THE Workers Union of Solomon Islands (WUSI) and the Guadalcanal Provincial Government (GPG) have successfully concluded negotiations regarding the log of claims submitted by health workers of Guadalcanal Province.
The claims, which primarily concern wage issues, were originally filed in 2018, but remained unresolved by successive provincial administrations.
In January this year, WUSI issued a 28-day strike notice to the GPG, warning that health workers would withdraw their services if the matter was not addressed.
However, following a meeting between WUSI and Guadalcanal Premier Willie Atu, along with the Provincial Minister for Health, the Provincial Secretary and a legal advisor, an agreement was reached and the health workers agreed to return to work, while negotiations continued.
WUSI Secretary Adrian Tuhanuku, pictured, stated that they are now awaiting the formal approval of the Guadalcanal Provincial Executive before the agreement can be officially signed and implemented.
He said the signing of the collective agreement will demonstrate the Executive’s commitment to pay workers in line with the agreed budget and timeline.
Premier Atu explained that his administration was unaware of the long-standing issue when it came into office last year.
He noted that 80 per-cent of the current assembly are first-time Members of Provincial Assembly.
Upon learning of the matter, he said his government took prompt steps to resolve it.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
