The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has voiced significant concerns regarding the imminent nationwide public consultations for the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Work Care Bill 2024, which are set to occur between January 8 and 17, 2025. FCEF believes that the timeframe allowed for submissions is too short, compounded by the fact that the draft Bills are not readily accessible, making meaningful participation in the consultations challenging.
Edward Bernard, the CEO of FCEF, has requested that the Ministry of Employment postpone the consultations to February 2025 and ensure the draft Bills are made available ahead of time. He highlighted the inadequacy of the three-hour allocation for each city and town, asserting that this provision is insufficient for proper representation.
Additionally, Bernard raised issues about the Work Care Bill 2024, noting that it has not yet been presented to the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB). He called for a retraction of the Bill until it can undergo further stakeholder consultation.
This situation presents an opportunity for dialogue between the government and the business sector, ensuring that all parties have adequate time and resources to engage with important legislative changes. Ensuring stakeholder input in such legislation could lead to more balanced and effective lawmaking.
In summary, the FCEF is advocating for a delay in public consultations on significant employment legislation due to concerns over time constraints and access to necessary documents, emphasizing the need for thorough stakeholder engagement.
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