The Fiji Public Service Association (FPSA) has voiced concern regarding the adverse impacts of a recent circular from the Ministry of Civil Service, Circular 14/2024, which implements significant changes to the Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) and overtime pay policies for Band F employees. Released on October 1, this new policy is disrupting critical public healthcare services, particularly in the Radiology and Pharmacy departments, resulting in a decline in the quality and accessibility of healthcare for the Fijian population.
The revised policy specifically excludes Allied Health staff in Band F from receiving overtime compensation, placing them at a disadvantage compared to their nursing colleagues. This has led to widespread dissatisfaction among employees, who feel demoralized and treated unfairly. The FPSA characterized this situation as discrimination against Band F workers, claiming it contravenes the Employment Relations Act of 2007, which is designed to ensure fair labor practices.
Judith Kotobalavu, the FPSA general secretary, expressed that these changes are detrimental to dedicated public servants and an impediment to addressing existing staffing shortages. Instead of solving these issues, the policy has intensified employee workloads, resulting in burnout among staff as they take on additional responsibilities to sustain service delivery. The repercussions have also extended to patient care, with the Ministry of Health resorting to referring patients in need of after-hours Radiology services to private facilities, further straining public resources.
Kotobalavu criticized the decision to outsource crucial healthcare services to private entities, highlighting that it reflects a lack of strategic foresight and insufficient investment in the public healthcare system. She emphasized that this approach is an inefficient use of public funds and detracts from supporting the healthcare workers who are essential to the public health infrastructure.
The FPSA is urging the Ministry of Civil Service and the Public Service Commission to promptly review and reconsider the new policy. The association is advocating for a fair and transparent system of overtime compensation for Band F employees, insisting that public health services should not be compromised due to unequal treatment of civil servants. Kotobalavu concluded that rather than relying on private solutions, the ministry should focus on improving its overtime budget and appropriately compensate public servants for their demanding roles.
In summary, the FPSA’s call for action highlights the need for equity and support for public sector workers, aiming to restore morale and efficiency in the healthcare system for the benefit of all Fijians. The situation presents an opportunity for the government to re-evaluate its approach and prioritize the wellbeing of both its employees and the citizens they serve, ultimately leading to a stronger and more resilient public health system.
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