The Fiji Public Service Association (FPSA) has raised concerns regarding the negative implications of a recent circular from the Ministry of Civil Service, Circular 14/2024. This circular, issued on October 1, outlines important modifications to the Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) and overtime pay policies for employees in Band F.
The changes reportedly disrupt crucial public healthcare services, especially within the Radiology and Pharmacy departments, adversely affecting the quality and accessibility of healthcare for the people of Fiji. Unlike nursing staff, allied health personnel in Band F are now excluded from receiving overtime pay, a decision that has led to widespread feeling of injustice and demoralization among these workers. The FPSA argues that this treatment amounts to discrimination against Band F employees and contravenes Fiji’s Employment Relations Act of 2007.
Salaries for Band F employees range from $22,528.74 to $36,103.75 across seven steps, and FPSA general secretary Judith Kotobalavu highlighted that the changes are detrimental to the well-being of these public servants, who are already dealing with critical staff shortages. The situation is reportedly exacerbated as some healthcare services have been referred to private clinics, pushing additional costs onto the Ministry of Health and further undermining the public health system.
Kotobalavu criticized the decision to outsource essential healthcare services as indicative of poor strategic planning and a lack of commitment to supporting public healthcare workers.
In light of these issues, the FPSA is urging the Ministry of Civil Service and the Public Service Commission to reevaluate the recent policy changes. They call for a just and transparent process regarding overtime compensation for Band F employees. The association stresses that vital healthcare services should not be jeopardized by inequitable treatment of civil servants. They suggest that instead of outsourcing to the private sector, the Ministry should effectively manage the overtime budget and ensure appropriate compensation for the hard work of public servants.
A potential positive outcome from this situation could be heightened awareness of the challenges faced by Band F employees, leading to more equitable policies and improved working conditions that ultimately benefit both healthcare workers and the public they serve. The FPSA’s appeal could foster meaningful dialogue between the government and public servants, improving morale and the overall efficiency of public services.
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