SUGARCANE industry stakeholders were briefed by consultant Dr Sitiveni Ratuva on his findings from discussions with canegrowers on a proposed review of the Sugar Master Award.
The award is an important document for the industry because it outlines the expectations from growers and the Fiji Sugar Corporation.
It also gives both parties the processes and procedures to be followed when disputes arise.
Ministry of Sugar Permanent Secretary Viliame Gucake said a number of issues highlighted by Dr Ratuva were not present in the Master Award in use.
“One was the inclusion of welfare for growers and another was governance issues,” Mr Gucake said.
“However, I need to see the full text of the report before I can comment any further because these are new and complex issues that need further discussion with all the stakeholders.”
Mr Gucake said once the complete report was received, he had requested two weeks of intense discussions between the FSC, Sugar Cane Growers Council and other stakeholders on Dr Ratuva’s findings.
The Sugar Master Award in use at present was formulated in 1989.
