Gifts that eliminate barriers to employment and education. Advocating for the migrant community. Saoirse-Ethnic Hands on Deck is a cooperative formed primarily of women asylum seekers in Direct Provision Centres, together with other local migrants. We create stylish products with an emphasis on quality, community benefit and fairness. Prior to setting up the cooperative, many of our members were
part of the Sanctuary Mask Initiative. We produced hygiene masks for residents of Direct Provision Centres and other vulnerable community groups in Cork at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Saoirse- Ethnic Hands on Deck emerged out of desire to build upon this experience. In just 4 weeks, we made 9000 masks in line with HSE, WHO, and ECDC guidelines. 3000 masks were distributed to every child, man and woman in all direct provision centres in Cork
(3 masks each) and 6000 to vulnerable groups in the community). Down Syndrome Ireland
Blackpool Over 60’s Group
The Jack & Jill Foundation
Meals on Wheels North Cork Gurranabraher Men’s Group
Farranree Family Resource Centre Family Group
Farranree/Fairhill Community
Churchfield Community Trust
The Simon Community
Penny Dinners
The Presentation Sisters, Nano Nagle Place
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
We previously featured on TV, radio and the national newspapers including:
Nationwide
C103 radio station
Cork96fm
The Irish Examiner
The Independent
The Irish Times
The Business Post
The Evening Echo
Yay Cork,
Joe.ie
As asylum seekers, we possess a wide variety of skills, but face great barriers in accessing employment in Ireland. This is why our members have come together in solidarity to create our own opportunities and empower each other. Saoirse is the Irish word for "freedom". Our name represents a hope and aspiration. It is freedom that we are striving for. Our designs reflect this ideal in the joyful meeting of cultures. With you, our customers, we endevour to work towards a more just society for all.
