The Ministry of Employment, the Office of the Prime Minister, the Fiji Trade Union Congress (FTUC), and the Fiji Mine Workers have reached an agreement to provide a $9.2 million payout to 368 mining workers involved in a 33-year strike.
The agreement was signed at the FTUC Lautoka branch on Marine Drive on Thursday.
Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh, stated that the ministry, along with union executives, worked on the execution of the payout and finalized the settlement through the signing of the agreement.
“The Coalition Government, together with FTUC and the Fiji Mine Workers Union, has finally resolved the issue with a total payout of $9.2 million over two years,” the minister said.
“Each of the 368 mining workers involved in the strike will receive $25,000, with the first $10,000 paid from this Budget and the remaining $15,000 paid from the 2025-2026 budget.
“The Prime Minister delegated this agenda, and earlier this year, the ministry revisited and met with the affected families.
“These families were emotional when the team visited them and assured them of the coalition government’s commitment to finding a solution as soon as possible.”
FTUC general secretary Felix Anthony expressed relief that a settlement was reached after 33 years.
“Like I’ve said, there is no amount that can truly compensate for 33 years of hardship and pain the mine workers have endured,” he said.
“We recognize that we can never fully compensate these workers, but I believe this agreement helps the Government understand and acknowledge their plight.”
He also highlighted that the signing reflects the previous government’s commitment to the International Labour Organization to compensate these workers and resolve the matter.
“We are grateful to this Government for acting on this. While the workers would want more, this is a good step forward and brings some closure to this issue. The first payment of $10,000 each will be made in early August,” Anthony said.
Sadly, 183 of those workers have passed away, but their families remain.
“We’re happy with the decision to resolve this matter, and we will continue to assist these workers moving forward. One of the future concerns is housing, as many live in housing provided by the mines,” Anthony mentioned.
“This situation may require resettlement, and discussions will be held with the company itself. We hope the Government will assist in this matter as well.”
Fiji Mine Workers Union president Joseva Sadreu thanked the government, FTUC, the Office of the Prime Minister, and the Ministry of Employment and Industrial Relations for facilitating the agreement.
“I praise the Lord for everything that is finally happening. After a long and painful strike in Vatukoula, something has finally been done. I thank the members for their support and the families here.”
About 12 executive members witnessed the signing for both payouts. The members will meet on Saturday in Vatukoula.