The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, has advised former Vatukoula Gold miners who received $10,000 each to manage their funds wisely.
Of the 368 former miners who participated in a strike three decades ago, 153 have been approved for payment, while the Ministry is in the process of verifying the next-of-kin of the others before proceeding with their payments.
Singh stated that a total of $25,000 will be disbursed across 368 families, with the current $10,000 coming from this year’s budget and the remaining $15,000 slated for the following year.
He acknowledged the hardships these miners have faced, emphasizing that while the compensation may seem inadequate, it is a start to support their families.
“Please remember, make good use of this money. Don’t let it just be wasted on other things,” he urged.
The Ministry of Finance is expected to deposit the $10,000 into the accounts of the approved recipients by Friday.