<I>Members of the organizing commitee of ?Pas Bliye Nou Rasin? </I>

<B>What was the aim of organsing a conference for the Mauritian Diaspora? </B>

Father Jocelyn Grégoire had a dream of gathering together Mauritians who had left Mauritius to renew their ties with their motherland and those who had never left. Hence, the theme of the symposium «Pas Bliye Nou Rasinn; Lest We Forget Our Roots». As the organising committee, we wanted to give an opportunity to Mauritian immigrants in Australia, Europe, America, Africa and Asia to meet and exchange experiences. These successful Mauritians have a lot to give back to their motherland. Also, from a practical point of view, it will enable us to set up a database of all those Mauritians at a time when the country needs them to contribute and help us.

<B>Is the organising committee satisfied with the proceedings of the conference? </B>

For a first attempt, we should be more than happy. The committee, set up last year, had to overcome many obstacles. Thanks to the support of the University of Mauritius and many sponsors we were able to organise the symposium. Now we should be able to start creating a permanent secretariat and a website, which will serve as a focal point for the Mauritian Diaspora.

<B>What are you expecting exactly from these expatriates? </B>

We are not asking them to leave their material wealth and families behind! We want them to help our country in its efforts at development. This collaboration can take place through Internet, teleconferencing and other means of communication. If they are to come back it would be for a while to train our human resources with their vast experience. This network of qualified and talented Mauritians will enable the country to take off. By sharing their experiences they could help create jobs and opportunities for the country.

<B>Having talked to them, do you think they are willing to contribute to the development of the country? If so, how? </B>

As I told you, they want to give back what their motherland has given them in terms of education and values. None of them has forgotten his/her cultural values. Now the time has come for them to help in whatever capacity using their talents and contacts. Indeed, they could develop new avenues and business ventures and help raise capital.

<B>Nowadays people still want to go and work abroad, especially youngsters. How can the Mauritian Diaspora help them? </B>

Mauritians in Australia, Europe, America and Asia could help Mauritian students settle down in their new environment. Some of them already do so. Others could also act as role models or mentors.

<B>Having talked to those Mauritian expatriates, do you think they still feel Mauritian? </B>

They definitely still feel Mauritian! I strongly believe that a Mauritian is Mauritian all the way through. They have not forgotten their roots. At the opening of the symposium on Monday morning, when the national anthem was played, I could see tears flowing down some faces. These Mauritians are Mauritians at heart! All they are asking is to be given the opportunity to offer and share their experience and expertise for the continued development of their motherland.