Over 30 fishermen gathered at the Fiji Trades Union Congress Hall in Suva yesterday to celebrate the launch of a new branch specifically for fishers, alongside the renaming and rebranding of the Transport Commerce and General Workers Union (TCGWU). This change comes in response to the increasing concerns among fishers about their need for better representation in the workforce.
The union, previously known as the Transport Workers Union, underwent a transformation that was formalized during an Annual General Meeting (AGM) in August this year; the new name has since been registered with the Ministry of Employment. This rebranding aims to create a stronger voice for all workers, notably fishers, addressing longstanding issues regarding their representation.
Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, emphasized that the new logo symbolizes the union’s commitment to advocating for the rights of workers across the country. He noted that this event represents a significant milestone towards the empowerment and acknowledgment of the hard-working individuals who sustain Fiji’s fishing industry.
A representative from the International Labor Organization marked this launch as a pioneering achievement for the Pacific region, signifying a vital step forward for fishers, who are often among the most vulnerable workers. This establishment of the Fishers Union branch aims to ensure that the voices of fishers in Fiji will be amplified, promoting a future where their concerns are heard and addressed.
This newly launched union branch is set to change the landscape for fishers in the region, providing them with a platform to advocate for their rights and ensuring they receive the representation they deserve. The positive outlook for the future is a hopeful testament to the hard work of the fishing community and their newfound collective strength.
In summary, the establishment of the Fishers Union Branch not only serves to empower fishers in Fiji but also sets a precedent for worker representation across the entire Pacific region, promising a brighter future for this vital industry.
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