Former Nightclub Worker Gets Bar Job

Bars and Pubs are permitted to operate under the Fijian COVID Safe Economic Recovery Framework.

Former nightclub worker, Meli Cakaubalavu is a happy man after he was called in to start work at a bar last week.

This after bars and pubs were permitted to operate under the Fijian COVID Safe Economic Recovery Framework.

The 32-year-old who has been unemployed for more than three months said: “I am happy that now I am able to contribute towards my family’s well-being.”

This week has seen the opening of Traps Bar in Suva which left some relief for the young and the restless in getting their nightlives back.

Rajiv Singh of Tamavua said bars provide an avenue for him and his friends to meet and enjoy together.

Suva City Council clarified the businesses were operated under a tavern license and not a nightclub licence. Therefore, nightclubs remained closed.

Concerns:

Nightclub owners raised their concerns last week with the Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

“Obviously the nightclubs generate a lot of revenue for us but the health imperatives take precedence over revenue generation,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

“These things constantly get reviewed so once it gets reviewed you will hear about it. “There are certain risks around it. As you know there are certain countries where certain places of worship and nightclubs have been areas where there has been a community outbreaks.

“In nightclubs people are hard to control after a few drinks. The proximity gets much closer, we have to be able to manage that.”

Businesses have been told of the need to change and adapt to the new environment. The guidelines are subject to review in consultation with stakeholders and when the changes happen Government would make the announcement.

With nightclubs out of the picture, many bars end up filling to the brim with a few even having patrons end up dancing.

Under the Fijian COVID Safe Economic Recovery Framework, the grounds on which bars and pubs could operate are underlined clearly.

Meanwhile, the opening of bars and pubs were permitted to operate after consultations by the permanent secretaries of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Ministry of Economy and Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Tourism under the Phase Two review of the safety guidelines.