We Need Our Children’s Help: Cane Farmers
Majority of sugarcane farmers in Seaqaqa, Labasa suggested Fiji Sugar Corporation if they could be paid monthly.
This was raised during the National Sugar Industry Policy consultation at Solove Primary School and Seaqaqa Community hall in Macuata.
Currently, the cane farmers are paid every six month depending on crushing season.
Farmer Satendra Lal informed the sugar industry team and Assistant Minister for Sugar George Vegnathan that farming was a business and income flow in business affects growth.
“We are requesting if we can receive monthly payment because like any other business we have to pay for expenses like water, electricity, maintenance of trucks/ tractors, pay wages to labourers and family expenses since we have children,” Mr Lal said.
“If you drive through Seaqaqa you will find that many farmers have left because there are still hundreds of houses without electricity, proper water supply and road conditions are bad. However, those who still remain to be loyal we suggest that you ease our financial burden.”
Sanju Reddy, a sugarcane farmer requested for the payment which they normally receive in May to be given in the first week.
“We requesting for early payment in May so that we can prepare for harvesting season well before in advance and arrange for labourers to work in our farm,” Mr Reddy said.
“If we have money in our hand then we can speed up harvesting work and mill will keep running without any stoppage. “Sometimes we hear the mill stopped because there is not enough supply of cane to mill especially on Sundays.” Mohammed Gulab raised his concern saying many Government delegates come and go from Seaqaqa for consultation and what they actually hope for has’nt been done. “I hope that whatever information we exchanged will be taken note of and something needs to be done about it,” Mr Gulab said. Mr Vegnathan assured the farmers that were present that they have noted all requests and suggestions from all the farmers and would formulate the best policy.