FNPF commits to resolving pay issues

THE Fiji National Provident Fund Board says it will ensure an amicable resolution is reached over unresolved salary issues it has with its workforce, who are members of the Fiji Bank Employees Union.

In a statement today, the Fund says the Board, through Management, has continued to consult and dialogue in good faith with union workers over these issues.

“The Fund believes that dialogue must continue until a decision, amicable to both parties, is reached,” the statement said.

This week, the Ministry of Labour Disputes Committee recommended a two and three per cent Cost of Living Adjustment for 2005 and 2006 respectively.

The Fund says it has not reneged on its duties as an employer and to its employees and would continue to seek dialogue that would encapsulate the interest of both, bearing in mind its paramount responsibility as a custodian of members’ funds.

“Given this undertaking, the Fund was astounded when the union decided to call a strike in December when we were still negotiating this issue.”

The Fund also defended its Board members, Mr Felix Anthony and Mr Daniel Urai.

“Like the rest of the Board members, Mr Anthony and Mr Urai, are there to look after the interest of all members. Therefore to single them out is narrow-minded given their wider trustee and fiduciary responsibilities.”

For more information please call Wainikiti Bogidrau on 9998-104