SINN Féin’s Karen Mullan has said news that staff at the Debenhams store in Derry and across the north could lose their jobs is a devastating blow to the workers and their families.
Said the Foyle MLA: “News that staff at the Debenhams store at Foyleside in Derry and at stores across the north could lose their jobs comes as a devastating blow to the workers and their families.
“This has been a challenging time for workers, particularly those in the retail sector.
“The fact that Debenhams have moved to lay off staff without consultation with the workers and their representatives is all the more worrying.
“Unions locally have expressed concern to me that staff on maternity leave and others who have been with the company for many years have been laid off with no consultation at all.
“I will be writing to the company to seek clarity on exactly what has happened.
“Management at Debenhams need to act urgently to clarify the situation in relation to exactly how many jobs will be lost and at what locations.
“They should also engage with workers and their trade union representatives and keep them informed of all developments.
“Retraining and upskilling programmes should also be offered to any workers losing their jobs to enable them to find alternative employment.
“I am offering any of the employees in Derry who would like to get in touch with me to contact me on [email protected] or 71 377 551.”
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