Companies that do not fulfill their wage obligations are facing legal action, according to Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations. This statement comes in response to inquiries about complaints from both former and current employees of a security firm based in Suva.
Meli Tamani Tuidraki, a 45-year-old former security officer, lost his job after he approached the director of Pioneer Security Services, Rodney Nand, regarding his overdue salary. Tuidraki expressed his frustration, noting that he still has not received payment, which is critical for supporting his family.
“My family relies on me. I made the last meal of rice and eggs for my son to take to school, and I told him that without money for bus fare, he may not be able to attend anymore,” Tuidraki stated. This incident marks the second occasion where he has not been paid on time.
Tuidraki recounted the confrontation with Nand that took place at New World Supermarket in Raiwaqa, where he questioned the director about his pay. He stated, “Despite working for PSS since July of last year, no contributions have been made to my Fiji National Provident Fund.” The situation escalated when Nand physically attacked him, which led to Tuidraki being fired on the spot.
In a state of distress and despair, Tuidraki has filed complaints with the Ministry of Labour and the FNPF, seeking justice. He indicated that borrowing money is not a feasible solution and that he may have to find scraps to feed his family. Attempts to reach Mr. Nand have been unsuccessful as he was not available at his home, and calls went unanswered.