Employer cannot make wage deductions without permission of employee - Usamate

Employers are not allowed to make any salary or wage deductions of any worker without their permission.

This was highlighted by the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Jone Usamate while conducting public consultation for members of the community in Nausori and Nasinu.

Usamate says the only time the employer can make deductions is when approval is being granted by the worker.

He adds that on any deduction, the employer cannot deduct more than 50% from the worker's pay.

According to a government statement, an employer may deduct from the salary or wage of a worker an amount that is due by the worker in respect of any tax or deductions imposed by law or ordered by a court.

Deductions have to be agreed upon between employers and workers and also shown on payslip.

The protection of wages is provided for under Part 6 of the Employment Relations Act 2007 and any employer that fails to comply with this requirement, commits an offence.