Companies that neglect to pay employees their wages are now facing legal action, according to Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations. This statement came in response to concerns raised by both former and current workers of a Suva security firm during discussions on Wednesday.
One affected individual, 45-year-old Meli Tamani Tuidraki, a former security officer, was recently terminated after addressing the issue of his outstanding salary with the director of Pioneer Security Services, Rodney Nand. Tuidraki expressed his frustration about the delay in receiving his pay, which he urgently needs to support his family.
“I have six family members who rely on me. The last meal I could provide was a pot of rice and eggs for my son to take to school,” Tuidraki shared. “I told him that Tuesday would be his last day at school because I have no money for his bus fare.”
This marks the second occurrence of Tuidraki not receiving his salary on time. He confronted Nand at the New World Supermarket in Raiwaqa regarding his pay. Tuidraki noted that he has been employed by PSS since July of the previous year, yet no contributions have been made to his Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). He described an altercation where Nand physically assaulted him, leading to his immediate dismissal.
In a state of emotional distress, Tuidraki has filed complaints with the Ministry of Labour, as well as the FNPF, seeking assistance. He mentioned that borrowing money is not a feasible option, making it necessary to find scraps for their next meal. Attempts to reach Nand for comment have been unsuccessful as he was not at home and did not respond to calls or messages.