A strike is scheduled to begin at the Aspen Lautoka and Ba hospitals at 7 a.m. on February 6, 2025, as confirmed by the Construction Energy and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF). The National Secretary of CETWUF, John Paul, met with union members outside Ba Hospital today after being denied access to the hospital grounds due to restrictions on union representatives.

This action stems from ongoing disputes regarding wages and working conditions that have been unresolved since 2017. Approximately 200 union members, which include chefs, ward assistants, pharmacists, laundry and maintenance staff, security guards, and medical technicians, are prepared to stop work unless their grievances are adequately addressed by the strike date.

The decision to move forward with the strike has been driven by frustration over stagnant salary negotiations, particularly in light of rising living costs that have affected workers’ livelihoods. In previous communications, John Paul highlighted that the union has repeatedly sought discussions with Aspen Medical but has encountered delays, which he critiqued as a disregard for the welfare of healthcare workers.

CETWUF is calling for government intervention to facilitate constructive negotiations between the union and Aspen Medical, stressing the importance of addressing these workers’ demands to ensure fair compensation and improved working conditions. The situation reflects broader labor rights challenges within Fiji’s healthcare sector, and while the strike could disrupt hospital operations, it represents a critical opportunity for dialogue that could lead to positive change.

A successful resolution to these long-standing issues carries the potential to not only improve working conditions for healthcare employees but also enhance the quality of care provided to patients. The hope remains that constructive discussions will ensue, leading to mutually beneficial agreements that recognize the essential contributions of healthcare workers in the community.