Fiji: Conduct of OHS full Investigation on Ferris Wheel accident continues: Minister Singh

Fiji: The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh, reiterates that the National Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Service is conducting complete investigations of the amusement rides accident on 30th June 2023.

This was in response to the query raised by the Fiji Labour Party Leader, Mahendra Chaudhry, on social media on the delay in releasing the outcome of the investigation by the Ministry.

Minister Singh further emphasised that the National OHS Service concluded its preliminary investigation on 21st July 2023. The initial inquiry aims to establish opinions on the cause of the accident based on information gathered, interviews, reports, and assessments of the accident site.

“The full investigations are now being conducted based on the likely breaches by any duty holders regarding their responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1996.”

The Ministry is also working with the Fiji Police Force to determine the root cause or the causes of the accident,” he added.

Minister Singh re-emphasised that the priority is to investigate the cause of the accident thoroughly and ensure that adequate measures are taken to prevent similar accidents in future. The Ministry will not comment on allegations of delayed attention and medical assistance provided to the injured patrons, including the deceased, as this is not within our jurisdiction.”

Minister Singh met with the deceased’s parents last week, advising them of the progress and the processes involved. The same was explained to Chaudhry when he called the Employment Minister earlier. He added that Chaudry did not have any reason to comment on social media.

The Minister for Employment called on Chaudry to refrain from politicising the Ferris wheel accident. The Minister emphasised the importance of allowing a thorough investigation without political interference or attempts to gain political gain.