MEMBERS of the Vatukoula Gold Mine Workers Union who staged the country’s longest strike yesterday received a $3.6 million settlement from the Coalition Government.
The cheque was handed over to the union in a moving ceremony, marking a significant milestone in their commitment to social justice and worker rights
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was visibly emotional while reflecting on the significant historical chapter marked by a prolonged strike by Vatukoula miners.
Mr Rabuka said the strike, which began in 1991, had a devastating impact on the miners and their families, causing emotional and financial distress.
He apologised to the miners and their families for having to face challenges of the unresolved strike that could have been resolved in his time of leadership, 33 years ago, when he was interim prime minister after the 1987 coup.
He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the workers and families for their endurance and sacrifices during the prolonged strike.
“You’ve taught us the true meaning of strength and your fight for injustice is an inspiration to us all,” he said.
While acknowledging the support and collaboration of the Fiji Trades Union Congress, he thanked the Ministry of Employment and Office of the Prime Minister in resolving the injustice meted upon the mine workers.
Union president, Josefa Sadreu said the workers’ hard work had finally paid off.
“Today (yesterday) we finally made it,” Mr Sadreu said.
“We praise God for his divine power that helped us through the 33 years.”
Former Vatukoula mine worker, Marika Kaidrokuya was overjoyed after receiving the news of the compensation, saying the money was “truly a miracle”.
The individual $10,000 payout is part of a larger $9.2m settlement, which will be distributed to more than 360 Vatukoula gold miners.
The second lot of payment, in which each miner would receive $15,000, will be paid out in the next 2025-2026 Government budget.