We are doing a survey with the ILO to determine the number of employees who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic - Bala

Minister for Employment Parveen Bala says they are doing a survey with the International Labour Organisation to determine the number of employees who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

When asked by Legend FM News about what sort of assistance will be provided to these affected workers, Bala says cabinet will make the final decision.

Bala says they have received information that all the companies that have sent their workers home, will take back their employees when the situation improves.

He says his ministry is working with all stakeholders to keep as many Fijians as possible in the workplace.

The Minister adds they are working with employers for ways and means of lessening the impact on employment due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, Bala is warning all employers that they should not take advantage of the COVID-19 situation as they have received 305 complaints from employees in regards to shift work and reduced hours of work.

He says some of the complaints they are receiving now is also in regards to reduced hourly rates.

The Minister is urging workers to talk to the Ministry staff if they have any concerns.

Bala adds that they are aware of and are sympathetic to the downturn in business but it is important that employment laws and regulations in place are followed and workers are not denied their rights.

He adds that they have managed to resolve at least 50% of the complaints by some workers. While celebrating World OHS Day today, the Minister adds that his ministry has been conducting COVID-19 workplace awareness to both employers and workers since March 9th, before Fiji's first case was announced on March 19th.

He says that they have covered over 1,536 employers with 9,989 workers in both essential and non essential industries.

Bala adds that his ministry will be introducing a recognition award to those workplaces that show compliance and commitment towards COVID-19 prevention at their workplace.

The theme for World OHS Day is "Stop the Pandemic: Safety and Health at work can save lives".