Dalata Hotel Group's chief executive Pat McCann said today that the group has laid off 3,500 of its workers as a result of closures forced by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
He told shareholders at today's "closed" AGM today - conducted over a conference call - that he was "so sorry" he had to do this.
But he said contacts were continuing with laid off employees through various programmes including "fitness exercises". Those who remain working in the group have seen "significant" cuts in salaries, Mr McCann said.
Overall, he said the group is in "pretty good shape" with a good balance sheet and sufficient cash to withstand the impact of the pandemic.