The government has not yet reached a decision on whether to separate the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Department from the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations.
During a recent submission regarding the review of the 2022 Audit Report on the General Administration Sector, Permanent Secretary for Employment Maritino Nemani indicated that discussions around this topic are ongoing.
“There have been discussions around the corridors of the ministry on this issue,” Mr. Nemani stated. He emphasized that the decision made should be a political one, guided by the proper processes established by the minister.
He expressed that while there is a need to consider the separation, it is crucial for the government to maintain ownership of the OHS procedures, rather than allowing it to operate as an independent entity.
Moreover, Mr. Nemani highlighted the urgency of reviewing certain OHS regulations. At present, he noted, “We have not moved into this matter because there is a pressing need to address some of our legislation, including OHS regulations.”
He mentioned that important work is being carried out through the Attorney General’s office and the Solicitor General’s office regarding these regulations, suggesting that the decision on separation may be contemplated once these legislative matters are resolved.
Mr. Nemani concluded by discussing the significance of these regulations for various sectors, including their impact on the ease of doing business and their relationships with trade and other ministries. He acknowledged that the decision regarding the OHS Department’s structure remains open, as he continues to assess the implications of whether it should remain within the ministry or function as an independent entity, particularly regarding accountability issues.