President Wavel Ramkalawan chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet today, Wednesday 2nd March at which a number of legal and policy memoranda were considered.

Cabinet considered and approved policy directions for the taxi operations in the country. Policy decision was taken on the types of taxis that will be allowed in the country, the tax system, enforcement of regulations for taxi operation, the taxi system. Cabinet emphasized the need for on-going training of taxi operators so they offer a good service to customers. As part of the policy, Cabinet also approved a new taxi rate for Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.

Cabinet approved the repeal of the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act 1995 and the proposed draft Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Bill, 2022. Mutual legal assistance (MLA) is a formal process that countries use to assist each other in the investigation and prosecution of serious criminal offences such as murder, financial crimes, human trafficking, drugs offences.

Cabinet approved the proposed Association Registration and Regulation Bill, 2022. The Registration of Association Bill which will adopt modern regulatory standards and best practices needed to govern associations in Seychelles.

Cabinet discussed the role of the unregistered taxi operators (taxi pirat) in the provision of transportation to citizens and the need to take steps to ensure the safety and security of users of the service. Further discussions will be held on the subject.

Cabinet approved the Beau Vallon Sports Project. The aim of the project is to promote community sports and tourism sports development. The project which will be implemented on the basis of a Public Private Partnership will include facilities such as a Sports Arena for Competition and Training, Beach Gym, Boot Camp Exercising Facility, and external basketball court to increase the popularity of 3x3 basketball.

Cabinet took note of the likely effects of the Ukraine crisis on the economy of Seychelles. Seychelles commodities, energy, transportation and on tourism from the Russian market. Given the situation, the Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Trade will make a statement before the National Assembly on the matter. The public will be kept abreast of the developments and the impact on the country. Cabinet reaffirmed the Seychelles' support of the United Nations Resolution on the Unprovoked Aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine. 

Further details to the media will be provided by the relevant Ministry.