a decision would be taken in consultation with the PTA and the students.
In any case the upgrading of the present college has been decided upon and will, in no circumstances, be allowed to undergo any delay.
Furthermore, with a view to mitigating the emanation of foul smell in the toilets -
(a) all clogged pipes in the toilet blocks have already been cleared to ensure that the flushing tanks are in good running conditions, and
(b) the toilets are being cleaned regularly with high water pressure.
Further, arrangements have been made for the provision of a cleaner on a full-time basis to ensure overall cleanliness of the school premises.
GOODLANDS SSS – PHASE II CONSTRUCTION (26/06/12)
(No. A/185) Mr A. Gungah (First Member for Grand’ Baie & Poudre d’Or) ask the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the construction of the Phase II of the Goodlands State Secondary School, he will state the-
(a) scope of works thereof;
(b) estimated cost thereof, and
(c) expected start and completion dates thereof.
Reply: In regard to part (a) of the question, the scope of works in respect of Phase II at Goodlands SSS consisted of the construction of additional classrooms, a science block, a toilet Block and a playfield for a contractual amount of Rs 101.3 million.
In regard to part (b), works started in February 2009 and were completed in January 2011except for the playfield. The delay in completing the playfield was to a large extent due to the long period of drought. The playfield has been completed in June 2012 and taking over exercise has been scheduled by end of this week.
DR. REGIS CHAPERON STATE SECONDARY SCHOOL - REHABILITATION AND EXTENSION WORKS (26/06/12)
(No. A/188) Mr M. Seeruttun(Second Member for Vieux Grand Port & Rose Belle) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Dr. Regis Chaperon State Secondary School, he will state –
(a) where matters stand in relation to the major rehabilitation and extension works to be carried out thereat, indicating if consideration will be given for the renovation of the gymnasium thereof and, if so, when and, if not, why not, and
(b) if the Waste Water Management Authority has been apprised of the foul smells emanating thereat and if so, indicate the outcome thereof.
Reply: In regard to part (a) of the question, major extension and rehabilitation works at the Dr Regis Chaperon SSS are being carried out in two phases. Phase I of the project consists in the construction of -
e) a new two-storey toilet block;
f) a new three-storey specialist room block that will accommodate one laboratory each for Biology, Chemistry, Physics and 2 computer rooms;
g) a boundary wall, and
h) covering of the canal crossing the school compound.
The contract has been awarded on 05 June 2012. Works are expected to start by end of June 2012 and will be of contractual duration of fourteen (14) months.
Phase II of the project which concerns the existing buildings and the gymnasium will comprise -
(f) waterproofing works;
(g) review of the whole electrical system;
(h) conversion of the existing laboratories into classrooms;
(i) replacement of damaged naco frames, and
(j) renovation works and remedial works to spalled concrete and cracks in all buildings including the gymnasium.
Preliminary drawings are being finalized and, all efforts are being undertaken for tenders to be launched by September 2012. Works are expected to start early 2013 and would be of 15months’ duration.
In regard to part (b) of the question, I am informed that my ministry has approached the Wastewater Management Authority (WMA) on 15 February 2012 regarding the emanation of foul smell and reflux of sewer water within the school premises after heavy rainfall. The WMA has submitted a report on 18 June 2012 to the effect that the sewer line was in good condition and that problem of foul smell is expected to be resolved with the construction of new toilet block in Phase I.
STATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS - RENOVATION WORKS (26/06/12)
(No. A/189) Mr M. Seeruttun (Second Member for Vieux Grand Port & RoseBelle) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the State Secondary Schools which are thirty years old and above, he will give a list thereof, indicating the ones which have been earmarked for major renovation works, indicating in each case, the –
(a) scope of the works;
(b) estimated cost, and
(c) expected start and completion dates thereof.
Reply: I am tabling the information requested by the hon. Member in the Library of the National Assembly.
