■ <B> What are the implications of congestion or other problems in the port for economic activities?</B>

It is a fact that such congestion leads to a delay in all exports and imports and definitely has an impact on the whole economic chain. We had to find a solution to improve the situation in the port.

■ <B>Do you feel that the crisis has been avoided? What would have been the consequences of an increase in freight costs?</B>

Fortunately, the shipping operators have been able to defer this additional tax. We are all satisfied that shipping operators in Mauritius and their main branches abroad have agreed not to increase the cost of freight. In fact, this crisis has enabled stakeholders to find a solution to improve productivity in the port?

<I>I do not agree at all. There has been an improvement in the services delivered in the port but the main problem might be the pace at chich the modernisation is occurring. The port is now welcoming ships that can accommodate 5,000 containers. However, the master plan to modernise the port is there ? and it shows that there is a willingness to bring positive changes.</I>

■ <B> It appears that, for the first time, all stakeholders in the port have worked together to sort out a crisis situation?</B>

We can?t say that there was no collaboration at all before the recent events. We are now playing global and it is not all about our petty local problems. If an increase of freight charges was to be imposed, it would definitely have led to a drop in the number of callings ? the number of ships coming to Port-Louis. And there is no doubt that it would have had a terrible impact on the whole economy. It was in the interest of all stakeholders to find a solution. As the president of the Port Users? Council, I have always believed in the fact that discussions would bring a solution. Now, we have been able to analyse in minute details the weak points with all stakeholders and this has been very fruitful.

■ <B>Could we expect such a collaboration to become a permanent mechanism?</B>

We are maintaining weekly productivity meetings as a proof that we want to improve the situation. There will be a permanent dialogue between all stakeholders so that all of us will be forced to abide by deadlines. The problems we had have actually led to a period of adaptation where new equipments have been acquired and there is a better relationship with trade unions.

■ Would you be in favour of a private strategic partner for the port?</B>