30 Jun 2015

Samoa launches private sector union

9:53 am on 30 June 2015

Samoa's first union for workers in the private sector says it's aiming to improve working conditions and workers' relationships with employers.

NZ Labour MP, Su'a William Sio, sitting next to Associate Minister, Patea Tasi Patea at the Samoa First Union launch.

NZ Labour MP, Su'a William Sio, sitting next to Associate Minister, Patea Tasi Patea at the Samoa First Union launch. Photo: Tipi Autagavaia/RNZ

Speaking at the launch, Samoa's Associate Labour Minister, Patea Tasi, says the government two years ago has passed the Labour and Employment Relationship Act in order to have an open forum to foster good partnerships.

The associate minister who is also a union supporter in New Zealand has praised the efforts for establishing a union in Samoa.

Most grievances in the private sector in Samoa are handled by the Ministry of Labour.

But some workers who attended the launch say the Samoa First Union will be the best avenue to deal with many issues such as low wages, unfair treatment and abuse of rights.

The union says it signed up 300 workers on its first day on Monday.