Jainu Dean, 65, says finding alternative sources of income for sugarcane farmers should be considered.
The life-long sugar cane farmer says he hopes that the 2023-2024 National Budget provides more opportunities for farmers.
“During off-season, I go out fishing to earn money,” he said.
“What I earn from harvesting cane and from fishing is not enough for me to look after my family well. I hope that the Government can help us in this area.
“There should be more options for sugar cane farmers during the off-season.
“We need to be able to look after our families when we are not harvesting cane.”
He said the fishing industry in Fiji needed to be assisted.
“Fishermen are not earning enough money.
“The cost of fuel and hiring people to go out fishing, we are making a loss every time we go out. But for some of us they don’t have any other choice.”
