The owner of the recreational floating platform Cloud 9 has volunteered to close down the operation.
This confirms Acting Police Commissioner Ravi Narayan.
The closure of the business was done yesterday he said following a visit by police.
Meanwhile, a statement from the Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum on Friday explains that the operation is illegal and operating in breach of the Surfing Areas Decree 2010.
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.
The statement points to the Decree not allowing for the activities that have been conducted on Cloud 9, which include organised parties, the serving of alcohol, the playing of loud music and an advertised nightclub.
The Decree is explicit – “to enable unrestricted access to any surfing area by all persons engaged in providing and promoting surfing and any water sport”.
The statement continues that the obligations on operators are also explicit – “The person shall not carry out any activity other than surfing or engaging in any water sport”.
The protection of the environment in these areas is paramount and the Government cannot allow any activity that may lead to damage or destruction in these areas.
Cloud 9 presents a clear threat to that provision in the decree.
The intention of the Decree is also to create economic and commercial opportunities for locals in the surrounding areas.
The statement reads that Cloud Break and its marine environment needs to be preserved, along with all other such areas in Fiji, now and for future generations, as provided for in the Constitution.
Meanwhile, Tony Philp the director of Cloud 9 could not be reached for a comment today however when Fijivillage spoke to him yesterday Philp said he is surprised by the situation and is seeking legal advice.
Story by: Gwen McGoon
