34 Workers Go on Strike at Yaqara Pastoral Company

Thirty-four workers of Yaqara Pastoral Company PTE Ltd in Tavua went on strike from 8am yesterday over concerns relating to employment entitlements, workplace safety and alleged non-compliance with agreed employment terms.

The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations confirmed that the workers, who are members of the National Union of Workers (NUW), initiated the strike at the company’s premises in Yaqara.

According to the Ministry, the industrial action follows a secret strike ballot conducted on Monday 9 February 2026, in which the NUW secured more than 81 percent support for the strike mandate.

The Ministry said the strike action stems from concerns regarding outstanding employment entitlements, workplace safety provisions and the employer’s alleged failure to comply with agreed terms and conditions.

Ministry officials have since met separately with representatives of the union and the employer. Both parties have agreed in principle to hold discussions aimed at resolving the dispute, with arrangements currently underway to finalise details of the meeting.

Minister for Employment, Honourable Agni Deo Singh said the Ministry will continue to monitor the situation closely and has encouraged both parties to engage in constructive dialogue to maintain industrial harmony.

Further developments are expected once a meeting date is confirmed.