Opposition Member of Parliament Joseph Nand has expressed deep concern over the findings from an investigation into the recent death of a Japanese tourist at a resort in Sigatoka. He described the revelations as “shocking and unacceptable,” particularly highlighting a serious deficiency in the welfare and duty of care at the resort.
The unfortunate incident involved a 50-year-old Japanese national who faced difficulties while snorkeling in the resort’s waters earlier this month. Nand emphasized that the public generally trusts resorts to comply with safety protocols, yet the results of the Occupational Health and Safety investigation have raised alarming questions about the ability of such establishments to guarantee the safety and well-being of their guests.
He called for immediate strategic actions to address these issues, pointing to a significant failure by authorities tasked with monitoring OHS compliance in resorts. Nand stressed the need for clarity regarding the frequency of inspections, the last inspection date, and the enforcement actions taken against those who do not comply with safety standards.
While he acknowledged the prompt investigation initiated by Minister Singh, Nand’s primary concern lies with the long-term measures that must be instituted to avert similar tragedies in the future.
This situation calls for a renewed focus on safety regulations in the hospitality industry, potentially leading to improved standards and greater accountability. It represents an opportunity for resorts to reassess and enhance their safety protocols to ensure that all guests feel secure during their stay.
In summary, the investigation into the tragic death underlines the critical importance of stringent health and safety measures in resorts, encouraging both government and industry stakeholders to come together to create a safer environment for tourists.
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