Negotiations have commenced between the Construction Energy and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF) and Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) in an attempt to resolve an industrial dispute that has prompted a strike notice. The negotiations are being overseen by the Ministry of Employment and Workplace Relations, following a formal notification from the union indicating that industrial action is set to begin on February 15, 2026.
Approximately 500 members of CETWUF are anticipated to participate in the strike if a resolution is not achieved. A letter dated January 9, 2026, signed by union national secretary John Paul, was addressed to the CEO of EFL outlining the grievances of the union members.
The strike is scheduled to commence at 7 AM on February 15, and will continue until an agreement is reached. This walkout is likely to impact EFL workplaces and operations across the nation, affecting tradesmen, staff, and senior personnel.
CETWUF has expressed dissatisfaction with EFL’s refusal to engage in negotiations regarding its 2024 and 2025 Logs of Claims, which include demands for a 10 percent wage increase. Other concerns brought to light by the union involve unpaid shift allowances, non-payment for live-line allowances for crane operators working at heights, and requests for upgraded rates for live-line workers.
Furthermore, the union has highlighted that senior executives at EFL received a collective $3.3 million in salaries and allowances last year, representing a 13.8 percent increase from the previous year, while regular workers did not see any wage increases for 2024 and 2025. CETWUF insists that the strike action will proceed unless these matters are satisfactorily resolved through negotiation efforts.
With the strike notice pushing both parties to come to the table, there is hope that a fair agreement can be reached, paving the way for a more equitable work environment and addressing the concerns raised by the union members. This situation underscores the importance of effective communication and negotiation in resolving labor disputes.
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