Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has instructed the Education Minister to organize a meeting with the University of the South Pacific (USP) Council to address the claims made by staff members who are currently on strike. In a statement, Mr. Rabuka acknowledged that the workers are adhering to the provisions outlined in the Employment Relations Act of 2007.
“The USP Staff union is following the necessary procedures for a strike as defined by the Employment Relations Act 2007,” said Mr. Rabuka. He added that all student support services at the USP Laucala Campus are functioning normally, supported by both non-union staff and some union members who opted not to participate in the strike.
The Prime Minister has authorized Education Minister Aseri Radrodro to convene a meeting of the USP Council to discuss the issues raised by the USP Staff unions. Reuben Colata, general secretary of the USP Staff Union, welcomed the Prime Minister’s engagement, noting a rise in support as the strike reached its fourth day.
Colata expressed frustration over the absence of direct negotiations, stating, “While statements are being made, without face-to-face discussions, we seem to be at a stalemate.” He emphasized the importance of addressing communication gaps among university leadership, mentioning concerns that senior managers appear to be uninvolved, with many currently in Samoa.
“We are starting to see progress, but we want officials to come here and negotiate with us,” he stated, adding that the union will determine the timing for ending the strike. Colata stressed the necessity for meaningful dialogue to resolve the union’s claims, indicating the union’s willingness to engage in direct negotiations.
“We approached the council secretariat seeking answers regarding the investigation’s terms of reference. However, it seems the manager at the council secretariat is unable to take action, as his hands appear to be tied. Although communication is expected between the three parties, there has been a lack of communication.”