Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured the Fiji Mine Workers Union, its members, and their families of the Peoples’ Coalition Government’s support for the Vatukoula Strike Payout.
During his visit to Vatukoula over the weekend, Rabuka stated that although it has taken over three decades, there is now hope on the horizon.
“Last week, the Coalition Government, through the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, signed the final agreement on the Vatukoula Strike Payout with the union,” Rabuka said.
“According to the agreement, each miner will receive $10,000 as compensation by August 2024, with an additional payment of $15,000 scheduled for next year.”
He acknowledged that the events of 1991 had a severe impact on many lives, with some people passing away, others returning to their villages, and a few deciding to stay in Vatukoula.
Out of the 368 miners, 183 have died, while 185 are still alive.