Ram Sami Workers’ Strike Enters Sixth Day as Mediation Fails to Secure Agreement

Forty workers from Ram Sami & Sons (Fiji) Ltd remain on strike for a sixth day, with mediation efforts yet to result in a collective agreement between the parties.

National Union of Workers Industrial Relations Officer Anasa Tuviniwai says the workers are not seeking a pay increase at this stage, but want the terms of their collective agreement to be honoured.

He says these include provisions relating to overtime, holiday and shift allowances.

Tuviniwai says workers have also raised concerns about their working conditions, including what they claim is inadequate personal protective equipment, prolonged periods of standing and the condition of restroom facilities.

He says the union raised these concerns with the Ministry of Employment following an inspection of the workplace last Friday.

Tuviniwai also claims Ram Sami & Sons has brought in new workers while union members remain on strike.

He says the matter was raised during discussions yesterday, with the union arguing that bringing in new workers would not resolve the ongoing dispute.

According to Tuviniwai, the union believes the move is not in good faith, as the new workers could effectively take the place of employees currently participating in the strike.

Despite the dispute continuing, Tuviniwai says the union remains willing to reach an agreement with the company and resolve the matter.