The delay in disbursing payments to members of the Fiji Mine Workers Union has been attributed to issues with documentation, according to Employment and Workplace Relations Minister Agni Deo Singh. Singh explained that his team is diligently working to ensure that the correct paperwork is compiled and submitted in order to facilitate proper compensation for the eligible individuals.
As part of the 2024-2025 National Budget, a $9.2 million fund was designated to compensate 368 workers involved in the 1991 strike at Vatukoula Gold Mines. Each miner was promised a payment of $25,000 over two years, starting with an initial sum of $10,000 expected to be disbursed on September 1. However, the miners and their families have yet to receive this payment, and no new date has been provided for when it will be made.
The second installment of $15,000 is scheduled to be allocated from the 2025-2026 National Budget. Mr. Singh stated that his team visited Vatukoula and successfully completed over 150 forms related to the payout process. He indicated that they are nearing the completion of this task, with further updates anticipated by tomorrow afternoon.
Joseva Sadreu, president of the Fiji Mine Workers Union, confirmed that the payout is now expected to take place on Saturday. He mentioned, “We are trying to get their paperwork sorted by then, and about 167 members are anticipated to receive their payout.” He noted that living members would be prioritized for the payout, followed by the families of deceased miners who would receive their shares at a later date. Both the permanent secretary and the minister are expected to attend the distribution of payments in Vatukoula.