The 2024 Public Service International (PSI) Oceania Sub-Regional Advisory Committee Conference is currently taking place in Nadi, focusing on a collaborative approach to tackle labor-related issues and explore growth opportunities in the Pacific region.
During the official opening, Parmesh Chand, the Permanent Secretary for Civil Service and Public Enterprise, emphasized that the conference unites 50 delegates from six Pacific Island nations to engage in discussions and share ideas aimed at enhancing the work environment within their countries.
Chand noted that the conference will concentrate on key issues such as climate justice, labor migration, insourcing, opposition to privatization, rights of indigenous workers, adherence to International Labour standards, and strategies for capacity building and organization.
He mentioned that the government has introduced various measures to tackle labor migration and other labor-related issues in the Civil Service, including the removal of contractual conditions in favor of tenure service, and a salary adjustment with increases ranging from 7 to 20 percent. Additionally, the government has launched an Internship and Graduate Trainee program to address skill shortages among the qualified workforce.
Chand indicated that the Ministry of Civil Service is in the process of reviewing the General Orders to enhance the employment terms for civil servants. He expressed optimism about the future of work in Fiji, citing the establishment of tripartite mechanisms and forthcoming strategies under the new National Development Plan.
According to Chand, Fiji is well-positioned to meet International Labour Organization (ILO) standards and implement best practices. The conference also includes youth representatives from the member countries of the Oceania Sub-Regional Advisory Committee Conference (OSRAC).