Sinn Fein TD for Meath West Johnny Guirke has said today’s decision by Argos Ireland to close its doors in Ireland is a real blow to all the workers who have worked so hard for the company in Navan and Ashbourne branches.

He told Meath Live, ‘This morning the staff woke up to the news that their jobs were going to be gone sometime between March and June.

‘This is sad news for all the employees of the two branches in Meath, and now it’s about making sure the company puts in place a good redundancy package for all those affected.

‘Nearly 600 jobs will be lost over the entire 34 stores in Ireland, with nearly 70% of those in employment on full time contracts.

‘I welcome the news that the company said they will engage in a redundancy package for staff, with all full time and part time workers receiving a payment.

‘Argos have also said that they will look after those staff that may not qualify for redundancy which is good news. 

‘I would hope the Government can somehow intervene to see whether some stores can be saved, this would need cooperation from all parties involved.

‘If not, hopefully the employee representatives can negotiate the best possible outcome for those staff members.

‘I will keep an eye on developments and liaise with staff who contacted us.