Dunnes Stores to close Gorey store in Wexford – with no explanation to staff

Dunnes Stores management have tonight (Thursday, 21 May 2015) announced the “immediate closure” of the Gorey Store in Co. Wexford, which employs approximately 100 workers, without giving any explanation to their staff.

Workers in the store were called to a meeting just after 6pm tonight and told of the closure, but no details were forthcoming from management.

Mandate Trade Union has condemned management’s actions saying it is a shocking way to treat their workers. The Union has called on the company to immediately engage and end the confusion and uncertainty for their staff.

John Douglas, Mandate General Secretary, said: “There are 100 workers in Wexford tonight who have no idea whether they have a job or not tomorrow. 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.

“At this moment in time the workers have not been told whether their jobs are at risk. We simply don’t know whether the store will open again in the future or whether there may be store transfers available. Many of the workers don’t even know whether they have to turn up to work tomorrow. This is completely unacceptable,” he said.

“We’re once again calling on the company to do the right thing by their workers. 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,” concluded Mr Douglas.