THE Health Ministry is inviting all food business operators and the general public to attend public consultation programs for the final draft of the Food Establishment Grading Regulation 2011.
Acting Food Unit head, Samuela Bolalailai said the consultation would be conducted in series within the Northern, Western, Eastern and Central Divisions.
Mr Bolalailai said the purpose of the exercise was to cover the widest possible population in terms of consultation.
“The reason we are involving food business operators and the general public is for everybody to have an input to this Act,” Mr Bolalailai said
“People should not be caught by surprise once the new Act comes into force.
“As consumers, we have every right to raise concerns on an Act.”
Mr Bolalailai said people must take advantage of this opportunity since the new act will be enforced on every consumer.
“Once enacted it becomes an Act and it’s going to be difficult to make changes.
“The trend now is that most people are eating out rather than eating at home.
“This regulation guarantees people are given good service and good food in outlets around the country.
Meanwhile, the Health Ministry will welcome written submissions from stakeholders on provisions of the regulation to be amended or altered to give full effect of the regulation and reasons.
Stakeholders have until September 20, 2011 to submit their written submissions to the Ministry of Health permanent secretary.
The public consultation venues and dates are;
At the Labasa Town Council on August 15, Taveuni Hospital on August 18, Savusavu Town Council on August 16, Levuka Town Council on August 22, Lautoka City Council on August 25, Rakiraki Health Office on August 26, Sigatoka Health Office on August 24, Navua Health office on August 29, Nausori Town Council on August 30 and Suva Studio 6 on August 31
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