Course Description
Public officers are required to interpret and apply legislation, regulations, policies, and administrative procedures in the course of their duties. A sound understanding of the principles of legal interpretation enables officers to apply the law consistently, minimise ambiguity, and make informed decisions that are lawful, fair, and transparent. This programme provides participants with an introduction to the principles, methods, and practical application of statutory interpretation within the Mauritian legal system.
Course Objectives
The objectives of the course are to enable participants to:
- • understand the sources and hierarchy of law in Mauritius.
- • explain the purpose and importance of legal interpretation.
- • apply the recognised principles and canons of statutory interpretation.
- • interpret legislative provisions accurately and consistently.
- • recognise ambiguous provisions and apply appropriate interpretation techniques.
- • understand the role of case law and judicial precedents in interpreting legislation.
- • apply legal interpretation skills to practical workplace situations.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- • explain the structure and sources of Mauritian law.
- • understand how statutes are enacted and interpreted.
- • apply literal, golden, mischief, and purposive approaches to statutory interpretation.
- • interpret key legal provisions within their areas of responsibility.
- • recognise the importance of context, legislative intent, and judicial interpretation.
- • identify common drafting ambiguities and practical interpretation challenges.
- • make legally sound administrative decisions based on proper interpretation of legislation.
Topics covered:
- • Introduction to the Mauritian Legal System
- • Fundamentals of Legal Interpretation
- • Principles and Aids to Interpretation
- • Practical Interpretation of Legislation
- • Interpretation Challenges in the Public Sector