The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations in Fiji has strongly rejected allegations made by the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) regarding the conduct of its Labour Officers. The Ministry labeled these claims as “incorrect and misleading,” particularly following FCEF’s assertion that an inspection was unjustly conducted at a business owned by one of its members, which had created a video about the contentious Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill 2025.
Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh, stated that an internal investigation affirmed the legality and fairness of the inspections. He clarified that the routine inspection involved not only the FCEF member’s business but also three additional workplaces within the same premises, countering the notion of targeted scrutiny. Singh emphasized that the officers conducted standard inquiries related to the nature of the business, rather than interrogating the employer about the produced video.
The Minister disclosed that the inspection report identified notable violations of the Employment Relations Act 2007, including the failure to maintain accurate wage and time records and the lack of wage statements provided to employees. He highlighted that these breaches are serious and integral to safeguarding workers against exploitation and promoting transparency within workplaces.
Defending the Ministry’s officers, Singh encouraged the FCEF to seek clarifications prior to publishing public statements and reiterated the commitment to constructive dialogue that fosters compliance and harmony within Fiji’s labor environment. This approach underscores the Ministry’s intent to not only address compliance issues but also engage in meaningful conversations with stakeholders, aiming for a labor regulatory framework that accommodates both employee protections and the operational realities faced by businesses.
The assertions and reactions from both the Ministry and FCEF come amid ongoing discussions surrounding proposed amendments to the Employment Relations Act. These amendments have raised concerns among business representatives about potentially excessive powers granted to labor officers and the implications for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Fiji. Despite these tensions, there remains an opportunity for productive collaboration that could pave the way for balanced reforms benefitting both workers’ rights and business sustainability. Enhanced engagement and transparent dialogue are essential in navigating these complex regulatory changes, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and resilient economic landscape in Fiji.
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