800 people are expected to benefit from the Social Assistance Trust Fund after a $6 million deed was signed yesterday by the government and the new Management of the Mines.

Chief Executive of the Vatukoula Gold Mine Company Bert Leathley said the benefits will also include the families of those workers who have died some years back.  

Acting Prime Minister and Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the establishment of the Fund would mean that the Company would contribute approximately $6 million over the next five years.

The Attorney General said that in turn, government had given various concessions towards the company due to its importance, not only on the export market but also to the local community in the Vatukoula and Tavua areas.