Madam, - Restaurants that offer more than one sitting for diners may be responding to consumer needs or to a basic business requirement (Jonathan Logue, June 23rd).
Trading has been difficult for restaurant owners during the past two years. Because of rising costs, many are finding it difficult to exist on low profit margins, which currently stand at 3 per cent on average.
Second sittings can therefore sometimes be the difference between a restaurant establishment remaining in business or having to close down completely. Diners are also taking a more moderate approach to alcohol. This is obviously very welcome, but it does result in diners not requiring a restaurant table for more than two hours.
Having said this, our association welcomes Mr Logue's suggestion of publishing a list of members which offer two sittings;this will be considered for the next publication of our Restaurant and Event Guide. - Yours, etc.,
HENRY O'NEILL, Chief Executive, Restaurants Association of Ireland, St Augustine Street, Dublin 8.