An application by Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) to suspend The Bog Irish Bar’s liquor licence was withdrawn following a Dunedin district licensing committee hearing on Tuesday.
The pub came under fire after an inspector discovered two of its three ground-floor fire exits were ‘‘pad-bolted and locked’’ while the premises was open for business.
A verbal request to unlock the fire exits was made on April 29 and a letter delivered the next day, but a visit by police on May 2 found the exits were still ‘‘locked and/or blocked’’.
It was revealed at the hearing a further reminder to unlock a door was made on May 13.
Fenz community risk manager James Knapp said they appreciated the committee taking the time to hear Fenz’s concerns so promptly after raising them.
‘‘We were concerned to find two of The Bog Irish Bar’s three exits secured while the bar was open to the public, which was a serious risk to people’s safety.
‘‘However, it’s clear that the licensee has recently taken a number of important steps to improve safety at the premises, including a safer locking system, fire safety signage, and staff training.
‘‘As long as those measures are completed and maintained, we’re happy for the licensee to continue their business.’’
Fenz would have the opportunity to provide input to the committee when the pub’s licence came up for renewal later this year, Mr Knapp said.
It was an important reminder for other businesses in Dunedin to check their own fire evacuation schemes, he said, including fire exits, were in place and met safety requirements,
They were essential for keeping people safe in commercial premises, he said.
‘‘Building owners and tenants must make sure people can escape from their buildings if a fire starts, and their employees must be trained to help them get out.
‘‘We’re making it a priority to ensure that fire evacuation schemes are in place and will follow up complaints with inspections if we think there’s a cause for concern.’’
Co-owner Karandeep Singh, of Gurbani Club Ltd, declined to comment on Fenz’s decision to withdraw its application when contacted yesterday.
On a post on social media on Tuesday, the pub said it owed its patrons ‘‘our deepest and most sincere apology’’.
‘‘This past week has been challenging for us, but your unwavering support and love for The Bog have kept us going.
‘‘We are endlessly grateful for this incredible community – your loyalty humbles us, and we will continue working tirelessly to be the bar you trust and love.’’
Committee chairman Colin Weatherall confirmed it had accepted the withdrawal of the suspension application by Fenz.
tim.scott@odt.co.nz
