The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations in Fiji has responded firmly to accusations made by the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) regarding the conduct of its Labour Officers during recent workplace inspections. Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh confirmed that an internal investigation revealed that the inspections were conducted in accordance with legal and established procedures, countering claims of targeted scrutiny against a specific employer.
Minister Singh elaborated that the routine inspection involved one employer along with three other businesses located on the same premises. He emphasized that the officers conducted inquiries focused on the nature of the businesses rather than any purported connections to a “video” disputed in the allegations. The findings of the inspection indicated significant breaches of the Employment Relations Act 2007, specifically:
– Section 45: Failure to maintain wages and time records.
– Section 44: Failure to provide wage statements to workers.
These breaches, as highlighted by Minister Singh, are serious and reflect essential legal obligations aimed at protecting workers’ rights and ensuring workplace transparency. He stated that a 30-day rectification notice would be issued to the employer involved, followed by re-inspections to verify compliance.
The timing of these allegations became a point of discussion, as they coincided with ongoing parliamentary consultations regarding the Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill. Singh has urged stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue based on facts. He reiterated the Ministry’s support for its officers, highlighting their role in upholding the law and protecting workers’ rights while maintaining a welcoming approach to discussions with employers to bolster compliance and workplace fairness.
This environment of open communication presents a significant opportunity for productive collaboration between the Ministry, business representatives, and labor advocates. In light of the ongoing discussions about labor law amendments, fostering better relations among all parties can lead to reforms that safeguard the interests of both workers and businesses in Fiji’s economic landscape. Such measures will not only enhance protection for employees but also contribute to broader economic resilience and sustainability.
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