The Fiji Mine Workers Union marked a significant milestone yesterday by finalizing an 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 awaited justice for 33 years.
At the signing, Singh revealed that the strike devastated the lives of many miners. Under this agreement, each miner will receive $10,000 as compensation by August 2024, along with an additional payment of $15,000 next year.
Joseva Sadreau, president of the Fiji Mine Workers Union, expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Coalition Government, reflecting on the prolonged hardship faced by the 368 miners over the three decades.
“I would like to thank the Coalition Government for the signing, because at least we are getting something from nothing,” Sadreau stated. “I want to thank the almighty for all of this. Never mind if people are going to say the amount is small, but it’s already signed. I want to thank the Lord, the management, and the current Government for this.”
Of the 368 miners, 183 have deceased while 185 remain.
The Minister for Employment noted that for the deceased miners, the ministry will identify their families to receive the payments.