Employers in Fiji have expressed their concerns regarding the proposed Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill, calling for an extension of the consultation period to better assess its implications for their businesses. Jon Apted, a lawyer and legal counsel to the Fiji Commerce and Employers’ Federation (FCEF), criticized the government’s handling of the amendment process, highlighting that the draft bill was released only a week prior to the public consultation, which was announced during a period when many employers are away.

Apted described the proposed changes as “radical” and noted the complexity of the bill, which contains 140 sections. He emphasized that employers require adequate time to understand the bill and its impact, advocating for more accessibility to the information necessary for meaningful engagement. The consultation process involved a week-long nationwide round of discussions that concluded recently, yet prior discussions over two years between the government and the FCEF necessitated Non-Disclosure Agreements, limiting transparency.

Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh acknowledged the concerns raised by Apted and the FCEF, stating that the ministry will consider extending the consultation timeframe. He noted that some provisions had already been agreed upon during previous consultations.

In light of similar discussions from previous articles concerning the Employment Relations Act 2007 and Work Care Bill 2024, it is evident that the FCEF is advocating for a more constructive dialogue with the government. The organization’s CEO Edward Bernard has previously called for postponing consultations to allow for meaningful engagement and thorough preparation, especially as many businesses are still recovering from challenges posed by recent flooding.

This situation underscores the critical need for transparency and collaboration in shaping labor legislation in Fiji. A proactive approach in extending the consultation period could potentially lead to more informed policies that consider the needs of both employers and employees. There is hope that enhanced dialogue will foster a supportive business environment and contribute to a more sustainable economic recovery for the nation.

In summary, the FCEF’s push for more extensive consultations and availability of relevant information represents an opportunity for improved engagement among all stakeholders, which could ultimately result in more balanced and effective labor laws.