The Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) has called on the Government to implement a $6 national minimum wage.
FTUC general secretary Felix Anthony said they had, for many years, strived to ensure that the workers were paid fairly and ordinary Fijians were lifted out of poverty.
In response, Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh said all submissions towards the national minimum wage review, that was currently underway, were welcomed.
He said all the submissions would be considered together and the recommendation of the research team would be taken into consideration to finalise the minimum wage.
Mr Anthony said the FTUC had, for many years, strived to ensure that the workers were paid fairly and ordinary Fijians were lifted out of poverty.
“We firmly believe that a fair minimum wage is a good place to start if we are serious about getting people out of poverty.”
He said when the FTUC started a campaign on minimum wage to be increased to $4, some 10 years ago, it did not have the desired effect when it was implemented.
“It came in far too late and by then, the cost of living had shot through the roof.
“A minimum wage is not sufficient, where it is below the poverty line and what we are seeking is a living wage in this country where families can live comfortably and there’s dignity.”
Mr Anthony said although they recognised the $6 national minimum wage would not be possible overnight, it was important to start the process.
“We still don’t believe that $6 is a living wage but what we call for is a progressive increase over a period of time that would lift the standard of living.”
In response, Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh said all submissions towards the national minimum wage review, that was currently underway, were welcomed.
“The FTUC has their campaigns and other social partner campaigns have their own submissions,” he said.
“All the submissions will be considered together and the recommendation of the research team will be taken into consideration to finalise the minimum wage.”
