By Chinedu Onyejelem

The future of several Sunday markets in Dublin’s Newmarket Square is uncertain as plans to redevelop the area gather momentum.

Co-ordinators of five thriving markets – including The Brocante, Dublin Flea Market, Fusion Sundays World Culture Market, Newmarket Collective and Pure Vintage Fair – say they recently received notice from the owners of the Green Door premises to vacate the building in Dublin’s south inner city by 12 June.

The markets understand that the first stages of demolition and redevelopment of the existing units will start immediately, leaving them without a suitable base for the time being.

“Since the Dublin Flea Market first opened its doors in 2008, these markets have become a much loved and important part of Dublin market culture and indeed the local community,” the five markets added in a statement. “Attracting both locals and tourists alike, they have been integral in the transformation and community development of Newmarket and its surrounding areas over the last decade.”

One of the markets that would be missed among Dublin’s migrant communities in particular is Fusion Sundays, which enables immigrant traders to showcase their culture through food, dress and art for sale.

“Many start-ups and micro-businesses ... are relying on the Sunday markets. There are for example street food stalls from Venezuela, South Korea, and India,” said Nadja Cassidy, who runs Fusion Sundays with her husband Ross.

“We offer a space for artist and crafters to exhibit their handmade wares from all over the globe. We also have regular NGOs such as Refugee and Migrant Solidarity Ireland (Ramsi), Movement of Asylum Seekers Ireland (Masi), the ladies from Our Table, or Amnesty International, who use the market to spread information on their organisations.”

She said the impact of Fusion Sundays – a meeting point for people from diverse “ethnic backgrounds and Irish to meet, exchange, and interact in an inclusive and family friendly setting” – would be sorely missed.

Co-ordinators said the markets need a large indoor or outdoor venue in a Dublin city centre location, near to public transport with parking.

“This is an exciting opportunity for a city district in Dublin that wants to avail of an established Sunday market collective with guaranteed footfall, new business opportunity and a strong community focus,” they added.

Anyone who might be able to help the Dublin Sunday markets acquire a new base can get in touch with the markets at dublinsundaymarkets@gmail.com.