Opposition Member of Parliament Virendra Lal is urging the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations to enhance the regulations that oversee amusement rides to ensure the safety of individuals using them. His call to action comes in light of a recent accident involving a Ferris wheel at the Wairiki Sevens.
Lal emphasized that it is crucial for authorities to take decisive measures, even suggesting a ban on unsafe rides until they can be guaranteed to be safe for use. He argued that the government must prioritize public safety through the implementation of strict safety standards, including continuous inspections and maintenance of all rides.
“The safety of our people is a serious matter, and we cannot afford any further tragic incidents. It’s time for the authorities to act responsibly and shut down these rides until they are confirmed to be safe,” Lal stated.
He pointed out that while the recent incident thankfully did not result in fatalities, it serves as a critical reminder of the risks associated with outdated and poorly maintained amusement rides. This concern is amplified by a previous tragic event at the Fiji Showcase in 2023, where a young woman lost her life, indicating a significant failure in the safety protocols currently in place.
As the Shadow Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lal expressed his deep worry about the lack of oversight by the Occupational Safety and Health department, asserting that the safety measures protecting amusement rides are insufficient and that many of the rides are too old to be deemed safe.
“We were fortunate that the latest incident did not lead to a loss of life, especially compared to the tragedy last year. This should serve as a wake-up call for us all,” he concluded.
In summary, the push for improved safety regulations on amusement rides highlights a growing concern for public safety, particularly for children. By reinforcing safety standards and increasing inspections, authorities can work toward preventing future accidents and ensuring that amusement parks can be enjoyed without fear. This represents a pivotal moment for regulatory bodies to adopt a proactive approach towards public safety—transforming incidents of concern into a commitment for better standards and practices.
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