REGIS CHAPERON SSS, BELLE ROSE – INFRASTRUCTURE (03/07/12)
(No. B/425) Mrs L. Ribot (Third Member for Stanley & Rose Hill) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Regis Chaperon State Secondary School, in Belle Rose, he will state if an inquiry has been carried out on the state of the infrastructure thereof, and if so, indicate the -
(a) outcome thereof, and
(b) remedial measures that will be taken in relation thereto.
The Minister of Tertiary Education, Science, Research and Technology (Dr. R. Jeetah): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, with your permission, I shall reply to this question.
I am informed that officers of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources and the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport and Shipping carried out a survey regarding the state of the building at Dr. Regis Chaperon State Secondary School at the beginning of 2011.
In regard to part (a) of the question, the survey indicated that extension and major rehabilitation works had to be undertaken.
As regards part (b) of the question, for practical reasons, it was decided to implement the extension and rehabilitation works in two phases.
Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, should the hon. Member require details of the project, I shall gladly circulate the information desired.
Mrs Ribot: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, we know that the hon. Minister made a site visit at the college this very morning. I would like him to inform the House about his findings of the visit.
Dr. Jeetah: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I don’t think that my findings would differ too much from those of the officers. The decision has been taken that there is need to do some major rehabilitation works plus extension works, and I am given to understand that work is due to start soon. So, I think we will have to bear with whatever is going to happen.
Mrs Ribot: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am referring to the reply given to the PQ on 22 March 2011 where the hon. Minister of Education and Human Resources already spoke of Phase I that consisted of extension and related works to the existing building. That was supposed to start by June 2011. That would be followed by Phase II where the survey works would be completed by mid April 2011, tenders would be floated by September 2011 and works were expected to start in November 2011. I would like to know from the hon. Minister whether he could inform us the reasons for the delay. Can the delay be justified?
Dr. Jeetah: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, tenders in respect of the above works were floated with the closing date being the 23 March 2011. Following evaluation and recommendation of the CPB, that is, the Central Procurement Board, the successful bidder was notified on 12 August 2011. However, one of the unsuccessful bidders made an appeal for review to the IRP, that is, the Independent Review Panel. It was only some 9 months later, that is, on 24 May 2012 that the matter was settled and the CPB gave their approval to the Ministry of Education and Human Resources for the contract to be awarded to the successful bidder and, accordingly, the contract was awarded on the 06 June 2012. Handing over of the is scheduled for the 06 July 2012 and, as I have said earlier on, works will, therefore, start shortly and will be for a contractual duration of 15 months.
Mrs Ribot: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is being proposed these days to the PTA that the students of that college moved to Marcel Cabon Secondary School. I would like to know whether the hon. Minister is fully aware of the reasons for which Marcel Cabon College was closed.
Dr. Jeetah: Excuse me! Could you repeat the question? I can reply with regard to the current situation at the Marcel Cabon Secondary School.
The Deputy Speaker: These two issues are not linked. Hon. Obeegadoo!
Mr Obeegadoo: I will re-phrase and put the same question. Being given that further to the protests by the Parent Teacher Association of Regis Chaperon SSS, the Ministry has proposed the transfer of all students to what was former Marcel Cabon SSS. Will the hon. Minister undertake that such a transfer will
Dr. Jeetah: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am aware that the substantive Minister has had discussions with the PTA. I am given to understand that the hon. Minister of Education and Human Resources, hon. Dr. Bunwaree, has the concern for the safety of the students and that is why they are having discussions. I am sure when he comes back, he will find a solution to this problem.
Mr Obeegadoo: One of the issues raised by the parents is the state of the electrical installations. There has been one unfortunate accident already in the past; could the hon. Minister undertake to convey to the hon. Minister of Education and Human Resources the urgent need to address those issues well before the refurbishment works get under way at least, so that there is no threat to the safety of the students?
Dr. Jeetah: Yes, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am aware that that complete rewiring of the electrical system is due in phase II of the project, but I shall definitely convey the message that we have to take care of this issue as soon as possible.
