nuclear-news

The Fijian government’s decision to compensate the remaining members of the Fiji Nuclear Veterans Association will bring some relief while a legal battle with the British government is still dragging on after nearly a decade in the courts.

Some 70 Fijian soldiers were deployed to what is now Kirbati back in 1958 to take part in Britain’s nuclear testing program on Christmas Island, and more than half a century later, only 24 survive.

The Fijian government payout of FJD$9,985 is designed to cover medical costs which the British government has steadfastly refused to cover.

Journalist and writer Nic Maclellan is co-author of a book on the Fijian nuclear veterans called Kirisimasi.

He says although the veterans will be helped by the payment from Fiji, the real fight is still with the British government.

Presenter: Richard Ewart

Speaker: Nic Maclellan, Journalist