The Minister for Employment and Human Resource Planning, Ms. Idith Alexander, visited Ile du Port Handling Services Ltd (IPHS) on Friday, 15 May 2026, as part of her weekly site visits. IPHS, a 425‑metre commercial fishing quay adjacent to the Port of Victoria, operates under a Public‑Private Partnership model, with 40% government ownership. The facility is regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) within the Seychelles International Trade Zone. Since beginning operations in June 2017, IPHS has provided essential services to industrial fishing vessels, including berthing, stevedoring, and container logistics, thereby supporting the local tuna industry.

Minister Alexander was accompanied by Mr. Pascal Morin, Chief Executive Officer of the FSA, along with senior officials from the Authority and the Ministry. The delegation was guided on a comprehensive tour of the facility by IPHS Deputy General Manager, Mr. Robert Morel. They engaged with employees during their daily tasks, observed workflows, and expressed appreciation for the physically demanding nature of the work. Special recognition was given to a young graduate from the Seychelles Institute of Technology (SIT), whose presence highlighted opportunities for youth employment.

The IPHS workforce is predominantly Seychellois, with a small number of foreign employees. Mr. Morel emphasized that safety remains a top priority given the high‑risk environment. Minister Alexander commended the company for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace, as well as offering benefits and incentives that contribute to long‑term employee retention.

During a debriefing session, several recommendations were put forward for management’s consideration. These included the need to educate workers - particularly stevedores - on matters related to their employment status to avoid confusion and misconceptions. Minister Alexander also encouraged IPHS to support casual workers in transitioning to formal employment, highlighting advantages such as regular salaries, formal agreements, and contributions to old‑age pensions.

In closing, Minister Alexander praised IPHS management for fostering a thriving workplace culture centered on employee wellbeing.