Farmers urged to report drug use in sugarcane fields

Assistant Minister for Youth and Sport Aliki Bia is urging sugarcane farmers to report to Police if their labourers smoke marijuana while working in the fields.

His advice follows concerns raised by a sugarcane farmer in Vunika, Labasa, who said his labourers commonly smoked marijuana without fear.

The farmer said he was reluctant to report the matter to Police because he feared for his family’s safety, the possibility of his farm being burnt down and difficulties securing labourers in the future amid Fiji’s ongoing labour shortage.

Mr Bia said legal processes and mechanisms were in place and everyone needed to respect the law.

“If farmers have evidence, then they should report to Police to take necessary actions,” Mr Bia said.

“To the young people in the North, I know working as labourers in sugarcane fields is very common in Labasa and we don't have that more opportunity for employment.”

Mr Bia said young people working in cane fields should respect farmers, their privacy and dignity, and follow the rules, regulations and policies governing their employment.

He also highlighted concerns about Fiji’s drug crisis and HIV and AIDS.

“To the youths, please refrain from using drugs and related activities. It does not reflect how well you were brought up in your family by your parents, village, community and society,” he said.

“It is important that we empower youths to stay away from drugs and not be included in activities that spread HIV and AIDS.”