Caption:Hon Jioji K. Konrote hands Christmas Is Veteran a Cheque from the Fiji Government; looking on are L-R Ms Faga Labour Officer & Mrs Sera Kaurasi, Mr Baro’s Daughter.Photo:SUPPLIED.
The Fijian Government continues assisting veterans of Operation Grapple, affected by nuclear testing on Christmas Island with pay-out for medical expenses.
This week, seventy-seven (77) year old, Mr Isaia Seruvatu Baro, received a payment of $9,855 from Honourable Jioji Konousi Konrote the Minister for Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations.
When presenting the cheque to Mr Baro, the Honourable Minister thanked him for his service to the nation. The Minister conferred Government’s appreciation and heartfelt compassion towards Mr Baro and his family.
An emotional Mr Baro thanked the Fijian Government for acknowledging the service and loyalty of the soldiers.
“I would like to thank the Fijian Government for recognition of our service. This money will surely assist me in buying my hearing aid and payment towards my eye surgery,” Mr Baro said.
His daughter, Mrs Sera Kaurasi also acknowledged Government’s commitment in recognizing the sacrifices her father and other soldiers made when sent to Christmas Island, without full knowledge of potential risks to their lives.
A total of 28pay-outs have been made to Christmas Island veterans so far. The Government through the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Employment and the Nuclear Veterans Association (NVA) continues verification of surviving soldiers and dependants of those who have passed on. This process will complete Government’s pay-out for medical assistance.
DEPTFO