Debenhams debacle: Reflecting on the longest industrial relations dispute in Irish history

Lessons were learned and friendships were forged during the 406-day picket by former Debenhams workers. The experience and €3m training and wellness fund may see some of the former employees consider a career in politics, writes Liz Dunphy

Valerie Conlon, shop steward, outside the former Debenhams store on St Patrick St, Cork, at the end of their 406-day struggle. "A change in Irish law would make the 406 days so worthwhile. The sit-ins, the threats of arrest, it would make all that worthwhile if we got that passed.". Photo: Denis Minihane

Two lonely signs remain outside the Debenhams Patrick St store, little ghosts from the fractious recent past still clinging to the present.

The slogans 'Debenhams stop the virus of worker abuse’ and ‘the devil wears Debenhams’ are written on them, taped to the door which tenacious former Debenhams workers guarded for a 406-day picket - the longest industrial dispute in Ireland.