Ovalau residents fear PAFCO closure

There has been much talk about the closure of PAFCO among the people of Ovalau who find this prospect worrying given that they rely on the factory for employment.

This was raised by district of Nasinu representative, Losio Waqa while discussing the requests of the people of Ovalau at the Lomaiviti Provincial Council meeting held today at the Suva Civic Centre.

Mr Waqa shared that prior observations and talks with workers indicate that PAFCO is not performing well.

He also said that some workers have been told to stay home with the excuse that there is less fish in production.

Another alarming factor for them is the understanding that Bumble Bee Seafoods will be rounding up their operations at the fish-processing facility in June.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said the Government is aware of the situation with PAFCO and discussions have been done with Papua New Guinea and Japan for their possible support in the continued operation of the facility.

The outcome of the meeting will be conveyed to Minister for Foreign Affairs Sakiasi Ditoka.