Government’s support for the mining sector’s economic development will see the advancement of the Vatukoula Social Assistance Fund.
The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources permanent secretary and the Social Assistance Fund Trust chairman, Filimone Kau opened the first official meeting of the Trustees after the Execution of the Deeds.
He said Vatukoula Gold Mine Ltd as an investor must be allowed to progress and gear its effort towards the development/investment plans of the company.
“This means taking the role of the Trustees to another level guided by its legal framework. We are committed in supporting Vatukoula Gold Mine Ltd to continue its work in the investment and development of the mining sector in the country preferably in a conducive environment with its employees,” Mr Kau said
“But more importantly, we need to ensure that this exercise achieves expected result to ensure the smooth transition for those made redundant in 2006.”
Mr Sipiriano Silaitoga, one of the representative beneficiaries is content to see progress with the Social Assistance.
“This is very encouraging given that the Deed has been executed and registered. I would like to acknowledge the Government and the company in this regard.
“The social assistance will greatly help us to move on with our lives,” Mr Silaitoga said.
The trustees will now focus on the finalization of beneficiaries and other logistics like opening of bank accounts, signatories to the Trust Fund before the final list of beneficiaries is published.
“We will make sure that the fund is properly utilized to help those affected start a new life,” Mr Kau said.
The meeting was held at the Vatukoula Gold Mine Office on Friday, October 16.