Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has voiced deep concerns following a workplace explosion at the Fisheries Ministry’s regional service center in Wainibokasi, which resulted in the tragic death of 27-year-old civil servant Manoa Tugi and injuries to two other employees. Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, Rabuka addressed the implications of the “no fault” clause in light of this incident, questioning whether there might have been lapses in safety measures that led to the accident.
Rabuka described the events leading to the explosion, noting that Tugi was in his office when shrapnel from the blast, which occurred while colleagues were working nearby with equipment, struck him fatally. He raised pressing questions about the adequacy of training and safety protocols in place for employees handling hazardous materials, urging further examination of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
In his remarks, Rabuka offered condolences to the families affected, particularly emphasizing the loss suffered by Manoa Tugi’s family while also acknowledging the serious injuries sustained by his colleagues, Moape Kania and Seruqali Ledua. The Prime Minister highlighted the urgent need for a thorough review of workplace safety protocols within the public service sector to prevent reoccurrence of such accidents.
Moreover, this incident has sparked broader discussions regarding the importance of enhancing safety measures in the workplace, as highlighted by previous accidents involving hazardous materials, including a recent explosive incident related to yacht maintenance. Rabuka’s administration is advocating for comprehensive reforms, including the establishment of the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service to improve training for civil servants.
Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu also emphasized the need for better working conditions to ensure the retention of critical skills within the civil service, advocating for policies that support employees and enhance their workplace environment.
Overall, while this situation is undoubtedly tragic, there exists a hopeful perspective that the discussions and investigations prompted by this incident will lead to significant reforms in safety and accountability, ultimately fostering a better and safer working environment for all civil servants in Fiji. The response from government officials and community members alike indicates a united resolve to address these critical issues moving forward.
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