The Construction Energy and Timber Workers Union of Fiji (CETWUF) has expressed strong opposition to the legal actions initiated by Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) against the union and its officials, characterizing the move as a significant escalation in a protracted industrial dispute. This legal action follows the union’s issuance of a Notice of Strike, indicating that industrial action will commence on February 15.
EFL claims that the union has engaged in defamation through official communications shared with its members regarding various employment conditions and workplace concerns. CETWUF’s National Secretary, John Paul, expressed his alarm at this legal maneuver, describing it as a troubling shift in Fiji’s industrial relations landscape. He stated, “This legal action is unprecedented in Fiji’s industrial relations history. Never before has an employer sued a union for communicating with its own members on matters relating to employment and working conditions.” Mr. Paul further indicated that this lawsuit seems to be an attempt to intimidate the union and its members rather than addressing the core issues through dialogue.
The union views this court action as a bad faith gesture that undermines constructive communication, raising tensions instead of fostering resolution. CETWUF has called upon the Fijian government, led by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, to intervene and encourage EFL management to return to authentic negotiations. The decision to strike was prompted by EFL’s alleged failure to engage with the union on critical matters, including proposed wage increases of 10 percent for the years 2024 and 2025, payment of shift allowances for shift workers, and adjustments in pay rates for live-line workers and crane operators.
Mr. Paul emphasized the importance of fairness and respect within the workplace, reaffirming the union’s dedication to representing and defending its members amid legal threats. As the strike notice remains in effect, negotiations between the two sides have yet to recommence, leaving the resolution of this dispute uncertain. However, there remains hope that constructive dialogue will ultimately triumph, leading to a resolution that addresses the legitimate concerns of the workers and reestablishes harmony in industrial relations.