Debenhams is to enter into liquidation in Ireland, with the loss of almost 2,000 jobs.
Management informed the Mandate trade union that the Irish arm of the business is to enter into liquidation.
This'll see 11 stores across the country not re-open.
The company had already suspended trading due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It confirmed to staff in a letter today "that these stores are not expected to re-open."
John Douglas from Mandate said this is the first major casualty of the coronavirus emergency.
"Despite knowledge that the company was in administration and that it wasn’t trading well, this news has come as a massive shock to our members who will be devastated by this announcement.
"Our sympathy is with each and every worker and their families who will today be wondering how they’re going to pay their rent, mortgage or their bills."
He added: "We are in close contact with the company and will remain so over the forthcoming process.
"We will be seeking a meeting with the liquidator when they are appointed and demanding that our members are prioritised throughout the liquidation process so that we can get the best possible deal for them."
