Irish Government urged to intervene amid uncertainty over Dealz stores' future
The Independent Ireland party has urged the Government to take action to protect the Dealz discount chain here as its parent company in the UK edges closer to a possible collapse.
Poundland in the UK, which trades as Dealz in Ireland, is poised to enter administration later this week, which could put the future of the 70 Dealz stores, and 3,500 Irish staff, at risk.
Dealz operates a number of stores across the Midlands, in Athlone, Tullamore, Mullingar, Longford and Roscommon.
Independent Ireland councillor from Wexford, and the party's spokesperson on Finance and Enterprise, Michael Sheehan, called for action from Enterprise Minister Peter Burke to address the crisis, saying the Government had been "conspicuously silent" on it so far.
"With the Poundland group facing a potential move into administration this week, following the decision by its owner, Gordon Brothers, to put the business up for sale, serious questions must be answered about the future of its Irish operation," said Cllr Sheehan.
"To date, there has been no clear public indication of what steps the Government has taken to establish the facts, assess the potential consequences or engage with the relevant UK authorities.
"The potential loss of 3,500 jobs is not a matter that can be left to corporate manoeuvring or Government complacency.
"These are 3,500 people with families, mortgages and financial commitments, many of whom have given years of loyal service to a business that has been a significant part of the Irish retail landscape," he added.
"I am deeply concerned that the Government is asleep at the wheel once again."
Concluding, Cllr Sheehan said: "Our workers must not become collateral damage in corporate decisions being made in Britain. Ireland has a significant stake in this business and our Government must ensure that it has a voice at the table.
"Ministers Burke and Dillon should immediately engage with their UK counterparts, Gordon Brothers and the relevant stakeholders to establish the true position and secure clarity on the future of Dealz Ireland.
"They must also engage directly with employee representatives to ensure that workers are not left in the dark.
"We cannot continue to accept a Government that reacts to crises after jobs have been lost rather than taking preventative action when warning signs are clearly visible."