A 28-word Facebook post cost a Fiji Sugar Corporation employee his job this week.
National Union of Workers general secretary Felix Anthony confirmed the Lautoka mill worker had made a post on a thread that was discussing alleged corruption in FSC.
He represented the employee during his disciplinary hearing with FSC last week.
The worker was terminated on Monday.
“He did not in any way condemn FSC or say anything against FSC, nor did he support any other comments that were on social media,” said Mr Anthony.
“We believe that it is grossly unfair that FSC should terminate him for speaking out on issues that concern the company.”
Mr Anthony said corruption overall should be “anyone’s concern” and the worker only posted a comment on an issue he felt strongly about.
“Actions such as this will discourage whistle-blowers from actually raising issues of concern.”
FSC CEO Graham Clark confirmed the worker had been terminated and said it was because he contravened FSC’s Social Media Policy.
“The policy does not limit private use of social media, but restricts inappropriate use which may harm the reputation of other employees or FSC itself, which is deemed as serious misconduct,” he said.
“Be aware of the impact of damaging statements on social media and always communicate responsibly.”
The National Union of Workers has challenged the decision and has filed a complaint with the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations.
