HMV workers in Cork occupy store

HMV staff in Cork have followed the example of their colleagues in Limerick and taken up occupation of the company’s store in Patrick Street in the city in a bid to get wages owed to them following the company’s entry into receivership

Some 12 staff members began the sit-in this afternoon with another eight staff also ready to participate in the protest as the workers sought money owed to them.

One of the staff, Billy Browne told The Irish Times that the issue came to a head when temporary staff learned that they had not been paid.

According to Mr Browne, staff have not been paid since early December and are owed money for working over the Christmas period.

Mr Browne said that the workers were in discussions with representatives from Deloitte who have been appointed receiver for the company's 16 Irish stores.

"All we want is the money that we are owed for the work we have done - the minute that that money is paid into our accounts, then we will vacate the building," said Mr Browne.

Mr Browne said the Cork workers were determined to secure what they are entitled to and they were prepared to continue the sit-in over the weekend and longer if necessary.

Limerick TD Jan O’Sullivan has said she fully supports HMV workers in two Limerick stores who are continuing their sit-in.

Ms O’Sullivan said she met a number of workers in the Crescent Shopping Centre and Cruise’s Street branches who have entered day three of their sit-in, demanding they be paid what they’re owed.

“I fully support the sit-in that HMV workers have initiated at both locations in Limerick. They have been treated appallingly by the company,” she said.

“I think it is an absolute priority that the receiver makes every effort to ensure that funds are available to pay the workers their due salaries, holiday entitlements and payments in lieu of notice that they are entitled to.”

Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton has ensured that the National Employment Rights Agency has been in contact with the workers. The agency is also in contact with Deloitte, which was appointed as receiver to HMV.

“I know from talking to the workers that both HMV stores in Limerick were efficiently run and provided excellent customer service,” Ms O’Sullivan said.

“Both had a busy trade in high-footfall locations and I would urge the receiver to do all in his power to find a buyer for both stores and to get the staff back to work.”