Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is at Burenitu in Nalawa having consultations with cane farmers.

This is part of his tour to the west this week.

Christopher Chand is accompanying the Prime Minister and files this report.

The PM has again reiterated that the sugar industry is here to stay. Bainimarama is in the Western division to meet with farmers and hear their concerns. In his address to farmers this morning, he told them that they are looking to introduce a system for cane lorry operators which will be similar to bus fare rates. This will help lessen the burden on farmers who have to pay high cartage fees. Sugar industry stakeholders are also here with the PM, to try and help farmers with their concerns, all in a bid to take the industry forward.