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The Office of the President wishes to respond to remarks made by LDS Proportionate Member, Hon. Sandy Arissol, during yesterday's sitting of the National Assembly, an extract of which was broadcast on the SBC 8 p.m. news.

In his intervention, the Honourable Member stated: "Annou get enkou ki zot in fer atraver bidze siplemanter. Zot pe dir nou lager mwayen o rian, selman State House pe rod ankor larzan pou swadizan fer renovasyon. Eski i en priyorite ozordi?"

The Office of the President wishes to set the record straight. No supplementary budget has been proposed for the "renovation" of State House. The funds requested are for the treatment and elimination of a termite infestation in the Gran Kaz.

The Gran Kaz is one of Seychelles' most significant historic monuments. It houses several offices and is where the President receives visitors, Heads of State and dignitaries.

Records show that no meaningful effort was made by the previous administration to maintain this national heritage building. This neglect persisted even after a staff member was injured in a fall from the first floor to the ground floor, caused by the deteriorated structure of the building.

The present request is a necessary and responsible measure. It aims to protect the safety of staff and visitors, prevent any repeat of such an incident, and preserve the Gran Kaz for future generations.