Union hails ‘big win’ after Yaqara Pastoral dispute resolved

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Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh chairs the negotiations between the union and Yaqara Pastoral yesterday – SUPPLIED

The National Union of Workers has declared a major victory for its members at Yaqara Pastoral Company Pte Ltd, following the successful conclusion of negotiations that ended four days of industrial action.

In a statement, the union confirmed that workers will receive a 10 per cent wage increase, backdated over two years.

“This is a big win for Yaqara union members,” the union said.

“After four days of industrial action, the Union and Yaqara Pastoral Company Pte Ltd have today (yesterday) reached an agreement.”

The wage increase will be implemented in two stages — 5 per cent effective from January 1, 2024, and a further 5 per cent effective from January 1, 2025.

In addition to the wage increases, the agreement secures several outstanding employment benefits.

Unused sick leave for 2025 will be paid without delay, while sick leave previously deducted for workplace injuries will be re-credited and paid in accordance with the Collective Agreement.

The union also confirmed that three members who were stood down on half pay for three months in 2024 will now be paid in full.

Workers who were not paid overtime as required under the Collective Agreement will receive their payments no later than March 30, 2026.

A review of job classifications will also be undertaken to ensure fair wages and equal pay for equal work.

Importantly, union members who participated in the strike between Monday, February 16 and Thursday, February 19, 2026, will be paid for the strike period.

With the dispute resolved, the union confirmed that workers will return to work at 7am today.