DR. REGIS CHAPERON SSS - RENOVATION WORKS (10/07/12)
(No. A/226) Mr M. Seeruttun (Second Member for Vieux Grand Port & Rose Belle) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Phase I of the renovation works to be carried out at the Dr Regis Chaperon State Secondary School, he will state the –
(a) detailed scope of works therefor;
(b) name of the contractor therefor, and
(c) cost
Reply: Phase I comprises extension works while renovation works have been scheduled in Phase II.
In regard to part (a) of the question, the detailed scope of works for the Phase I consists in the construction of -
a) a Ground+1 toilet block of an approximate floor area of 115 m2 with a total of 19 cubicles including two for disabled students and two stainless urinals of 3.6 metres each;
b) a Ground+3 specialist room block that will accommodate one laboratory each for Biology, Chemistry, Physics and two computer rooms of an approximate floor area of 1,416 m2;
c) a boundary wall of about 150 metres in length;
d) covered links of about 80 metres in length;
e) covering of the canal crossing the school compound over a distance of about 100 metres,
and
f) a parking area for some twenty vehicles.
Phase I also provides for electrical works, gas & plumbing installations and for fixed furniture and fittings.
In regard to parts (b) and (c) of the question, the contract has been awarded to Canakiah Associates Co. Ltd on 06 June 2012 in an amount of Rs76.95 m.
ADOLPHE DE PLEVITZ SSS – PAINTING WORKS (30/10/12)
(No. A/278) Mr A. Gungah (First Member for Grand’ Baie and Poudre D’or) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources whether, in regard to the Adolphe de Plevitz State Secondary School in Grand’Baie, he will state if he has been informed that the external walls thereof need to be repainted and, if so, if remedial measures will be taken.
Reply: I am informed that the painting of the external walls of the Adolphe de Plevitz State Secondary School has been soiled by dust emissions due to ongoing construction works at Grand’Baie La Croisette Project and needs a fresh coat of paint. In this respect, tender documents for external painting works are being finalised. Should everything proceed smoothly, works are expected to start this December year and will be of duration of eight weeks
YEAR 2013
MATTERS RAISED:
G. M. D. ACTCHIA & COLLINE MONNERON STATE SECONDARY SCHOOL - SPORTS FACILITIES (23/04/13)
Mr R. Uteem (Second Member for Port Louis South & Port Louis Central): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to raise a matter which concerns both the hon. Minister of Education and Human Resources and the hon. Minister of Youth and Sports. It is in relation to G. M. D. Atchia State Secondary School and Colline Monneron State Secondary School.
When these schools were constructed a few years ago, there was a Memorandum of Agreement, I understand, which was signed between the two Ministries, which would allow inhabitants of the vicinity to have access to sports facilities which are offered, that is, football, volleyball, basketball etc.
But it is now several years and the inhabitants are still waiting to have
access to these sports facilities. I understand that for one reason or the other - I do not know why - up to now, all the clubs and the inhabitants of the vicinity of Colline Monneron are not allowed to practice sports on these playgrounds after school hours.
Can I ask the hon. Minister if he could look into the matter?
The Minister of Education and Human Resources (Dr. V. Bunwaree): I am very surprised to hear what the hon. Member is saying. In fact, the Ministry of Education has taken over and there is no restriction at all. There are only some conditions which have to be followed.
I will look into that anyway.
