The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) has officially countered allegations from Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) General Secretary Felix Anthony concerning proposed changes to the Employment Relations Act (ERA). In a recent statement, FCEF Chief Executive Edward Bernard criticized Anthony’s claim that the amendments were the result of 15 years of discussions among tripartite partners, deeming it misleading. Bernard clarified that, while initial discussions about reviewing the ERA began over a decade ago, a structured review process only commenced this year, in 2023.
Bernard underscored the significance of clarity in this matter, asserting, “The FTUC General Secretary Felix Anthony’s comments regarding the amendments to the Employment Relations Act are very misleading.” This response from the FCEF comes on the heels of the reactivation of the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB), which is pivotal for Fiji’s compliance with the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 144 regarding Tripartite Consultation. He credited the Coalition Government and Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh, for reinstating tripartism and social dialogue, thus ensuring adherence to ILO recommendations.
In explaining the inception of the ERAB, Bernard noted that members were initially bound by a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) that limited their engagement with stakeholders. However, after this restriction was lifted, the FCEF quickly began extensive consultations with private sector employers to effectively represent their perspectives and needs.
This year, FCEF played a crucial role in advocating for the public release of the draft ERA amendment bill before national consultations took place, a strategy aimed at gathering feedback and promoting transparency in reforms. This initiative highlights the federation’s commitment to a collaborative approach in shaping labor laws that serve the interests of all stakeholders, including both workers and employers.
The ongoing discussions regarding ERA amendments reflect a broader dedication to enhance labor standards in Fiji. Employers and labor unions are poised to play critical roles in ensuring that the newly proposed laws protect workers while promoting sustainable business practices. This collaborative focus suggests a hopeful future for Fiji’s employment landscape, where fair labor practices can coexist with economic advancement, fostering an environment conducive to growth for all.