Closure order after cockroaches found in food storage area of Waterford chipper

A closure order has been issued on Murphy’s Fish and Chips, on 16 John Street in Waterford city, by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).

The order outlined that adequate procedures were not in place to control pests, resulting in a grave and immediate danger to public health.

This was evidenced by visual sighting of live and dead cockroaches throughout the food storage and preparation areas. Cockroaches were observed in equipment and on walls, floors and ceilings.

The FSAI report states: “When cockroaches gain access to food or food preparation surfaces, they create a serious risk of contamination, which can compromise food safety.” 

The premises, occupied by Mr Dawi Roushaan, was served the order on December 9.

In total, 133 Enforcement Orders were served on food businesses across the country for breaches of food safety legislation in 2024, an increase of 45% on the 92 that were served in 2023.

Commenting on the annual figures, Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI, said that the increase in Enforcement Orders in 2024 was unacceptable.

“It is concerning to see a significant increase in Enforcement Orders in 2024. Consumers have a right to safe food and negligent food practices are inexcusable. 

"Inadequate or absent pest control procedures was a recurring issue throughout 2024 and pest control needs to be addressed by all food businesses this year. 

"Every food business must have robust pest control procedures in place to ensure that pests are not getting into their businesses and putting consumers’ health at risk.”

“While the majority of food businesses comply with the legislation, it is unacceptable to see recurring issues that are entirely avoidable. These fundamental breaches not only pose a potential risk to consumer health, but also undermine consumer trust. Food businesses must take responsibility and ensure compliance with food safety legislation at all times,” added Dr Byrne.