More supports sought due to ‘unprecedented demand’ in Limerick from those seeking safety

A LIMERICK-based refugee and migrant rights organisation has appealed for more support to cope with the ‘unprecedented demand’ from people seeking safety and sanctuary throughout the Midwest.

Established 22 years ago by volunteers, Doras has now grown to become a major national voice in promoting and protecting the rights of refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers in Ireland.

Despite providing critical services to some of the most vulnerable in the community, the charity remains without core state funding, and relies on funding from project grants, private philanthropy, and community-based fundraising.

Doras CEO, John Lannon, pointed out the war in Ukraine and the resulting plight of refugees coming to Ireland means the organisation has experienced the busiest year in its history.  

As almost 8 million people have fled Ukraine, Mr Lannon noted we are living through one of the greatest humanitarian crises in European history.

“Over 60,000 Ukrainian refugees have come to Ireland, and many of them to Limerick and the Mid-West region. Doras has been to the fore of the response, providing direct support to Ukrainians as well as people from across the world who are seeking sanctuary in Ireland, including people from Afghanistan, Somalia, Syria and elsewhere. We have faced unprecedented pressure to support people who often have nowhere else to turn”, he commented.

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As they’re expecting the new year to be “very challenging”, the charity is calling on Limerick people to continue to support their work, as “they have done so generously for over two decades.”

Speaking of those who are attempting to start a new life in Ireland, Mr Lannon said:

“We’re talking about people who have lost loved ones and who may have narrowly escaped death themselves. Some have endured great violence and suffering, and it is humbling to hear their testimonies. Many faced great danger to get to Ireland, including dangerous voyages by land and sea.”

That is why Doras believes in offering “the hand of welcome and friendship” once migrants and refugees arrive in Limerick. The CEO of Doras also commented on the “plight of people” in direct provision.

“Direct provision remains a stain on our country. It’s something historians will look back on and ask how we tolerated it. We appreciate that the invasion of Ukraine and the massive national effort in response has led to delays, but that doesn’t mean we should be allowed to forget about the many thousands of people, including children, who will spend Christmas in the direct provision system,” he said.

Mr Lannon concluded that there is a need to rethink the national policy.

“There are much better and more humane alternatives, and an overhaul is long overdue. We all must keep speaking out on this issue, and it’s another reason why independent community-based organisations like ours are so important.”