Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said he will not make any comments at this stage on the issue relating to the closure of the recreational floating platform Cloud 9.
Cloud 9 has come out with a statement saying that all the necessary permits to operate the pontoon as a day time overwater appreciation facility, providing a food menu, beverages and day time water sports facilities was fully approved by government.
Director of Cloud 9 Tony Philp Junior said they have 11 permits and licenses that approved the running of Cloud 9.
He said among them is the mooring permit, business license and company registration.
Cloud 9 also denied any allegation it is polluting the environment as it said the business it was running depended on the pristine environment.
The statement also highlighted that there might have been some misinformation regarding their business, as it said before investing the large sum of money, Cloud 9 paid its due diligence which included ensuring every legal avenue has been pursued and approved by every Government Department.
It said they are still trying to meet with Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
Sayed-Khaiyum had said earlier this month that Cloud 9, operating near the world renowned Cloud Break surfing spot in western Viti Levu, was operating illegally.
He said that the regulation of Surfing Areas Decree 2010 makes it clear that any commercial venture permitted under that Decree be confined to surfing and other water sports.
Sayed-Khaiyum said it does not allow for the activities that have been conducted on Cloud 9, which include organized parties, the serving of alcohol, the playing of loud music and an advertised nightclub.
The intention of the Decree is also to create economic and commercial opportunities for locals in the surrounding areas.
When approached yesterday afternoon, Sayed-Khaiyum opted not to say anything.
He also said that he will not comment when we told him that Tony Philp Junior wants to meet him.
Story by: Vijay Narayan, Gwen McGoon & Tokasa Rainima
