The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) is expressing significant concerns regarding the forthcoming nationwide public consultations on the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Work Care Bill 2024, which are set to take place from January 8 to 17, 2025. The Federation emphasizes that the short time allocated for submitting feedback and the lack of access to the draft Bills render the consultations impractical.
FCEF CEO Edward Bernard has strongly encouraged the Ministry of Employment to postpone the consultations until February 2025 and to make the draft Bills available beforehand. He criticized the mere three-hour time slots planned for each city and town as inadequate for meaningful participation from all stakeholders.
Moreover, Bernard pointed out that the Work Care Bill 2024 has not been reviewed by the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB), suggesting it should be withdrawn until there is comprehensive dialogue with stakeholders.
This situation underscores the importance of inclusivity and thorough communication in legislative processes. By postponing and ensuring stakeholders have proper access to the necessary documentation, the Ministry of Employment could foster a more constructive and representative discussion. This could lead to more balanced and effective employment laws that benefit both employers and employees, ultimately strengthening the workforce and economy.
In summary, FCEF’s call to action highlights critical issues surrounding the legislative process, emphasizing the need for adequate preparation time and stakeholder engagement in shaping employment relations in Fiji.
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