Ministry completes investigation over death of bauxite mine worker

The Ministry of Labour has completed the investigation into the death of a 29‑year old worker of a bauxite mine in Matasawalevu in Dreketi on May 21st this year.

Minster for Employment and Industrial Relations, Semi Koroilavesau said they are now in the process of finalizing a preliminary report.

Koroilavesau said further comments will be made after the preliminary reports are ready.

He said workers whose death or injuries are proved to be as a result of a personal injury by accident, arising out of employment and in the course of employment are compensated accordingly.

Koroilavesau said for the private sector the respective employers are responsible for the payment of worker’s compensation and the Ministry of Finance is responsible for government workers. 

The 29‑year‑old man was crushed by a conveyor belt carrying soil containing bauxite.

Police say the victim was rushed to the Dreketi Health Centre where he was pronounced dead.