(7.04 p.m)
MATTERS RAISED:
LA CONFIANCE COLLEGE – ROAD SAFETY (11/06/13)
Mr F. Quirin (Third Member for Beau Bassin & Petite Rivière) : M. le président, ma requête ce soir s’adresse au ministre des infrastructures publiques et je dois souligner que c’est la troisième fois que je le sollicite pour le même problème, c'est-à-dire le danger que représente pour les élèves et enseignants du collège de La Confiance ainsi que pour les habitants de la région. Toute la flotte de véhicules sortant de la rue Albatross au Morcellement de La Confiance et de l’impasse La Confiance pour aller vers la rue Dr. Reid. L’entrée du collège se trouve à proximité de ces deux rues qui sont, je le rappelle, régulièrement utilisées par les automobilistes qui prennent cette rue comme raccourcie ; en sortant de Rose Hill et pour aller vers Port Louis
évitant ainsi les embouteillages du centre ville de Beau Bassin et bien sûr tout aussi bien dans le sens inverse, c'est-à-dire, de Port Louis vers Rose Hill. Donc, nous avons eu l’occasion d’effectuer une descente des lieux avec le PPS Reza Issack, il y a quelques mois de cela, mais, malheureusement, rien n’a été fait jusqu’à présent. Comme je l’ai souligné, M le président, c’est la troisième fois que je sollicite l’honorable ministre Bachoo afin qu’il intervienne assez
rapidement et personnellement, j’habite la région et je peux vous dire que tous ces véhicules qui empruntent la rue Albatross, Dr. Reid et l’impasse La Confiance, effectivement représentent un danger pour les habitants et les élèves du collège.
Donc, l’honorable ministre Bachoo avait, lors de ma dernière intervention concernant ce problème, promis d’installer des speed cameras, qui je le souligne ne sont pas la solution. Ce qu’on souhaite et ce que je propose, si l’honorable ministre est d’accord, c’est d’installer quelques obstacles dans les rues que j’ai citées, même s’il va nous dire que ce n’est plus dans sa politique d’installer des obstacles, c’est la solution à mon avis à ce problème et aussi de convertir l’impasse La Confiance en one-way, sens interdit, à partir de Dr. Reid en allant vers l’impasse La Confiance de façon à ce que les véhicules ne puissent pas entrer dans l’impasse de La Confiance et prennent uniquement Albatross vers Dr. Reid.
Mr Speaker : You are left with one minute ! You have to give the hon. Minister the chance to answer!
Mr Quirin : Je compte sur l’intervention de l’honorable ministre Bachoo. Merci, M. le président.
The Vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport and Shipping (Mr A. Bachoo) : Mr Speaker, Sir, earlier I have taken up the matter with the TMRSU and they explained to me that it is not so easy to declare oneway.
It is very difficult; built up areas on both sides and I have taken up the matter.
If I am not mistaken, TMRSU also contacted the hon. Member at that time. But I will have to have a fresh look at this and I will try to see what is possible. If anything is humanly possible for me to do, I am definitely going to help you.
At 08.19 p.m., the Assembly was, on its rising, adjourned to Tuesday 18 June 2013 at 11.30 a.m.
MATTERS RAISED
SSS GOODLANDS – WORK SITE – ACCIDENT (22/07/14)
Mr A. Ganoo (First Member for Savanne & Black River): M. le président, je voudrais attirer l’attention du ministre du Travail au sujet du triste décès d’un habitant de Palma qui se trouve dans ma circonscription alors qu’il travaillait sur un chantier de construction de l’Etat, le SSS Goodlands. En effet, M. le président, M. Jacques Profire, un jeune maçon, a été une autre victime de la négligence et de l’insouciance de son employeur. Ce malheureux accident de travail a été répercuté dans la presse d'aujourd’hui et le malheureux a péri quand des blocs mal sécurisés se sont affaissés sur lui.
Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, one is too many. In this case, we have been informed that the main contractor had already been sanctioned by a Prohibition Order on the part of the Ministry of Labour since April of this year. The inspectors of the Ministry of Labour had effected several visits of the site and had, in fact, drawn the attention of the contractor and prohibited him from using tubular steel scaffold in certain areas of this building as this represents risk to the employees at work. I would appeal to the hon. Minister of Labour to urgently conduct a full141 fledged enquiry into the matter so that justice be done and the matter be brought to Court so that those responsible for this accident be brought to account
The Minister of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment (Mr S. Mohamed):
Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I thank the hon. Member for raising this matter. I can assure the hon. Member that we have already started looking into this very sad fact. True it is that my Ministry has ever since the 22 of April 2014 carried out an inspection on that particular site, referred to by the hon. Member. A Prohibition Order was issued on the 23 of April 2014 and, in spite of the Prohibition Order, visits were carried out on the 08 of May, 18 of June and 10 of July and on the 18 June, a contravention was established for failing to comply with the Prohibition Order. The file has been referred to the Prosecution Unit already for an Information on several Counts: violation of the Occupational Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations as well as the Occupational Safety and Health (Work at Height) Regulations and each of those offences bear approximately one year imprisonment or Rs75,000 fine
However, having looked at the Criminal Code, I am wondering whether section 239 of the Criminal Code - Involuntary homicide - does not fall on all folds with regard to this particular offence, and I can assure all the hon. Members of the House and the public at large, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, that a lesson must be shown here for the negligence and imprudence having been caused by the contractor and a loss of life having ensued is very sad and unacceptable.
TRIOLET – STATE SECONDARY SCHOOL –
COMPULSORY ACQUISITION (01/09/15)
(No. B/375) Mr P. Jhugroo (Second Member for Mahebourg & Plaine Magnien) asked the Vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Housing and Lands whether, in regard to the compulsory acquisition of land for the extension of the State Secondary School in Triolet, he will, in respect of each portion of land, state the –
(a) name/s of the former owner/s thereof;
(b) extent thereof, and
(c) amount of money paid thereto following the decision of the Board of Assessment in relation thereto.
The Vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Housing and Lands (Mr S. Soodhun): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, Government compulsorily acquired in terms of a Notice under Section 8 of the Land Acquisition Act duly registered and transcribed on 23 September 2002 in Volume T.V. 5011 No. 73, four plots of land situated at Triolet for the public purpose of constructing a State Secondary School. Details of these are:
(i) Plot No. 1 of an extent of 1A 51p from Ww Mrs Dhunraz Ram;
(ii) Plot No. 2 of an extent of 1A 53p from Ww Mrs Jasso Tulsi;
(iii) Plot No. 3 of an extent of 0A 84p from Ww Mrs Talayboodeen Noormamode in usufruct and Mr Saleem Noormamode in bare ownership, and
(iv) Plot No. 4 of an extent of 0A 84p from Mr Cadamhossen Jaoffar.
With regard to part (c) of the question, offers were made to the owners for the four plots as per assessment of the Valuation Department as follows –
Portion No. | Name of Former Owners | Offer made |
1 | Mrs Ww Dhunraz Ram | Rs680,923/- |
2 | Mrs Jasso Tulsi | Rs691,964/- |
3 | Mrs Ww Talayboodeen Noormamode in usufruct and Mr Saleem Noormamode in bare ownership | Rs378,645/- |
4 | Mr Cadamhossen Jaoffar | Rs3,033,033/- |
However, only the former owner of Plot No. 4 agreed to the offer made to him and payment of the relevant compensation was made in June 2003. As for the other three owners, they each submitted counter claims which were referred to the Valuation Department in September 2002. Following assessment of the counter claims, the Valuation Department advised that the cases be referred to the Board of Assessment.
On 06 February 2007, the Board of Assessment made its award as follows –
(a) Rs7,575,810 to Ww Mrs Dhunraz Ram for Plot No. 1;
(b) Rs7,698,486 to Ww Mrs Jasso Tulsi for Plot No. 2, and
(c) Rs4,217,166 to Ww Mrs Talayboodeen Noormamode in usufruct and Mr Saleem Noormamode in bare ownership for Plot No.3.
The Solicitor General and the Chief Government Valuer were informed of the three awards on 27 February 2007. The three awards were subsequently deposited at the office of the Chief Finance Officer of the Supreme Court on 02 and 11 July 2007 for payment.
Mr Jhugroo: Can the hon. Vice-Prime Minister confirm whether the plot of land is found in an irrigation zone whereby no conversion is permitted?
