Pre-Budget Consultations: Unions at the Discussion Table

During a meeting yesterday, May 6, in Port-Louis, the Minister of Finance, Dhaneshwar Damry, initiated consultative discussions with representatives of trade union confederations ahead of the 2026-2027 Budget. The discussions focused on socio-economic and environmental reforms deemed priorities by the workers' representatives.

Sanjay Sembhoo from the Confederation of General Trade Unions proposed strict measures against the excessive use of pesticides, plastic pollution, and mismanagement of public funds. Meanwhile, Deepak Benydin from the Congress of Independent Trade Unions highlighted the impact of the crisis in the Middle East on the cost of living. He emphasized the unsustainability of further increases in basic goods, especially for the middle class whose incomes range between Rs 25,000 and Rs 30,000, and the restoration of the retirement pension age to 60 years.

Ramesh Ramnarain from the Mauritius Trade Union Congress raised concerns about the reduction in public sector staffing. He demanded the filling of vacant positions and payment for overtime, particularly for health sector personnel. The importance of transitioning to renewable energy and access to quality healthcare was also emphasized during the discussions.