Over 30 fishers gathered at the Fiji Trades Union Congress Hall in Suva to celebrate the launch of a new fisher’s branch and the rebranding of the Transport Commerce and General Workers Union. This initiative was implemented in response to the need for improved representation voiced by the fishers, who have expressed concerns about their working conditions for years.
The Transport Workers Union has officially transformed into the Transport, Commerce and General Workers Union (TCGWU), which will now advocate for all workers, including fishers. This name change was finalized during an Annual General Meeting (AGM) in August and has been approved by the Registrar of Trade Unions under the employment ministry’s guidance.
Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh highlighted the significance of this milestone, emphasizing the commitment to protecting the rights of workers in Fiji, particularly those in the fishing industry.
A representative from the International Labor Organization noted that this development is a pioneering effort for the Pacific region, celebrating the establishment of a dedicated Fishers Union branch. With fishers considered some of the most vulnerable workers, this new union aims to amplify their voices and ensure their needs are addressed adequately.
For fishers throughout Fiji and the wider Pacific, this new union marks a hopeful turning point, signaling a future where their concerns will be acknowledged and acted upon. Their united representation signifies progress towards better working conditions and increased recognition for their vital contributions to the economy.
This initiative not only strengthens the fishing community’s representation but also sets a precedent for other regions, exemplifying how collective action can lead to meaningful change.
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