Abattoir closures prompt safety warning

TWO slaughterhouses operating illegally were among five food premises closed down due to “health risks” last month.

The food safety watchdog yesterday expressed its concern at the high number of closure notices served.

Officials closed down two unlicensed abattoirs in Co Cavan.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) said veterinary inspectors served closure orders on the two premises at Ballyconnell and Belturbet.

The FSAI said it had served five closure orders to businesses in July for breaching legislation.

Dr John O’Brien, chief executive of the FSAI, warned flouting of the food safety law by businesses would not be tolerated.

“Food businesses must exercise the utmost vigilance to ensure best hygiene practices are maintained,” he said.

“Food businesses that neglect to implement and adhere to a food safety management system risk being closed down until the correct food safety procedures are in place.”

Closure orders were also served by environmental health officers (EHOs) in the western region on Jack Bans Take Away on Main Street, Kilcar, Donegal; O’Connor’s Restaurant at Merchant Square, Ennis, Co Clare; and the Peng Lai Chinese Grocery on Dublin’s Parnell Street.