About 600 SIPA workers set for strike over unresolved grievances
ABOUT 600 employees of the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) are expected to go on strike on Tuesday, 24th March, if management fails to address their grievances.
The planned industrial action follows the submission of a 28-day strike notice by the Workers Union of Solomon Islands (WUSI) on 25th February 2026.
The notice was issued in accordance with Section 2 of the Essential Services Act, which allows employees to withdraw their labour after the lapse of 28 days if their concerns remain unresolved.
WUSI President, Tony Kagovai, said the union only signed a Recognition Agreement with SIPA earlier this week. However, he claimed that management has yet to respond to key issues relating to terms and conditions of service, including wages, allowances, and incentives.
Mr Kagovai warned that failure by SIPA management to address outstanding matters, including the remaining appendices, will result in industrial action by workers.
The grievances raised by employees include:
- Deliberate avoidance and delay in settling negotiations on terms and conditions of service;
- Preferential award of benefits to certain employees (including education funds, special advances, school fees, bonus payments, and acting allowances);
- Salary structure not reviewed since 2018;
- Preferential appraisal practices;
- Unfair and preferential disciplinary measures;
- Allegations of sexual harassment;
- Nepotism in current recruitment processes; and
- Outstanding COVID-19 allowance
Union members resolved to proceed with the strike during a meeting held on 18th February 2026, attended by all affected employees.
Unless the issues are resolved before the notice period expires, workers are expected to withdraw their labour, which could disrupt operations at the country’s main ports.
SIPA operates the main ports in Honiara and Noro in Western Province.
