Savusavu Employers Oppose Extra Day Off
‘Our job is to listen and make proposals to ensure the Act represents the best interests of both parties’
Wednesday 15 January 2025 | 09:47
A handful of Savusavu company owners have opposed a proposal in the Employment Relations Act 2007 that would provide workers alternate day off, along with double pay, for working on public holidays.
Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh, and his team has held a review of the Act last Saturday, where employers raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposal on their businesses.
Employers argue the additional day off could significantly affect business sustainability, if employees take more days off.
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Atish Kumar, the Ministry’s Deputy Secretary (Operations), acknowledged the concerns raised by employers.
He assured them both views would be taken into account before the proposal is tabled in Parliament.
“We understand the concerns of employers about working hours being affected by the extra day off for workers,” Mr Kumar said.
“However, the welfare of staff is also priority. Consultations like this provide the perfect platform for proposing and voicing concerns.”
Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh.
Minister Singh also spoke on the issue, emphasing the importance of adequate leave and days off.
“However, business sustainability is also vital,” he added.
“We believe workers should work towards improving their absenteeism problem.”
Former president of the Labasa Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Satish Kumar, said despite providing transportation for staff, some them still failed to attend work on Mondays.
This issue added to the debate about the proposal to increase annual leave.
Deputy Secretary Mr Kumar said constructive debates helped formulate effective proposals to enhance the workforce.
“The working class represents a significant portion of Fiji’s population, and any major changes will be met with both criticism and acceptance,” he said.
“Our job is to listen and make proposals to ensure the Act represents the best interests of both parties.”
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