The first new ID card batch is expected to be issued by early July 2012 in Mauritius

A delegation of eight consultants from the Singaporean firm, Crimson Logic, is expected in Mauritius by Friday. The aim of their visit is to discuss the implementation of the new electronic national identity (NID) card with local authorities.

As approved by the Cabinet on July 29, the first NID card batch is expected to be issued by early July 2012. The multi-usage card, using SMART card technology, will be equipped with security features to make the card almost impossible to be counterfeited, tampered with or duplicated.

The services of Crimson Logic, a provider of e-government solutions, have been retained through a memorandum of understanding signed with Singapore Corporation Enterprise in 2008. The firm is working closely with the Singaporean Immigration and Checkpoints Authority to design the NID card.

The smart cards will not only facilitate the lives of the citizens but also make bureaucracy more efficient.

Contacted by phone, the minister of Information and Communication Technology, Tassarajen Pillay Chedumbrum stated that the project is a government-to-government agreement with Singapore, which will help keep pace with new technological developments.

“In its report, Crimson Logic made some proposals to the Mauritian government but we have opted for the SMART cards. The experts will visit Mauritius this week to discuss implementation of the second phase of the project,” said the ICT minister.

The card could be used for multiple applications such as access to secure areas, payment of pensions and social security benefits, electronic purse, driving license, health and transport card.

The first card will be issued free of charge but in case of loss, there will be a fee.