FAMILY members of former Vatukoula Gold Mine workers, who have presented authorised probates, will receive the payout, says their union president Josefa Sadreu.
While welcoming the recent announcement by the Government that the second and final compensation payout would be carried out this week, Mr Sadreu said eight registered members had passed away since the payout was confirmed last year.
“So far, some have not received their total payout because of this reason,” Mr Sadreu said.
“We had some members whose names were in the list for the payout, but they passed away, and so for their beneficiaries or family members to receive their money, they need to get their probates done.
“This process has been challenging. They have to go to Legal Aid or to a lawyer, and it is taking time.”
Mr Sadreu said they would be meeting officials from the Ministry of Employment this week to discuss the final payment.
“I have read the announcement from the Government, and we are very grateful that finally our cries and our long wait are over.
“When we have the meeting with the PS (permanent secretary of the Ministry for Employment), we will discuss in detail when we receive the money and what our remaining members waiting for their payout need to do. On behalf of our members, I would like to thank the Prime Minister, especially the Minister for Employment and his PS, for listening to us after all these years.”
The Government confirmed a total of 182 workers and dependents would receive their second and final compensation payment of $15,000.
“A total of 190 workers and their dependents received their first compensation payment of $10,000 in the previous financial year,” a government statement read.
“This included 164 confirmed living recipients as well as 18 dependents of deceased workers.
“Sadly, since the initial disbursement, eight members have passed away after receiving their first payment. For the second payout, a total of 164 living recipients will each receive their final payment of $15,000, alongside 18 confirmed dependents who will also be receiving the same amount.”