<B>Fabrizio Merlo, COO, IBL Logistics, Engineering and Commerce</B>

Yes, most people can?t help it: I am still considered as a foreigner, despite the many years I lived here, and the fact that my children have totally integrated the Mauritian society. But this is understandable. My family and I have lived in Mauritius for 14 years now. My background is a mix of Italy and Africa, since I was born from Italian parents in Congo-Zaire, and grew up in South-Africa. I have found in Mauritius a fulfilling life, which is invaluable. Mauritians are warm and affable people, open and intelligent. However, the country should be weary of the increase in crime. Together with the fast moving economy of the past few years, I have unfortunately also witnessed a shift in the Mauritian society as far as crime is concerned. I guess that this is the price most emerging countries pay, but still, it is distressing and we, both authorities and society, have to do something about it.

My first venture in Mauritius was the setting-up of Manser Saxon. I was later given the responsibility of the companies as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) in the IBL Logistics, Engineering & Commerce sector.

I strongly believe that training and employee empowerment are essential elements in the country?s development. A big problem facing Mauritius is the shortage of skilled people. In a context of acute brain-drain, where more and more young persons are choosing to emigrate, the economy is facing a potential threat.

I have been very involved in the building industry. Unfortunately, and paradoxically to all the activity in that sector lately, this industry is marred by inefficiency, on one side, because of the lack of skilled people and, on the other side, with thefts on construction sites. This is a great worry to all in that industry.

The cost of building is also a major concern. I see the difficulty that people have to meet ends and I see more and more struggling to have a home. I think we should seriously look into more economical ways of building. For example, why not try to build with bricks and without steel, like in South Africa? There must be other ways to ensure reliable and cyclone-proof constructions that people could afford. Everyone should have the right to a home.