Job loses at Debenhams
Debenhams Irish operation is going into liquidation.
2,000 jobs will be lost in its 11 stores across the country, according to the Mandate trade union.
The union says the company suspended trading due to the Covid 19 pandemic.
It says the company confirmed to staff in a letter today that the shops are not expected to reopen.
It confirmed to staff in a letter on Thursday "that these stores are not expected to re-open."
John Douglas, Mandate general-secretary, said this is the first major casualty of the coronavirus emergency.
"Our sympathy is with each and every worker and their families."
He added: "We are in close contact with the company and will remain so over the forthcoming process.
"We will be seeking a meeting with the liquidator when they are appointed."
"We will demand that our members are prioritised throughout the liquidation process so that we can get the best possible deal for them."
Mr Douglas said the retail sector is in a very precarious state, and will need Government intervention.
"There is no end in sight to this COVID-19 pandemic and we are certain to see more turbulence across the economy, particularly in retail.
"Thousands of jobs and on the line and any state intervention must be directed at workers and protecting their living standards."
