The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) locomotive drivers are under scrutiny for alleged misconduct related to kava consumption during work hours. This issue was raised by farmers from the Wainikoro Sector in Labasa, who brought their concerns to the Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh.
Mr. Singh stated that he would not accept any instances of FSC employees consuming kava while on duty. He emphasized that both his ministry and the FSC will take a firm stance against such inappropriate behavior.
Farmers have expressed concerns that some drivers may have delayed their journeys to Wainikoro for sugarcane transport due to kava consumption. The ministry is also looking into a fatal accident that took place in Lausa, Tavua, and Mr. Singh is awaiting a report from the FSC regarding this incident.
To enhance oversight of locomotive drivers, Mr. Singh has requested that the FSC install Global Positioning System (GPS) technology in the locomotives. He explained that this initiative is aimed at tracking the locations of both the drivers and the locomotives at all times, ensuring timely deliveries to the interior farms and maximizing sugarcane transportation for production at the mill.