President Wavel Ramkalawan chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet yesterday, Wednesday 13th April at which a number of legal and policy memoranda were considered.
Cabinet considered a package of measures aimed at reducing the cost of living for citizens. These measures are especially important as Seychelles has not been spared from the consequences of the world events on national economies. As a first measure, Cabinet approved for a 25% reduction in Customs Duty applicable on the importation of black tea in bulk. The consumer will expect a reduction in the price of tea.
Cabinet was also apprised of initiatives by the Seychelles Trading Company to achieve the Government’s policy of reducing the cost of living. Cabinet approved for STC to review its pricing structure with the aim of giving the consumers a wider choice of affordable goods and reduction in the overall cost of an average shopping basket.Cabinet also discussed mechanisms to find ways to assist families with lower income. In the same spirit, Cabinet made the call to other commercial entities to participate in the national effort to bring down the cost of living. STC will provide further details.
In consideration of ways to assist citizens in vulnerable situations, Cabinet approved a proposal to increase the welfare weights that had been in use for the last ten years. With the implementation of the new weights from the 1st May 2022, recipients of welfare should see a 32% increase in their welfare allowance. Cabinet advised on the need for continued education to guide citizens on budget management to encourage them to live within their means.
Cabinet started discussions on the payment of the 13th month salary or a performance based incentive. Based on the economic forecast, Cabinet approved that subject to no adverse economic instability, the payment of a performance based incentive for the public and private sector will be effected for the year 2022.
Cabinet approved the new policy for administering the Disabled Trust Fund to ensure consistency and transparency. Cabinet agreed that based on the budget, assistance will focus provision of support for applicants to acquire basic equipment. Cabinet also encouraged community participation in supporting the disabled community.
Cabinet approved proposals for amendments to Chapter V of the Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles. The amendments considered the rationale for the role of the designated Minister and the procedure the removal of a Minister from Office. Cabinet requested that the Attorney General engage with key stakeholders on the proposed amendments.
Cabinet approved the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Bill, 2022 which upon enactment will replace the current Institute of Early Childhood Development (IECD) Act 2014.
Further details to the media will be provided by the relevant Ministry.