Fiji is on the verge of reinstating a three-day family care leave, pending the approval of amendments to the Employment Relations Act 2007 by Parliament. The Fiji Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations is engaging with the community through public consultations to gather input on this significant proposal.

Previously, employees were entitled to five days of family care leave, but this was drastically reduced to just one day on August 1, 2021, due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed amendment seeks to restore a more substantial period of leave, allowing employees to take three days off to care for immediate family members suffering from illness, injury, or other medical conditions. A notable revision in this bill is the removal of the term “household,” which focuses the leave provision strictly on immediate family members.

This legislative amendment aligns with broader social welfare initiatives in Fiji, including the upcoming Childcare and Protection Bill 2024. This bill addresses the concerning rise in the number of children entering residential care homes due to neglect and abuse, reinforcing the importance of family-based care solutions.

Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Ms. Tabuya, has emphasized the significance of these initiatives in supporting families during difficult times. The reinstatement of family care leave is seen as a positive step towards enhancing support for families, allowing them to care for their loved ones without financial stress.

Overall, these proposed amendments not only aim to improve employee rights but also signify the Fijian government’s commitment to nurturing family relationships and enhancing community welfare. As discussions progress, there is hope that these reforms will foster a more supportive environment for families, contributing to the well-being of all citizens and vulnerable populations in Fiji.