The Prime Minister has asked for two or three more years to sort out the problem of squatters in Mauritius. What are the forthcoming measures?

In 2001, we made a census of the number of squatters in Mauritius. It was determined that there were some 3000 squatters living around the island. Our ambition is to implement a national project to provide accommodation for them through the construction of core houses in various areas. We have started relocating squatters in the Port-Louis region such as those living in the Dockers? flats. 150 core houses have been built in Tombeau-Bay and 80 more are under construction in Riche-Terre. The same is being done in other areas such as La Gaulette.

What measures have been taken over the last few years to reduce the squatting problem?

After determining the number of squatters in Mauritius, the government adopted a zero-tolerance policy. This repressive measure was a success since there has been no rise in the number of squatters since then. The follow-up was monitored by the police. The latter worked with accommodation officers to keep the situation under control.

Beyond the squatting problem, lies poverty, one of its causes. What will be the measures taken to fight poverty?

There is a lot of organisation, requiring a big budget to come to the aid of the poorest of the poor. We have community-based projects such as grants to poor people to help them. We have reached 60,000 people through these projects. We also help about 500 people through micro-credits, which are loans of up to Rs 50,000 for persons wanting to start up their own business. We work through associations to help schoolchildren who have no money for bus fares or uniforms. These needs are provided for and there is a regular follow-up. Moreover, the ministries for Social security and for Women are actively involved in trying to reduce the extent of poverty. Nadia Peerun