The lead story in The Fiji Times for October 22 highlights recent developments at the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC). The company’s Board of Directors saw their fees and allowances increase significantly, rising from $24,000 in 2023 to $72,000 in 2024, as noted in the FSC’s annual report. Currently, the FSC, which relies on government support, has nine board members who also serve on seven different sub-committees.
In court news, a man accused of causing the death of a one-year-old child appeared in Suva.
The publication also covers the issue of labor shortages and rising costs that have contributed to an increase in unharvested cane during the last two sugar cane seasons. The FSC reported a 10 percent increase in standover cane, with 28,575 tonnes in 2023 compared to 26,040 tonnes in 2022. CEO Bhan Pratap Singh attributed 93 percent of the unharvested cane to labor issues, primarily in hilly areas where mechanical harvesting is unfeasible. More details can be found on Page 14.
Page 3 features a story about the sinking countries in the Pacific, including Fiji.
In addition to these articles, the Fiji Police Force reported a significant rise in crime rates, with 1,730 incidents recorded in September compared to 1,348 during the same period last year. This spike raises questions about the effectiveness of crime prevention and reporting in the community. Acting Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci revealed that the most common offenses included theft, assault, burglary, drug possession, and criminal intimidation. Assault cases against women comprised 84 percent of offenses reported by women, and drug-related crimes showed a shift in focus from methamphetamine to marijuana use.
These statistics prompt reflection on the underlying issues contributing to crime in Fiji, including socio-economic factors like the cost of living, employment opportunities, and the importance of parental guidance. Community engagement and policy discussions may be crucial in addressing these concerns leading into the festive season. The situation calls for transformative action and open dialogue to cultivate a safer environment for everyone.