Republic of Mauritius- Symposium organised to mark 100th ILO anniversary

The symposium, organised by the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations, Employment and Training in collaboration of the ILO, aims at providing a platform for tripartite constituents to meet and discuss how to further promote decent work in Mauritius with ILO’s contribution. More than 100 participants attended the symposium.

In his address, Minister Callichurn pointed out that, this year, Mauritius reckons 50 years of membership to the ILO and has to date contributed to the ratification of 51 ILO conventions, despite being a Small Island Developing State. He emphasised that Mauritius has subscribed to the ILO’s decent work agenda which provides the policy and operational framework for cooperation over a wide array of work and employment issues.

The ILO, observed the Labour Minister, considers that the Workfare Programme in place in Mauritius is an interesting example which is being analysed in view of being replicated in other countries. Mauritius, he stated, also encourages the ILO to consider the Portable Retirement Gratuity fund as a right to be entrenched in Convention 102 on social security. He further commended the ILO for its unflinching support throughout the years and reiterated Mauritius’ collaboration and commitment towards the attainment of the organisation’s objectives.

For his part, Mr Agossou spoke the need to invest in people so as to move closer towards a just and sustainable future in the world of work. In this context, it is imperative for both Governments and employers to support gender equality, skills development and provide social protection to workers and their families.

He also recalled the support of the ILO for the implementation of the National Minimum Wage in Mauritius and reassured that the organisation will continue to provide full assistance to Mauritius regarding work related issues.