Fiji’s Employment Minister, Agni Deo Singh, has issued a stern warning to foreign workers regarding the importance of honoring their work contracts, emphasizing that failure to do so may result in deportation. This caution follows the troubling disappearance of eight Bangladeshi workers who allegedly abandoned their contracted jobs with CR Engineering Pte Limited in Lautoka without prior notice.
The company reported that five of the workers vacated their accommodation just three months after starting their employment, and four months later, the remaining workers also failed to report for duty. Singh condemned the actions of these workers, highlighting the need to address grievances directly with employers rather than fleeing. “Running away and disappearing will only worsen the situation,” he said, reminding workers that the Immigration Department will take action against those who breach their contracts.
The company has sought public assistance in locating the missing workers, and it took steps to support its employees—including offering skills training—after identifying gaps in qualifications and language barriers. However, despite the company’s initiatives to enhance their skill sets, some of the workers still chose to leave without notification.
Additionally, there are concerns that one of the missing individuals might be involved in illegal recruitment, potentially luring others to Fiji under false pretenses. Singh reiterated his commitment to advocating for foreign workers’ rights and encouraged anyone experiencing discomfort with their employer to approach the Ministry of Employment for assistance in resolving issues.
The situation underscores growing worries regarding the welfare of foreign workers in Fiji, particularly as reports of violations and missing individuals have surfaced. Singh called on employers to treat their workers fairly and urged employees to seek help before matters escalate. Investigations are ongoing, with the Immigration Department, the Ministry of Employment, and the Fiji Police Force actively working to locate the absent workers.
In the broader context, statistics reveal that between January and July of this year, the highest number of work permits issued in Fiji—713—were designated for Bangladeshi nationals. This trend aligns with the report by the International Organisation for Migration, which notes a significant increase in the issuance of work permits to Bangladeshis since 2017, particularly in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
This situation presents an opportunity for the Fijian government and employers to prioritize worker welfare and create a transparent and supportive environment for foreign employees. By actively addressing concerns and facilitating communication between workers and employers, Fiji can foster a more inclusive labor market that benefits all parties involved.
Summary: Fiji’s Employment Minister has warned foreign workers to honor their contracts or face deportation, following the disappearance of eight Bangladeshi workers. The company involved has sought public help in locating them and has been facilitating skills training for their employees. Investigations are ongoing, with a focus on improving worker welfare and addressing grievances directly with employers. The growing presence of Bangladeshi workers highlights the importance of maintaining a supportive work environment in Fiji.
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