The Fiji National Provident Fund has relaxed the requirements for Natural Disaster Assistance, based on initial assessments and feedback from its members.
The FNPF Board has approved that all members affected by Tropical Cyclone Winston can apply for the $1,000 assistance and Quick Repairs Housing Assistance of $5,000.
This is not only for those who reside in worst affected areas as announced earlier.
In addition, members who wish to help their immediate family in affected areas are also eligible for the assistance.
This was not allowed previously, as members needed to be residents of worst affected areas to be eligible.
FNPF teams will no longer inspect or visit villages and settlements or members’ houses to verify members’ residential addresses.
The $1,000 assistance is available to members regardless of the classification of their dwelling e.g. agricultural lease, squatter, village, agreement for lease and instrument of tenancy such as titles.
This facility would be open for the next 60 days and would be reviewed at the end of this period.
FNPF Chairman Ajith Kodagoda said while they understand there may be some abuse given this relaxation, it is their hope that a majority of their members will be assisted.
Meanwhile, FNPF members are reminded that the assistance is subject to eligibility in their general account, subject to audit post disbursement.
Any withdrawal under the Natural Disaster Assistance will result in the general reduction of members’ general account and their total balance.
FNPF branches will now receive applications from members in Suva, Nausori, Ba, Lautoka, Labasa, Savusavu and Nadi.
Temporary offices will be set up in Tavua and Rakiraki to cater specifically for this assistance.
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