SUPERMARKET CHAIN FRESH has apologised for any offence caused by a memo to staff which requested that they only speak English while working.

The memo appeared online earlier this week, with Broadsheet.ie reporting that it had been found in the Grand Canal Dock outlet of the chain.

The memo tells staff that the use of another language can, without intention, cause customers and colleagues to feel uncomfortable.

Staff are told that even if they are working with a colleague from the same country, they should speak in English.

Fresh says it has now updated the memo and staff are still asked to speak English or Irish while in work, but can speak any language they wish on their lunch breaks.

“If you have difficulty with the English language and need to ask for a translation that is ok,” the original memo says.

“[B]ut we would ask that this be done as little as possible.

We would ask that this policy be applied during rest breaks.

“Please be advised that going forward should anyone be heard on the shop floor or while working speaking another language other than English that they may be the subject of disciplinary action.”

The posting caused some angry feedback online, prompting the company to apologise.

The company’s founder Noel Smith said in a statement that the policy was designed to avoid misunderstandings between staff, customers and suppliers.

He apologised for any offence caused but said the policy would be staying.