2005 was a great year for me: my book, Dodo, the bird behind the legend, was finally published. I had only positive reports on it. To young people: while you are in school, take your eyes away from the blackboard and have a look at the world outside. Do not hesitate to develop an interest in sport, the arts etc? A word to parents: interest must come from them, for books, knowledge or whatever? Be conscious of that.

Actually, new dodo bones have been found in Mare-aux-Songes. On Friday, the Daily Telegraph mentioned the event. Research on the dodo should be shared. Once again, whenever you?re interested in something, go for it.

My best wishes and listen to this advice: keep things simple, do not let yourself be overwhelmed by expensive things, and try to see the funny side of life.

Alan GRIHAULT, education trainer, writer

In this period of giving and receiving, we spend a lot of time thinking about what we would like to give or what we would like to receive. I wonder how many of us actually take the time to show gratitude for the great abundance we have all around us. The love and caring of our friends and family, which means so much more than the presents shared, or the abundance of nature with the greatest daily miracle of sunrise and sunset, which we share each day. My wish for the future is that we show our love for each other and that we enjoy our gift of abundance throughout the year. With this in mind I wish you love, peace and prosperity for the New Year.

Gabby Steel, Creative Director, Interlink Concepts

I have the same aspirations as everybody else to live up to the wishes we send each other at this time of the Year, printed on almost every card. ?Happy New Year.?

Happiness comes with good health and financial security and - equally important - the well-being of our family and friends.

The outgoing year has had its ups and downs. However, I am simply trying to follow the lead of the majority of Mauritians and celebrate life at every opportunity, accept the inevitable with grace and let nature take its course. To me Mauritius is one of the most beautiful places on earth, only out-done by its inhabitants, their hospitality and sense of humour.

I know there are some underlining problems apart from doom-predicting politicians, but I put my faith in Mauritian tenacity to overcome those negative trends, shining as an example to the world around us of how a diverse population can live side by side honouring each other?s life styles and traditions.

Helmut RICHTER, retired businessman

I wish that, in 2006, Mauritius opens more to the world to become an unavoidable destination. This should not only occur in the tourism sector with the opening of its frontiers but we should also concentrate on attracting foreign investors. The latter should not only be the elite but also the smaller ones. We should expand our vision and never forget that however small we may be, we can do great things. I would also like to wish health, prosperity and security to every Mauritian.

Shabnam ANVARALY, administrative manager of CQ-Tech

The Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture (Igcic) has made another landmark achievement in 2005 with its monthly cultural programme, Priyardashni.

I thank the people of Mauritius for their full support in our cultural promotion activities. They are hospitable, friendly and peace- loving. They have preserved the culture brought by their ancestors from India and handed it down from generation to generation. I feel at home in this beautiful island? a little great country as Indira Gandhi used to say. I am confident that the friendship and cultural relations between our countries will strengthen and continue in the years to come. I wish the people of Mauritius a happy and prosperous New Year 2006. Jai Hind Jai Mauritius!

Natarajan RAJAPPA, Director, Indira Gandhi Centre for Cultural Centre