Environment and Conservation Take Centre Stage in Marie-May Jeremie’s Nomination Hearing
VICTORIA, Seychelles — Marie-May Alice Jeremie was the last of the four nominees to be questioned by the National Assembly on Friday October 31, 2025, spending one and a half hours in the chair. The questions were geared towards the environment and conservation, in line with her professional path, with one of the points raised being the existing environmental levy and her views on the matter.
Ms Jeremie informed the assembly that the levy, albeit a contentious issue in Seychelles, was common in several countries. ‘However, what is different in our case is the accountability aspect; to trace how the money collected is being used,’ she said. ‘It has worked in countries where there was a very good accountability system.’ She stressed that stronger financial tracking and transparency mechanisms would be central to ensuring the levy delivers tangible environmental outcomes.
On the matter of Assomption Island and tourism development in other sensitive areas that could jeopardise the country’s ecosystem, Ms Jeremie said there was a need to take a step back and base decisions on evidence. ‘If you do not have enough evidence then it is advisable to take precautionary measures,’ she said, emphasising that the environment formed the basis of all of Seychelles’ industries such as tourism and fisheries, and conservation should always remain a key component.
Following the conclusion of the debate, Ms Jeremie’s nomination was approved, bringing to eight the number of ministers confirmed in the new government. She is expected to lead the environment portfolio, where she will face the immediate task of balancing development priorities with the country’s strong environmental commitments under national and international frameworks.
