Public sector workers should be able to complete their duties within normal working hours, rather than relying on overtime.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka made the remarks in response to concerns raised by the Fiji Public Service Association over Government’s cost-cutting measures, particularly the suspension of overtime payments and the introduction of time off in lieu (TOIL).
The union had warned that the changes would unfairly burden frontline and essential workers, many of whom are already working extended hours under difficult conditions. However, Mr Rabuka defended the move, saying the adjustment was necessary given current financial constraints.
“It will be given time off in lieu of overtime, which is the same thing. They will not be required to stay back. Because we (government) cannot afford to keep paying people over time,” Mr Rabuka said.
FPSA general secretary Judith Kotobalavu earlier warned the changes could place added pressure on frontline and essential workers, many of whom already work extended hours in demanding conditions.
The union argues that replacing overtime with TOIL may result in an immediate loss of income, particularly for lower and middle-income earners who rely on extra hours to supplement their wages.
It also raised concerns that heavy workloads could limit the ability of workers to actually take accrued time off, potentially rendering the policy ineffective in practice while straining service delivery.
While acknowledging the need for responsible spending, the FPSA maintains that recovery efforts must be balanced and inclusive, cautioning that cost-cutting measures should not disproportionately impact those at the lower end of the public service.
