The Finance Sector Managerial Staff Association (FSMSA) has called for stronger enforcement powers and tougher penalties for employers who exploit workers, in its submission to the Parliamentary consultation on the Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill 2025 held in Lautoka last week.
National Secretary Sailesh Naidu said the proposed changes were “necessary and timely” to strengthen accountability and ensure fairness in Fiji’s labour market.
Mr Naidu, who also represents four other trade unions, said he had received numerous complaints from workers in the hotel industry about unlawful deductions.
“Some workers are being charged $4 a day for transport, $35 for T-shirts, and up to $300 for worn-out diving gear. These are clear examples of exploitation and wage theft,” he said.
He said the amendments to Sections 18 and 19 of the Act must empower Labour Officers to issue compliance notices directly to employers in such cases.
“Workers continue to suffer because enforcement officers don’t have the power to act swiftly. We support stronger penalties for employers who breach Section 47 of the Act,” he added.
The Association also welcomed proposed changes to Section 211, which expand the jurisdiction of the Employment Relations Tribunal to hear disputes of interest, such as wage claims.
“This will reduce the need for strike action and promote industrial harmony,” Mr Naidu said.
He further urged the Government to discourage short-term employment contracts, describing them as “inhumane and coercive.”
The union also backed amendments restoring the Employment Relations Court’s jurisdiction over grievances, following disruptions caused by the 2022 Ajendra Sharma v ANZ Bank ruling.
“Workers unfairly denied justice must have their cases reinstated,” Mr Naidu said.
He concluded that the proposed reforms “will promote fairness, accountability, and stability across Fiji’s employment sector.”
