New Syrian barbershop in Tipperary receives outpouring of support amid backlash

A new Syrian barber shop in Tipperary Town has been at the centre of severe backlash following their recent grand opening on the Main Street.

Shami Cutz now occupies a previously empty building on the street and while many are grateful that a new business is booming in the location, not all are.

After two recent articles written about the new business, comments from locals have still flooded The Nationalist newspaper's social media, with differing opinions on the new shop.

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In response to the critics, one commenter stated “I’ve Syrian neighbours, they are lovely people, there is a Turkish barbers here for years and no one has any problems.”

However, even despite all the backlash there are many locals who wish to see the shop do well and will support this new business.

“People asking questions as to the funds provided and the need for ANOTHER barbershop in town is not Racist…” was the argument of another commenter. “People can't win. You don't work, you get grief. You work, you're taking our jobs. They open a business, money laundering, get grants, got help. It's a lose-lose situation for anyone trying to better their lives.” remarked one person.

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The words of encouragement did not stop there with one person saying “Congratulations! And the horrible racism here does not reflect well on our town.”

The most sobering response seen was a comment on why there are so many Syrian refugees in Ireland. Since the Syrian civil war began in 2011, millions of Syrians have been displaced, and have fled to countries like Ireland for their safety.
“Syrians are fleeing for their lives with their families ,it's great to see them integrating into our communities.”