Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama told Rakiraki cane farmers yesterday  not to listen to politicians.

“These political talks are causing worry amongst you,” Mr Bainimarama said.

Mr Bainimarama was speaking at a talanoa session after the groundbreaking ceremony of the planned Rakiraki Market complex.

“I don’t want all these political talks to cause uneasiness amongst the citizens of Fiji.

“I am telling you the Penang Mill cannot be fixed – I want you all to go and have a look at it.”

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama chats with 11-year-old Brunelle Reapi in Rakiraki on May 8, 2017. Photo: Charles Chambers

He said the Fiji Sugar Corporation chief executive Graham Clarke was looking into a plan for a new mill.

Mr Clarke said a new mill would be built if sugarcane production exceeded four million tonnes.

Mr Bainimarama said the Penang mill was damaged badly and was beyond any possibility for repair.

“I want these people who say the mill can be fixed to see the mill so that they can shut their mouths,” Mr Bainimarama said.

“This mill cannot be repaired. It will cause millions of dollars to fix.

“It is better to build a new one.

“The Chief Executive Officer of FSC is working on it.

“Those are the things I want to clear up.

“Don’t listen to any political talks that will cause us to worry.

“Let’s talk about developments.

“I have been reading the papers where there have been talks that are causing instability amongst the farmers.”

Mr Bainimarama said those people who were bringing up these issues “just want your ticks on the ballot papers”.

“Be rest assured my plans are working,” he said.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama in discussion with attendants of the groundbreaking ceremony in Rakiraki on May 8, 2017. Photo: Charles Chambers

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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