Opposition Member of Parliament Virendra Lal is urging the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations to enhance the regulations surrounding amusement rides, emphasizing the importance of both safety and public welfare. His call to action follows a recent incident involving a Ferris wheel at the Wairiki Sevens, which raised serious concerns about ride safety.
Lal expressed that the moment has come for authorities to take decisive measures, suggesting that unsafe rides should be prohibited until established as safe for public use. He highlighted the need for stringent safety standards, advocating for regular inspections and maintenance of amusement rides to prevent future accidents.
“The safety of our people is a priority that should not be taken lightly; we cannot afford any more tragic incidents,” Lal stated. He reflected on the unfortunate history of amusement ride accidents, referencing a previous tragedy at the Fiji Showcase in 2023, where a young woman lost her life, as evidence of a critical gap in safety protocols.
As the Shadow Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lal expressed deep concern regarding the alleged lapses within the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) department, asserting that current measures are insufficient to protect the public. He pointed out that incidents, such as a child’s life being endangered due to a malfunctioning ride earlier this month, warrant immediate attention and remediation.
Lal emphasized the urgency of evaluating the safety of rides, many of which he deems outdated and inadequate, warning that it could have serious consequences if these issues are not addressed promptly. He portrayed the recent event as a crucial opportunity for the government to re-evaluate its safety protocols, implying that it could serve as a potential catalyst for change.
This article reinforces the reality that public safety must always be a top priority, especially concerning the wellbeing of children. By addressing these concerns head-on, there is hope for a future where amusement rides are not only entertaining but also guaranteed safe for everyone.
Summary: Opposition MP Virendra Lal is advocating for stronger regulations on amusement rides in light of recent safety concerns, calling for improved inspections and maintenance to protect public safety, especially for children. He cites previous accidents as evidence of the need for urgent reforms.
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