Employees of the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) have deferred their planned strike for another 14 days as of Tuesday.
The decision was made following a general meeting with the Workers Union of Solomon Islands (WUSI) in Honiara.
WUSI President Tony Kagovai said the workers agreed to allow more time for negotiations after signing a Recognition Agreement with SIPA on 17 March 2026.
“The workers feel the need to give more time for negotiation on their log of claims,” he said.
Kagovai said the signing of the Recognition Agreement came after eight years of negotiations.
He added that during the leadership of Solomon Islanders such as; James Laukei, Ngenomea Kabui, and William Barile, there were no major issues affecting workers’ welfare.
However, he claimed challenges began when expatriates, including Colin Yow in 2015 and Eranda Kotalewala in 2017, were recruited.
“These expatriates did not want to sign the Recognition Agreement and allegedly carried out fundraising at the Ports,” he said.
Kagovai noted that when George Rausi took over leadership earlier, he moved to sign the Recognition Agreement.
Meanwhile, National Secretary of the Solomon Islands National Union of Workers (SINUW), Adrian Tuhanuku, said the 14-day extension was also influenced by the current political uncertainty in the country.
He said proceeding with the strike at this time could trigger further issues.
The grievances raised by employees include:
- Deliberate delays in negotiating terms and conditions of service
- Preferential awarding of benefits, including education funds, advances, school fees, bonuses, and acting allowances
- Salary structure not reviewed since 2018
- Preferential appraisal practices
- Unfair disciplinary measures
- Allegations of sexual harassment
- Nepotism in recruitment processes
- Outstanding COVID-19 allowance
The 14-day notice will lapse on 8 April 2026.
SIPA employs about 600 workers and operates the main ports in Honiara and Noro, Western Province.
