Reza Uteem, Minister of Labour: "We Have Freed the Country from a Climate of Fear and Restored Social Dialogue"

Reza Uteem, the Minister of Labour, stated, "We have freed the country from a climate of fear and restored social dialogue." One year after the change in power led by the Alliance of Change, the Minister reflects on the "positive" outcomes of their governance, discussing the reforms implemented, ongoing challenges in the job market, and the coalition's stability.

After one year of the Alliance of Change's victory, what is your overall assessment of the government's actions? What achievements best reflect the promised spirit of renewal for Mauritians?
In a short time, we have accomplished significant reforms to strengthen democracy and empower the Director of Public Prosecutions, along with institutions dedicated to effectively combating fraud and corruption. There is no longer "reward money," no more surveillance of the public’s every move. The people are liberated and can express themselves freely, whether on social media, television, or radio.

Regarding Parliament, Speaker Shirin Aumeeruddy-Cziffra has restored its prestige. In terms of Law and Order, our commitment to combating issues like drug trafficking is evident.

Economically, despite inheriting a disastrous situation, we managed to provide a 14th month salary and wage compensation to offset the loss of purchasing power. We revised tax policies to ensure the wealthiest contribute more while lightening the burden on low-income workers. Currently, 90% of Mauritians do not pay income tax. We have also slowed the depreciation of the rupee and allocated over Rs 1.5 billion in subsidies to lower the prices of essential goods such as milk, cheese, and canned products.

Within my ministry, we began implementing the recommendations from the inter-ministerial committee on hiring foreign workers. A new law regulates recruitment agents, ensuring they adhere to a code of conduct and that foreign workers are not exploited by unscrupulous intermediaries.

The employment permit system has been significantly simplified: the quota requirement has been replaced with proof of inability to hire locally, benefiting small and medium enterprises. We also addressed the challenges faced by the elderly in hiring caregivers and domestic staff.

Finally, we have restored dialogue between social partners, both unions and employer representatives. The Labour Conference held in September allowed us to gather valuable data, and we are now preparing legislative amendments to improve workers' rights.

The Ministry of Labour was particularly expected to address issues like job insecurity, minimum wage, and worker protection. What concrete progress has been made, and what reforms are planned?
The Labour and Employment Conference aimed to establish this dialogue. I wanted to break from the previous government's practice of amending labour laws through the Finance Bill without prior consultation. Today, we prioritize collaboration, taking into account workers' demands as well as employers' expectations to achieve win-win solutions.

Many observers feel the promised change is slow to materialize, particularly concerning governance and transparency. What do you say to those who believe the government’s initial momentum has waned?
I believe that regarding good governance, this government operates transparently. Unlike the previous regime, we do not engage in cover-ups. This is why there have been several arrests, including that of Mamy Ravatomanga from Madagascar. As Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam has repeatedly stated, this government practices transparency and zero tolerance for wrongdoing.

I understand the impatience of some due to the lack of rapid actions. However, the difference is that our investigations are conducted independently, without political interference. We respect institutions and the judiciary, even when we may not agree with their decisions.

Are there other, less visible but significant changes?
Once the economy is stabilized, the effects will be more apparent. I remain very confident about Mauritius's economic future, particularly seeing the number of businesses hiring, which indicates there is demand and therefore work. Tourism figures are also encouraging, along with ongoing real estate projects. Much remains to be done, especially in modernizing the port sector and expanding our air policy and economic exchanges.

Does the increased reliance on foreign workers indicate a brain drain of Mauritian labor attracted by better salaries abroad? What measures are being taken to retain these talents?
There are two main factors. First, the demographic reality: our population is aging and the local workforce is shrinking. To maintain our living standards and growth, we need to hire foreign workers.

Second, many Mauritians no longer wish to pursue certain jobs that their parents did, particularly in textiles, hospitality, or food services. The new generation seeks office jobs with fixed hours, so we must adapt to this profile.

Regarding brain drain, it affects both professionals leaving for abroad and those working on cruise ships or in countries like Australia and Canada. To retain them, we need to reassess salary structures, but also ensure equitable and transparent working conditions.

There is a perception that some positions are reserved for a privileged few and that meritocracy isn’t always upheld. If we want our youth and talents to return, we must change this perception. Recruitment and promotions, both in the public and private sectors, must be conducted transparently.

What is your ministry doing about this?
We prioritize mediation and conciliation to resolve disputes between employers and employees. When that fails, cases are brought before the Employment Rights Tribunal. There needs to be a change in mindset at the heads of institutions: mediocrity can no longer be the norm. We must do everything possible to encourage the diaspora to return and contribute to the country's development.

The recent disagreement between the Labour Party and the MMM has raised questions about the strength of the alliance. Do you think this tension could compromise government cohesion?
In any alliance, there can be differences of opinion. I have faith in the government leadership: the leaders will manage to set aside their differences to act in the best interest of the country.

How is the government performing at this stage?
We just held a parliamentary group meeting (Monday afternoon), and the agreement among partners is excellent. I hope this cohesion will continue.

As a member of the MMM, how do you evaluate your party's contribution within the coalition?
I prefer to speak about collective efforts. All parties - PTr, MMM, New Democrats, Rezistans ek Alternativ - are actively participating in Cabinet meetings. It’s a true team effort in service of the nation.

So tensions have been set aside?
As I mentioned, the leaders are communicating. I am confident they will find common ground once again in the best interest of the nation.