Forming a co-op: keep success as the target and forget about the Jonahs
I speak from the experience of being involved in the setting up of one of the largest workers’ co-operatives in Ireland in 1984 — Carrigdhoun Pottery Co-operative Society Ltd.
People who were out of work for 12 months or more and were in danger of becoming unemployable were given hope for the future.
Members had to work longer hours for lower wages. However, it restored their dignity and gave them confidence.
Other than the Enterprise Allowance Scheme, which was in force at the time, there were no other state incentives available. Each person who participated in the co-op had to contribute £1,000. In many cases this money was borrowed and it has to be said the credit union was most supportive.
A further massive share drive had to be undertaken.
The people of Cork, and indeed of Ireland, were most generous in their response. A bank overdraft had to be secured.
Fortunately, the local branch of the Bank of Ireland had faith in the scheme and was most supportive. A feasibility study from the Irish Productivity Centre was undertaken, as well as market research covering the country, North and South.
Many professionals, in particular a local solicitor, gave their services free of charge. UCC Centre for Co-operative Studies was most helpful, as were many business people. RTÉ, and in particular “Corkabout”, which was running at the time, gave valuable airtime.
All of this may provide some idea of what it was like to get a workers’ co-op on the road in the worst slump of the 1980s. It was hard work, but perseverance paid off.
Two criteria are required for success:
1. If it’s a manufacturing idea, its viability must be proved.
2. Success requires dedication, hard work and long hours. Keep success as the target and forget about the Jonahs.
Barry O’Donoghue
Árd Áluinn
Connaught Avenue
Cork
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