Our Story
Doras was founded by a small group of dedicated volunteers in the year 2000, in response to the arrival of asylum seekers in Limerick. The name Doras was chosen to symbolise an open door, welcoming new communities to Limerick and Ireland, and as an acronym for Development Organisation for Refugees and Asylum Seekers.
Initially, the group supported newcomers to Limerick by providing English classes and outreach visits to Direct Provision centres. We have campaigned for an end to the system of Direct Provision, but our support for asylum seekers remains as a core aspect of our work today.
Over the years Doras has grown in size as well as reach, in response to developing issues. We now employ a team of full-time and part-time staff members, supported by our dedicated volunteers.
Today, we continue our work to promote and protect the rights of migrants in Ireland through direct support, awareness raising, and advocacy. We now employ a team of full-time and part-time staff with expertise and training in community development, social care, human rights, immigration law, and other critical areas. These are supported by a team of dedicated volunteers who give their time across a range of activities including English tutoring and community outreach. Our work is rooted in communities, and it leverages grassroots’ experiences, expertise and resources, as well as the knowledge gained from our direct support work, to inform ongoing advocacy and campaigning.
Working with rights holders and duty bearers, we aim to affect the changes needed to ensure everyone is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Our vision is for a society where equality and respect for everyone’s human rights are social norms.
Our mission is to promote and protect the rights of migrants and refugees in Ireland through direct support, awareness raising, and advocacy.
