12 March 2010
	WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Island in the sun By Carol Paton

Alex Boraine, who was deputy chairman of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission, has found a new cause in an exotic location: he is chairing the truth and justice commission set up to inquire into slavery and indentured labour in Mauritius. Boraine, who since completing his work with the TRC has worked in numerous similar commissions throughout the world, was asked by Mauritian prime minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam to do the job and - on his wife's advice - readily agreed, putting aside vague plans to retire. The hearings have just begun and the commission is expected to complete its work in mid-2011. "The terms of reference are broad. We are to conduct an inquiry into slavery and indentured labour during the colonial period in Mauritius. We are also supposed to determine appropriate measures for descendants of slaves and labourers, such as reparations, and the form these should take. We are to inquire into anyone who feels they were dispossessed of their land," says Boraine. Since slavery was abolished in Mauritius 175 years ago, the work is taxing the commission's abilities, he says, as it requires searching for historical documentation. Together with language issues - most Mauritians converse in Creole, which is not a written language, or French - Boraine says this is one of the most challenging tasks he has taken on. Because of its multicultural nature - there is a diversity of religions and languages - Mauritius is a fascinating but difficult place to work. "I've worked in truth commissions in many parts of the world, but this is so challenging that it is taking all my experience to keep my head above water." That experience includes a career in the church - he was once president of the Methodist Church - and time as an MP for the Progressive Federal Party. Despite his age - he is now 79 - Boraine has no plans to retire. "For some people that isn't an option. I did try it for a year or two but I like to be involved. So as long as I have the health and the strength, I will battle on."