The Suva Retailers Association has voiced its support for new protections designed for young workers as part of the proposed Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill. During hearings held by the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, Jitesh Patel, President of the Association, underscored the significance of rising the minimum working age from 15 to 16 years.
Responding to committee chair Sakiusa Tubuna’s remarks regarding the role of children in family-run retail operations under parental supervision, Patel articulated the Association’s stance. He proposed that minors should be allowed to work with consent from their parents, ideally documented through a signed letter. He emphasized, however, that young workers must adhere to existing wage laws, ensuring they receive fair compensation and are not subjected to underpayment. “It’s essential that regulations are met, maintaining fair wages while allowing parental consent for employment,” Patel expressed.
In his testimony, Patel also discussed provisions to allow individuals aged 16 and older to join trade unions, pointing out that the retail sector is primarily not unionized. Most wage negotiations occur directly between employers and their employees. He further highlighted that wages within the retail industry often exceed the minimum wage, reflecting the employees’ experience, skills, and customer service performance.
The Suva Retailers Association is committed to protecting workers’ rights while recognizing the realities faced by family-operated businesses in Fiji. They urged lawmakers to explore pragmatic solutions that balance the need for youth protections with the operational flexibility required by small businesses. This perspective showcases a constructive approach to the challenges of youth employment within the family context in retail, promoting a positive dialogue around labor laws in the region.