Strikes are currently impacting three major industries in Fiji, as negotiations over pay disputes have reached an impasse. Reports from May 20, 1982, indicate a significant strike at the Central Monetary Building construction site, where foremen and salaried employees joined 164 other workers protesting unresolved pay rate issues.
Project manager Dick Elder expressed concern over the situation, noting that the striking workers had breached a prior agreement. Consequently, management opted to terminate their contracts and seek replacements, a decision that sparked unrest among non-striking employees who opposed the hiring of replacement workers.
The strikes began following failed negotiations regarding pay rates, and attempts by officials from the Ministry of Labour to mediate have also been fruitless. Union General Secretary Apisai Tora has offered to engage in arbitration, questioning why the FMBA has hesitated, considering the award is binding on both parties.
In solidarity with the striking workers, Noor Khan, president of the Building Workers Union, reported that 200 union members from the Monasavu hydro project left their jobs in support of their colleagues in Suva. Additionally, some progress in discussions was noted at the Carpenters industrial division in Walu Bay, although tensions persisted due to issues with a non-union foreman, inciting a strike involving 200 tradesmen.
Meanwhile, a separate strike in Lautoka concluded successfully as a disgruntled worker was reinstated. Ongoing discussions in Labasa are being led by Ian Thomson, the independent chairman of the Fiji Sugar Industry, aimed at resolving conflicts between the Fiji Sugar Corporation and the FSC Clerks and Supervisors Association.
This current wave of strikes highlights the ongoing challenges in industrial relations within Fiji and recalls past incidents, such as the 1990 Mark One Apparel factory strike over unmet wage commitments. Despite these challenges, there is a hopeful outlook that continued dialogue and mediation will help bring about fair resolutions to workers’ grievances and foster improved labor relations.
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