THE Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) has reduced the existing unemployment benefit from $2000 to $1000 to make processes easier, says CEO Jaoji Koroi.
He confirmed the $2000 provision ended on Monday.
He also confirmed members who applied for assistance under this scheme can only access $1000.
FNPF chief operations officer Alipate Waqairawai also attributed the changes to the process of managing.
“Right now we feel everybody should be fairly compensated and so that is why all the groups in the Lautoka lockdown area will have $1000 and that includes those people who lost their jobs in December,” he said.
“We have also relaxed the requirement for members to be in continuous employment for at least two years, with 24 months contributions received.
“This is for members who would have already accessed their funds for unemployment assistance.”
Mr Koroi said this was a temporary measure that had been implemented to minimise the impact on the fund and members’ savings, especially with the uncertainty of the extent and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. Members have been reminded to use the digital platforms to submit their applications.
“Those who choose to physically lodge their applications will need to be mindful of the physical distancing requirements that have been implemented at the fund’s offices. We continue to plead with members’ for patience and understanding during this period.”
