Substandard timber treatment in Fiji's market sparks national concern - Bainivalu

The status of timber treatment in Fiji, particularly the issue of selling substandard treated timber in the domestic market, is a cause of concern and has become a critical national interest.

This has been highlighted by Minister of Fisheries and Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu in parliament where she highlighted the main purpose of treating timber with chemicals to be able to last longer in service and to avoid termites.

Bainivalu says without treatment, many species of timber, including pine, will not be suitable for use in exposed and ground contact situations.

She says it is important to note that timber with chemicals is not only part of the solution but proper design of buildings and proper specification of building materials go into ensuring that we are better protected, especially against termites.

The Minister for Forestry says it must however be noted that the treating of timber with chemicals is not compulsory. She says this is because some untreated timber from species such as pine can be used without any problems for some specific end uses, especially for non-load bearing and in fully protected situations and out of ground contact.

Opposition MP, Semi Koroilavesau says out of the eight types of treatment, the main treatment is to treat against insects and termites.

Koroilavesau says people who live in rural areas should not be relying on the chemicals at all times but can utilise traditional knowledge of conserving timber to last longer.

He adds the issue highlighted by the Minister of Forestry will enlighten the minds of people and make them more informed about the different aspects of the treatment of timber and the termites and insects that attack timber.