For Thai people moving to Ireland, how they are going to be able to meet with other like minded people and live their life in true Buddhist style can often be a concern. In 1990, the Dublin Buddhist Centre opened as a non profit making charity and has become a hub of activity for local Buddhists.
Historically, Ireland is a country which was known to be very intolerant of religions other than its own, which have been the prominent factor in Ireland’s political problems over many decades.
Buddhism first arrived in Ireland in the late nineteenth century and has since become a widely practiced way of life for many Irish nationals and immigrants alike.
For those Buddhists moving to Ireland for the first time, the Dublin Buddhist Centre can provide a welcome retreat from the stresses of starting a new life in a foreign country. If you are experienced in meditation, then you may be interested in helping newcomers learn the skill of this ancient art.
In 2008, a project was launched to build the first Buddhist temple in Ireland, in the South West town of Donegal. The idea was to build this place of worship in the style of an ancient Tibetan monestry. Before the conception of this temple, the only option for those who wished to actively engage with a Buddhist community was to visit the Dublin Buddhist centre and join one of their meditation or yoga classes.
According to Wikipedia, there are approximately 10,000 Buddhists currently living in Ireland. Over coming years, facilities are expected to increase to meet the needs of this growing religious group. Across the water in England, there is a greater range of options to participate in a Buddhist society including temples, festivals and whole areas dedicated to the Buddhist lifestyle.