The Construction Energy & Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF) has brought forth serious allegations against Energy Fiji Limited (EFL), citing breaches of international labour standards amid an industrial dispute. In a letter addressed to the Fiji Trades Union Congress (FTUC) on February 12, CETWUF’s national secretary John Paul revealed that negotiations regarding the Log of Claims for 2024 and 2025 have reached a standstill following unsuccessful mediation efforts.
To assess their members’ stance on potential strike action, the union conducted a secret ballot, which resulted in a clear mandate to move forward with strike plans, expected to be activated next week. Mr. Paul expressed alarm over what he described as EFL management’s intimidation tactics, alleging that workers were approached through official email to determine their willingness to participate in the strike. He classified this behavior as a breach of ILO Convention 87, which safeguards the rights of workers to organize freely.
CETWUF emphasized EFL’s majority government ownership, underlining that the government has a duty to uphold international labour conventions that Fiji has ratified. The actions of EFL’s management, according to Mr. Paul, raise critical concerns about the government’s obligations under international law.
In pursuit of accountability, the union has sought the FTUC’s assistance to lodge an official complaint against the Government of Fiji for these alleged violations. Mr. Paul has called for solidarity and support among workers during this pivotal moment in defending their fundamental rights.
In response, EFL has stated its commitment to respecting employees’ rights and their ability to make lawful decisions regarding participation in industrial action. This ongoing dispute accentuates the friction surrounding workers’ rights and employer responsibilities, especially within sectors where the government plays a prominent role. As developments unfold, it is essential for both parties to engage in constructive negotiations to achieve a resolution that preserves workers’ rights while maintaining operational stability.