Group of FarmersProposed fines under the Public Health (Amendment) Bill 2026 could hurt farmers if they are set too high, the Ministry of Agriculture has warned. He told the committee that agriculture and public health are closely linked because diseases carried by animals can spread to humans. National WASH Coordinator Toga Vosataki clarified that the existing Public Health Act already provides for fines of up to $10,000 for infectious disease offences following amendments made during the COVID-19 period. Opposition MP Ketan Lal said farmers in Labasa had repeatedly raised concerns about fines during consultations. Tukana said people caught polluting waterways should face penalties, but supported a graduated enforcement approach that gives first, second and third warnings before fines are issued.