Mr Soodhun: I wish to draw the attention of the House that no information is available in my Ministry regarding the irrigation zone.
Mr Jhugroo: Can the hon. Vice-Prime Minister inform the House when this case had been referred to the Board of Assessment, did the Board abide by Section 18 sub-section (4) and sub-section (5)?
Mr Soodhun: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I have stated earlier in my reply to the main question that the case of Plots Nos. 1, 2 and 3 were referred to the Board of Assessment as no arrangement was reached on the amount of compensation payable. Well, at least I have to go to the Library of the Supreme Court to see the sections concerned.
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Jhugroo, next question, please!
Mr Jhugroo: I have got supplementary questions regarding a pertinent issue. Did the Solicitor General, while advising payment of compensation at the rate of Rs5 m. per arpent, did abide by sections 18 and 19 of the Land Acquisition Act?
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Jhugroo, the hon. Vice-Prime Minister did not have the answer for the first two questions. Please, let us not waste the time of the House!
Mr Soodhun: No, in fact, there is a maldonne. We have to agree that there has been a maldonne in this case.
(Interruptions)
Yes, definitely. I can understand the Chief Whip. As I stated earlier, the Board…
(Interruptions)
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Vice-Prime Minister, please! According to the Standing Orders, you may not reflect on a legal opinion or comment on the decision of the Court of law.
Mr Soodhun: No, I am just giving the facts, where the difference…
The Deputy Speaker: It is not up to the Vice-Prime Minister to express a legal opinion!
Mr Soodhun: With your permission, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir. In my opinion, I am going through the file and I am just giving those details to enlighten the House. It is very important to enlighten the House.
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Rutnah!
Mr Rutnah: Given the huge public interest in the question raised by hon. Jhugroo, is the hon. Vice-Prime Minister prepared to provide answers in writing to this question?
Mr Mohamed: On a point of order, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir. I thought that you had already ruled. The second issue is that the Standing Orders are very clear. One, we cannot ask, as it was couched in the sections of the law - the legal opinion of the hon. Vice-Prime Minister cannot be sought for. There is another important issue as well and I thought that you had already ruled.
The Deputy Speaker: Indeed, I did say that the hon. Vice-Prime Minister may not reflect on a legal opinion.
(Interruptions)
Mr Soodhun: It is not my opinion. I maintain, it is not my opinion. I am going through the file that exists and to enlighten the hon. Member, for the sake of the country….
(Interruptions)
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Mohamed, are you taking a point of order?
Mr Mohamed: Yes, it is a point of order.
The Deputy Speaker: I have already taken your point of order. Please, sit down. Let us move on to the next question, please!
(Interruptions)
Mr Jhugroo: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, one last question? Can I ask the hon. Vice-Prime Minister whether…
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Jhugroo, we have spent eight minutes on this question!
(Interruptions)
Mr Jhugroo: Yes, but is a question of national interest! One last question, please? Can I ask the hon. Vice-Prime Minister whether this case has been referred to ICAC and, if so, when, and what is the outcome thereof?
Mr Soodhun: The case was referred to ICAC in 2008. However, my Ministry has not been informed of an outcome so far.
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Jhugroo!
GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS & COLLEGES - SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE – PUBLIC USE (11/07/17)
(No. B/532) Mr F. Quirin (Fourth Member for Beau Bassin & Petite Rivière) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research whether, in regard to the Government schools and colleges, she will state where matters stand as to the decision taken for the sports infrastructures thereof to be put at the disposal of members of the public after school hours.
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the House that there is a policy to optimise the use of school sports infrastructure with a view to democratizing sports and leisure activities and to develop a sports culture.
