Barka UK team was present at the conference entitled ‘EU nationals in Homelessness Crisis – from Emergency Assistance to Long-Term Solutions’ on 15th of May. The event was organised jointly by the Embassy of the Republic of Ireland in Dublin and Barka For Mutual Help Ireland.
Similarly to Barka UK, Barka IE works directly with individuals in crisis, often socially excluded, helps them to reintegrate back into a society, often through return to their country of origin. Social exclusion among EU citizens and the issue of homelessness and vulnerability connected with it were the main points of focus of the conference.
The event started with welcoming remarks of Mr Piotr Erenfeicht, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Republic of Poland in Dublin followed by a very inspiring speech of Senator Aubrey McCarthy who went back to describe the origins of his involvement in helping homeless and vulnerable people.
Michal Wybiral, The Consul of the Embassy of Republic of Poland was a moderator for the panel of guests presenting the Polish consular services and collaboration with Polish organisations supporting people in need.
A very important discussion panel focused on Barka Foundation working both in Ireland and the UK. Barka’s Street Leader, Marcin Slusarski shared his personal testimony on overcoming his addiction, homeless and his reintegration back to society and his work for Barka. Social and professional reintegration, long term assistance to EU nationals in homelessness crisis and addictions were also discussed.
Last panel, moderated by Aneta Kubas, from Barka For Mutual Help Foundation, was focused on challenges and responses of organisations supporting people experiencing homelessness in Ireland.
The event brought together representatives of the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Irish public institutions, Irish and Polish support organisations and diplomats accredited to Ireland.
