Fiji’s Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh recently issued a strong warning to foreign workers about the importance of honoring work contracts, emphasizing that failure to do so could result in deportation. This admonition comes in light of a troubling incident involving eight Bangladeshi workers who vanished after being contracted by CR Engineering Pte Limited in Lautoka.
The situation unfolded as five of the contract workers abandoned their accommodations just three months into their employment without notifying their employer. Four months later, the remaining workers also failed to report to work, leading CR Engineering to publicly seek assistance in locating them.
Minister Singh condemned the absconding workers, urging them to communicate openly with their employers if they face any challenges. “Running away and disappearing will only worsen the situation,” he stated, cautioning that the authorities will find those who leave without notice. He advised workers with concerns to reach out to the Ministry of Employment for assistance rather than resort to fleeing.
The company has been proactive in supporting its employees, recognizing that some lacked the qualifications needed for their roles and offered skills training to help them adapt. Despite these efforts, some chose to leave without informing the management, prompting company representatives to express their disappointment at the situation.
The Minister also raised concerns that one of the missing workers might have engaged in illegal recruitment activities, potentially luring others to Fiji under false pretenses. In response, he encouraged both workers and employers to treat each other fairly and seek help before situations escalate.
The recent reports of missing workers have raised alarms regarding the safety and rights of foreign employees in Fiji. Both the Immigration Department, the Ministry of Employment, and the Fiji Police Force are actively investigating the disappearances.
In a related note, the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, informed Parliament that 713 work permits were issued to Bangladeshi nationals between January and July this year, marking them as the largest group of foreign workers in Fiji. This surge reflects an increasing trend of Bangladeshi workers in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
The situation provides an opportunity for improvement and better communication lines between foreign workers and employers in Fiji. By addressing grievances directly and seeking assistance, workers can foster a more supportive work environment while minimizing the risk of misunderstandings and legal troubles.
In summary, this incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in foreign employment and the need for clear communication and support systems to ensure the well-being of all workers in Fiji.
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