Felix Anthony, the national secretary of the Fiji Trade Union Congress (FTUC), has called for the enhancement of workers’ rights for police and correctional officers in Fiji, while suggesting that their right to strike should not be included in these improvements. In recent comments made to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Economic Affairs regarding the proposed Employment Relations Bill, Anthony pointed out that current legislation prevents police officers from joining trade unions, a restriction he believes must be reformed.
During the discussions, Anthony urged the removal of a clause in the draft Bill that implies police officers would have rights only “in certain circumstances.” He argued for the extension of full rights to these officers, emphasizing that the prohibition on striking should be the sole limitation. This perspective resonates with several stakeholders involved in the tripartite discussions regarding the Bill.
Anthony stressed the vital need for police officers to have the ability to pursue grievances through legal channels and engage in collective bargaining. The current Bill, he contends, fails to grant these fundamental rights, which restrict officers from voicing grievances via their unions or associations. He argued that it is essential for police and correctional officers to be afforded the same rights as other workers, excluding the right to strike.
This push for expanded rights is part of a larger effort by the FTUC to modernize labor laws in Fiji, aligning them more closely with International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions. Previously, Anthony has emphasized the necessity for amendments to the Employment Relations Act to better safeguard workers and ensure fairness across all sectors.
Anthony’s advocacy for improved workers’ rights holds significant potential for fostering positive change within Fiji’s labor landscape. Should the proposed reforms be implemented, they may not only enhance working conditions for police officers but also symbolize a broader movement towards the acknowledgment and protection of workers’ rights nationwide. The ongoing dialogue surrounding these changes portrays a hopeful outlook for labor relations in Fiji, as various stakeholders unite to forge a more equitable work environment.