THE Fiji Sugar Corporation will have to develop its own program to replace or renew run-down staff quarters in the North, says Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The Prime Minister was told of concerns raised over the condition of accommodation provided for FSC workers.
He said the responsibility for addressing the condition of the quarters rested with FSC.
“It has to come from FSC,” he said.
“They will have to come up with their program of replacement or renewal.”
The issue was raised during questions following Mr Rabuka’s tour of the Labasa mill, where staff highlighted several challenges facing the facility.
The condition of staff accommodation has been a concern for workers, particularly in areas where FSC continues to rely on skilled employees to operate the mill.
His comments indicated that any program to upgrade or replace the quarters would need to be developed and implemented by FSC.
The Government has been examining the wider challenges facing the sugar industry, including infrastructure, staffing and the condition of milling facilities.
The issue of accommodation is particularly relevant as the industry attempts to attract and retain skilled workers.
Mr Rabuka has acknowledged that trained workers are drawn to other employers offering better pay.
Improved staff facilities could therefore form part of wider efforts by FSC to retain workers and maintain its workforce in the North, he said.
