The Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions (SICTU) has called on the government to back its push for a dedicated slot for trade unions at the 2025 Pacific Labour Mobility Annual Meeting (PLMAM) to be held in Honiara from 3–6 November.
SICTU President Tony Kagovai made the appeal following a meeting with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele on Wednesday, where he stressed the importance of ensuring workers’ perspectives are included in the official programme.
“A presentation from the Pacific Islands Council of Trade Unions (PICTU) would serve as the official voice of workers and trade unions across all Forum member countries, including Australia and New Zealand, on issues central to labour mobility,” Mr Kagovai said.
Beyond the PLMAM agenda, Mr Kagovai also assured the Prime Minister of public sector unions’ support for government as it pushes the new Public Service Bill through Parliament’s Bills Committee. Citing lessons from the recent passage of the Education Act and subsequent strike notice by the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA), he stressed the need for collaboration.
“We must work together to ensure the upcoming Public Service Bill becomes a tool for unity and progress, not disharmony. A law that genuinely addresses public sector workers’ welfare is one we can all stand behind,” he said.
Mr Kagovai reaffirmed SICTU’s backing of SINTA and voiced confidence that the high-level taskforce — involving the Ministry of Education, Prime Minister’s Office and Ministry of Finance — will resolve issues raised in the 28-day strike notice.
SICTU further pledged to strengthen tripartite cooperation with government and employers through the Tripartite Labour Advisory Board on broader challenges such as climate change, migration and employment.
On governance, the council reiterated its support for the rotation of Permanent Secretaries and urged ministers to empower the Public Service Commission to review contract officers — including PSs — through collective consensus.
Mr Kagovai also welcomed the Prime Minister’s assurance of regular dialogue with SICTU.
“This commitment to engagement is the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Solomon Islands where every stakeholder has a voice and a share in our nation’s future,” he said.
Mr Kagovai was accompanied by SIPEU General Secretary Robert Au, SICTU National Secretary Adrian Tuhanuku and board member Barry Samson.
SICTU is the peak body representing trade unions in Solomon Islands, advocating for the rights and welfare of workers across both the public and private sectors.
