Residents of Tavua have raised their voices in protest over the increasing presence of foreign workers at the Vatukoula Gold Mine, expressing concerns that qualified Fijians are being sidelined in favor of overseas talent. Local resident Satish Sharma criticized the trend as unjust and urged government action to prioritize employment opportunities for Fijian citizens. He stated, “So I request the government of the day that give the employment opportunity for the citizens of this country first rather than getting the people from overseas.”
In a response to the local discontent, Acting Permanent Secretary for Employment, Atish Kumar, emphasized that the hiring of foreign workers is permitted only when there are no local candidates available for the positions. “If only when we don’t have local talents available, then they can come in, the foreign workers,” Kumar noted, adding that measures are underway to strengthen the recruitment process to ensure accountability.
The government is actively reviewing the concerns raised by the residents of Tavua, intent on striking a balance between safeguarding local jobs and accommodating the needs of the industry. This situation reflects a broader national discourse around employment practices in Fiji, where the reliance on foreign labor has sparked discussions about the implications on local employment.
Past statistics indicate a rising trend of work permit applications from foreign nationals, with 596 applications reported this month alone. In the last two years, over 6,460 work permits have been issued, primarily to address shortages in sectors like construction and tourism. Despite these figures, discontent persists among Fijians who feel overlooked for employment opportunities.
The Fiji Trades Union Congress has been vocal about the need for regulations governing the hiring of foreign workers; they argue that locals are capable of fulfilling these roles and should be prioritized. Minister Agni Deo Singh has committed to collaborating across government bodies to ensure a fair hiring process that favors local talent.
In an encouraging development, efforts are being made to reform labor mobility programs, aiming to create better pathways for employment opportunities for local youth. Understanding the complexities of the labor market, the government’s renewed focus on local employment reflects a hopeful commitment toward creating a balanced workforce that serves both local communities and the economic needs of the nation.
As these discussions continue, there is optimism that policy changes will lead to enhanced job prospects for Fijians while maintaining necessary levels of foreign labor to support industry needs. By seeking to improve local employment conditions, Fiji can look forward to a more inclusive and sustainable labor market.
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