Employment Minister Clarifies Purpose of Wage Dialogue Sessions

The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Hon. Agni Deo Singh, has responded to concerns raised by the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) regarding the Ministry’s ongoing dialogue sessions involving the Wages Councils Chairperson.

In a letter dated April 22, Minister Singh emphasized that the sessions were not formal Wages Council meetings, but rather educational and outreach programs aimed at promoting greater understanding among employers, workers, and the wider business community about the Wages Council’s role and the principles of decent work.

“These outreach sessions are purely educational and informational in nature,” Singh stated. “They are designed to explain the history, legal foundation, and tripartite structure of the Wages Council, and to encourage inclusive participation from all sectors.”

He clarified that while the Chairperson of the Wages Councils was participating in these sessions, it was not in a decision-making capacity, and no formal Council business was being conducted outside of the established tripartite framework mandated under the Employment Relations Act 2007.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to tripartism and adherence to International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, Singh assured the FCEF that all formal wage determinations and policy decisions would continue to be made through proper channels.

“We remain fully committed to inclusive dialogue, transparency, and ensuring that all stakeholders are empowered to understand their rights and responsibilities,” the Minister said.

The Ministry expressed appreciation for FCEF’s continued engagement in national labour discussions and encouraged ongoing dialogue to support balanced and sustainable policy development.