Second Crisis Committee Meeting: Support Measures for Vulnerable Groups Under Consideration
On Wednesday, the crisis committee presented new recommendations to address energy inflation. The agenda included adjustments to the CEB tariffs, remote work, and targeted assistance for the most vulnerable families.
The crisis committee, tasked with assessing the economic and social impacts of the Middle Eastern conflict, convened for the second time on Wednesday afternoon, chaired by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam. This two-hour meeting brought together a dozen ministers and allowed for the examination of new proposals to supplement those discussed in the first meeting, which was led by Minister of Energy Patrick Assirvaden last week.
Discussions focused on targeted support measures for the most vulnerable populations amid rising energy prices and uncertainties in international markets, which directly impact imported food products. These proposals arise as authorities seek to mitigate the effects of an external crisis that has a direct impact on the Mauritian economy.
Among the options under consideration is a temporary increase in electricity tariffs due to a significant rise in the costs of heavy fuel oil used for electricity generation. For the month of April alone, the Central Electricity Board (CEB) is expected to incur an additional estimated expense of around one billion rupees for this product.
The discussions also covered the security of essential supplies, including fuel stocks, energy resources, and food items. Currently, these supplies are deemed under control. However, in an unstable international environment, these elements are considered critical to ensure economic continuity and the well-being of the population.
Several avenues have been proposed to enhance the country’s resilience, including strengthening strategic reserves, diversifying supply sources, and establishing rapid response mechanisms in case of supply disruptions or sharp price increases in international markets. Protecting households most exposed to the effects of inflation is also among the stated priorities.
These recommendations will be submitted to the Council of Ministers this Friday, where a decision will be made on the adoption of concrete measures aimed at cushioning the potential effects of the crisis.
During the first crisis committee meeting last Wednesday, several measures had already been discussed. The committee highlighted the direct impact of the conflict in the Middle East on the supply of petroleum products, which Mauritius is entirely dependent on.
In this context, several complementary measures were discussed, including promoting energy sobriety through reduced lighting in public and commercial spaces and potentially introducing regulations with fines to limit waste.
Alternative work modes have also been considered, including remote work, flexible hours, and adjusted work weeks. Similar adaptations could be explored in the education sector, particularly through online courses.
Finally, discussions have begun on longer-term solutions, such as increasing heavy fuel oil storage capacity and managing inflationary pressures related to rising energy and freight costs.
