The owner of a community coffee trailer has been critical of Dublin City Council’s treatment of outdoor traders following the ending of Covid-19 restrictions.
Kevin Ryan, who founded Bold and Brass Coffee in early 2021, currently has two trucks that serve takeaway coffee and treats to the Clontarf and Rathmines areas.
He had set up a trailer in the grounds of Dartry Health Club last year that was reportedly ordered by DCC to close as a result of a complaint referencing “noise and chatter” that was coming from the site.
There was also speculation that the coffee van would result in increased traffic to the area.
Kevin believes that more consideration should be shown towards outdoor vendors, particularly as Covid-19 continues to pose a threat to public health.
“Restrictions may be ending, but Covid-19 is definitely not," he told the Irish Mirror.
"Some people are still nervous going into buildings.
"They had a choice to go to places that cater for outdoor dining, which is being taken away when councils decide to close mobile coffee trailers all around Ireland."
The original Clontarf location was set up during the 2021 lockdown, while the Dartry trailer emerged in the midst of Omicron before it was closed in March of this year.
Kevin believes the ventures provided residential areas with a sense of routine and comfort during uncertain times.
“That was the only outlet for some people during the day. You weren’t allowed to go outside of a certain radius or go to the pub," he said.
"We have so many regular customers because we opened during that time and people still appreciate going for their coffees in outdoor locations."
The closure of takeaway coffee stalls extends beyond Dublin City Council, with other councils cutting down on granting casual trading licenses.
Kevin and his team set up their Rathmines location shortly after the closure in Dartry. They are optimistic that the new trailer will be successful, but admit that they had to start from scratch in terms of their customer base in the new area.
He is hopeful local authorities can be more mindful of the services that ventures like his provide to communities and the public support they received during the days of lockdown.
Dublin City Council said they do not comment on specific cases when asked for a response.
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