Seomra Spraoi

Support or visit the Seomra Spraoi social centre in Dublin.

As Ireland has blindly submerged itself in the economic success of the Celtic tiger, Dublin has been consumed by the ills of corporate dominance.

There are few spaces left in Dublin that convey a genuine sentiment of welcoming or belonging. As profit has become the focus of most activity there is nowhere one can simply sit (bar a park, which in our climate is often not an option), without needing to buy or consume something. Irish society was once (and parts still are) completely community focused, but as globalisation hits our culture and it becomes less personal, there is a total lack of any sort of local convergence.

Seomra Spraoi was formed in response to this gap. Translated, it literally means playroom. Seomra Spraoi is an initiative that formed 3 years ago, aiming to create an autonomous social space free of business, church or political authority. It’s run on a voluntary basis with decisions being made through group consensus by those who use the space. With an ethos of equality, freedom and social change through direct action, Seomra Spraoi has been host to a wide range of activities during its recent residency. "Literally thousands of people have passed through this place since last August. Now there is something on nearly every day - gigs, craft workshops, (film) screenings, meetings, children's events, exhibitions. At the last count, more than 20 different groups were using the place for meetings or other events,” says a regular participant.

Seomra Spraoi has just moved into a brand new, location at 4 Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 1 and everyone is very welcome!

The only way this movement can grow is through support by those who believe in it. If there was ever a time to get involved, to start a project or just to help out it is NOW! Seomra Spraoi is always looking for new people to get involved and get active. You can come to one of the weekly meetings and you can also help by organising a benefit gig or making a donation to Seomra Spraoi.

If you are interested or just want to learn more contact:
Email: seomraspraoi@gmail.com
Blog: http://seomraspraoi.blogspot.com
MySpace: www.myspace.com/seomraspraoi

By: Sinéad Corcora