Labour union inquiry now likely

SUVA – A Fiji trade union leader says an International Labour Organisation commission of inquiry is more likely now that talks have stalled.

An ILO mission to review obstacles to a required joint implementation plan is due in Fiji this month.

Fiji failed to submit a plan after unions refused to sign, arguing that the government was infringing workers’ rights.

The Fiji Trades Union Congress head Felix Anthony says progress had been made with Employment and Industrial Relations Minister Semi Koroilavesau, but he has now been replaced by Solicitor General Shavarda Sharma to lead negotiations.

Anthony says the union won’t meet with Mr Sharma.

He says the various parties are no closer to an agreement which is not good news as far as avoiding a Commission of Inquiry.

“I think the members of the governing body of ILO don’t really have any stomach to accept any further excuses from Fiji as to why we cannot act on this matter.”

- RNZI