The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has expressed serious concerns regarding the upcoming public consultations for the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Work Care Bill 2024, set to take place from January 8 to 17, 2025. FCEF argues that the short timeframe available for submissions and the absence of access to the draft Bills render the consultations impractical.
FCEF’s CEO, Edward Bernard, has called upon the Ministry of Employment to postpone the consultations until February 2025, while also requesting the release of the draft Bills to enable both businesses and workers to prepare adequately. He criticized the allocation of only three hours for consultations in each city and town, suggesting that this is insufficient for comprehensive representation.
Additionally, Bernard highlighted that the Work Care Bill 2024 has not yet undergone discussions by the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB), urging that it be withdrawn until more stakeholders can be consulted.
This highlights an important dialogue about the need for effective stakeholder engagement in legislative matters, especially those that have significant implications for the workforce and employers in Fiji. By addressing these concerns, the government can ensure that the consultations are productive and representative of all interests involved.
A possible positive outcome could involve the Ministry of Employment recognizing the need for more time and resources for these consultations, allowing for a more inclusive approach that could lead to stronger employment laws benefiting both employees and employers.
In summary, the FCEF is advocating for more thorough preparation for public consultations on vital employment laws, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder involvement for effective policy-making.
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