Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed profound concerns following a deadly explosion at the Fisheries Ministry’s regional service center in Wainibokasi. The tragic incident resulted in the death of 27-year-old civil servant Manoa Tugi and injuries to two others. During a parliamentary session on Wednesday, Rabuka raised critical questions about the implications of the “no fault” clause, examining whether there were shortcomings in safety protocols that could have prevented this tragedy.
Rabuka recounted that Tugi was in his office during the explosion, which occurred as colleagues were operating hazardous equipment nearby. The Prime Minister called for an evaluation of the training and safety measures for employees who work with dangerous materials, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation into the incident.
In his statement, Rabuka extended condolences to Tugi’s family, emphasizing the profound loss they have endured, while recognizing the significant injuries sustained by colleagues Moape Kania and Seruqali Ledua. He stressed that a comprehensive review of workplace safety standards within the public service sector is essential to mitigate the risk of future accidents.
The explosion has prompted a wider conversation about enhancing workplace safety, echoing past incidents involving hazardous materials, including a recent explosion related to yacht maintenance. Rabuka’s administration is pushing for significant reforms, which may include the establishment of the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service to bolster training for civil servants.
Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has also called for improved working conditions to retain critical skills in the civil service, advocating for supportive policies that enhance the work environment for employees.
While the tragedy is deeply saddening, there is a hopeful outlook that the discussions and investigations ignited by this incident may catalyze meaningful reforms in safety and accountability, ultimately leading to a safer work environment for all civil servants in Fiji. The response from government officials and community members reflects a collective determination to confront these pressing issues.
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