Opposition MP Virendra Lal is urging the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations to enhance the current legislation surrounding amusement rides, emphasizing the need to prioritize safety to prevent serious injuries or fatalities. This call comes in the wake of a recent Ferris wheel incident at the Wairiki Sevens, which has raised concerns about ride safety standards.
Lal stressed that now is the opportune moment for authorities to consider banning unsafe rides and implementing stricter safety measures. He advocates for continuous inspections and maintenance of all amusement rides, stating, “The safety of our people is a priority that cannot be taken lightly; we do not want further tragic accidents.” He believes it is essential to halt operations on these rides until their safety can be confirmed.
The MP highlighted that the recent incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with outdated and poorly maintained rides, notably referencing a past tragic accident at the Fiji Showcase in 2023 that resulted in a loss of life. He expressed concern over the apparent failure in safety protocols, particularly by the Occupational Health and Safety department.
As the Shadow Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lal voiced his alarm over the shortcomings in safety oversight, pointing to a worrying incident on August 1 where a child’s life was endangered due to a ride malfunction. He firmly stated that the safety of children should never be compromised and that existing safety measures are insufficient in light of the age of some rides.
Although the latest incident thankfully did not result in any fatalities, Lal views it as an opportunity for a critical reassessment of safety standards to ensure that future occurrences can be prevented. His remarks serve as a call to action for both the government and the community, highlighting the urgent need for reform in the amusement ride industry.
In summary, the article underscores the growing concern over amusement ride safety following recent accidents and advocates for immediate legislative action to enforce stricter safety protocols. It highlights the importance of ensuring safety measures to protect the public, particularly children, from potential harm. This call for change represents a hopeful step towards enhancing safety standards in the amusement industry.
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