Deliver on long-delayed employment reforms: FTUC

The Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) convened an urgent meeting to address persistent delays in enacting the Employment Relations Bill and outstanding matters concerning Wages Council Orders, the National Living Wage, and the National Minimum Wage. Council members voiced frustration over repeated government assurances that have not led to legislative action, particularly regarding Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's indication that the bill would be tabled in May, which did not happen.

Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh attended the meeting to outline the government's position. He assured the FTUC that the Employment Relations Bill would be presented during Parliament's August sitting, reaffirming the government's commitment. Singh also confirmed that appointments to the Wages Council would be finalized within the next month, following the expiration of current members' terms. The government's commitment to a transparent review process for the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, with allocated funding, was also noted.

Further discussions included the government's decision to reduce employers' FNPF contribution rates, with the Minister expressing hope for their restoration. The FTUC National Council remains hopeful that the government will fulfill its promises, emphasizing that workers have awaited these reforms since the current coalition government took office three years ago. The council highlighted that Employment Relations Act reforms have been pending for over 12 years and called for the bill's prioritization, aligning with International Labour Organization recommendations. The FTUC also awaits government commitment to reinstate tripartite representation on the FNPF Board and is considering a national protest march if further delays occur.