Bangladeshi workers employed at a farm owned by Charan Jeath Singh in Waiqele, Labasa, have received their due wages following an investigation by Fiji’s Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations.
Acting Permanent Secretary for Employment Atish Kumar confirmed that all outstanding payments owed to the foreign workers have now been settled.
“The Ministry compliance team conducted investigations on the issues raised by the Bangladeshi workers and noted areas of non-compliance,” Mr Kumar said in a statement. “A proforma letter was issued to the employer, granting 30 days to rectify the issues. As we speak, this has been resolved for these workers.”
While the ministry did not disclose the specific breaches of employment law, it confirmed that all necessary processes under Fiji’s Employment Relations Act had been followed to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
Kumar also reminded all employers, both public and private, to uphold labour standards.
“I call on all local employers employing both foreign and local workers to treat their workers with respect and dignity. Do what is right under the employment law and ensure that workers receive their rightful entitlements,” he said.
A routine follow-up inspection at the Waiqele farm is scheduled for later in the year, as part of ongoing monitoring efforts to ensure continued compliance with employment laws.
Photo: MOA/File
