Workers recruited over a three-month stint at a resort located on Fiji’s Coral Coast have reported mistreatment and exploitation, escalating into a labor dispute, according to Daniel Urai, the general secretary of the National Union of Hospitality, Catering and Tourism Industries Employees (NUHCTIE). Urai disclosed these alarming conditions during discussions regarding the Employment Relations Amendment Act with the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Economic Affairs in Nadi this week.
Though Urai refrained from naming the resort involved, he pointed out that employees received inadequate treatment from employers, facing scrutiny over trivial matters that sometimes led to termination. “The resort in question hired workers without ever providing them with contracts, employed them for over three months without payslips, and neglected to contribute to their FNPF,” he stated.
The problems surfaced after affected workers sought union representation. “They were given enticing titles and assigned the same roles as their counterparts but received lower wages and were deprived of sick leave,” Urai added, warning that any slip in performance could quickly result in their dismissal.
In light of these serious labor violations, the union aims to foster better relations between employers and employees, ensuring fair treatment within the workforce. Despite these efforts, attempts to reach Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh for comment went unanswered at the time of publication.
This situation echoes ongoing concerns highlighted recently by the Ministry of Employment regarding wage theft and worker mistreatment affecting local and migrant laborers across Fiji. Permanent Secretary Maritino Nemani reaffirmed the importance for employers to comply with Fiji’s labor laws, which guarantee workers’ rights. The ministry’s stance signifies a commitment to creating a work environment that not only respects employee rights but fosters overall organizational productivity. Regular audits planned by the ministry will aim to hold violators accountable and deliver justice to affected employees.
As these discussions unfold, the collaborative efforts among various stakeholders, including trade unions and employers, are intended to create a safer and more equitable workplace culture in Fiji. The hope remains that these commitments lead to the realization of a work environment where employee rights are recognized and upheld, ultimately benefiting the broader community.