Marks and Spencer workers are to strike across Ireland in the run-up to Christmas, trade union Mandate has said.

The Government will part finance a €125m fund aimed at medium-sized companies mainly in the food, manufacturing and technology sectors.

SIPTU representatives hope to meet with management from Marks & Spencer stores in the coming days.

Siptu is to meet the 180 Marks and Spencer workers who will lose their jobs after the retailer announced the closure of four stores.

SIPTU representatives are to meet with Marks and Spencer workers to discuss today's announcement that the company is to close four of its stores.