Debenhams to cut 170 jobs in Ireland

Debenhams is to cut around 170 full-time equivalent positions across its Irish operations, a spokesperson for the UK retailer confirmed this evening.

The spokesperson said the company was seeking voluntary redundancies owing to the prevailing economic climate.

It insisted however that it remained "very committed" to its business in Ireland, and the move formed part of efforts to "right-size" its operations, and firm up its cost base and work practices.

The company said it would was confident it would be able to secure the required number of redunancies on a voluntary basis from its Irish workforce.

There are 11 Debenhams stores in the country employing around 2,400 people.

Trade union Mandate said it had sought an urgent meeting with management to establish the potential impact for its members.

“We heard this morning that there will be job losses in Debenhams, one of Irelands largest fashion retailers, in the imminent future," said union spokesperson Linda Tanham.

"Discussions are only commencing at the moment and not a lot of detail is known but we hope to be able to clarify the situation for our members after our meeting with management scheduled for next week.”