The Poles in Ireland Against Martial Law in Poland 1981-1983

Abstract

Aid for Poland during the period of martial law in Poland was organised predominantly by members of the Irish Polish Society, the Irish Catholic Church with the help of the Charitable Commission of the Episcopate of Poland, Polish merchant ships, Irish shipping agents, Irish pharmaceutical and food firms, and generous Irish people. A small Polish community in a short period of time managed to collect in Ireland unbelievable amounts of money and goods. During the 18 months of fundraising, £250,000 in cash and £300,000 worth of food and medicines was shipped to Poland in 20 containers. £50,000 was donated separately by the Irish Government to the Irish Red Cross and the charitable organisation Trocaire. A huge political effort was made to influence the Irish Government to condemn the imposing of martial law in Poland. The Irish Polish Society became a strong and solidified Polish organisation, a united voice for Poles in Ireland and an effective Polish pressure group , supportive for their country of origin and knowing their identity and potentials.