Understanding the Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS) Extension for November 2020
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has issued an official notice regarding the continuation of the Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS) for the month of November 2020. This scheme aims to provide financial support to employees working within the tourism sector, a key industry significantly impacted by the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This notice offers important details about the scope, eligibility, and application process for businesses seeking to benefit from this government aid.
Object and Purpose of the Notice
The primary objective of this official communication is to inform eligible employers in the tourism sector about the extension of the GWAS for November 2020. The scheme's goal is to ensure that employees receive their basic salaries despite the challenging economic environment. By extending the scheme, the government aims to safeguard employment and support the livelihoods of workers engaged in tourism-related activities, which are vital to the Mauritian economy.
Scope and Eligibility Criteria
The notice specifies the categories of businesses eligible to benefit from GWAS, which are directly linked to tourism activities. To qualify, employers must hold the necessary licences or permits issued by relevant authorities to operate within the tourism sector. These include:
- Hotels, guest houses, tourist residences, and domains
- Tourist enterprises and travel agencies
- Tourist guides and canvassers
- Commercial pleasure crafts involved in nautical activities
- National airline companies, including Air Mauritius Ltd and Airmate Ltd
- Businesses deriving at least 50% of their income from tourism-related goods or services
- Restaurants, pubs, and tables d’hôtes holding a tourist enterprise licence
- Contract car and bus businesses, event management companies
- Public attractions, amusement parks, natural sites, and museums
It is important to note that the scheme applies to both Mauritian nationals and expatriate employees working in Mauritius. Conversely, the scheme explicitly excludes businesses operated by government entities, local authorities, statutory bodies, government-owned companies, and businesses located in Rodrigues or other outer islands.
Financial Support and Calculation of Benefits
The notice details the financial assistance available to eligible employers, which is calculated based on the employees’ basic salaries declared in the National Pension Scheme (NPS) contribution returns. The assistance structure is as follows:
| Basic Salary (Rs) | Assistance per Employee (Rs) |
|---|---|
| From 9,700 to 25,000 | One Month Wage |
| From 25,000 to 50,000 | Fixed Amount of 25,000 |
| Above 50,000 | Nil |
The scheme provides a maximum assistance equivalent to one month’s wage for employees earning between Rs 9,700 and Rs 25,000. For employees earning between Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000, a fixed amount of Rs 25,000 is granted. Employees earning above Rs 50,000 are not eligible for assistance under this scheme.
Application Process and Verification
Eligible employers must submit their applications via the official MRA website. The process involves online registration, where employers are required to provide accurate information regarding their employees’ salaries, as declared in the NPS contribution returns. The MRA will conduct internal checks to verify the accuracy and legitimacy of the claims before processing payments.
Once approved, the government’s financial aid will be credited directly into the employer’s bank account used for NPS contributions. This streamlined digital process aims to facilitate quick and transparent disbursement of funds, supporting businesses and employees efficiently during these challenging times.
Additional Information and Support
For further clarification or assistance regarding the application process, employers can contact the MRA helpdesk during office hours at the phone number +230 207 6000. The MRA also encourages applicants to consult the official website for updates and detailed instructions related to the scheme.
This official notice underscores the continued commitment of the Mauritian government to support the tourism industry and its workforce amidst ongoing economic challenges. By extending the GWAS, the authorities aim to preserve employment and promote economic stability within a vital sector of the national economy.