A strike is set to commence at Aspen Lautoka and Ba hospitals on February 6, 2025, starting at 7 a.m., as confirmed by the Construction Energy and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF). This decision comes after ongoing disputes regarding wages and working conditions, which the union asserts have been unresolved since 2017.
National Secretary of CETWUF, John Paul, met with union members on the roadside outside Ba Hospital due to restrictions that prevented representatives from entering the premises. Approximately 200 employees are involved, including chefs, ward assistants, pharmacists, maintenance staff, ambulance drivers, security guards, and cleaners.
The union has issued a formal strike notice, indicating that if their concerns are not addressed by the strike date, workers will cease operations. With sentiments of frustration over stagnated salary negotiations amidst rising living costs, union representatives have voiced their discontent with the lack of effective dialogue with Aspen Medical. Previous articles have noted that the pay claims presented by the union have remained largely unaddressed throughout the years.
As the situation evolves, CETWUF is calling for government intervention to facilitate a resolution. There remains hope that constructive dialogue can emerge from this critical juncture in labor relations, potentially leading to fairer compensation and improved working conditions for healthcare workers. Such negotiations are vital not only for the welfare of employees but also for the quality of care provided to the patients they serve.
In summary, the planned strike underscores the urgent need for negotiations, reflecting a broader call for labor rights improvements within Fiji’s healthcare sector. It is hoped that through collaboration and constructive discussions, both the needs of the workers and the healthcare demands of the community can be met satisfactorily.
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