Having learned that Deloitte has been appointed receiver of HMV Ireland late yesterday afternoon, employees in two Limerick branches began sit-ins last night in protest.

The two groups are aiming to secure unpaid wages that are due to them but are now under-threat due to HMV Ireland's new legal status.

Approximately 12 people occupy a unit at the Crescent Shopping Centre just outside the city, whilst a further 14 are occupying the Cruises Street branch in the city centre.

The situation arose once HMV bosses finished in court. Deloitte administrators travelled to each Irish store to notify staff that wages would no longer be guaranteed – after employees were given information to the contrary on Tuesday – and that staff would have to apply for statutory redundancy. The locks were then changed around the country, with the Limerick sit-in commencing when staff refused to leave.

The store manager at the Crescent, identified as Chris, is calling on the Irish Government to offer support. They are currently tweeting @hmvcrescent:

"Overwhelmed with the support we've gotten from everyone. Thank you much. We're still here! Think of us today! #hmvireland #HMVstaff#hmv"

"We only want what's owed to us. We just want a written guarantee that we will get paid."