THE Trade Dispute Panel has granted the recognition award to Workers Union of Solomon Islands (WUSI) in its ruling last week.
This came after 374 workers of Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) voted in favour of WUSI to represent them during the secret ballot held in Honiara and Noro in Western province recently.
Only seven workers did not support WUSI and two rejected votes.
A total of 383 workers casted their votes during the secret ballot voting.
Chairman of TDP, Willy Vaiyu said the decision means WUSI can represent the workers to dialogue with SIPA on their welfare issues.
WUSI has welcomed the resounding result of the secret ballot vote presided over by TDP.
“This decisive outcome underscores the trust SIPA workers place in WUSI to champion their rights, improve working conditions, and ensure fair dialogue with SIPA management,” WUSI said.
WUSI assures the SIPA Board and Management that negotiations will proceed amicably and in good faith, with a focus on achieving mutually beneficial outcomes for both workers and the Authority.
“This result is not a victory for WUSI alone but a victory for collective progress,” said WUSI President Mr. Tony Kagovai.
“We urge SIPA management to expedite the signing of the Recognition Agreement as the first step toward structured, respectful dialogue.”
In a general meeting held yesterday afternoon, WUSI leadership advised all SIPA workers to:
- Continue working diligently to maintain port operations and national economic stability.
- Refrain from unilateral actions, as WUSI will formally represent their interests through lawful negotiations.
“Unity and patience are our strengths,” emphasized Mr. Kagovai. “We will ensure your voices shape every discussion.”
To prevent future disputes and foster transparency, WUSI urges the Ministers of Finance and Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) to appoint a worker representative to the SIPA Board.
“Including workers in strategic decision-making will align SIPA’s work plans with frontline realities and build ownership among staff,” said Mr. Kagovai. “This is critical for long-term industrial harmony.”
WUSI will:
- Formalize the Recognition Agreement with SIPA management immediately.
- Table worker priorities, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and career development.
- Collaborate with government stakeholders to institutionalize worker participation in public enterprise governance.
SIPA legal advisor, Gabriel Suri said, he is waiting for any instruction from SIPA to take a next step or just accept the decision.
Suri added, the recognition is one of the issues.
He said the other issues are to know the number of workers who are members of WUSI and whether WUSI has the capacity and resources to represent the workers.
