Silk Road Café Wins Injunction Against Chester Beatty Library Closure During EU Presidency

The Silk Road Café, located in the Chester Beatty Library at Dublin Castle, was granted an interim injunction today, preventing its landlord, the Chester Beatty Library, from closing it for six-and-a-half months during Ireland's EU presidency. Owner Lahcen Phelan, represented by barrister Hugh O’Flaherty, argued in the Circuit Civil Court that while the café has closed for short periods for major events like Queen Elizabeth’s visit, a six-month closure is unprecedented.

The café, operating since 2001, was informed it would close for security reasons from July 1, when Ireland begins its EU presidency hosted at Dublin Castle. Despite its license/tenancy not expiring until July 16, Phelan and his 20+ staff were denied entry on Monday. Phelan contends the five-year agreement, renewable since 2001, constitutes a tenancy, not a temporary arrangement. He pays €1,666 monthly rent, plus €337 for bins and 5% of gross profit.

Phelan stated he was told the library would close from June 15 and Dublin Castle would enter a «complete lockdown» from July 1. He received an email on June 14 advising him not to enter his business from June 15, effectively locking him out with stock inside. He claims no adequate explanation was given for a complete shutdown versus limited security measures. The Office of Public Works (OPW) and Chester Beatty Library had finalized security arrangements in February after an 18-month consultation.

Judge James O’Donohoe granted the injunction, restraining Chester Beatty Library from interfering with Hannah’s Coffee Shop Limited’s occupation, business, stock, and equipment. The proceedings were adjourned. Social Democrats TD Eoin Hayes called on Minister for Culture Patrick O’Donovan to meet Phelan, stating the situation is «unacceptable» and seeking a solution for job losses and business income.