Fianna Fáil is appealing to the Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton to set up a strategy group to help the Irish retail sector.

It comes as the futures of almost 700 workers across 9 B&Q stores in Ireland are in doubt after the DIY specialist when into examinership.

In a statement, the company said all 9 stores were expected to continue trading and that all employees will be paid during this time.

Retailers say high rates, upward-only rent reviews and increases in VAT are crippling the sector.

Union seeks management meeting

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Jobs Dara Calleary says something needs to be done.

"What we're calling for is a retail strategy group that the government will set up and look at what's facing retail and look at what is facing retail, look at a targeting response to assist the retail sector" he said.

"It fits within the challenges that face it in terms of the shortage of income, but also the technological challenges" he added.

Meanwhile the Mandate trade union is seeking an urgent meeting with management at B&Q.

Speaking today, Taoiseach Enda Kenny is hoping for a positive outcome to the situation.