The University of the South Pacific (USP) has requested court intervention to prevent any additional strike actions while seeking the removal of its vice-chancellor, Professor Pal Ahluwalia. The university’s two unions, the Association of the University of the South Pacific Staff (AUSPS) and the University of the South Pacific Staff Union (USPSU), initiated strike action on October 18, 2024, although participation was not universal. After a week, the striking members returned to work on October 25, 2024, but have warned they could strike again if their demands are not addressed.
During a court session, lawyer Wylie Clarke addressed Justice Chaitanya Lakshman, arguing for an injunction to prevent further strikes during the critical examination period, citing concerns about disruption to students. He noted that the strike mandates were primarily related to the removal of Professor Ahluwalia but pointed out that union members were also calling for the reinstatement of Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, a biology lecturer and AUSPS president, who was dismissed after allegedly disclosing confidential information about the vice-chancellor’s contract renewal process.
Clarke contended that any subsequent strike would fall outside the legal mandates provided by union members. In opposition, lawyer Siddarth Nandan, representing the unions, argued that any future strike would be lawful and characterized the university’s claims about potential disruptions to student examinations as “exaggerated.” He emphasized that an injunction to stop a strike could only be granted in cases involving essential services and if it served the public interest.
Justice Lakshman emphasized the importance of reasonableness in such matters, noting that rights come with limitations and responsibilities. Nandan has been given 14 days to submit his arguments, while Clarke has seven days to respond. The case is set for a follow-up hearing on November 21.
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