DUNNES STORES WORKERS CONCERNED BY REPORTS OF POSSIBLE COMPANY SALE

Monday 3 November 2008

Mandate trade union looks for reassurances from Dunnes

Mandate trade union, which represents workers in the retail trade, has today said that it has been inundated with enquiries from worried Dunnes Stores’ employees who are concerned by reports that the company may be sold in the near future.

It has been reported that a meeting of all store managers in Dunnes has been arranged with a view to making a significant announcement this Thursday, 6 November 2008.

Mandate Assistant General Secretary, Gerry Light said that the union has written to Dunnes Stores asking for clarification on the matter and seeking basic assurances for their members including:

· The continuation of job security currently afforded to Dunnes Stores workers;

· That all current terms and conditions of employment will be fully honoured by any possible future owners;

· That Mandate members and their representatives will be informed with regard to the timing and relevant consequences of a transfer of ownership.

“Our members expect that they and their chosen representatives, this union, will be fully informed of the potential consequences of a sale in sufficient time prior to the completion of the transaction.

“Mandate members also expect that some of the proceeds arising from the sale will be set aside in order that a goodwill payment be made to them in recognition of their collective efforts through the years in sustaining Dunnes Stores to the successful position it currently enjoys within the Irish retail sector.

“It has been through hard work and dedication of Dunnes Stores workers that the company has continued its profitability, a factor which obviously has attracted potential bidders to tender for the business,” concluded Mr Light.