A Memorandum of Understanding for the use of football grounds after school hours and during weekends was signed between the Ministry of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The MoU provides for the football grounds of 33 primary schools and 16 secondary schools which have separate access to be put at the disposal of the Ministry of Youth and Sports for use free of charge by the public. As per the MoU, the management of these infrastructures after school
hours rests with the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
Madam Speaker, following the Memoranda of Understanding signed between the Ministry of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research, the Ministry of Local Government and Outer Islands and the Municipal Council of Port Louis, two schools namely, the Surti Sunni Government School and the Jean Lebrun Government School have been put at the disposal of the public and I am informed that the infrastructure for sports facilities in 32 schools are currently being used by the public. Further, upgrading works are planned to be carried out at the football grounds of 14 schools.
With a view to catering the widely utilisation of the facilities by the public after
school hours, I am further informed that the services of sports animateurs have been enlisted by the Ministry of Youth and Sports to manage and coordinate the use of the football grounds.
Madam Speaker, there is in place an arrangement at the level of the four educational zones for the use of multipurpose halls, gymnasia for practice of badminton and other sports activities to members of the public after school hours and during weekend against payment of fees. Such facilities are being extended to the public in 19 schools. Request for use of these facilities are managed at the level of the respective zonal directorates.
Madam Speaker, bearing in mind all the benefits that practising sports can have on our youth and adults in terms of having a healthy lifestyle both for the mind and the body, controlling stress, building self-confidence, amongst others, we definitely are promoting this culture of practising sports by enabling the public at large to avail themselves of the existing sports facilities available in schools.
Madam Speaker: Hon. Quirin!
Mr Quirin: Merci, Madame la présidente. L’honorable ministre de l’Education Estelle au courant que le gymnase du collège John Kennedy à Beau Bassin n’est toujours pas disponible et accessible que ce soit aux élèves ou au public et, avec votre permission, Madame la présidente, je vais déposer quelques photos de la cour, le gymnase est fermé depuis plusieurs années déjà et la cour, à part les chiens errants, on ne voit pas grand monde et je vais déposer ces photos.
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: Madam Speaker, I am glad to inform the hon. Member that care is being taken to upgrade the whole land around the gymnasium which is, I have been told, about 10 Arpents. So, we are trying to come up with the project for the area.
As far as the gymnasium is concerned, it has been handed over by the contractor to the Ministry and it is being used by the students at school. It has not yet been given to the public at large but it is being used by the students.
Mr Quirin: Serait-il possible pour l’honorable ministre, Madame la présidente, de déposer une liste de toutes les écoles et collèges dont les infrastructures sportives sont mises à la disposition du grand public et, bien sûr, incluant les horaires et les tarifs qui sont réclamés au public?
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: Madam Speaker, all the football grounds are given free of charge, whereas for the gymnasium, there is an amount of Rs100 charged for one hour for the badminton court and Rs200 for the whole gymnasium for different sports activities.
Madam Speaker: Hon. Armance!
Mr Armance: Thank you, Madam Speaker. The hon. Minister mentioned about an MoU, will it be possible for the Minister to table the MoU at the National Assembly Library so that we can have access to know the terms and conditions because it has been brought to my attention that several requests to use the gymnasium at la Tour Koenig SSS have been refused so far?
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: Madam Speaker, I have just mentioned that the MoU is with regard to the football grounds whereas for the gymnasium it is dealt with at the level of the Ministry, at the level of the zonal directorate upon request from the public. It all depends on whether the access is free, that is, we do not have a common access to the school and to the gymnasium.
Furthermore, there are certain cases, I have noted, where because of problems which have cropped up certain facilities were no longer given to the public but I will check for that particular school.
Madam Speaker: Last question, hon. Osman Mahomed!
Mr Osman Mahomed: Thank you, Madam Speaker. In her opening statement, the hon. Minister has mentioned enhancement of the sports culture and animateur is being provided under the MoU. Are coaches being provided as well because if you take certain disciplines like badminton and all, not many people know how to play it properly, is it in the MoU or can it be considered?
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: Madam Speaker, I have just mentioned that the use of the grounds, etc. is done after school hours and is managed by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
When I am talking about the animateurs, these are people who have been recruited by the Ministry of Youth and Sports who have been trained for that particular purpose. As far as during the school hours is concerned, obviously, we do have sports officers at schools.
