The Chairperson of the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, Pravesh Sharma, has spoken out regarding the treatment of the Grace Road Group (GRG) by the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations. In a recent interview, Sharma emphasized the importance of respecting the rights of the group amid allegations of operational breaches reported by the ministry.
Sharma raised concerns about the ministry’s approach, suggesting that it lacked due process. He asserted that rather than allowing Grace Road an opportunity to address the alleged breaches prior to making a public statement, the ministry hastily announced its findings, which he believes is not in line with fair treatment.
He questioned whether the ministry would have acted similarly with a local company, implying that there could be inconsistencies in how the ministry enforces regulations. Sharma pointed out that similar issues faced by migrant workers, especially those from Bangladesh, raise critical questions about the ministry’s overall treatment of different employers.
Grace Road Group, which employs about 800 workers in Fiji, has expressed its commitment to cooperating with the ministry to address any public concerns regarding its operations.
In a positive light, the situation presents an opportunity for the Ministry of Employment to reassess its communication and procedural protocols, ensuring a fairer approach that allows companies to rectify issues before facing public scrutiny. This case could also initiate necessary dialogue about the treatment of both local businesses and migrant workers in Fiji, promoting a more balanced and equitable labor environment moving forward.
Summary: The Chairperson of Fiji’s Human Rights Commission, Pravesh Sharma, critiques the Ministry of Employment’s handling of allegations against the Grace Road Group, highlighting the need for fair treatment and questioning if local companies face similar scrutiny. Grace Road, which employs 800 in Fiji, is willing to cooperate with investigators to resolve concerns.
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