Workers at Clerys retail chain took part in a peaceful protest on Tuesday (2nd October), in support of their colleagues from the outlets at Leopardstown, Naas, Blanchardstown and Guiney’s, following the decision by the new owners of the company, Gordon Brothers, to place these stores in liquidation.

The protest was exceptionally well attended and the staff outlined their frustration at how these colleagues have been treated.

“Not only is it unacceptable that the company has attempted to unilaterally impose compulsory redundancies without agreement but in the cases of all the stores with the exception of Blanchardstown, the workers will need to apply to the social fund for their redundancy and all outstanding wages. The company has ignored all requests to consider redeployment options for the staff affected. This coupled with the closure of the staff pension scheme is totally unacceptable to all the employees,” SIPTU Organiser Graham Macken said.

A petition was delivered to Gordon Brothers by the protesting workers, who are members of SIPTU and Mandate.

Graham Macken added: “Negotiations between Gordon Brothers and workers’ representatives in relation to the restructuring proposals for O’Connell Street are ongoing. Both SIPTU and Mandate are urging the company to uphold their moral obligation to all our members if there is to be any possibility of an amicable settlement for all parties concerned.