Dublin Fire Brigade issues safety warning over Killiney bungalow housing 34 workers

Dublin Fire Brigade has recommended that a Killiney bungalow housing up to 34 restaurant workers should no longer be used due to fire safety concerns.

The inspection of the south Dublin property revealed sleeping spaces for up to 34 people, which included 15 bunk beds arranged across bedrooms and communal living areas. The bungalow was being used to house staff members from several Dublin Chinese restaurants. Following the inspection, Dublin Fire Brigade recommended that the property cease being used for its current purpose, citing critical fire safety concerns.

In response to the inspection and subsequent reports, staff members employed by Cainte Entertainment Limited and its affiliated restaurants, including China Song, released a signed open letter on social media. The workers defended their employer, stating that the free accommodation was chosen voluntarily to help them manage a difficult housing market while searching for permanent housing in Dublin. The staff statement asserted that they were not being exploited and that reports regarding their living conditions did not accurately represent their experience.