Farmers give their ultimatum

A GROUP of farmers in Tavua say they will not harvest their cane if they don’t receive a $20 per tonne fourth cane payment in May.

The growers met National Federation Party leader Professor Biman Prasad at Dramasi, Tavua, on Thursday last week and collectively agreed not to harvest as a last resort.

Speaking on behalf of the farmers, Narendra Reddy said growers were “living the life of a poor person” and wanted to be heard.

“There are farmers here who have no money to prepare for the 2021 crushing season,” he said.

Mr Reddy said growers were still owed about $25 from the $85 guaranteed price for their last crop.

“We need at least $20 per tonne of cane payment in May.

“The remaining $5 can be part of the washout payment.

“The $20 per tonne of cane payment will enable farmers to prepare for the 2021 crushing season.

“If it is not given, we have agreed we will not harvest.

“We demand that by May of each year, farmers should be paid at least $80 out of the guaranteed $85 per tonne of cane.”

Prof Prasad assured the farmers he would raise the issue with the Ministry of Sugar.

Fiji Sugar Corporation chief executive officer Bhan Singh said the concerns raised by the growers were noted.

“FSC has always been supportive and considerate of all grower-related issues.

“At this time, I cannot provide any further details,” Mr Singh said.

Questions emailed to the Ministry of Sugar permanent secretary Yogesh Karan on the issue remained unanswered when this edition went to press.