The owner of a filling station in Lurgan pleaded guilty to six food safety charges and received a £1050 fine. Environmental Health Officers from Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council brought the case against Ernie Magowan of Lurgan Filling Station at 17 Portadown Road.

Charges covered placing unsafe food on the market. They also addressed keeping food likely to support growth of pathogenic micro-organisms above temperature requirements. Additional counts involved keeping hot food below required temperature.

Magowan faced charges for failing to implement a food safety management system. He was charged with providing inadequate food safety training for staff. The case included failing to establish, maintain and provide evidence of an appropriate food safety culture.

A council spokesperson stated that the case shows serious consequences for businesses not complying with food hygiene regulations. The spokesperson noted that Environmental Health Officers conduct regular inspections of food businesses to protect consumers.

The council offers guidance and support to businesses but takes action including prosecution when failings occur. The Environmental Health Department Food Team investigates complaints, carries out inspections, awards food hygiene ratings, samples and tests foods, and provides advice to businesses.

Food businesses must register with the Environmental Health Department. Consumers can check food hygiene ratings at www.food.gov.uk.