The Construction Energy and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF) has announced plans for a strike action by Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) workers starting February 15. This decision comes amid an escalating industrial dispute with the power utility company.
EFL’s leadership expressed hope that the ongoing dispute could still be resolved through constructive dialogue. EFL chief executive Fatiaki Gibson stated, “EFL remains optimistic that good sense will prevail and seeks the cooperation and understanding of all its valued employees who are members of CETWUF, and its leadership team, during this period.”
The current conflict follows an unsuccessful voluntary mediation process facilitated by the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, which was part of collective bargaining discussions. CETWUF communicated on February 7 that it no longer wished to pursue mediation, favoring a resolution through Arbitration Court, with proceedings scheduled for March 23.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in labor relations within the energy sector in Fiji, but there remains hope for a resolution that balances employee concerns with the operational needs of the utility, paving the way for a potential compromise.
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