265 workers of Sofitel Fiji Resort sent on Leave Without Pay

265 workers of the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa have been sent on Leave Without Pay due to no tourist arrivals as a result of COVID-19.

166 workers were earlier made redundant by the resort.

Director of Human Resources Mereoni Gusuivalu says the resort was closed for almost 12 weeks and it is only expected to open up again when the Australian borders open up.

Gusuivalu says all workers were being paid for the past 12 weeks despite the resort being closed and it is unfortunate that they have had to take this step.

She says they were being paid a convenient amount after considering their necessities such as the number of people in their families.

Gusuivalu says the workers will be receiving their last payment this week.

She says the 265 workers will be hired once again when the resort opens up while the 166 workers that have been made redundant will have to apply once again.