The 2024 Public Service International (PSI) Oceania Sub-Regional Advisory Committee Conference is currently taking place in Nadi, focusing on a collaborative approach to tackling labor-related issues and exploring growth opportunities in the Pacific region.
During the official opening this morning, Permanent Secretary for Civil Service and Public Enterprise, Parmesh Chand, emphasized the conference’s objective to bring together 50 participants from six Pacific Island nations. The aim is to foster dialogue and share ideas to enhance the working environment in their countries.
Chand noted, “The Conference will concentrate on critical issues such as climate justice, labor migration, insourcing, combating privatization, empowering indigenous workers, adhering to International Labour standards, and enhancing capacity building and organization.”
He mentioned that the Government has adopted various measures to tackle labor migration and related challenges within the Civil Service. These include the removal of contractual conditions, the introduction of tenure service, and a salary adjustment commitment resulting in pay increases between 7 to 20 percent. Additionally, the Government has launched an Internship and Graduate Trainee program aimed at addressing skill shortages in the workforce.
Chand also revealed that the Ministry of Civil Service is in the process of reviewing the General Orders to enhance the terms and conditions of employment for civil servants. He expressed optimism about the future of work in Fiji, stating that with the tripartite mechanisms now established and new strategies to be integrated into the upcoming National Development Plan, the nation is well-positioned to meet International Labour Organization (ILO) standards and adopt best practices.
Youth representatives from member countries of the Oceania Sub-Regional Advisory Committee Conference (OSRAC) are also taking part in this year’s event.