A recent petition signed by nearly all professional land surveyors in Mauritius has brought attention to the issue of private surveyors feeling excluded from the Professional Land Surveyors' Council. The petition, addressed to the council and Minister of Housing and Lands Shakeel Mohamed, highlights concerns over the representation of private surveyors on the council. The council is regulated by law, which stipulates that it should comprise four representatives from the public service appointed by the minister.
The law, specifically section 7, also provides for "4 other professional land surveyors." However, the interpretation of this phrase has led to private surveyors being underrepresented on the council. In recent elections, private surveyors secured only two seats out of eight, as the term "other" was interpreted to include surveyors from the para-statal sector and another government surveyor. This has sparked concerns among private surveyors that their interests are not being adequately represented.
The petition emphasizes that it does not target any individual but rather seeks to ensure that the council's composition reflects the spirit of balance required by the Professional Land Surveyors' Council Act of 2014. Section 51(3)(a) of the act distinguishes between government surveyors and those in the private sector. The petition argues that a balanced representation is essential for the council's credibility and points to similar provisions in the Medical Council Act and the Town Planners Council Act of 2022.
The petition also references a Cabinet decision from March 2, 2018, which stated that the council should have "four land surveyors who are in private practice." This decision underscores the importance of representation from private surveyors. Furthermore, section 40 of the act makes a decisive distinction, stating that public sector surveyors cannot work on private contracts, except in Rodrigues where the market is limited.
The underrepresentation of private surveyors on the council has raised concerns about the council's credibility and legitimacy. The petition argues that a balanced representation will strengthen the council's credibility with the public, while an unbalanced representation may lead to doubts. The signatories of the petition are calling for an amendment to the law to clarify the representation of private surveyors on the council.
In the meantime, the petitioners are urging the minister and the ministry to intervene administratively and constructively to address the issue urgently. They believe that this intervention is necessary to safeguard the essential interests of private surveyors and to ensure that the council's composition is fair and representative.
The issue has sparked a significant debate in the surveying community, with many private surveyors feeling that their voices are not being heard. The outcome of the petition and the government's response will be closely watched, as it may have implications for the surveying profession and the broader community in Mauritius.
Key points
- Private surveyors in Mauritius feel excluded from the Professional Land Surveyors' Council, citing a lack of representation and legitimacy.
- A petition signed by nearly all professional land surveyors in Mauritius has been submitted to the council and the Minister of Housing and Lands, Shakeel Mohamed.
- The petition argues that a balanced representation on the council is essential for its credibility and legitimacy.
