The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) locomotive drivers are under scrutiny due to allegations of misconduct related to kava consumption during work hours. These claims were raised by farmers from the Wainikoro Sector in Labasa to the Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh.
Minister Singh expressed zero tolerance for such behavior among FSC workers. He noted, “My ministry and FSC will not tolerate such misuse acts and behaviors.” Farmers have reported that some drivers may have postponed their train trips to Wainikoro for sugarcane transportation as a result of kava consumption.
Additionally, the ministry is looking into a fatal accident that occurred in Lausa, Tavua, on Wednesday, with Mr. Singh awaiting the FSC’s feedback regarding the incident. To enhance monitoring of locomotive drivers, he has requested the installation of Global Positioning System (GPS) devices in the locomotives.
“This is to monitor the locations of individuals and locomotives at any given time,” Mr. Singh stated. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that locomotives reach remote farms punctually to maximize sugarcane collection for mill production.