Government issues Disclaimer Policy for business owners accessing damaged buildings

January 9, 2025 10:07 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Ezra Toara.

Business owners seeking to access their properties in the main town must complete and sign a disclaimer form, according to the Recovery Operations Centre (ROC).

The Government has made it clear that it will not be held liable for any incidents or damages that occur during such access.

John Ezra, Director of the Department of Strategic Policy, Planning, and Aid Coordination (DSPPAC) and Chairman of the ROC, emphasised the importance of safety and thorough assessments before allowing unrestricted access to earthquake-damaged areas.

“The government needs assessment reports to be completed quickly. Some businesses are eager to return to the Central Business District (CBD), where road access has been restored. However, for safety reasons, we advise waiting until the area is deemed safe,” Mr. Ezra stated.

He added that for those who insist on entering their buildings, the disclaimer form serves as a critical safeguard. “If businesses feel the current waiting period is too costly, they can follow the process by obtaining a pass and signing the form. This ensures the government has records of those entering the area. If another earthquake occurs or a building collapse, we will know who was present,” Ezra explained.

The government reiterated that the main town remains unsafe until assessment reports are finalised. The Public Works Department (PWD) will conduct structural evaluations and issue certificates for safe buildings before full access is granted. Ezra stressed that “requirements must be followed to ensure accurate information is obtained and the safety of all is prioritised.”

He also highlighted concerns over Lolam House and surrounding structures, such as UNELCO and ANZ buildings, which pose significant risks if they collapse. “Lolam House must be demolished, and nearby buildings need to be cleared based on assessment reports before officers and businesses can return to safe buildings,” Ezra noted.

Reports have surfaced on social media showing alleged unauthorised repairs by Chinese nationals and other building owners, with cracked walls being cemented. Ezra said the ROC has not received official reports of these incidents but urged the public to bring forward such allegations for investigation.

“These reports are crucial for addressing issues and ensuring safety measures are adhered to,” he stated. Recovery operations are being guided by a timeline set by the government, with Ezra indicating flexibility in extending the recovery period if necessary.

“If the initial timeframe is insufficient, the Council of Ministers can consider extending it, potentially by another two years,” he said.

The plan for recovery, along with immediate priorities, falls under the jurisdiction of the recovery sub-committee and ROC managers. The government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens and businesses during this challenging period.