Wolseley to lay off 20% of Irish workforce

Plumbers and builders merchant chain Wolseley is closing four branches in the Republic of Ireland with the loss of 180 jobs.

The job losses represent around one-fifth of the company’s Irish workforce and will begin with the closure of Heat Merchants and Tubs & Tiles in Tullamore, Co Offaly. Staff at the other affected locations have yet to be notified.

In a statement the company said: “This decision is necessary to ensure that the company continues to be competitive and maintains the level of service offered to customers.

“The changes are also intended to ensure the company is well placed to succeed when there is an upturn in its markets.”