The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) locomotive drivers are under scrutiny following allegations of misconduct. Reports suggest that some drivers may be consuming kava during working hours. This issue was highlighted to Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, by farmers from the Wainikoro Sector in Labasa.
Mr. Singh expressed his disapproval of the situation, stating that kava consumption by FSC workers during work hours is unacceptable. “My ministry and FSC will not tolerate such misuse acts and behaviors,” he affirmed. Additionally, some farmers alleged that the consumption of kava could be causing delays in train trips for transporting sugarcane to Wainikoro.
The ministry is currently investigating a fatal accident that took place at Lausa, Tavua, on Wednesday, and Mr. Singh is awaiting a report from the FSC regarding this incident. To enhance oversight of locomotive drivers, he has requested the installation of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology in locomotives.
“This will allow us to monitor the locations of individuals and locomotives at any given time,” he stated. Mr. Singh emphasized the importance of timely deliveries to ensure maximum sugarcane transport to the mill for production.