The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) has urged Fletcher Higgins Fiji to reconsider its recent decision to lay off 175 employees. In response to media coverage about these layoffs, the FRA reaffirmed its strong partnership with the construction contractor, which has been a crucial player in maintaining roads in the Western Division since 2017.
In a statement, the FRA highlighted that all payments owed to Fletcher Higgins for maintenance work are current, including routine maintenance fees and claims related to cost escalations. The authority stated, “We have processed all payments and remain committed to honoring our contractual obligations.” As part of recent reforms, the FRA has also conducted a thorough review of its maintenance contracts and approved a nine-month extension for all current contractors, including Fletcher Higgins, to ensure uninterrupted maintenance services while new tenders are prepared to be awarded by June 2026.
However, tensions escalated when Fletcher Higgins issued a 28-day notice to terminate its maintenance contract, effective November 20, 2025, citing ongoing financial challenges. The company has faced difficulties stemming from reduced workloads and delayed payments, with reports indicating that the average monthly turnover for Fletcher Higgins has significantly dropped this year. Industry experts and union representatives have pointed out that these redundancies not only threaten the workers’ livelihoods but could also adversely affect the local economy.
The Construction, Energy, and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF) has expressed concerns regarding the job losses and the potential broader implications for the labor market, emphasizing the need for government intervention. Both the FRA and union leaders hope that constructive dialogue can lead to a resolution that preserves jobs and supports the local economy.
As the situation evolves, the FRA remains committed to maintaining safety and efficiency in Fiji’s road network, indicating a shared aspiration among all parties involved to find solutions that will benefit both the workers and the integrity of the infrastructure. Promoting communication and partnership may ultimately lead to a brighter future for affected employees while ensuring the continuity of essential road maintenance services across Fiji.
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