President Danny Faure chaired an ordinary meeting of the Cabinet this morning at State House, which discussed a number of legal, policy and project memoranda.
Cabinet approved the removal of customs duty on corrugated iron sheets and other sheets, panels, tiles and similar articles not containing asbestos. This removal of duty will come into effect on 1st January 2018. It is in line with Government's ongoing efforts to reduce the cost of living.
Cabinet was briefed on the main findings of an analysis of the risks perceived by global financial institutions concerning Seychelles as a small country and offshore jurisdiction.
Cabinet approved recommendations to address the weaknesses identified so that Seychelles was not perceived as a high risk country, and so that it could continue to maintain partnerships with reputable international financial institutions.
Cabinet approved a policy to introduce legislation for financial consumer protection. This would promote, amongst others, fair treatment of consumers, increased transparency, responsible lending and the prevention of over-indebtedness. It would also encourage responsible pricing and appropriate product development, and encourage greater assertiveness on the part of consumers. Data privacy and complaint resolution would also be addressed in the law.
Cabinet also approved a proposed National Financial Education Strategy. This would empower consumers to participate actively and successfully within the financial market.
Cabinet approved a new policy to address the growing prevalence of diabetes and the effects of obesity.
Cabinet also approved the implementation of a programme to allow people with chronic illnesses to collect their prescribed medication from clinics other than the clinic in their district.
Cabinet approved the revision of the National School Health Programme. This revised programme would include medical screening of S5 students by a doctor that would enable them to be issued with their health school leaving certificate. Part of the new programme would also allow for more robust screening to be done on the students. This would ensure that early intervention could be undertaken in cases of ill health.
Cabinet was informed on findings of the study on Gender Based Violence in Seychelles. Cabinet approved for new policies and legislation to be introduced to mitigate the incidences of gender based violence.
Following feedback on a pilot study done on the social needs of children and youth of Ile Perseverance, Cabinet approved recommendations to improve youth engagement and involvement in positive activities.
Cabinet endorsed plans to address the presence of illegal tourism establishments in the country.
Cabinet agreed that the proposed reform of the electoral commission would require a review of the Constitutional provisions under which the Commission is establishment.