The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has voiced significant concerns regarding the forthcoming nationwide public consultations for the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Work Care Bill 2024, which are set to take place from January 8 to 17, 2025. The FCEF argues that the brief period allocated for submissions, coupled with insufficient access to the draft Bills, renders these consultations impractical.

Edward Bernard, the CEO of FCEF, has urged the Ministry of Employment to postpone the consultations to February 2025 and to make the draft Bills available for review. He points out that the three-hour time window designated for discussions in various cities and towns is inadequate for meaningful stakeholder engagement.

Furthermore, Bernard raised alarms about the Work Care Bill 2024, indicating that it has not been reviewed by the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB) and advocating for its withdrawal until more comprehensive consultations can occur with all relevant parties.

This situation underscores the importance of inclusive dialogue in policy-making processes. As stakeholders call for more time and resources to engage with these changes, it reflects a commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard and that the resulting legislation effectively serves both businesses and workers in Fiji.

In summary, the FCEF is requesting a delay and better preparation for public consultations regarding significant employment laws, emphasizing the need for thorough stakeholder involvement to create effective and fair legislation. This could foster a more collaborative environment for future policy developments in Fiji, potentially leading to improved labor relations and a stronger economy.