Madam Speaker: Next question, hon. Uteem!
MATTERS RAISED
PITON - STATE SECONDARY SCHOOL - PLAYGOUND
Mr S. Rutnah (Third Member for Piton & Rivière du Rempart): Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir. My concern today is in relation to my Constituency and it is addressed to the hon. Minister of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research.
Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, at Piton, there is a State Secondary School and there is a playground there, a stadium as well which not only the students of the college use to practice sports, but adults as well in the evening. For the past four months, it cannot be used because the grass has grown up to 2 feet, 3 feet long.
They have made several requests for the grass to be trimmed so that the playground could be used. That has not been done for the last 4 months. I make an appeal to the hon. Minister to try to resolve this problem so that people
can use the playground.
Thank you.
The Minister of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and
Scientific Research (Mrs L. D. Dookun-Luchoomun): I will refer the matter to the Zone Directorate and I will make sure that they do the necessary.
The Deputy Speaker: Hon. Uteem!
MELROSE GOVERNMENT SCHOOL - SWIMMING POOL
(10/07/2018)
(No. B/600) Mr K. Tarolah (Third Member for Montagne Blanche & GRSE) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research whether, in regard to the proposed construction of a Learning Swimming Pool Project at the Melrose Government School, she will state the expected start and completion dates thereof.
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: Madam Speaker, on 23 January 2017, La Natation Scolaire Project was launched by the Prime Minister. This project is being implemented by my Ministry in collaboration with the Mauritius Sports Council. About 1,448 pupils have participated in it last year. The main objective of the project is to teach swimming to pupils of Grade 4 so as to prepare them for safe swimming. This, with a view to reducing drowning and instilling survival skills in our young generation. We intend to cover all school-going pupils in the years to come. My Ministry has decided to construct learning swimming pools in four primary schools, one in each zone so as to ensure that a larger number of pupils benefit from the program.
I am informed that for the Learning Swimming Pool at Melrose Government School, invitation for bids for construction works has already been launched on 26 June 2018 with closing date being 02 August 2018. Works expected to start in September/October 2018 and the expected completion date is March/April 2019.
I am also pleased to state that three of the tenders for the construction of swimming pools have already been launched.
Madam Speaker: Hon. Tarolah!
Mr Tarolah: Thank you, Madam Speaker. Can the hon. Minister inform the House whether arrangements will be made for other schools students to use the swimming pool?
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: Certainly, as I have just said, we are trying to make sure that all school-going students do get the chance of getting this training and the swimming pools would be opened to other primary schools of the region. We are starting this year with the four swimming pools, next year we will be having additional pools in areas where we feel that there is a demand.
Mr Tarolah: Will this amenity be available for the general public to use after school hours?
Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun: The sports facilities present in the secondary schools are normally available for people in the region, but for the primary schools, the type of swimming pools that we are putting in there is mainly for students, for school-going pupils. We are going to open it to the primary schools of the region. So, other primary schools students will be able to come in for training, but not really open to the public.
SECONDARY
INFRASATRUCTURE
SCHOOLS - SCIENCE SUBJECTS – LABORATORY FACILITIES
(10/07/2018)
(No. B/595) Mr G. Lepoigneur (Fifth Member for Beau Bassin & Petite Rivière) asked the Minister of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research whether, in regard to the schools which have no laboratories or have unequipped laboratories, she will state when consideration will be given for the setting up of equipped laboratories thereat to allow the students getting on with the science subjects.
Reply: I am informed that, with regard to science subjects, secondary schools are equipped with the required science laboratories for the teaching of science subjects.
As far as primary schools are concerned, in accordance with the new NCF for Grades 1 to 6, science is taught in Grades 3 to 6. The NCF does not require specifically laboratory facilities for teaching of science at the primary level. However, I am informed that there is a science laboratory in some 58 primary schools. In schools with no such facility, teachers make use of Science Kits for enhancing the teaching and learning of Science.
