In 1992, a significant decision arose from the Yasawa Council of Chiefs, which prohibited Blue Lagoon Cruises Limited from docking at Yasawa islands until the company acknowledged the existence of the Blue Lagoon Employment Union. At a meeting held at Rogorogoivuda House in Lautoka, the chiefs outlined their demands, which included the reinstatement of striking crew members without retaliation and compensation for the time lost during the strike. They deemed the current annual landing fee of $25,000 insufficient, proposing an increase to $250,000.
The Yasawa Council, comprising influential chiefs including Ratu Vuki Belo Rauga, Tui Naviti Senator, and other notable figures, engaged with Blue Lagoon’s general manager, Barry Ingham, to present these demands in a formal letter. The council emphasized the importance of taking action to support local workers impacted by the dispute.
Despite the Ministry of Employment and Industrial Relations designating the strike as illegal and rejecting a union application for mandatory recognition, the chiefs’ public commitment to support the crew highlighted broader concerns about workers’ rights within Fiji’s tourism sector. Senator Ratu Vuki articulated the chiefs’ worries regarding the treatment of local workers, underscoring their vested interest as landowners in the operations of Blue Lagoon.
With the company reporting a profit of $1.7 million in the preceding year, the chiefs argued that the proposed landing fee was a minimal contribution to the substantial earnings derived from the natural beauty and culture of the Yasawa region.
Ingham conveyed dissatisfaction with the actions taken by the union, claiming that they misled crew members and local chiefs, consequently affecting access to various beaches in Yasawa. He maintained that Blue Lagoon respected the individual rights of former crew members but criticized what he described as erroneous influences undermining the company’s operations.
This historical moment reflects ongoing tensions between tourism interests, local labor rights, and traditional governance in Fiji. The situation illuminates the importance of respecting labor rights while recognizing the economic contributions tourism brings to local communities. Continued dialogue and negotiation are essential to align the interests of all stakeholders involved, preserving both economic vitality and community well-being in Fiji’s vibrant tourism landscape.