Protect Fiji seasonal workers: MP

Australian and New Zealand have an obligation to ensure the well being of Fijians contracted under the Seasonal Workers Scheme.

Employment Minister Jone Usamate says people selected to work in these two countries need not fear.

Usamate says the Fijian Government will ensure that thorough processes are followed to protect workers interest under the Seasonal Workers Scheme.

"Our obligation is to screen the workers that we have to make sure that we have the best possible kind of workers that they need, we look at them medically we look at their fitness level by the same token when we have an understanding with the Australian or NZ Government they will also screen the companies that will employ this people."

Usamate says Fiji workers will be screened and health checkups will be done before the final selection is made for workers to go overseas.

He has urged recruitment companies hiring Fijians under the Seasonal Workers Scheme to be more transparent. Usamate says the government will make sure due diligence is carried out before companies can employ seasonal workers. –PAC News