Mouse droppings among reasons for restaurant closures in April

Michael Bolton

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) reported that 10 enforcement orders were issued to food businesses across the country in April, with eight closure orders issued.

The Enforcement Orders were issued by Environmental Health Officers in the Health Service Executive (HSE).

Two closure orders under the Fsai Act 1998 were issued to Greenville Deli in Monkstown, Co Dublin, and • Sirmone Limited T/A Soul Bakery in Ballymount industrial estate in Dublin.

Six Closure Orders were served under the European Union Regulations to The City Arms Gastro Bar/ Bistro bar in 50 High Street in Co Waterford, the Tasty takeaway in Charleville, Co Limerick, and the Namaste Indian Cuisine in Smithfield, Co Dublin.

Closure orders were also issued to Bojon Spices in Dunboyne, Co Meath, the Barne Lodge in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, and the Rio Latte Bar in Prussia Street, Dublin 7.

Two improvement orders were issued to the Sancta Maria Nursing Home in Kinnegad, Co Meath, and Sligo Spice.

Some of the reasons for the Enforcement Orders included multiple mouse droppings in the premises, including in a cupboard, under a sink and wash hand basin used for storing cleaning equipment.

Lack of evidence to support use-by dates on defrosted food, no hot water or designated hand wash basin in the food preparation area, visible dirt and grease on cooking equipment, and customer toilets not been cleaned were also among the reasons.

Mr Greg Dempsey, Chief Executive, FSAI, warned that there is an obligation for food businesses to act responsibly and ensure the food they provide to their customers is safe to eat.

“Food businesses owe it to their customers that the food they are selling is safe to eat. Not only is it the right thing to do, it’s also a legal requirement under food law. Consumers have a right to trust that the food they buy is safe to eat and that it complies with all relevant food safety legislation.

"The findings that led to these Enforcement Orders highlight an unacceptable disregard for basic food safety and hygiene practices. These are preventable issues, and there are simply no excuses for failing to comply with the law.

"Food businesses must remain vigilant, ensuring regular checks, effective pest control, and thoroughly cleaned well-maintained premises to protect their customers’ health and uphold consumer trust in the food chain.”