More constructive dialogue and collaboration is expected in future policy and civil aviation and port projects on Praslin and La Digue

The department of Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine starts 2023 with the aim of having a more inclusive and collaborative approach towards policy and developments related to its sector on Praslin and La digue.

This was demonstrated through a first amongst many more meetings and visits planned with members of National Assembly and district administrators of the two islands.

The meeting which took place (11/01/2023) on Eve Island, Praslin saw the attendance of the Principal Secretary for Civil, Aviation, Ports and Marine- Alan Renaud, Director of Policy and Strategy- Bertrand Loze and Senior Project Coordinator -Pria Denousse.

They met with members of the National Assembly for Baie Ste Anne Praslin- Honourable Churchill Gill, Grand Anse Praslin- Honourable Wavel Woodcock and inner Islands amnd La Digue- Honourable Rocky Uranie. It was the opportunity to connect ideas to better shape the future of transport policy on Praslin and La digue.

Both sides deemed the meeting very productive with a wide range of transport related topics discussed. This includes issues faced by locals travelling by air or sea, namely the lack of synergy between scheduled flights and ferry trips which creates an inconvenience for the islanders when there is a delay in one or the other service.

The district representatives also raised concerns about the extra expenditure for islanders when coming back home from an international travel. Other points of discussion were infrastructure development, namely ‘Kato Nwanr’ terminal opening soon, safety regulations namely the expected improvements with the Phase 1 (cargo quay) of the La digue port extension nearing completion. As well as other policy proposals.

It was also an opportune time for the department of Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine to update the Honourables on current projects, initiatives underway and received their valuable feedback. The MNAs were able to ask questions and provide input on the plans and proposals presented prior to engagement with the local community.

The Principal Secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, Alan Renaud expressed appreciation for the constructive dialogue and collaboration between the Department and MNAs, and looks forward to continued engagement with the public to develop the best transport policy for the country.

"We are grateful for the opportunity to meet with National Assembly members and hear the valuable input from the public. We are committed to shaping a transport policy that will benefit all Seychellois and drive the country's development," said PS Renaud.

The meeting is one of many with the intent of ensuring a participatory and inclusive approach in shaping the transport policy that will guide the country for the future.