The Ministry of Employment and Workplace Relations is convening an urgent mediation session in Suva today to avert a potentially disruptive strike by the Construction Energy & Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF) against Energy Fiji Limited (EFL), which is currently slated to commence at 7 am on Sunday.
CETWUF’s national secretary, John Paul, conveyed an optimistic outlook as the union enters the mediation, stating, “We are going in with an open mind and we hope good sense will prevail.” This initiative comes on the heels of failed negotiations concerning CETWUF’s claims for 2024 and 2025, heightening tensions between the union and EFL.
In a letter addressed to the Fiji Trades Union Congress on February 12, CETWUF alleged that EFL had contravened international labor standards. After negotiations failed to yield positive results, the union held a secret ballot, signifying a strong consensus among its members to initiate strike action, anticipated to commence next week.
CETWUF further criticized EFL for directly communicating with employees regarding their potential participation in the strike, which the union deems as interference in union activities. EFL has cautioned its workforce that those who choose to participate in the strike would not receive pay during the strike period. The company’s CEO, Fatiaki Gibson, reinforced this in a circular, stating that employees intending to strike must confirm their decision in writing by 4 pm on Friday, February 13, 2026.
Today’s mediation session offers a vital opportunity to address and possibly resolve the ongoing conflict, thereby safeguarding uninterrupted power services for the community. This situation underscores the significance of open dialogue in labor relations and reflects the dedication of both parties to collaboratively seek a resolution. It holds potential for a constructive outcome that could strengthen workforce relations and promote stability within the energy sector.