Editorial: Nightclub Operating Hours And Alcohol Sale Debate Today

It may be one of the most-awaited debate in Fiji for some time.

The Review of the Nightclub Opening Hours Debate and the sale of alcohol times will be debated in Parliament today.

The call for review was initiated by the Prime Mininster Sitiveni Rabuka during a post-Cabinet meeting in April.

It came after the death of a 26-year-old man who was allegedly assaulted outside a nightclub the month before.

Announcing the review of nightclub opening hours, Mr Rabuka said the under the current laws nightclubs were authorised to operate from 5pm to 5am (Fiji Time) for designated zones.

The new times suggested is between 5pm to 1am.

A review committee was launched to conduct consultations in major towns in Fiji.

The review team included representatives from the Home Affairs Ministry and the Attorney-General’s Office.

One thing to note is that the operating hours and sale of alcohol will greatly impact the nightclub operators.

Other sectors which pay for nightclub and alcohol licences are restaurants and hotels.

The hotels are not restricted to these times and during consultations, the fairness in this was raised.

Nightclub owners who were interviewed at the time said it would hurt their business.

It was not long when the COVID-19 pandemic forced high-risk businesses to shut down.

The nightclubs opened almost two years later when Fiji’s border opened and movement restrictions were eased.

Prior to the March incident, numerous other reports of brawls, robberies, attacks and deaths in areas around nightclubs have been occurred.

But nightclub operators and those in favour of sticking to the current time have argued that it is the responsibility of patrons, bouncers and Police officers to see that the peace is maintained.

During the parliamentary debate on the matter, Faiyaz Koya, an Opposition Member of Parliament, said nightclub operators generated a significant amount of revenue during those operating hours.

Mr Koya acknowledged the importance of nightlife establishments for both nightclub owners and tourists who visit bars and taverns, adding that special zones in Suva and Nadi were established for specific reasons.

He also suggested that the government should consider engaging in a process with nightclub owners before finalising the legislation.

It’s important to note that the pros and cons of reducing nightclub hours may vary depending on the specific circumstances, location, and community preferences.

And decision-makers should consider the unique factors of their area and engage in a comprehensive assessment before implementing any changes.

Story By: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj