State to reinstate wages councils

THE Coalition Government is in the process of reinstating the 10 wages councils in the private sector.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh said this yesterday at the Legal Clinic and Organising High-Level Technical Training Workshop in Nadi.

Mr Singh said the wages councils were removed by the previous administration.

“These councils, as sub-committees of the Employment Relations Advisory Board (ERAB), will play a crucial role in determining the sectoral minimum wages,” he said.

“The constituents were invited to submit nominations which have now been received.”

Mr Singh said the Government would conduct consultations with stakeholders to gather input and feedback on the proposed changes as part of its commitment to good governance.

“We believe in the power of collaboration and inclusive decision-making, and we want to ensure that all perspectives are considered in this process,” Mr Singh said.

“Government will be tabling the proposed changes in the coming months through the ERAB, Cabinet and Parliament.”

Meanwhile, Mr Singh said the Government was also in the process of conducting a review of the national minimum wage as part of the labour law review.

“And with the assistance of a professional consultant and the ERAB, will determine the appropriate rates in close consultation with the Ministry of Finance.

“We understand the importance of conducting a thorough and fair assessment to ensure that the new rates reflect the needs and realities of our workforce.”