11 Apr 2012
One of Ireland’s premier private members’ clubs was served with a closure order over fears to public health.
An area of the exclusive Stephen’s Green Hibernian Club in Dublin was shut by environmental officers between March 26 and 30.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) said it deemed there was, or there was likely to be, a grave and immediate danger to public health in the club’s yard and basement – where an ice machine was stored.
It is understood cracks and an old drain had to be filled in the area, where no food was kept or prepared.
Ray Mooney, general manager of the club, said: “During a routine inspection an issue was identified with a small unused area in the basement of the premises.
“The club responded immediately to rectify this issue.
“At no point was the day-to-day operation of the club impacted.”
Six other food businesses were also rapped for breaches in food safety legislation last month.
Prof Alan Reilly, FSAI chief executive, said vigilance is always required in relation to food safety and standards must not be permitted to slip to such levels that consumer health is put at risk.
“Food business operators must recognise that the legal onus is on them to be responsible and ensure that the food they serve is safe to eat,” he said.
Copyright Press Association 2012