Debenhams is to liquidate its operations in Ireland and close all its stores.
The retailer temporarily shut all 11 of its stores, including its store in Waterford City, last month as a result of Covid-19 restrictions.
The company wrote to staff members in Ireland this morning to say it will not be reopening the stores when restrictions are lifted.
A liquidator is to be appointed to the Irish operations in the coming days.
2,000 jobs will be lost in its 11 stores across the country, according to the Mandate trade union.
"In these unprecedented times, Debenhams is having to make exceptionally difficult decisions," the company said in the letter.
"Unfortunately, our Irish business has had trading challenges which were exacerbated by the impact of Covid-19. In the UK, Debenhams has entered into administration in order to protect its business. Regrettably, due to the challenges facing Debenhams Retail (Ireland) Ltd, it is anticipated that an application will be made to appoint a liquidator to the Irish operations."
"As you know Debenhams has already suspended trading in the Republic of Ireland stores and we can confirm that these stores are not expected to reopen. "
"In ordinary circumstances, communication about this process would have been done face to face, however, due to the Pandemic you are receiving this message via email, and we apologise for that."
