1. Initial Discussions and Formation Efforts (2007)
The journey toward establishing the Sudanese Doctors Union in Ireland (SDUI) began in May 2007 with a significant meeting in Dublin. This event marked the first official activity of the Sudan Doctors Union-UK & Ireland Branch to take place in the Republic of Ireland. Many Sudanese doctors working in the UK and Ireland, along with members of the Sudanese medical community in Ireland, gathered for this occasion.
The meeting featured social and academic sessions, as well as discussions on union activities. One key session focused on exploring ways to enhance the presence of Sudanese doctors in Ireland. Attendees recognized the growing need for an entity that could directly represent their professional interests, provide support within the medical framework, and address the distinct challenges faced by doctors in Ireland compared to those in the UK. It was agreed upon the importance of organizing a general assembly and establishing an independent union.
2. Steps Toward Formalization (late 2007)
Following the May 2007 meeting, efforts were made to compile a comprehensive database of Sudanese doctors in Ireland. A small committee was formed to undertake this task and explore the possibility of holding a general assembly.
By the end of 2007, amendments were made to the bylaw of the Sudan Doctors Union-UK & Ireland Branch.A new position of Secretary for Irish Affairs was created, to be filled by a member of the Sudanese doctors working in Ireland. This individual would represent their needs and concerns within the executive committee. The amendment was approved during a regular meeting of the general assembly held in Peterborough in November 2007, where the union’s regulations were updated accordingly
3. Progress and Momentum (2009-2010)
By late 2009, a preliminary database of Sudanese doctors in Ireland had been established. This development increased awareness about the importance of creating an independent union. During this period, key issues facing Sudanese doctors in Ireland included changes in immigration laws, reduced training opportunities, and the need for solidarity with colleagues in Sudan amid government repression. These challenges highlighted the urgency of establishing a dedicated union to address their unique needs.
4. Official Establishment (June 2010)
The founding general assembly of the Sudanese Doctors Union Ireland Chapter was held on June 5, 2010, in Dublin. Over forty doctors attended the meeting, which adopted a constitution based on the Sudan Doctors Union-UK & Ireland Branch’s regulations but adapted to fit the Irish context. The first executive committee was elected, with Dr. Sami Elsir serving as President, Dr. Sohel Gamal as General Secretary, and other members filling various roles
The union was formed under the name of the Sudan Doctors Union- Ireland ( SDUI ) which later changed to the Sudanese Doctors Union of Ireland
The SDUI aimed to function as a branch of the broader Sudanese Doctors Union, addressing the specific needs of Sudanese doctors in Ireland while supporting professional development and national causes. This milestone marked the official establishment of the union as a platform for advocacy, representation, and mutual support.
5. Formal Separation of UK & Ireland Branches (2017)
Following the establishment of the SDUI as an independent entity in Ireland, the SDUI submitted a formal request to the Sudan Doctors Union-UK & Ireland for the separation of the UK and Ireland branches on 2 November 2017. A notification of the request to the Sudan Doctors Union on the same date. The General Assembly of the UK branch on 11 November 2017 approved the proposed amendments to the official name and regulations, removing references to Ireland and dissolving the Ireland office within the UK branch. This step solidified the SDUI’s independent status and its commitment to serving the specific needs of Sudanese doctors in Ireland
