Concerns over worker exploitation and the impact of proposed labour laws on small businesses took centre stage today where the Deputy Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, Premila Kumar also acknowledged that parts of the Employment Relations Bill are poorly worded and open to multiple interpretations, creating confusion around certain provisions — including those concerning potential criminal penalties for wage disputes.
During the consultation on the Bill in parliament today, Kumar also clarified that the Bill could not be returned to Employment Relations Advisory Board as it had already passed through Cabinet and referred to Parliament.
Kumar says the parliamentary committee’s role is to ensure the Bill is practical, enforceable, and aligned with both Fiji’s Constitution and International Labour Organization (ILO) standards.
She says the committee would consider all submissions received from the public before recommending amendments to Parliament.
While speaking at the consultation, Felix Parker, a private sector employee and small business owner, urged lawmakers to ensure that the Bill prioritises the protection of workers’ rights and promotes fair treatment for all employees.
Parker, who described himself as both an employer and a worker, stressed the importance of creating fair employment conditions that would encourage skilled workers to remain in Fiji rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Another speaker, also a small business owner, echoed similar concerns, saying the Bill in its current form poses serious challenges for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The business owner urged that the Bill be referred to the Employment Relations Advisory Board for further review, noting the need for a “tiered approach” and the removal of criminalisation clauses that could penalise employers.
