The Government has put in place a series of measures to deal with the issue of stray cattle damaging sugar farms in the vicinity of the Yaqara Pastoral Company Limited (YPCL) in northern Viti Levu.

Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says contrary to claims being made by the leader of the National Federation Party, Biman Prasad, that the Government has failed to adequately address the complaints of local farmers, a comprehensive program has, in fact, been underway since last week to resolve the issue.

The Ministry of Public Enterprises sent a team of investigators to the Yaqara area last week to examine complaints by farmers that stray cattle had caused damage to their sugar cane crops.

A report was produced and the company has been directed to compensate those affected for any losses.

While the drought persists, YPCL has undertaken to reduce its stock from 4,500 head of cattle to 3,000 and to make provision for adequate feed and water within its boundaries.

In relation to damage caused by YPCL cattle to surrounding farms, the Ministry of Public Enterprises is currently assessing the extent of that damage and is working with the Ministry of Sugar and the Fiji Sugar Corporation to determine the level of compensation.