Dunnes Stores in Gorey, Co Wexford is to close with unknown consequences for about 100 staff members, the Mandate trade union has said.
In a statement, the union explained workers at the branch were called into a meeting at 6pm on Thursday evening where they were informed of the “immediate closure” but were not given any explanation as to why or indication regarding their future employment.
It described the move as “shocking” and has called on the retailer to engage with representatives.
Staff members, stunned by the announcement, were left in tears.
"There are 100 workers in Wexford tonight who have no idea whether they have a job or not tomorrow," said John Douglas, Mandate general secretary. The store, which is both grocery and clothing, has been open since October, 2002.
“They have no idea how they’re going to pay their bills and feed their families. For Dunnes Stores managers to make this announcement in this way is insensitive and a disgraceful way to treat their staff.”
Mr Douglas said it remained unclear as to whether the jobs were at risk, whether transfers to other branches might be offered or whether there were any plans for the store to reopen at a later stage.
“This is completely unacceptable. We’re once again calling on the company to do the right thing by their workers,” he said.
“Agree to a meeting with the workers’ representatives and ensure that jobs are protected in the best interests of the business and the workers concerned.”
Dunnes Stores could not be immediately contacted for comment.
It is understood store workers were told to turn up for work on Friday morning but that they would be doing so “behind closed doors”. Management were unable to provide them with details of what would happen from then on.
Betty Dillon, Mandate's divisional organiser for the southeast, said the mood after the meeting was bleak.
“There is absolutely huge upset. There are members of staff going around crying, terribly distraught, terribly upset,” she said.
“[They were told] it would close until further notice. I believe at this point in the evening notices have gone up on the doors to say this store is now closed.”
