Portlaoise Argos staff must be supported demands Laois Offaly TD

All Argos workers made redundant in Portlaoise and Tullamore must get everything owed to them according to a Laois Offaly TD.

Deputy Carol Nolan was speaking after the company owned by UK retail giant Sainsburys concluded the investment required to develop and modernise the Irish part of its business was not viable and that it has therefore decided to consolidate its business and focus on Argos operations in the UK, including Northern Ireland.

“This is a very sad day for the workers in the Kyle Centre in Portlaoise and Tullamore Retail Park,” said Deputy Nolan.

A spokesperson for the firm said between 15 and 20 workers will loose their jobs in each of the Tullamore and Portlaoise outlets.

“I will be engaging immediately with Government Ministers to ensure that all supports necessary are given to the workers and that they are fully aware of their entitlements.

“I am aware that as part of Argos’ consultations with Mandate, its recognised trade union, that an enhanced redundancy package that goes beyond statutory obligations will be proposed. As I understand it, this proposal includes four weeks’ pay for every year of service, on top of statutory redundancy pay, which is two weeks’ pay for every year of service. I also understand that those not eligible for redundancy under Irish Law will be offered a one-off goodwill payment.

“Those payments, where they are accepted, must be made without delay,” concluded the Independent TD.

Argos to close all stores in the Republic of Ireland with loss of 580 jobs

Argos stores will remain open to customers until June 24. The Portlaoise store will close slightly earlier, May 6, due to leasehold obligations.

Aftersales, returns, refunds and exchanges policy will continue to apply until Argos stores close. Customers in Ireland will no longer be able to place orders via the website or select the home delivery service after March 31 2023.