Four-day Yaqara Pastoral workers’ strike ends with wage breakthrough

A four-day strike at Yaqara Pastoral PTE Limited has ended after a Government-brokered agreement secured a pay rise, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) and back pay for workers.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh confirmed the resolution of the industrial dispute between the company and the National Union of Workers following negotiations that concluded on Thursday evening.

Mr Singh said discussions lasted four hours before both parties reached consensus and signed an agreement at about 7.30pm.

“This outcome demonstrates what can be achieved when all parties come to the table in good faith,” he said.

“The Government’s objective is to ensure that neither workers nor management experience undue hardship. We are committed to looking after the interests of everyone involved.”

The agreement provides for COLA payments for 2024 and 2025, to be paid in three tranches between March and November 2026.

It also includes revised wage rates effective from the next pay cycle and compensation for outstanding employment conditions.

Union members will receive a 10 per cent wage increase — five per cent effective from January 2024 and a further five per cent from January 2025. Workers will also be paid overtime, unused sick leave and compensation for previously stood-down employees.

Those who took part in the strike will be paid for the period of industrial action.

Mr Singh acknowledged the workers’ concerns and commended union leaders and company management for their cooperation.

In a statement, the National Union of Workers said the agreement showed that dialogue could resolve disputes.

“The resolution of the Yaqara strike proves that even after a standstill, good faith and honest talk can bridge any gap. Our gratitude to the Minister for Employment and the Yaqara Pastoral Company’s chairman and his team for working with us to reach this agreement for the benefit of our members,” the statement said.

With the dispute resolved, employees have resumed duties.