Informal mediation discussions involving the Construction Energy, Timber, Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF), the Fiji Roads Authority, and the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations have shown promising signs towards a potential resolution, according to union general secretary John Paul.
On September 3, the union outlined its demands for a salary increase for its members, citing a lack of cost-of-living adjustments since 2017. Paul reported that during the informal meeting, employers were given an opportunity to consult with their respective minister and will return with feedback next week.
“There is no strike at this point, and negotiations are ongoing,” Paul stated. He noted that a mediator from the Ministry of Employment participated, along with several representatives from the Fiji Roads Authority.
Overall, Paul described the discussion as positive but emphasized that concrete outcomes would depend on the employer’s response in the following meeting. A second gathering is planned for next week, where FRA representatives are expected to present their position.
A statement from Building and Wood Workers International (BWI) acknowledged the ongoing impasse in negotiations. The CETWUF is affiliated with the BWI, and representative Apolinar Tolentino expressed concern regarding individual contracts and the need for cost-of-living adjustments, particularly since workers have not received such adjustments since 2017.
Tolentino highlighted the union’s valid concerns regarding the absence of a structured salary and performance management system, which are vital for worker welfare and the effective functioning of a state-owned entity overseeing substantial public funds.
The BWI expressed strong support for CETWUF in its efforts to enhance working conditions at the FRA through a collective bargaining agreement that aligns with International Labour Organization (ILO) standards to which the Fiji government is committed.
BWI also maintained that the FRA’s involvement in seeking a peaceful resolution would benefit both the organization and its employees. Attempts to contact Minister Agni Deo Singh and FRA Board chair Atunaisa Nayago for comments went unanswered.