Government committed to compensating axed WAF workers: PM

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the Government remains committed to compensating former Water Authority of Fiji (WAF)workers who were terminated in 2019.

Mr Rabuka made the remarks during the 51st Biennial Delegates Conference of the Fiji Trades Union Congress at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi last Saturday.

Key issues discussed at the conference included wage reviews, unresolved compensation matters, social protection and the advancement of women’s rights in the workplace.

Mr Rabuka said strengthening workers’ rights remained a central principle of the National Development Plan.

“A central principle of the National Development Plan is that workers must never be left to carry the burden of economic hardship alone,” he said.

“As Government responds to global pressures such as inflation, fuel volatility and external shocks, we remain firmly focused on safeguarding the dignity, security and confidence of all working people.”

He said the Government recognised the need for a more structured, transparent and predictable approach to wage reviews, informed by economic realities and cost-of-living considerations.

Mr Rabuka acknowledged unresolved compensation matters involving workers and their families, including cases linked to the Vatukoula Gold Mine and the WAF.

“These remain under active consideration, and Government is committed to fair and lawful outcomes,” he said.

“Strengthening confidence in the Fiji National Provident Fund is therefore a priority, with work continuing on reviewing its framework and governance, recognising that these funds represent the lifelong contributions of hardworking Fijians.”

Teachers and nurses

Mr Rabuka said the wellbeing of teachers, nurses and public servants remained a national priority.

“In the face of global competition for skilled professionals, Government continues to invest in working conditions, remuneration, skills development, and education and health infrastructure,” he said.

“Their service is indispensable to national resilience, and it must be recognised and supported accordingly.”

The conference concluded with a call for solidarity among stakeholders and recognition of the role workers play in national resilience and prosperity.