More than 200 employees from Lautoka and Ba hospitals, represented by the Construction Energy and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF), are set to strike starting at 7 am on February 6, 2025. This decision was confirmed by CETWUF National Secretary John Paul, highlighting the participation of various staff, including cleaners, ward assistants, clinical coders, kitchen hands, laboratory staff, security personnel, and administrative workers.

The union has formally served Aspen Medical with a strike notice on January 13, 2025, fulfilling the legal requirement of providing at least 14 days’ written notice. Mr. Paul expressed concern over Aspen Medical’s delay in negotiations, stating that the company has cited a need for clarity regarding the Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreement. Despite this, he emphasized the urgency of the workers’ demands for improved wages and working conditions that have been neglected since Aspen’s takeover of hospital operations.

Mr. Paul stated, “If Aspen refuses to negotiate on the Log of Claims, the strike will proceed on February 6 and continue until the dispute is resolved.” He criticized the company for ignoring the grievances of health workers who have been facing these unresolved issues for years.

Given the rising living costs and the lack of adjusted salaries since 2017, the situation reflects a larger trend of pressing worker rights issues within the healthcare sector. The union’s readiness to strike indicates both frustration and a resolve to advocate for fair compensation.

This impending action underscores an important moment for dialogue and resolution in labor relations, with hopes that the government and Aspen Medical will cooperate constructively with the union. Ultimately, a successful negotiation could lead to improved conditions for healthcare workers, setting a positive precedent for labor rights in the region.