Food safety concerns

Paul Ariss calls for closing down unlicensed restaurants

July 27, 2011- The Chairman of the Syndicate of Owners of Restaurants, Cafes, Night-Clubs, and Pastries, Paul Ariss, called for closing all unlicensed establishments across the country. He called the relevant authorities to step up inspection measures, and to prosecute and vilify restaurants which violate safety standards.

In a news conference, Ariss appealed to the parliament to adopt the food safety bills introduced by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). He also called the government to provide training programs on food safety for restaurants and establishments lacking such knowledge.

On a parallel note, Ariss urged the media to “refrain from damaging the image of restaurants” in their reports. He said the press should be careful about what to publish and when to publish it.

The ministers of agriculture and economy have recently agreed to introduce a new draft law on food safety, shortly after a TV show was aired featuring food regulation and health concerns.