The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations (MEPWPR) is taking steps to expedite the processing of 14,000 outstanding compensation cases related to workplace and school accidents. The backlog, inherited from the Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji (ACCF), stems from the previous management by Veritas Pte Ltd, which was removed from its contract last year due to inefficiencies. During its tenure, Veritas was paid $900,000 annually but failed to resolve thousands of claims.

Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, stated that since taking over, the ministry has made significant progress, processing more claims from June to September last year than Veritas had managed in a year. He highlighted that the ministry aims not only to clear the backlog effectively but also cost-efficiently.

This shift back to the ministry’s oversight was initiated following a decision by the interim ACCF board, which sought to streamline operations and eliminate the high costs associated with outsourcing claims management. By bringing the processing of these claims back in-house, the government expects to save approximately $1.8 million in fees, with a $6 million budget allocated for the “no-fault” compensation scheme.

In past public consultations, stakeholders expressed support for the proposed Work Care Bill, which aims to enhance efficiency in handling compensation processes. The transition signifies a new commitment from the government to take accountability in addressing unresolved cases and improving the compensation system for those affected by workplace injuries.

This proactive approach offers hope for a more responsive and effective compensation framework that can better serve the injured workers and support a healthier work environment across Fiji.

In summary, the ministry’s efforts to handle the backlog demonstrate a dedication to improving worker welfare and ensuring swift resolution of claims, which is a welcome development for both employees and employers alike.