Cases to be kept secret

Civil service guideline

ANY information on civil servants who have tested positive for COVID-19 is considered confidential, states the Fijian Civil Service COVID-Safe Workplace Guideline.

Released by the Ministry of Civil Service, the guideline provides guidance to permanent secretaries on how to implement COVID-19 health and safety measures in Government work spaces while ensuring the continuity of services.

The guideline states any release of information on COVID-positive cases in a government department would be a violation and considered a breach of the Civil Service Code of Conduct.

“Employees diagnosed with COVID-19 will be entitled to sick leave as per the general orders,” the guideline states.

“Ministries should maintain high levels of confidentiality in regard to possible or positive COVID-19 cases.

“Information on employees who have tested positive with COVID-19 is considered confidential and violations of this confidentiality are considered a breach of the Civil Service Code of Conduct.”

The guideline states permanent secretaries can institute disciplinary action for nonadherence.

“If a civil servant is diagnosed with COVID-19 or has been identified as a primary contact, he or she must immediately notify the immediate supervisor or human resources.

“Employees who have recovered from COVID-19 are required to submit confirmation of their negative tests and/or discharge from the MHMS, to their respective permanent secretaries through their HR departments, before they can return to the workplace.”