Fishmongers reopen after closure order

A Clare fishmonger was closed for five days recently after breaching food safety regulations. Rene Cusack in The Market, Ennis, had a closure order served on it on Wednesday, September 26, but was allowed to reopen after the order was lifted on Monday, October 1.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) stated that five closure orders and one improvement order were served on food businesses during the month of September for breaches in food safety legislation.
According to the FSAI, Rene Cusack was closed under European Control of Foodstuffs regulations. Its ground floor, including its fish retail, storage and preparation areas as well as upstairs staff facilities were all closed following the inspection.
Closure orders were also served on parts of the Centra supermarket, Lord Edward Street, Kilmallock, Limerick and Scoby’s restaurant, Main Street, Hospital, Limerick.
Prof Alan Reilly, chief executive, FSAI expressed his disappointment at the lack of sufficient focus by some owners on ensuring their food businesses are fit for purpose and in compliance with food safety legislation.
“The legal onus is on food businesses to be responsible and ensure that the food they serve is safe to eat in accordance with the legislation,” states Prof Reilly.
“Greater vigilance is required to ensure standards are not permitted to slip, thereby potentially putting the health of consumers at risk.  Of particular disappointment is the ongoing number of cases involving improper storage of foodstuffs and poor cleaning and sanitising. These breaches are completely avoidable when food businesses have proper food safety management systems in place.” 
Prof Reilly urged food businesses to take full advantage of the information and support provided by the inspectorate and the FSAI to ensure that they have the correct food safety management systems in place.  If any food business operator is unsure of what is required of them by law, they can contact the FSAI advice line on 1890 336677 or visit its website www.fsai.ie or facebook page.