Receiver moves in on Carrickmacross business

By Veronica Corr

Gardai were called to a stand-off at Quinn’s Superstore, Castleblayney Road, Carrickmacross when representatives of the receivers appointed by AIB Bank, arrived at the business premises with instructions to change the locks on Friday evening last. It is understood that the owners Michael and Bridget Quinn tried to prevent locksmiths from doing so.
Kavanagh Fennell Ltd. were appointed as receivers to the business by AIB Bank on January 13th last, as €7.2 million was owed to them. It has also been reported that the Quinn’s recent attempt to purchase back their business from AIB was unsuccessful.
A crowd of supporters, suppliers, staff and family members gathered both inside and outside the premises from about 8pm on the evening in question. Sinn Fein Town and County Councillors Noel Keelan and Matt Carthy were also present at the family’s request. Gardaí were called and arrived at the scene at 8.30pm to preserve the peace.
It is understood that negotiations with the receiver went on into the early hours of the morning and the premises was subsequently closed by agreement for a number of days.
Gardaí confirmed that the incident had subsided by 1.30am and that the crowd dispersed peacefully around 2am, after being directed to. No arrests were made.
It is also understood that a meeting took place on Monday regarding the future of the business between the proprietors and the receiver. Efforts were made to contact the Quinns, but as The Northern Standard went to press no statement had been received.
Gardaí also confirmed that they observed a fire at the premises at 3.45am on the previous Wednesday night/Thursday morning. They subsequently responded and the Fire Brigade were called to the scene to bring it under control.