The Transport Commerce & General Workers Union has defended the extensive consultation process behind the Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill 2025, saying claims of insufficient engagement are “misleading and unfair.”
In a submission to the Parliamentary Standing Committee, General Secretary Kamlesh Kumar said tripartite consultations between government, employers, and unions have been ongoing for more than 15 years.
“The tripartite partners have been in consultation for over 15 years. If this is not enough, then I am sorry to say we will never have enough time,” Mr Kumar said.
He noted that the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) itself had acknowledged being part of these consultations, with genuine negotiations taking place over the last three years through the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB).
“FCEF representatives have been part of ERAB during this entire period and, under the previous government, enjoyed even greater influence over the process.”
Responding to further criticism about the adequacy of consultations, Mr Kumar said the process was both lengthy and inclusive.
“The tripartite partners have participated in lengthy and extensive consultations, many of which went late into the night. Over 80 percent of the issues were agreed upon by all three partners,” he explained.
“Where disagreements remained, those matters were left for the Government to decide.”
Mr Kumar also pointed out that a nationwide roadshow was organised in January 2025 by the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, attended by senior government officials.
“I personally attended one such consultation at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi, where the hall was filled with employer representatives — including HR managers, General Managers, and CEOs. Disappointingly, none of them spoke. The only submissions came from a handful of union leaders.”
Addressing concerns about fines under the proposed amendments, Mr Kumar clarified that penalties had already been significantly reduced during the consultation process.
“Fines exist as a deterrent, not a punishment,” he said.
“Employers who follow the law have nothing to fear. Only those who breach the law will face penalties — and rightly so.”
The Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill 2025 is currently under parliamentary review, with the Standing Committee receiving submissions from various stakeholders across the country.
