The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has voiced significant concerns regarding the imminent nationwide public consultations concerning the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Work Care Bill 2024, which are set to take place from January 8 to 17, 2025. FCEF has highlighted that the brief timeframe available for submissions and the absence of access to the draft Bills render these consultations impractical.
FCEF’s CEO, Edward Bernard, has called on the Ministry of Employment to postpone the consultations until February 2025 and to provide the draft Bills in advance, so that both businesses and workers can adequately prepare for discussions. He criticized the limited three-hour time slots allocated for each city and town, stating that this is insufficient for meaningful representation and engagement from interested parties.
Moreover, Bernard raised concerns that the Work Care Bill 2024 has not yet been reviewed by the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB), suggesting that it should be withdrawn until there is an opportunity for further consultations with relevant stakeholders.
This situation presents an opportunity for the Ministry of Employment to reconsider its approach to stakeholder engagement, ensuring that all parties have the information and time necessary to contribute effectively. By extending the consultation period and providing access to draft legislation, the government could foster a more inclusive dialogue that benefits both employers and employees.
In summary, the FCEF is advocating for better preparation and involvement in the upcoming discussions on critical employment legislation, emphasizing the need for transparency and adequate time for input from all stakeholders.
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