Aisteach is an Irish queer housing co-operative. Our plan is to seek out and secure suitable, affordable accommodation in Dublin to house LGBTQ community members from all walks of life. As a co-op we would take collective control and manage the housing together.

A housing co-op is a democratic organisation whereby members have equal ownership and control over the housing in which they live. Each member has an equal say in decision making and is expected to contribute to the day-to day running of the co-op. A housing co-op uses a not-for-profit model that aims to empower members through co-operative living principles.

The co-operative principles are guidelines by which co-operatives put their values into practice.

• Voluntary and Open Membership
  Co-operatives are voluntary organisations, open to anyone able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political or religious discrimination.

• Democratic Member Control
  Co-operatives are democratic organisations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions.

• Member Economic Participation
  Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their co-operative.

• Autonomy and Independence
  Co-operatives are autonomous, self-help organisations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organisations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and maintain their co-operative autonomy.

• Education, Training and Information
  Co-operatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their co-operatives. They inform the general public – particularly young people and opinion leaders – about the nature and benefits of co-operation.

• Co-operation among Co-operatives
  Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.

• Concern for Community
  Co-operatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by their members.

Click here to find out more from Co-operative Housing Ireland

You can support Aisteach by telling others about our work and sharing our vision to provide affordable housing options for the LGBTQ community with everyone you know. You can also join our Facebook page and come to any number of events which we will host over the coming months and years. You can further support us by joining our membership and / or investing in the co-op! 

Contact info@aisteach.ie for information on becoming a member. You can view our Membership Policy on the ‘Resources‘ page of this website. You can also join our mailing list to receive the most up to date news about Aisteach.