The Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) has voiced serious concerns regarding a campaign it claims is misleading, orchestrated by employers against the Employment Relations Amendment Bill No. 27. National Secretary Felix Anthony highlighted that this campaign reflects a misunderstanding and bad faith from employers, particularly the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF). He noted that the amendments to the Bill were the result of a thorough 15-year consultation process, during which nearly 80% of the changes were agreed upon by the employers involved.
Anthony criticized the FCEF for revisiting settled matters and disseminating misinformation about the Bill. He stated that some employers exhibit a lack of comprehension of the Bill’s content, merely echoing the federation’s narratives. He clarified that while the Bill includes 190 amendments, most are in line with international labor standards, including significant ILO conventions like the Maritime Labour Convention and Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment. These provisions had previously been endorsed by all Tripartite Partners in 2012 and 2013.
The forthcoming amendments aim to strengthen workers’ rights by clearly defining unfair dismissal and enhancing protocols for fair hearings while instituting explicit strike procedures, including requirements for secret ballots and advance notice. According to Anthony, these provisions create a fair labor relations framework, balancing the interests of both employees and employers.
Furthermore, Anthony reminded employers of their responsibilities under ILO Conventions 87 and 98, which uphold freedom of association and collective bargaining. This commitment is also entrenched in the national Constitution. The FTUC has defended the bargaining fee provision within the Bill, arguing it protects against “union-busting” practices by ensuring that union members who pay fees reap the benefits of union-negotiated agreements, without mandating union membership.
Addressing issues surrounding workforce productivity, Anthony argued that real progress cannot be achieved while employees are compensated with “poverty wages.” He called for increased investment in training, skills development, and fair wage structures, asserting that productivity enhancements cannot be facilitated through legislation alone. He urged employers to move past fear tactics related to wage reviews and regulatory changes, emphasizing the difficulties trade unions have faced over the past 16 years due to what he described as government suppression of union activities.
Given these developments, the FTUC is encouraging both the government and employers to honor their commitments to upholding workers’ rights and adhering to international labor standards. This dialogue represents a crucial juncture for labor relations in Fiji, laying the foundation for reforms that could significantly improve the working conditions and lives of individuals across various sectors in the country.