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Former Debenhams workers have started to occupy the now closed store in Waterford town center.
The occupation began at 7.30 in the morning with the participation of six people calling for talks between Debenhams, the KPMG liquidators and representatives of the Mandate union.
The workers say they want to discuss how the online business can be used to pay for an agreed-upon layoff package for former employees of the department store chain.
Similar occupations have occurred at other Debenhams branches in recent weeks, following their closure in Ireland and the appointment of KPMG as liquidators.
Former Debenhams workers are urging people not to cross the picket line and have asked KPMG not to employ non-union workers as packers to remove stocks from stores.
“This occupation is a peaceful protest, but an escalation necessary to make sure we don’t run out of anything,” Michelle Gavin, who worked at Debenhams for 27 years, said this morning.
“They have left us high and dry without the layoff package that was promised earlier. We want KPMG to come back to the table for negotiations, including shop stewards from all 11 stores to bring a positive end to the struggle that ex-workers have Debenhams fought for 172 days. “
Another former worker, Margaret Sinnott, said they are “as determined as ever” and have been fighting “too hard and hard” to stop now.
Those involved have said they have no plans to move until they see KPMG move back to the table with worker representatives for negotiations again.
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