News Archive

Turn back clock on the docks

Date Released: 24 January 2012

The Dublin Docklands has gone through irreversible changes in recent years both in its function and in its appearance.

The traditional docks are long gone, now seen in the numbers of modern office buildings and apartments that now line the Liffey.

Despite the strategic importance of the port, and its crucial role in the development of the capital, little has been done so far to acknowledge its history.

This presented a real danger that the generations of workers that found employment there, their unique character and traditions, and the communities that thrived locally would be forgotten.

The Dublin Dock Workers’ Preservation Society is determined that this will not happen. Formed earlier this year by a group of former Dublin dock workers – both deep-sea and cross channel – the society is committed to preserving the social and labour history of Dublin Docklands.

Joined by current workers, friends and community groups, the society intends to collect and preserve photos and memorabilia relating to the docks before these all disappear or are destroyed. This task has been very successful and a Facebook page called Dublindockers has been set up to showcase images collected so far.

But the search continues. Alan, Martin, from the society explained: “Priceless photos are being lost all the time. They lie forgotten in old sideboards and at the bottom of wardrobes. Then as time passes, they are discarded.

“Many of the old labour force have passed away, and with each of them, a piece of history is lost." He claimed the families of former workers have a huge contribution to make.

"We are appealing to the children and, in some cases, the grandchildren of dock workers to have a look in old boxes and suitcases to see if any photos, pamphlets or other memorabilia are hidden there.”

Society member Declan Byrne pointed out the group had both short and long-term ambitions. He said: “In early 2012, we hope to hold a photo exhibition, with an emphasis on the period from 1940 to 1990, and in particular to choose images that have family significance for their contributors.”

If everything goes to plan, it will be launched in the Dublin Port Centre, and will also feature as part of the Five Lamps Art Festival in April. It is proposed that it will then tour public libraries and other venues.

Declan Byrne added: “The group needs to be in a position to show that there is public interest in preserving the history of Dublin Port. In conjunction with the local community a long-term aim would be to see a Dock History Museum established.”

􀀀If you have photos or can assist with this project in anyway contact Alan Martin at 0872095974 – email alanmartin@dublin.ie – or Declan Byrne at 0868138618. Also check out the Facebook page Dublindockers

This article by SIPTU activist Joe Mooney appeared in Liberty (December, 2011)