Fiji's Ministry of Fisheries is warning communities in the Malau area it may take up to six months before it is safe to eat fish after a chemical spill at the timber mill near Labasa.
Ministry of Fisheries Director, Aisake Batibasaga Photo: IISD
The Ministry's Director said there was an obvious white colour at the site of the spill but the chemical cannot be seen when it is diluted by heavy rain, waves and sea currents.
Aisake Batibasaga said precautions are being taken but fisheries officers are warning the communities affected to be cautious as the chemical could cause burns or illnesses.
"They use that chemical for treating timber. That is a very toxic chemical," Mr Batibasaga said.
"It will kill any plants and any fish that comes in contact with it in the water."
Mr Batibasaga said it was unclear how far the chemical had spread but people should avoid fishing or entering the water on the coast near Malau on Fiji's north-western side of Vanua Levu.
