One of the longest-running strikes in the world has ended with the announcement of a $9.2 million payout to 368 Vatukoula mine workers.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad made this announcement in Parliament while delivering the 2024-2025 Budget.
“For those who may not be aware, on the 27th of February 1991, around 368 mining workers in Vatukoula went on strike, following all the due process,” he said.
“There was no other way out for them and they have been waiting for justice since then.”
“Unfortunately, rather than getting justice, the strike devastated the lives and livelihoods of many miners over the last 3 decades.”
“Families were shattered. Many struggled to afford a decent meal, parents could not afford sending their children to school, and there was no money to look after the sick and elderly.”
“Since then, we have had governments come and go, but the strike continued without any resolution. The previous government had made a commitment to settle the strike in 2015, but unfortunately, they did not keep up with their commitment.”
“The Coalition Government together with the Fiji Trades Union Congress and Fiji Mine Workers Union, have finally reached a resolution with a total payout of $9.2 million.”
“Each of the 368 mining workers on strike will be paid $25,000, with the first $10,000 paid from this Budget and the remainder of $15,000 paid from the 2025-2026 Budget.”
“The Ministry of Employment will work with the affected workers and the unions to execute the payout and final settlement.”