Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, has publicly defended the selection of Dewan Shankar, a retired unionist from Fiji, as the country liaison officer for the Pacific-Australia Labour Mobility Scheme. Shankar, a prominent figure in Fiji’s union movement who currently lives in Australia, was chosen for the position due to his deep understanding of the Fijian community and workers’ issues.
Mr. Singh emphasized that the recruitment process was conducted transparently, with the role being advertised and applications handled according to standard procedures. He firmly stated that there was no bias in the appointment, dismissing any notion of favoritism towards a former union colleague. Singh highlighted Shankar’s extensive experience with workers’ rights, grievances, and awareness of minimum standards necessary for the role.
In Australia, the Pacific-Australia Labour Mobility Scheme has three country liaison officers. The Fiji Government finances two of these roles, while the Australian Government covers one. The advertised salary for the position ranges between $65,000 and $75,000 Australian dollars.
The defense of this appointment reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that those overseeing worker mobility are knowledgeable and empathetic to the needs of Fijians abroad. This not only aids in better representation of Fijian workers in Australia but also strengthens relations and support mechanisms between the two nations.
Overall, the government is taking positive steps towards improving labor mobility and addressing the needs of overseas Fijian workers, which can foster better job opportunities and support for the Fijian diaspora.
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