The Federation of Civil Service and Other Unions (FCSOU) in Mauritius is calling for a 30% increase in travel allowances and mileage rates for civil servants who use their personal vehicles for official duties. The union, led by Dr. Vinesh Sewsurn, has written to Devendre Gopaul, Secretary for Public Service at the Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms, requesting a review of official travel allowances. This demand comes as fuel prices have surged by nearly 33% since March 2026.
According to data from the State Trading Corporation (STC), petrol prices have risen from Rs 58.45 per litre on March 3, 2026, to Rs 77.70 on September 29, 2026, while diesel prices have increased from Rs 58.95 to Rs 78.35 over the same period. The FCSOU argues that it would be "unjust and unreasonable" for civil servants to bear these extra professional expenses alone. The union emphasizes that current transport mechanisms, such as travelling allowances and mileage reimbursements, must be adapted to reflect on-the-ground realities.
The FCSOU has proposed specific adjustments based on a 30% increase in travel allowances. These include a fixed cost allowance rising from Rs 2,830 to Rs 3,679, a monthly transport allowance increasing from Rs 15,180 to Rs 19,734, and mileage rates moving from Rs 9.05 to Rs 11.75. Additionally, the monthly travel indemnity would go from Rs 3,750 to Rs 4,875, and the travel grant would move from Rs 9,775 to Rs 12,700.
The union has noted that bus fares have not yet increased, and any future changes will depend on bus company stances. The FCSOU is now urging that its proposals be submitted to the High Powered Committee so that an "appropriate and proportioned" review can be swiftly examined. This move aims to offset the financial strain caused by the surge in fuel prices on civil servants.
The FCSOU's demands are based on reports from the Pay Research Bureau (PRB), which provides transport mechanisms for civil servants, including travelling allowances, travel grants, and mileage reimbursements. However, the union stresses that these mechanisms must be adjusted to reflect the current economic situation. The proposed increases are intended to provide relief to civil servants who are struggling with the rising cost of fuel.
The issue of fuel price hikes and their impact on civil servants has gained significant attention in Mauritius. With the cost of living on the rise, the FCSOU's demands are seen as a reasonable response to the challenges faced by public sector workers. The union's efforts to negotiate with the government aim to ensure that civil servants are not unfairly burdened with the increased costs.
The outcome of the FCSOU's proposals remains to be seen, as the union awaits a response from the High Powered Committee. If approved, the proposed increases in travel allowances and mileage rates would provide much-needed relief to civil servants in Mauritius. The situation will continue to be monitored as developments unfold.
Key points
- The FCSOU is seeking a 30% increase in travel allowances and mileage rates for civil servants in Mauritius due to the surge in fuel prices.
- The proposed increases include a fixed cost allowance rising to Rs 3,679 and a monthly transport allowance increasing to Rs 19,734.
- The union's demands are based on reports from the Pay Research Bureau (PRB) and aim to provide relief to civil servants struggling with the rising cost of fuel.
