The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, has emphasized the importance of prudent financial management for the former Vatukoula Gold miners who are set to receive $10,000 each.
Out of 368 former miners who participated in a strike 33 years prior, 153 individuals have been approved for payment. The Ministry is currently verifying the next-of-kin details for the remaining miners before finalizing their payments.
Singh stated, “A total of $25,000 will be distributed among 368 families; $10,000 is being allocated from this budget, while the remaining $15,000 will be funded next year.” He acknowledged that while the miners deserve more compensation for their hardships, the government is limited in what it can provide at this time. He urged the miners to utilize this initial amount to help enhance their family circumstances.
He further advised, “Please remember, make good use of this money. Don’t let it just be wasted on other things.” The Ministry of Finance is scheduled to deposit the $10,000 into the accounts of the 153 eligible miners by this upcoming Friday.