Warning caterers will be hit by cuts in supply

WATER:ONGOING CUTS to water supplies at night in Dublin may force some businesses to close, restaurant owners have warned.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland said many of its members in the capital were questioning whether they could continue to stay open if current water restrictions remained in force.

Association chief executive Adrian Cummins said supply disruptions were adding to the uncertainty caused by the economic downturn. Members were outraged at the way the issue had been handled by the Dublin local authorities, in particular the lack of consultation. “They are paying through the nose for rates and other charges and getting nothing for it.”

He said the councils had introduced a similar water-saving arrangement during January’s big freeze but still did not seem to be prepared for more cold weather.

The Dublin City Business Improvement District company has also expressed concern about the effects of the water shortage on businesses.

Richard Guiney, chief executive of the company, said the cuts in water supply made additional business closures likely in the hotel and restaurant sector.

Brian Smith, water services engineer with Dublin City Council, said there was not much local authorities could do for businesses as all water users were equally affected. “We cannot give what we do not have – and that, at the moment, is sufficient water.”

He pointed out that many areas in Dublin city centre would have their water pressure reduced rather than a complete shutdown.

He also defended the lack of consultation, and said when the local authorities warned about a shortage of water last January consumption went up as people hoarded supplies.