Hairdresser who gave free haircuts to homeless people named Cork Person of the Month

For decades, Joseph Byrne built relationships with some of the most vulnerable people in Cork, creating a hub of compassion at his salon

Joe Byrne (right), who has given free haircuts to hundreds of homeless people over the years, at his salon Joseph’s Hair Salon in Glasheen. Pictured here with his husband, Darren Kilkenny, and Caitriona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners. Picture: Larry Cummins

Well-known Cork hairdresser Joseph Byrne has been chosen as February’s Cork Person of the Month in recognition of four successful decades running the recently closed Joseph’s Hair Salon in Glasheen and his immeasurable generosity to the people of Cork throughout the years.

For decades, Mr Byrne offered more than just a hairdressing service at his salon; he built relationships with some of the most vulnerable people in Cork City, providing free haircuts to homeless people, turning his business into “a hub of compassion.”