Government Helps Resolve Yaqara Workers' Dispute

The Coalition Government, through the Ministry for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, has helped resolve the industrial dispute between Yaqara Pastoral PTE Ltd and the National Union of Workers following government-mediated negotiations.

Talks concluded yesterday evening after about four hours of discussions, with both parties reaching an agreement and formally signing a settlement to end the dispute.

The agreement was signed by Fiji Trades Union Congress General Secretary Felix Anthony and Yaqara Pastoral PTE Ltd Board Chairman Uraia Waibuta.

The settlement addresses the payment of Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) arrears backdated to 2024 and 2025, as well as compensation related to other terms and conditions of employment under the collective agreement that had not been fully complied with by the employer.

Under the agreement, COLA payments will be made in three stages. The first payment will be made in the first week of March 2026, the second by the end of June 2026, and the final payment by the end of November 2026. New wage rates will also be adjusted and reflected in the next pay cycle.

The Minister for Employment welcomed the outcome and acknowledged both parties for their cooperation during the negotiations.

“This outcome demonstrates what can be achieved when all parties come to the table in good faith,” the Minister said, adding that the Government’s objective was to ensure that neither workers nor management experience undue hardship.

The Minister also acknowledged the workers’ right to raise their concerns and commended the leadership of the union and company representatives for their constructive engagement in reaching a resolution.

With the agreement now in place, the Ministry said the matter is considered resolved and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting constructive dialogue, protecting workers’ rights, and supporting stable industrial relations across all sectors.