EMPLOYMENT, Productivity and Workplace Relations Minister Agni Deo Singh has reassured the nation that the local labour market remains filled with ample opportunities, despite an increasing presence of foreign workers in unskilled sectors.
Speaking at the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Symposium at the Tanoa Sky lodge Hotel last Friday, Mr Singh emphasised that employment is readily available for those willing to step forward.
While confirming the security of the local job market, Mr Singh also highlighted the persistent challenge of domestic vacancies being filled by labourers from abroad.
“People need to work but we are still getting workers from abroad,” he said.
“The immigration department has a big challenge.”
Mr Singh further assured that the Ministry is working diligently to uphold the integrity of the workplace, ensuring that both local and migrant workers are protected under the law.
“We work together to make sure that the minimum standards are compliant.”
While 90 per cent of employers are fully compliant with these regulations, Mr Singh said the Ministry remained vigilant against the small fraction that mistreats staff.
“There are that small number that are not and there are occasions where we are very much saddened with the treatment that some of our workers, migrant workers, are given by some employers.”
