ͶǤͳ ”‡ƒ‹• ‹ ˆ—†

Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi says the Voluntary Deferred Pay (VDP) special fund for ex-miners now has around E4.1 million in the account.

The balance was disclosed during a meeting the minister last week Monday with three associations of mine and ex-mineworkers in Eswatini. Buthelezi told the associations that the latest statement he received from the Social Security Office in the ministry indicated that the fund had around E4.1 million.

He also told the miners’ associations that the Social Security Office reported to him that some of the funds were utilised for the operation of Occupational Safety and Health (OHS) clinics, that were placed in Manzini and Nhlangano to assist silicosis patients.

He highlighted that he learned, however, that some members were questioning why the fund was utilised for the OHS clinics. Buthelezi said the meeting would get to the bottom of the names of people who concluded the decision to utilise the fund for that purpose.

It was also revealed in the meeting that E2.5 million of the fund was invested in the Financial Service Corporation (FINCORP).

Depicted

Buthelezi said he was told that the remaining funds were invested in African Alliance.

He said a statement was asked from the Social Security Department and depicted the remaining funds to be around E4.1 million.

“Currently, the fund is being audited by the auditor general.

“While we are waiting for the completion of the audit, let’s pave a way forward for the fund.

“I do not think it gives you any pleasure to keep on visiting the ministry demanding your money without results,” he said.