The University of the South Pacific has announced plans to pursue legal action against the decisions made by the Permanent Secretary of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations regarding the strike actions taken by its unions.
In a verified email, the university warned staff involved in the strike that they would not receive pay during their time of protest. The email specified that employees who are members of either union and fail to report to work without prior approved leave would be considered as participating in the strike.
It further stated that, except in cases of verified emergencies, leave applications would not be approved due to the significant impact the strike has had on university operations.
The university expressed that the current situation involves unresolved issues that management believes fall outside the bounds of existing collective contracts and employment conditions.
The university emphasized, “At this time, support for our students remains our utmost priority, and the University will endeavor to ensure that disruptions to services are minimal.”
FijiLive is currently awaiting comments from the Ministry of Employment.