Muscat: The Shura Council's office convened its 12th regular meeting of the second ordinary session for the 10th term (2023–2027) on Sunday, led by Khalid Hilal Al Maawali, Chairman of the Shura Council.
In the meeting, the Council’s Office reviewed a report from the Food and Water Security Committee concerning a proposed regulation for the fisheries sector in Al Wusta Governorate. The report referenced the Council’s earlier study from its ninth term addressing the challenges of artisanal fishing. The committee expressed its support for the developmental ideas and proposals in the submitted proposal and recommended their application in a way that caters to the specific needs of each governorate involved in artisanal fishing.
The Office also evaluated the response from the Minister of Finance regarding an inquiry about the ministry’s auditing procedures for service fees in the Sultanate of Oman. The response affirmed the presence of an updated database maintained according to applicable laws, regulations, and recent decisions.
Additionally, the Office considered the reply from the Minister of Energy and Minerals and Chairman of the Social Protection Fund about the reduction or purchase of service years for employees working outside Oman. The response clarified that the Social Protection Fund introduced new regulations in 2024 concerning the purchase of notional service periods, with pensions determined by the length of service, retirement age, and contribution amounts.
The Office also reviewed a proposal aimed at creating mechanisms to boost the economic effects of scientific research and innovation in Oman, underscoring its significance in bolstering the national economy and knowledge advancement.
During the meeting, the Office approved several follow-up requests from Council members, which were sent to the appropriate authorities. These included a question directed to the Minister of Education regarding the results of General Education Diploma students for the current academic year.
