The Government has continued issuing compensation payments to former Vatukoula mine workers and their families, as efforts move forward to resolve one of Fiji’s longest-running industrial disputes.

Backed by a $9.2 million Government allocation, the compensation programme acknowledges the hardship experienced by workers and their families following the industrial dispute that began on 27 February 1991 and continued for more than 33 years.

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Jone Maritino Nemani, last week presented compensation payments to another 13 former mine workers and beneficiaries.

Seven recipients received their payments, while the remaining six are expected to be paid during the new financial year.

So far, the Government has distributed $7,485,000, with 298 beneficiaries each receiving their full entitlement of $25,000.

Five beneficiaries had received an initial payment of $10,000 before their passing, with the outstanding $15,000 to be released to their estates once probate procedures are completed.

The remaining $1,515,000 will be paid to 63 beneficiaries, including those still awaiting their full entitlement and estates currently undergoing probate.

Mr Nemani said the initiative goes beyond financial compensation, describing it as recognition of the resilience shown by former mine workers and their families.

He said the payments demonstrate the Government’s commitment to bringing a respectful and dignified conclusion to a chapter that has affected many families for decades.