The Chief Tribunal has ruled that it has the jurisdiction to hear employment related matters which include matters regarding workmen’s compensations.

While making his ruling in a case taken up against the Public Works Department, Chief Tribunal William Callanchini stated that he had accepted that all employment related issues including workmen’s compensation should be heard by the Tribunal.

This means that all workmen’s compensation cases pending in the Magistrates court will now be either transferred or referred to the Ministry of Labour.

Meanwhile, Fiji Public Service Association Industrial Advisor Nirbhay Singh has welcomed the decision saying it would help workers receive their dues through a faster process.

However, he said they need to study the ruling before making further comments.