Saoirse Ethnic Hands On Deck

Saoirse-Ethnic Hands on Deck is a cooperative formed by 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.

Industry

Retail

Company size

11-50 employees

Headquarters

Cork

Type

Partnership

Founded

2020