REQUESTS to review sugarcane truck rates, introduce a standard rate for cane cutters, and provide more technical support training for farmers were highlighted at the “Meet the Press” event in Ba.
Ba District Council of Social Services representative Kelera Lewenilovo called for the Sugar Ministry to review and standardise cane truck rates based on distance and accessibility to compensate farmers and truck owners.
“We asked the Government to introduce a standard cane cutter rate developed through consultation with farmers and worker representatives,” she said.
Ms Lewenilovo said farmers experienced low productivity and cane yield.
“Farmers need more training and technical support to improve soil health and adopt modern climate-smart farming practices.
Ms Lewenilovo requested more visits and assistance from extension officers.
Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh said the ministry was in the process of reviewing the master award.
Farmers could then get a fair price and a rate that was suitable from the distance where their farms are.
“I have instructed the sugar tribunal and the FSC, and the stakeholders to hold and update this Master (award), so our farmers can get a rate suitable to cover costs or make a slight profit on transportation,” he said.
Mr Singh said the ministry would face difficulty in controlling the rate for cane cutters, but the Government would give $3 per ton extra for manual labour costs.
“We’ve got a minimum wage that the government has approved, and we are following that legislation.
“Our farmers have been sitting on 47 tonnes per hectare of cane for the last 15 years.” Acting permanent secretary for Employment and Workplace Relations, Atish Kumar, said cane cutters were paid above the minimum wage rate.
“We only review and regulate the minimum rates of pay. Anything above that, the free-market concept is applied.”
