RENOVATION works on the multimillion-dollar Westin Island Resort and Spa on Denarau came to a standstill on Tuesday this week after contractors were allegedly not paid what they are owed.
Yesterday, a team from this newspaper visited the site that was heavily guarded and closed off to the public.
While taking pictures from outside the property, our team was called by officers at the Nadi Police Station to stay away.
Confirming that work at the site was being overseen by a skeleton staff, FNPF CEO Viliame Vodonaivalu said discussions were ongoing over contractual issues between the fund’s Dubbo Pte Ltd and contractor, Fletcher Construction.
“There are some outstanding matters between the client (Dubbo Pte Ltd) and the contractor that require resolution before work can resume,” said Mr Vodonaivalu.
“This is not unusual and is similar to many construction projects, where clients and contractors must clarify certain issues and reach an agreement before proceeding.
“All parties are actively working to resolve these matters as soon as possible so that work can continue without further delay.
“The project is progressing well, and we expect momentum to pick up once these issues are addressed.”
Speaking under the condition of anonymity, one of the contractors hired to work on the site said they have yet to be paid for the work done so far.
“I have been using my own money,” the contractor said. “So far, I have used $100,000 out of my own pocket.
“This situation is ugly. And I am not the only one who has used their own money.
“I am just a small piece of the bigger group of contractors, and they’ve spent $200,000 and others more than that.
“We are not happy with how this is being handled.”
When asked who was at fault over the non-payments, the business owner said, “I do not know.
“It could either be the contractor that hired us or FNPF. We were just told on Tuesday to stop working.”
