In a bid to ensure the fair treatment of workers in the tourism industry, the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) and the National Union of Catering, Hospitality, and Tourism Industries Employees (NUCHTIE) have come to an agreement.
After years of persistent efforts, consultations and labour negotiations, the CEO and HR/IR Sub Committee of FHTA recently met with Daniel Urai, General Secretary for NUCHTIE and President of the Fiji Trades Union Congress and his team to complete the negotiations.
According to a media release, the primary objective of these deliberations was to finalise a long-awaited, reviewed Collective Agreement that would serve as the standard guideline for tourism industry employers for the protection of resort and hotel staff that are members of NUCHTIE.
“The background work commenced well before, during and post-COVID to achieve recognised terms and conditions for hospitality staff that were fair, transparent and supported amicable industrial relations,” the statement by FHTA said.
“FHTA acknowledges the constructive discussions that took place during this process and commends NUCHTIE for reinforcing this mutual commitment to fostering a positive working environment for the sector.”
FHTA CEO Fantasha Lockington noted the timeliness of the agreement as the nation continues to suffer the effects of skill migration.
“By working with the unions, we support a shared vision of strengthening Fiji’s hospitality and tourism industry while safeguarding the interests of its valued workforce, especially now when employers must work harder to improve staff retention mechanisms,” she said.
Lockington advised that the association was also taking the next, unprecedented step of holding online webinars with its members to discuss the Collective Agreement and general labour condition requirements to support HR practitioners in creating more harmonious workplaces.
