In a statement, 242-year-old department store said: "In these unprecedented circumstances the appointment of the administrators will protect our business, our employees, and other important stakeholders, so that we are in a position to resume trading from our stores when Government restrictions are lifted.

"We anticipate that our highly supportive owners and lenders will make additional funding available to fund the administration period.

"We are desperately sorry not to be able to keep the Irish business operating but are faced with no alternative option in the current environment.

"This decision has not been taken lightly and is no way a reflection on our Irish colleagues, whose professionalism and commitment to serving our customers has never been in question."

What about refunds?

The website reads: "Due to the impact Coronavirus is having on our customers ability to return items, we've extended our returns period, please see the Coronavirus Customer Information Page for details.

"If you need to return your purchase, we'll offer a full refund or exchange."

It is not yet clear whether the department store will honour refunds if it ceases trading completely.

If you paid by credit card and spent more than £100, you can make a claim with your credit provider under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.

If you paid by debit card, you can make a chargeback claim with your bank, however, this will be at the bank's discretion, so it is wise to act quickly.