Cabinet approves proposed energy bill |23 November 2012

Other proposals that the Cabinet has endorsed include legislation to improve the ease of doing business in Seychelles and increased security measures for fishermen.

Cabinet is also considering a review of legislation for peaceful assembly.

The Energy Bill 2012 will enable the regulation of the electricity sector, the use of renewable energy and promote energy efficiency.

The bill will also establish the Seychelles Energy Commission within a new set of parameters and functions, while the Seychelles Energy Commission Act 2010 will be repealed.

With regard to improving the ease of doing business in Seychelles, Cabinet has endorsed a bill for the amendment of the Companies Act (1972). The changes will allow for easier registration of companies.

The bill will be presented to the National Assembly in due course. 

With the aim of ensuring the safety of our fishermen, the Cabinet has instructed the Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA) to undertake more vigourous inspections of Vessel Monitoring Systems on artisanal fishing boats.

The SFA will also keep a closer track of fishing vessels that are straying outside the safe areas for fishing as advised by the Seychelles Coast Guard and the Seychelles Maritime Safety Administration.

International naval coalitions have reported that pirate skiffs have been spotted off the coast of Somalia, and therefore there is greater need to stay within safe areas.

The Cabinet is also studying a proposal from the Electoral Commission concerning recommendations for reform of the Public Order Act (1959), in line with the Constitutional right to peaceful assembly (Article 23).

This proposal will also be reviewed by the Attorney General.