Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa and a number of Cabinet Ministers conducted site visits to a number of businesses recently in a bid to boost the Government-private sector working relationship.

The ministerial visit took place from 7-12 October and included the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio,  Minister of Commerce Industry and Labour, Leatinuu Wayne Fong and the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, La’auli Leuatea Polataivao Fosi.

The site visits were coordinated by the M.C.I.L. in consultation with the business community with the focus placed on manufacturers in Upolu as part of its routine regulatory functions.

As the Ministry charged with the custody of the occupational safety and health mandate, the M.C.I.L. also looked at product standards and Government support to enhance private sector growth and job creation during the tour.

“While the world is still adjusting to the new norms in the world of work, this was a good opportunity for the Honorable Prime Minister and members of Cabinet to witness the day to day operations of these businesses in Samoa,” reads a M.C.I.L. statement that was released giving details of the site visits.

“The high-level visit also utilised the opportunity for dialogue with business owners and gauge their views on compliance level in terms of occupational safety and health including support from the Government of Samoa to build sustainability in light of this unprecedented global pandemic.”

Fiame and the Government delegation acknowledged the business community for their contribution to the development of Samoa.

She said the Government hopes that the site visits will build a good working relationship between the Government and the private sector.

“The Prime Minister and delegates acknowledged the business community and its contribution to the development of the economy of Samoa,” reads the M.C.I.L. statement.

“It is the hope that this visit further builds and strengthens relationships and dialogue between the Government and employers on ways that best assist in creating decent work opportunities for our people.”