Black people in Ireland, also known as Black Irish, Black and Irish or in Irish: Daoine Goirme/Daoine Dubha, are a multi-ethnic group of Irish people of African descent. Black people, Africans and people of African descent have lived in Ireland in small numbers since the 18th century. Throughout the 18th century they were mainly concentrated in the major cities and towns, especially in the Limerick, Cork, Belfast, Kinsale, Waterford, and Dublin areas. Increases in immigration have led to the growth of the community across Ireland. According to the 2022 Census of Population, 67,546 people identify as Black or Black Irish with an African background, whereas 8,699 people identify as Black or Black Irish with any other Black background.
A direct provision centre in Athlone, Republic of Ireland
African American soldiers in Northern Ireland in 1942.
When once asked what it was like to be Black and Irish, the musician Phil Lynott is reputed to have responded "It’s a bit like being a pint of Guinness".
Limerick is a city in western Ireland, in County Limerick. It is in the province of Munster and is in the Mid-West which comprises part of the Southern Region. With a population of 102,287 at the 2022 census, Limerick is the third-most populous urban area in the Republic of Ireland, and the fourth-most populous city on the island of Ireland. It was founded by Scandinavian settlers in 812, during the Viking Age.
From top, left to right: People's Park, St. Mary's Cathedral, Riverpoint, Daniel O'Connell Monument, Georgian architecture at Pery Square, King John's Castle
King John's Castle on the River Shannon
Cannock's Department Store on O'Connell Street in the early 20th Century
City arms on a manhole cover
