The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh, announced yesterday that additional personnel would be hired to oversee employer compliance. Speaking in Labasa, Mr. Singh emphasized the importance of fair wages for sustaining households after employees have completed a day’s work.
He stated that employers who do not comply with the minimum wage, which has been set at $4.50 per hour, will not receive a second warning. This minimum wage increase officially took effect yesterday, August 1, and aims to help low-income workers cope with the rising cost of living.
Mr. Singh noted the need for compliance officers to enhance their efforts in identifying employers who violate these standards. The ministry’s enhanced staffing will facilitate more effective monitoring of employers’ compliance. Employees are encouraged to reach out to the ministry or other relevant organizations if they believe they are victims of wage exploitation.
A subsequent increase in the minimum wage is slated to take effect on April 1, 2025. The minister praised employers who have already compensated workers above the minimum wage level but reminded employees to maintain a high standard of work performance.
Vinesh Dayal, president of the Labasa Chamber of Commerce and Industries, has recently urged employers to adhere strictly to labor laws. He also suggested that fostering the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) could provide an alternative means for individuals to manage living costs, thereby creating new job opportunities and contributing to reasonable income for local businesses.