ONE of the partners of the firm which runs the well known Mean Fiddler nightclub and bars in Dublin is to ask the High Court to wind up the company.

Mr Kieran Cavanagh, said last night that the company, Gillint Catering Ltd, trading as the Mean Fiddler, is in a "critical financial situation". The extent of the company's debts was unclear last night.

In a statement, Mr Cavanagh said efforts to resolve differences between himself and the other shareholder, Mr Vince Power, had failed.

Both men are directors of Gillint. "In recent weeks, a dispute has arisen between myself and Mr Power and the Mean Fiddler organisation with regard to not just the general running of the business to date, but also as to how the business might go forward," he said.

"Our differences have led us to a deadlock situation for which we have been unable to reach any formula or agreement to resolve the situation," he said.

Mr Cavanagh claimed that he, as licensee, had been effectively excluded from the premises and the day to day running of the business. He added that he had "reluctantly issued court proceedings to seek the winding up of the company".

Legal sources said the petition to wind up Gillint which is due to be presented to the High Court on November 25th, could be withdrawn beforehand. Mr Power could also oppose it, arguing that the company is not insolvent. Alternatively, an examiner could be appointed which would freeze the debts until a rescue plan was worked out.

Mr Power did not respond to queries yesterday. Mr Cavanagh would make no further comment.

A spokeswoman for The Mean Fiddler venue in Wexford Street, said the club was operating as normal.