Due to Covid-19, Penneys stores across Ireland have closed until further notice

Penneys stores across the country have closed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

This follows a number of other brands who made the decision to shut shop in recent days including Brown Thomas and Arnotts. Penneys staff will be paid for the next two weeks and the situation will then be reviewed. A statement obtained by RTÉ reads:

"With the health and welfare of our employees and customers front of mind, we have made the decision to close our stores in the Republic of Ireland, until further notice. "Penneys has overcome many challenges over the past 50 years, and we pride ourselves on our agility and our ability to adapt. "We thank all our employees, customers, suppliers and partners for their continued support."

A similar statement from the Brown Thomas/Arnotts retail group reads:

"We have taken the decision to temporarily close all Brown Thomas, BT2 and Arnotts physical stores from 5pm today until further notice". "We want to thank all of our customers, team members and partners for their continued support and understanding at this difficult time, and we will of course keep you updated on further developments as they happen."

Customers can continue to shop online using the online apps for Brown Thomas and Arnotts. Leo Varadkar addressed the nation on Sunday night and said the current situation could continue for some time which suggests well beyond March 29, the end date for the initial restrictions put in place on March 12.

"It could go on for months into the summer, so we need to be sensible in the approach we take. I know these choices won't be easy, but they are necessary. "We're asking people to come together as a nation by staying apart from each other (...) This is the calm before the storm, before the surge, and it will come."