Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh, announced yesterday that additional staff will be hired to monitor employers.
“We want people to be paid fairly so they can sustain their households after a hard day’s work,” Mr. Singh stated while in Labasa.
“There will be no second warning issued to employers if they fail to adhere to the minimum wage rate of $4.50 per hour,” he emphasized.
The government’s approval to increase the minimum wage took effect yesterday, August 1.
The increase aims to assist low-income earners in coping with the rising cost of living.
Mr. Singh added that compliance officers need to improve their identification processes to locate employers who are not following the regulations.
“The increase in staff capacity within the ministry will ensure effective surveillance of all employers,” he said.
“Employees or workers are encouraged to contact the ministry or other centers if they feel they are being cheated on their wages.”
The second phase of the minimum wage increase will take effect on April 1, 2025.
The minister praised employers who already pay their workers above the minimum wage rate. However, he also urged workers to ensure their performance meets the expected standards of proficiency.
Labasa Chamber of Commerce and Industries president, Vinesh Dayal, recently encouraged employers to adhere to the law.
As an alternative to dealing with the cost of living, Mr. Dayal advised the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
“This would help SMEs earn reasonable income and provide more employment opportunities,” Mr. Dayal said.