Nightclubs in Fiji will need to remodel into taverns if they want to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
This, according to the COVID-19 Risk Mitigation Taskforce’s Protocol to Remodel Nightclubs as Taverns. One of the key protocols is “strictly no dancing”.
 
“For example, sitting arrangements, ventilation, atmosphere and so forth to be similar to pubs with COVID-safe precautions in place,” the protocol read.
 
“The setting/sitting arrangement of the establishment to be such that there is no space for dancing; only allow for 1.5 metres distancing between tables (the establishment or the patrons must not move furniture to create space for dancing).”
 
The protocol said only 50 per cent of total venue capacity was allowed and only 20 per cent of patrons could be standing at any given time.
 
The protocol also stated each table should be considered a bubble and patrons were to remain in their respective bubbles and the establishment must offer food and beverages and not beverages alone.
 
Nightclub owners and operators were to send a formal request to the COVID-19 Risk Mitigation Taskforce chairperson for consideration.
 
“The incident management team (IMT) will conduct a site inspection and check the establishment’s adherence to the protocol; and the Fijian Government will assess the request and revert with a decision on a case-by-case basis,” stated the protocol.
 
“Note that the IMT will continue to conduct spot checks to ensure compliance, according to the protocol.

SOURCE: FIJI TIMES/PACNEWS

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