BY SAMIE WAIKORI
in Auki
WORKERS of the government-funded oil palm project in Wairokai have questioned the delay to their payment.
The workers, who are yet to receive their payment since last year, ask ofr clarification from the contractor and the national government on the matter.
A labourer, who wishes anonymity, told this paper that the delay of their payment has now caused frustration to the workers.
“It was since December last year we yet to receive our pay until today (yesterday).
“And to be honest, it was indeed very disappointing us to continue face with such situation,” the labourer said.
The labourer said similar situation as such happened earlier, but not to this extent.
“Sometimes our pay can delay for week or even fortnight before receiving payments.
“But this is the worst situation ever encountered where our pay now held up to almost four months,” the labourer said.
The labourer said the contractor had assured them that their payments were being processed.
But to date, nothing has been forthcoming.
“Our disappointment is worsening and we want to receive our payments before continuing with the work,” the labourer said.
The labourer also said that about half of almost 70 labourers engaged under the project are students.
“And they are in desperate need for the money to facilitate their studies this year.”
The labourer said the matter is very serious to them and they appeal upon responsible authorities to address the matter.
