The Ministry of Employment, the Office of the Prime Minister, the Fiji Trade Union Congress (FTUC), and the Fiji Mine Workers have concluded an agreement to deliver a $9.2 million payout to 368 mining workers involved in a 33-year strike.
The agreement was formalized at the FTUC Lautoka branch along Marine Drive on Thursday.
Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations, announced that the ministry participated in the union executives’ meeting to facilitate the payout and final settlement through the signing of the agreement.
“The Coalition Government, alongside the FTUC and the Fiji Mine Workers Union, has finally resolved the issue with a $9.2 million payout over two years,” Singh stated.
“Each of the 368 striking mining workers will receive $25,000, with the first $10,000 paid from the current Budget and the remaining $15,000 from the 2025-2026 budget.
“The Prime Minister prioritized this issue, and earlier this year, the ministry revisited and consulted with the affected families. These families were emotional when we assured them of the coalition government’s commitment to finding a swift resolution,” he added.
FTUC general secretary Felix Anthony expressed relief over the settlement reached after 33 years.
“No amount can ever truly compensate for the 33 years of hardship and pain endured by the mine workers,” Anthony said. “Although we can never fully compensate these workers, this agreement shows the Government’s recognition of their plight.”
He highlighted that the signing of the agreement also demonstrated the previous government’s commitment to the International Labour Organization to compensate these workers and resolve the matter.
“We are grateful to the current Government for taking action. While workers understandably might want more, this is a significant step forward and brings some closure to this long-standing issue. The first payment of $10,000 to each worker is expected in early August,” Anthony noted.
Sadly, 183 of the workers have passed away, but their families remain.
“We are pleased with the decision to resolve this matter and will continue to support these workers moving forward. Housing is a pressing issue as many of them currently live in housing provided by the mines. Discussions about resettlement will now take place with the company, and we hope for the Government’s assistance in this area as well,” Anthony added.
Fiji Mine Workers Union president Joseva Sadreu extended gratitude to the government, FTUC, the Office of the Prime Minister, and the Ministry of Employment and Industrial Relations for facilitating the agreement.
“I also thank the Lord for making this possible after such a long and painful strike in Vatukoula. I thank the members and their families for their unwavering support.”
Around 12 executive members witnessed the signing for both payouts, and the members are scheduled to meet on Saturday in Vatukoula.