D8 COMMUNITY
Dublin 8 is already one of the most multi-ethnic and culturally diverse parts of the city. Despite being so central in the capital city, it has also maintained a strong sense of community, which is what draws people to the area.
Immigration into Dublin 8 has made a significant cultural imprint on the area. Famously, Hugenot settlers in the 17th century settlers brought their silk weaving skills from France, resulting the Liberties becoming a major centre of weaving and employing thousands of weavers in this part of the city.
Dublin 8 lives and breathes change and diversity – no more evidently as along along the colourful and character-filled markets of Meath and Thomas Streets– the life and soul of the area. The South Circular Road today boasts the Islamic Centre of Ireland and of course St Patrick’s Cathedral is a national cultural icon.
We hope that this rich cultural landscape and sense of community in Dublin 8 will become a place of safety and belonging for the sponsored family who we know have come through great hardship. We know that extending open arms and hospitality is a trait of the people of this area and only makes us stronger and richer for it.
Dublin 8 Resources
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English language supports - various centres across Dublin 8 provide free English classes. Adult Education centres: D8 Education centre, The Haven, Warrenmount Adult Education centre, SWICN
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Irish Foundation of Islam is based in the Mosque on South Circular Rd. It acts as a religious and cultural centre for the Muslim community. It provides support, information and advocacy on various issues the community faces. Amal Women’s Association was established in aim to provide those to Muslim women. The group is also actively fundraising for the needs of the asylum seekers across the country.
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Mosque at Blackpitts
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Robert Emmet Community centre facilitates a Migrant Women Group. The group meets to share information and skills. The centre provides supports to migrant women in accessing employment and education opportunities.
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The Lantern Intercultural Centre was established to facilitate social and cultural space outside of the family or workplace where migrants can find hospitality and get the opportunity to meet and share their native language, culture, tradition and faith.
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Ruhama, Ireland’s only dedicated NGO supporting women affected by prostitution and sex trafficking. The organisation provided support to 313 women of 40 nationalities in 2018, including 122 victims of trafficking from 29 countries.
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There are many ethnic shops in the area that sell specialised products of different origin. Number of restaurants and takeaways cater for different religious and cultural requirements