Around half the staff are returning to the city centre site, which will open its doors to customers tomorrow. The remaining staff are guaranteed to be paid for their contractual hours until at least April next year.

Michala Lafferty – Usdaw Area Organiser says: “This has clearly been a very traumatic and difficult time for Primark staff. Usdaw has been supporting our members and reps affected by the fire throughout, working closely with the company to get the best possible deal for them.

“So tomorrow is big step forward in trying to return to normality, although that is still a very long way off if it is even possible. There are still many issues to be sorted and we will continue to ensure that those not returning tomorrow are looked after.

“We wish the staff well as the doors reopen for the first time tomorrow and I’m sure the shopping public of Belfast will give them a warm welcome back.”

Notes for editors:
 
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK's fifth biggest and the fastest growing trade union with around 430,000 members. Membership has increased by more than 28% over the decade. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemicals and other trades.
 
For Usdaw press releases visit: http://www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Twitter @UsdawUnion