30 June 2004

Union Message on Pacific Radio

Trade unionists are broadcasting a series of programmes in four Pacific languages to help workers understand their workplace rights.

The half-hour programmes will be scheduled in Samoan, Cook Island, Tongan and Tuvaluan. Most will run weekly on the Pacific radio network, Niu FM, over the next six months.

The project has been organised by the Council of Trade Unions.

Tonight, the first of the series will look at the links between unions and the Pacific communities, said the programme co-ordinator Tuifa’asisina Mea’ole Keil.

“This is an educational and innovative approach in raising awareness of Pacific workers’ rights and the labour laws,” he said.

Other topics include public sector unionism, health and safety, collective employment agreements, paid parental leave and the rights of young workers, shift workers and contract employees.

“These programmes will help to empower Pacific workers and get them involved in their unions,” said Mea’ole Keil, who is the co-convenor of the CTU Komiti Pasefika. “Unions are an important part of our society and it’s vital that the voices of Pacific workers are heard.”

ENDS

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