Opposition MP Virendra Lal is urging the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations to enhance legislation regarding amusement rides to ensure public safety, especially in light of a recent Ferris wheel incident at the Wairiki Sevens.
Following the accident, Lal expressed that it is an opportune moment for the government to impose a ban on unsafe rides. He emphasized that the safety of the public should be a top priority, advocating for rigorous safety standards that mandate continuous inspection and maintenance of all amusement attractions.
“The safety of our people is paramount and cannot be taken lightly; we cannot afford more tragic incidents. It is essential for authorities to act decisively and halt the operation of these rides until they are verified as safe,” he stated.
Lal noted that the recent incident serves as a significant reminder of the dangers associated with outdated and poorly maintained amusement rides. Thankfully, this latest accident did not result in a fatality, yet it draws attention to a critical failure in safety measures, especially when considering last year’s tragedy at the Fiji Showcase that claimed the life of a young woman.
As the Shadow Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lal voiced serious concerns about the apparent lapses in oversight by the Occupational Health and Safety department. He pointed out that the safety of children must not be compromised, citing a past incident on August 1st where a child’s life was endangered due to a malfunctioning ride.
Lal criticized the existing safety measures as insufficient and highlighted the risks posed by aging rides. He stressed that the lack of fatalities in the most recent incident should be viewed as a warning sign rather than a reassurance, urging for immediate action towards better safety regulations before something more tragic occurs.
In a positive light, this incident has reignited discussions about essential safety reforms that could lead to a safer environment for families at amusement parks and events. It is an opportunity for policymakers to collaborate with safety experts and implement robust safety protocols to prevent future incidents, potentially creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.
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