The Suva City Council (SCC) allocates between $1.5 million to $2 million each year on overtime payments for its staff, which has prompted discussions regarding employee welfare and overall productivity. Chair Tevita Boseiwaqa pointed out that this expenditure applies to around 80 employees and cited an audit conducted earlier this year that emphasized the need to strike a balance between workload and employee health.
Mr. Boseiwaqa remarked, “You can’t overwork them. When one is overworked, productivity is low.” To counter the adverse effects of excessive overtime, the council has engaged local youth to promote a healthy work-life balance for its staff.
Efforts have been made to manage overtime effectively while preserving efficiency in service delivery. Specific shifts, particularly early morning assignments stretching from 8 AM to 2 AM, were identified as major contributors to overtime costs, with one unit alone generating over $200,000 in overtime expenditures.
The internal auditor’s review has led the council to establish strategies aimed at controlling overtime, rather than eliminating it entirely. Mr. Boseiwaqa noted that implementing these changes has already yielded positive outcomes, enhancing both employee wellbeing and workplace productivity.
This proactive approach reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mental and physical health in the workplace, and it is encouraging to see that actions are being taken to ensure staff members are not only productive but also healthy and happy in their roles.
Summary: The Suva City Council is addressing high overtime costs by emphasizing employee welfare and productivity. Chair Tevita Boseiwaqa highlights the importance of balancing workloads and has initiated measures to manage overtime while fostering staff wellbeing, which has already shown positive results.
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