ATHLETES from Team Solomon who have won medals in the Pacific Mini Games in Saipan, Northern Marianas last year has received good news that they will soon be paid for their achievements.
The Deputy Secretary Technical in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Walter Diamana has confirmed that payment for these athletes is pending and will be settled in less than three weeks time.
This announcement came following complaints by coaches and athletes that they were not rewarded for their achievements and have threatened to boycott the upcoming Pacific Games here in Honiara in November.
The country’s top Weightlifting female athlete, Jenly Wini who has been very vocal about the lack of response from the Government regarding this issue described the MHA’s response as good news for the athletes.
“This is good news for us athletes.
“Athletes will now focus on preparing for the Pacific Games here at home at the end of the year,” she said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs revealed that a sum of SBD$250,000 is pending to pay all these athletes.
A total of SBD$10,000 will be paid for each gold medallist, SBD$7,500 for each silver medallist and SBD$5,000 for each bronze medallist.
The Ministry of Home Affairs encouraged these athletes to focus on their preparations for the Pacific Games and future competitions.
The Ministry is also considering rewarding medal winners in the upcoming Pacific Games, further recognizing and motivating the sporting talents within the region.
Solomon Islands have won a total of 31 medals at the recent Pacific Mini Games in the Northern Marianas.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
Solomon Star, Honiara
