The chairperson of the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC), Pravesh Sharma, has spoken out in defense of the Grace Road Group (GRG), emphasizing the need to respect their rights. In an interview with The Lens@177, Sharma expressed concerns regarding the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations’ recent findings, which reported “breaches” in GRG’s operations. He questioned if the ministry would treat other local employers with the same public scrutiny.
Sharma criticized the ministry’s approach, suggesting that it should have first given Grace Road an opportunity to address and rectify any alleged issues before making a public announcement. He noted that the ministry’s strong statements about the supposed breaches seemed premature, as they did not allow Grace Road to respond to the claims beforehand.
He also raised a broader question about the treatment of local businesses, asking whether the Ministry applies similar standards to all companies, particularly in light of issues affecting migrant workers in Fiji. The Grace Road Group, reportedly employing 800 individuals in the country, has stated their willingness to collaborate with the ministry to address any public concerns.
This situation highlights a vital discourse about fair treatment in employment practices and the importance of transparent communication between businesses and regulatory bodies. As the Grace Road Group expresses their commitment to work through these challenges, it demonstrates a positive willingness to engage and uphold standards within the community.
In summary, this case reflects broader themes of rights, fairness, and the accountability of employers and government entities, making it an essential matter in the ongoing dialogue about labor relations in Fiji.
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