DEBENHAMS Department Store is planning to place its Irish operations into liquidation as it says the majority of its stores based in Ireland are not expected to re-open following the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
The firm, which provides more than 100 jobs locally and up to 2,000 directly and indirectly at a national level, contacted employees this morning, Thursday, April 9, to inform them of the company’s plans to place its Irish operations into liquidation.
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Jobs and Workers’ Rights Maurice Quinlivan TD has said the situation “represents a major loss of employment during an already difficult period”.
Deputy Quinlivan said, “It is no secret that Debenhams have been struggling over the past number of years, but the appointment of liquidators today will still come as a huge shock to to Debenhams 1,500 staff and for contractors and suppliers all over the country.
“It is extremely stressful for workers to lose their jobs at any time, but right now – in the midst of a pandemic – and when people are really struggling, it is a double blow.”
Labour Party councillor, Conor Sheehan said this came as “terrible news for the hard-working staff and for the people of Limerick who shop in Debenhams” describing the store as “part of the fabric of Limerick life for generations”.
Anchor tenant
The Sinn Féin TD described the department store as a “major store or anchor tenant in many shopping centres and city centre locations” including its location in Limerick City Centre.
He said he believes the store’s closure could have “a huge knock-on effect on neighbouring stores too”.
“It’s imperative Limerick Council now work with the property owner on O’Connell Street to attract a major new tenant to this location,” said Deputy Quinlivan.
