The Sugar Cane Growers Council has proposed the re-opening of tramline operations for the Tavua district, says chief executive officer Vimal Dutt.
Mr Dutt confirmed in a press conference yesterday that tramline operations remained before the Sugar Industry Tribunal and that the current situation continued to apply for the Lautoka mill area.
Mr Dutt said rail trucks were being delivered to their respective delivery points.
“For the Tavua district, SCGC has proposed the reopening of tramline operations. We remain hopeful that the Office of the Tribunal will issue its ruling in the near future,” he said.
“The council has consistently advocated that growers should not bear the full burden of increased operational costs and has strongly pursued Government assistance measures to cushion growers from such impacts.”
Mr Dutt said the fuel subsidy and guaranteed cane price of $85 per tonne announced by Government were timely relief measures.
“This intervention has provided certainty and confidence to growers during a period characterised by increasing production costs and uncertainty in global sugar markets.
“In this regard, SCGC will continue to actively pursue additional support measures and enhanced returns for growers through ongoing engagement with Government and industry stakeholders.”
Mr Dutt said the council therefore strongly encourages all growers, harvesting gangs and service providers to take full advantage of the favourable weather conditions and ensure that harvesting operations commence in a timely manner.
“The council firmly believes that sustained investment and policy support are critical in addressing the challenges currently confronting the industry, including rising production costs, labour shortages, climate-related risks and the need to improve productivity.”
