Yesterday, EMAP Radio told staff at Downtown Radio and Cool FM that it was making up to 15 full time positions redundant.

Currently, the two stations have a core staff of around 35. Many of these jobs are technical support and newsroom positions.

It is understood the redundancies will not affect any of the presenters, however there are rumours that at least one could face the chop.

The announcement has sent shockwaves throughout both stations.

One insider who contacted the Telegraph last night said everyone was completely shocked by the news.

"Needless to say, people in here are completely shock.

"Of the 35 full time staff, 15 will lose their jobs. Some of those will be in the news department and the rest will be in other areas.

"This is not good."

Last night Northern Ireland managing director Gary Robinson confirmed the announcement, saying the company would now be entering into a period of consultation.

"As the broadcasting landscape has changed substantially in Northern Ireland in the past few years, we will be undertaking some changes to ensure the future success of the station," he said.

"The likely result is some localised changes and unfortunately this means that a number of roles are at risk of redundancy.

"The potentially effected people will now go through a period of consultation."