The Ministry of Employment in Fiji has received complaints from employers about local workers allegedly misusing their sick and annual leave entitlements, which has prompted some businesses to favor hiring foreign labor. Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh addressed these employer concerns during recent discussions, stressing the need for improved collaboration between employers and employees.
Singh pointed out that enhancing workplace relations and productivity is a shared responsibility. He noted that the government has taken steps to make employment more appealing for local workers, such as implementing a recent increase in the minimum wage. “At the same time, we are impressing upon employers to ensure that they also treat workers fairly,” Singh stated, highlighting the crucial role that management plays in fostering a productive work environment.
He expressed, “I also believe that a happy worker is a productive worker,” emphasizing that while high productivity levels are important, fair treatment and adequate compensation are equally essential. Singh reassured workers of the government’s commitment to their fair treatment and urged them to meet their job responsibilities. He also called on employers to avoid “shortchanging workers” by ensuring they receive all the benefits they are entitled to, which he believes is vital for attracting and keeping a dedicated workforce.
Additionally, Singh underscored the rights of foreign workers, emphasizing that they are entitled to the same legal protections as local employees. He reiterated the importance of fair treatment for all workers, regardless of nationality, which he sees as fundamental to cultivating a robust labor market in Fiji.
This initiative reflects a hopeful and proactive approach aimed at improving workplace dynamics and productivity across the nation, reinforcing the commitment to fairness for every worker in Fiji’s labor landscape.