pilot project

The trials, in which workers were paid the same amount for shorter hours, took place between 2015 and 2019.

Productivity remained the same or improved in the majority of workplaces, researchers said.

A number of other trials are now being run across the world, including in Spain and by Unilever in New Zealand.

In Iceland, the trials run by Reykjavík City Council and the national government eventually included more than 2,500 workers, which amounts to about 1% of Iceland's working population.

The Department of Labour's Julie Rereman said the new project focused on the capability and not the disability of people to contribute to the economic development of the country.

Disability Inclusion Project Officer Neneth Garae told the Daily Post newspaper that she will meet the first five applicants next week.

If the project proves successful it is expected to be introduced to other Pacific countries.