Democrat publisher dismisses ‘staff fired’ claims

The publisher of the Donegal Democrat/Donegal People’s Press, Johnston Press, has dismissed media reports that up to 15 staff members at sister paper the Derry Journal have been told they are being fired.

In a statement the company said it had announced an enhanced voluntary redundancy programme across its titles in September.

“Staff were encouraged to consider a number of options - voluntary redundancy, career breaks, and reduced hours,” the company said.

The company said those applications are now being considered on a case-by-case basis and management are working closely with their teams throughout the process to consider a range of options.

“Minimising the impact on remaining workforce is a priority,” Johnston Press said. “It is wholly misleading to report that 15 people ‘have been fired’,” the company added.