THE Air Terminal Services Employees Trust (ATSET) officially opened its new $3.5million building in Lautoka this week.
Officiating at the opening ceremony, Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad hailed the investment as a way to secure steady returns for the workers who make ATS what it is.
“The building has office space across two floors and an executive apartment on the top floor. It shows that ATSET is serious about growing its financial strength and creating real benefits for its members in a very, very sustainable manner,” he said.
Prof Prasad emphasised the Government’s message is clear, that “Fiji’s growth must be shared”.
“Workers should not only earn wages but also benefit from the wealth they help create,” he said.
Mr Prasad said the investment demonstrated how employees could come together and invest wisely and improve the quality of the lives of their families.
He highlighted the critical role of Air Terminal Services in the economy, calling it the backbone of ground operations of airports and a key part of the tourism industry.
ATSET director and trustee Mark Anthony said the investment was worthwhile for members.
He noted that ATSET owns 49 per cent of ATS, with the Government owning 51 per cent.
Mr Anthony said this was ATSET’s first investment and they looked forward to more.
“It’s an asset investment that’s been done by ATSET, and we look forward to more.”
Mr Anthony explained that a percentage of dividends announced by ATS goes back to ATSET, serving as its own revenue.
“We are looking to rent it out, and obviously it’s a loan, so we are hoping that it pays itself off and it’s a worthwhile investment for ATSET.”
Air Terminal Services Employees Trust (ATSET) chair Viliame Finau (left), Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad and Fiji Trades Union Congress national secretary Felix Anthony at the opening of the ATSET building in Lautoka on Wednesday.Picture: SALOTE QALUBAU