The Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) has welcomed the recent announcement made by the Government to lift the ‘No Jab No Job’ policy that was implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The association has stated that it is pleased to hear that the regulation is being revoked with immediate effect, and that those who lost their jobs as a result of this policy can now choose to reapply for their positions.
According to government officials the policy has served its purpose of protecting workers, especially those on the front line during the pandemic and could now be laid to rest.
Having reportedly achieved the required immunity levels, this revocation along with the earlier review that no longer restricts travel to Fiji for non-vaccinated visitors, are welcomed news for the association.
CEO of FHTA Fantasha Lockington has expressed the tourism industry’s appreciation for the Government’s decision, stating, “We are pleased to note the progressive steps to lifting the remaining requirements that were initially necessary in balancing the welfare of workers, supporting visitor confidence to travel and ensuring the tourism industry’s recovery.”
“With the lifting of this policy, we hope that two key contingency issues now fall into place – that tourism workers will feel encouraged to re-join the workforce, and that the Ministry of Health & Medical Services, through the Border Health Protection Unit will cease their demands for all resorts to continue testing their staff for COVID-19, now 16 months post-reopening, that also requires that test results are sent back regularly.”
