The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has expressed significant concerns regarding the upcoming nationwide public consultations for two critical pieces of legislation: the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Work Care Bill 2024. Scheduled from January 8 to January 17, FCEF deems the timeframe for submissions in each location as unrealistic and insufficient.
FCEF Chief Executive Edward Bernard has highlighted the lack of disclosed draft Bills, warning that this will not only hinder meaningful engagement from the public, workers, and businesses but could also adversely affect investor confidence and employment opportunities in Fiji. In a call for transparency and genuine social dialogue, Bernard has urged the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Workplace Relations (MEPWR) to postpone the consultations to early February 2025, allowing ample time for all stakeholders to prepare adequately.
Bernard emphasized that the allocation of just three hours for each city and town is inadequate for municipal business networks to represent their members effectively. He pointed out that many businesses in the Western Division have faced significant challenges due to recent flooding, questioning the feasibility of expecting them to prepare submissions for consultations immediately after the festive season.
While appreciating the Ministry’s efforts in initiating national consultations, FCEF remains apprehensive that the Work Care Bill 2024 has not been deliberated by the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB). As a tripartite member of ERAB, Bernard noted the lack of consultation with employers concerning the bill’s contents and its potential implications for the Employment Relations Act review. He called for the withdrawal of the Work Care Bill 2024 to facilitate discussion at the next ERAB meeting.
This situation underscores the importance of adequate preparation time for meaningful stakeholder engagement in legislative matters. A swift and thoughtful approach could lead to more informed legislation that better accommodates the needs of both businesses and employees in Fiji.
In summary, the FCEF is advocating for an extension of the consultation period for two key legislative changes, stressing the need for transparency and adequate representation of all affected parties. As discussions continue, there is hope that a collaborative approach will emerge that benefits workers, businesses, and the broader economy.
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