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 challenges and promote growth in the Pacific region.
During the official opening this morning, Parmesh Chand, the Permanent Secretary for Civil Service and Public Enterprise, emphasized the importance of the event, which has attracted 50 participants from six Pacific Island nations. This conference provides a platform for dialogue and the exchange of ideas aimed at enhancing workplace conditions across these nations.
Chand highlighted several key topics for discussion, including climate justice, labor migration, insourcing, opposition to privatization, the rights of indigenous workers, adherence to International Labour standards, and strengthening organizational capacity.
He noted that the Fijian government has enacted various measures to tackle labor migration and other related issues in the Civil Service. These measures include the abolishment of contractual conditions in favor of tenure service, a salary adjustment that sees pay increases ranging from 7 to 20 percent, and the introduction of an Internship and Graduate Trainee program to fill skill gaps within the workforce.
Chand also mentioned that the Ministry of Civil Service is in the process of updating the General Orders to enhance the employment terms and conditions for civil servants.
He expressed optimism about the future of work in Fiji, citing the establishment of effective tripartite mechanisms and upcoming strategies outlined in the new National Development Plan as factors that will contribute to the country’s progress.
Chand reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to complying with International Labour Organization (ILO) standards and adopting best practices. Additionally, youth representatives from member countries of the Oceania Sub-Regional Advisory Committee Conference (OSRAC) are actively participating in this year’s event.