As many as 2183 Fijians are blacklisted on the labour mobility program because of their adverse police record.
Employment Ministry permanent secretary Maritino Nemani, while highlighting this at the 26th Attorney-General’s conference in Nadi yesterday, said these Fijians found themselves blacklisted not because they lack skills or dedication, but because of past mistakes.
He said the labour mobility program represented one of Fiji’s most significant pathways of economic development today and he believed the system should be reformed.
“In 2023 alone, 142 potential workers were excluded from our labour mobility program because of adverse police record,” Mr Nemani said.
“Today, 2183 Fijians find themselves blacklisted.
“As permanent secretary for Employment Productivity and Workplace Relations, I see firsthand how our current framework, while well intentioned, maybe perpetuating cycles of economic disadvantage.
“And as I speak to this distinguished gathering of Fiji’s legal minds, I believe we both have an opportunity and obligation to reform this system.”
Mr Nemani said our labour mobility programs represented one of Fiji’s most significant pathways of economic development today.
“For records, ever since this program started, the remittance is over $300million Fijian dollars coming to the economy.
“Through partnership with Australia and New Zealand, we have created opportunities for thousands of Fijians to work abroad, support their families and return with enhanced skills and savings.
“However, our current screening process presents a complex challenge.
“Every applicant must declare past conviction initiating a comprehensive background check through the Fiji Police Force.
“While this process serves as maintaining program integrity, our data reveals troubling patterns that demands our attention.”
