The Ministry of Immigration in Fiji plays a crucial role in managing the entry of Bangladeshi citizens and addressing local employment issues. Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, responded to concerns regarding Bangladeshi workers potentially occupying jobs that could be available to locals. He emphasized that while there haven’t been specific complaints reported to his ministry about this matter, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Immigration.
Minister Singh stated that employers must first seek to hire locally before applying for permits to employ foreign workers. If they fail to find suitable local candidates, they can then apply for work permits through the Immigration Department. For any inquiries regarding the regulations and processes related to foreign worker permits, he advised contacting the Ministry of Immigration directly.
Additionally, Singh addressed allegations made by some Bangladeshi workers regarding mistreatment and poor working conditions. He reassured that all complaints are taken seriously and that the law applies equally to all workers, regardless of their nationality. The government is committed to ensuring that all concerns raised by workers—whether local or foreign—are adequately addressed.
This emphasis on fairness and the proper channels for employment speaks to the efforts of the Fijian government to maintain a balanced workforce while ensuring that all workers are treated fairly. The assurance of an equal application of the law can foster a more positive working environment and contribute to the overall economic stability of Fiji, which is hopeful for both local and foreign workers alike.
This focus on fairness in the workplace is crucial for promoting harmony and collaboration among diverse worker groups, which can ultimately lead to a stronger economy and community cohesion in Fiji.
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