Thousands of sugarcane workers in Fiji are set to enjoy a more joyous Diwali this year, thanks to the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, which announced an early disbursement of wages. Originally scheduled for October 22, workers will receive their payments on Monday, facilitating a timely celebration ahead of the festival.
Minister Charan Jeath Singh highlighted that the decision to push forward the payment dates came after workers raised concerns about receiving their wages too close to Diwali. He stated, “Many of our cane cutters, harvester operators, and lorry drivers work tirelessly under the sun… We wanted to make sure they can enjoy Diwali with dignity, joy, and peace of mind.”
The FSC is scheduled to distribute $5 million in payments, benefiting not just cane cutters but also tractor and transport operators vital to the sugar industry. This early disbursement is viewed as a gesture of appreciation for the hard work of these individuals, whom the Government recognizes as the backbone of Fiji’s sugar sector.
In conjunction with the early wage payment, the government recently announced a record payment of $105.08 per tonne for sugarcane farmers, marking the highest payout in the history of Fiji’s sugar industry. This reflects a sustained commitment from the Government to bolster the livelihoods of farmers while acknowledging their resilience amid challenges brought on by climate change. A previous initiative saw payments increased from a planned $2.57 per tonne to a total of $4, ensuring that farmers are adequately supported as the celebrations approach.
The combined efforts of the FSC and the government serve not only to provide immediate financial relief but also to foster a more sustainable and prosperous future for Fiji’s sugar industry. Through these initiatives, both agencies demonstrate their recognition of the hard work and vital contributions that sugarcane workers and farmers make to the nation’s economy, setting a positive tone for the upcoming festival season.
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