The Fiji Mine Workers Union achieved a significant milestone yesterday by signing the final agreement on the Vatukoula Strike Payout. Presented by the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh, the settlement will compensate 368 miners who have long awaited justice for 33 years.
At the signing, Singh shared that the strike devastated the lives of many miners. However, under this agreement, each miner will receive $10,000 as compensation by August 2024, and an additional payment of $15,000 will be reserved for next year.
Fiji Mine Workers Union President, Joseva Sadreau, thanked the Coalition Government with a heavy heart, sharing the turmoil of the 368 miners over the three decades.
“I would like to thank the Coalition Government for coming down for the signing because at least we are getting something from nothing.”
“I want to say thank you to the almighty for all of this. Never mind if people are going to say the amount is this, but it’s already signed. I want to thank the Lord, the management, and the current Government for doing this.”
Among the 368 miners, 183 have deceased while 185 remain. The Minister for Employment has shared that for the deceased members, the ministry will identify their families for the payment handout.