A SUGARCANE grower in Sigatoka is sceptical of the Fiji Sugar Corporation’s ability to manage its own affairs, let alone taking on further responsibilities such as the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji.

Vikram Chand, a farmer from Namau Sector, told the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs on the Reform of the Sugar Cane Industry Bill yesterday that in his view, the biggest hindrance to sugar production was the FSC.

“It is not able to fulfil its duties and provide services in a changing climate,” Mr Chand said.

“As I understand the Bill, we are trying to load and pass on more responsibilities to the FSC.

“How will they be able to handle it?”

Mr Chand added it was the common view of farmers in Sigatoka that the FSC had maintained an attitude similar to that of the colonial administration.

“FSC needs to do more consultations. They need to incorporate farmers views. At the end of the day, if we don’t grow cane then nothing can happen.”

Standing Committee chairwoman Lorna Eden said the views expressed by Mr Chand and other growers at the submissions would be noted and forwarded to the relevant authorities.

“One thing that is quite clear is that we need to listen to the farmers because they know the industry,” Ms Eden said.