The ongoing 2024 Public Service International (PSI) Oceania Sub-Regional Advisory Committee Conference in Nadi aims to adopt a tripartite strategy to tackle labor-related issues and explore growth prospects in the Pacific region.
Parmesh Chand, the Permanent Secretary for Civil Service and Public Enterprise, emphasized this during the conference’s official opening. He noted that the event has drawn together 50 participants from six Pacific Island nations to engage in discussions and share ideas aimed at enhancing working conditions in their countries.
“The Conference will focus on critical issues such as climate justice, labor migration, insourcing, combating privatization, support for indigenous workers, adherence to International Labour standards, and capacity building,” Chand stated.
Chand shared that the Government has set in motion various initiatives to tackle labor migration and related challenges within the Civil Service. These include the removal of contractual conditions in favor of tenure service and a salary adjustment plan that promises pay increases ranging from 7 to 20 percent.
Additionally, the Government has launched an Internship and Graduate Trainee program to help qualified individuals fill skill gaps.
He also mentioned 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.
Chand expressed confidence that the future of work in Fiji is promising, thanks to the established tripartite mechanisms and strategies outlined in the forthcoming National Development Plan.
“Fiji is now better positioned to align with ILO standards and employ best practices,” he added.
The conference is also featuring youth representatives from the member countries of the Oceania Sub-Regional Advisory Committee Conference (OSRAC).