A staggering 340,000 people are forecasted to be out of work by the end of the week due to Covid-19.
Measures put in place in a bid to battle the deadly coronavirus have already led to the loss of an estimated 140,000 roles, with another 200,000 expected this week.
The Government has brought out a €203 sum per week for anyone who has lost their job, with many being urged to apply for Jobseekers' Allowance within six weeks to ensure they continue to receive the payment if their emergency one finishes.
Retail Excellence Chief Executive David Fitzsimons said: "It's Dire. The 140,000 people losing their jobs, we'll add another 200,000 to that this week as non-essential retail shuts down."
Mr Fitzsimons wants to see a decree suspending non-essential commerce, the introduction of business boost grants and the suspension of VAT and rate payments.
More to follow.
