The Pacific Islands Council of Trade Unions says the passing of Fiji’s Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, is a significant loss for workers and trade unions across the Pacific.

In a statement, PICTU described Singh as a principled leader and champion of workers’ rights who remained connected to his trade union roots throughout his public life.

Before entering politics, Singh was a teacher and served as General Secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union.

PICTU says his experience within the labour movement gave him a strong understanding of the challenges faced by workers and their families and shaped his commitment to promoting fairness and dignity in the workplace.

The regional trade union body also acknowledged Singh’s support for dialogue between governments, employers and workers.

It highlighted his role in championing tripartite participation at the Regional Pacific Labour Ministers Meeting, which enabled workers’ representatives to participate alongside governments and employers in regional discussions.

PICTU says the initiative set an important precedent for social dialogue and strengthened the voice of workers at the regional level.

The organisation says Singh’s contribution extended beyond Fiji and that the Pacific labour movement has lost a steadfast advocate for workers and trade unions.

PICTU has extended its condolences to Singh’s family, colleagues, the Fiji Government, the trade union movement and workers across Fiji.