Australia must intervene in new attacks on Fijian workers and union leaders

Australian unions have condemned the arrest in Fiji of the President of the island nation’s Trades Union Congress, Daniel Urai, amid the introduction of a new decree that places further restrictions on workers’ rights.Ban all strikes, slowdowns, sick actions or any action that may negatively impact the employer

Recent concerning developments have included the adoption of of the draconian Essential National Industries Employment Decree, which appears to:

• Ban unions from representing workers in negotiating collective bargaining outcomes
• Void all current collective agreements within 60 days
• Provide that after 60 days period any strike or lockout may take place only with the written authority of the Minister
• Ban overtime payments, including for weekend work, work on days off, and work on public holidays unless agreed by the employer
• Cancel all current Wages Council Orders regarding minimum terms and conditions of work in designated industries
• Require that all members, office bearers, officers and executives of the union shall be employees of the designated company
• Applies to all Government owned industries and any other that the Minister may designate

http://www.actu.org.au/Media/Mediareleases/AustraliamustinterveneinnewattacksonFijianworkersandunionleaders.aspx

ACTU media