"As part of the receivership process, all company-owned and leased vehicles should be returned to the Joint Receivers," the email read.

"If you are in possession of a company vehicle (ie. car, van, truck etc), we ask that you please return the vehicle to your closest depot location. Please note that any vehicle not returned by 2pm on Friday November 7 will be reported to An Gardaí Síochána as stolen.

"Thank you for your cooperation," the email finished.

A representative of Joint Receivers Mark Degnan and Brendan O'Reilly responded to the Leinster Express / Laois Live that they ‘understand the significant disruptions caused’, and that receivers have been 'very accommodating' with workers.

All Fastway workers have been requested to return their vehicles by Friday, in what representatives describe as 'a massive operation'.

Pictured: The Fastway sorting hub, Portarlington

“We understand the significant concern and disruption caused by the receivership of Fastway Couriers and its associated brands, and we are working diligently across all areas of the business to manage what is a highly complex situation in an orderly and fair manner," they said.

“As a priority, we are following the appropriate legal and operational processes to safeguard assets, communicate with clients and support affected employees, contractors and retailers. Every effort is being made to ensure that parcels currently held within the network are handled in line with these procedures and that clear information to customers is provided as soon as possible.

“We appreciate that this situation is frustrating for businesses, customers and staff, particularly given the timing and proximity to the busy trading period, and we ask for patience as we continue to work methodically through the issues to ensure the best possible outcome for all stakeholders," the representative finished.

The representative explained that the company have not faced pushback with the return of vehicles, and are aware that some workers may be abroad on holidays.

A public meeting has been organised for workers this Friday evening.

Laois Sinn Féin Senator Maria McCormack has paired up with Offaly Sinn Féin Cllr Claire Murray to organise this event.

This public-multi agency meeting aims to give advice on receiving owed payments from the company, and advice on the next steps former employees should take.

“I’ve been inundated with calls from Fastway workers over the past week, and that’s why we’ve organised this multi-agency meeting — to get them the advice and support they need right now," Senator McCormack told the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

"I know how difficult this time is for workers and their families, especially so close to Christmas. No one should be left in limbo- they deserve fairness, respect, and a clear plan for what happens next," she said.

The event will take place on Friday November 7 at 5pm in Portarlington's Community Centre.

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