The Fiji Tourism Workers Union has raised serious concerns following a recent bus accident in Denarau, highlighting the hazardous and inadequate transportation conditions that hotel employees across Fiji are enduring. Reports from union members indicate that the vehicles supplied for worker transportation are often neglected, overcrowded, and unsafe, putting employees’ lives at risk on a daily basis.
Sailesh Naidu, an Employee Relations Consultant at the union, stressed the urgent need for immediate corrective measures by employers and relevant authorities to ensure that all transport arrangements adhere to national road safety and occupational health regulations. He pointed out that it is particularly troubling that workers, especially those in remote areas or assigned to early morning and late-night shifts, frequently have to pay for their transportation out of their own pockets. In some cases, hotel management has even enforced these deductions as a condition of employment, which Naidu identifies as a blatant violation of the Employment Relations Act.
Specifically, Section 24 of the Act forbids unauthorized wage deductions, affirming that it is inequitable for workers to shoulder the expense of commuting when employers control job locations and schedules. The union is calling on the Ministry of Employment and the Land Transport Authority to implement comprehensive safety inspections of transportation services used within the tourism industry.
This incident has emerged amidst ongoing grievances about worker treatment in Fiji’s hospitality sector. For example, a labor dispute involving a Coral Coast resort has revealed instances of worker exploitation, including harsh scrutiny and problematic contract issues. Additionally, many employees are reportedly deprived of their rights to essential benefits, such as payslips and pension contributions, raising concerns about compliance with labor standards.
Nevertheless, the response to these challenges brings a glimmer of hope, suggesting that united efforts from unions and governmental oversight could foster improved practices in the hospitality industry. Just as this recent bus accident has illuminated transport safety issues, the dedication to advancing working conditions could enhance productivity and worker satisfaction moving forward. As authorities and unions collaborate to push for safer conditions, there is optimism for achieving equitable treatment and enhanced standards for all workers in Fiji.