Slow Food Ireland has partnered with UNHCR The UN Refugee Agency to participate in the Irish Refugee Food Fair. In 2018, UNHCR and partners organized the first Irish Refugee Food Festival. As part of the festival, 16 restaurants and food businesses across Ireland opened their doors to 22 asylum seeker-chefs to showcase their skills and share their culinary heritage.

In 2019 the Irish Refugee Food Fair has been extended and various events will be held throughout the country.

WHAT DOES THE FOOD FAIR SET OUT TO DO?

We know that refugees and asylum-seekers have fantastic skills that they can share with Irish people in their communities. The Food Fair is an opportunity to give them a chance to showcase their skills and bring the public together for fun, community events throughout the country under the common banner of good, honest food. Food is something that unites us as people. Food brings people together, its how we celebrate, it reminds us of home. Food is something that not only keeps us alive but also helps us to thrive. Food is an experience, it is a world of travel and adventure all by itself, conjuring up memories and positive associations. For refugees and asylum seekers in Ireland food can be part of an identity, one linking you to a new home from an old one. For many in Ireland’s direct provision system, the inability to cook and prepare one’s own food can have a huge impact on their identity, mental well-being and family life. The Food Fair will provide asylum seekers in communities across Ireland with opportunities for greater autonomy over their food choices. In doing so it will celebrate food heritage and cherish participants’ unique backgrounds and experiences. The Food Fair celebrates the diversity that exists on our own soil, to provide opportunities for people to learn about other cultures and to teach others about Irish culture.

Details of events in your area will be posted here soon.