Baia's Knitting Machine

Baia lived in Ireland as an irregular migrant for eight years. Prior to leaving Georgia, she earned money through knitting clothes, but it did not yield a stable enough income for a single mother. Baia decided to go to Ireland on her own, after hearing from friends that she would find more work. After only a month, she was earning enough to support her children in Georgia.

During her time in Ireland, Baia often thought about returning to Georgia to be with her children. When she ran out of work after eight years, decided it was time to return. However, her passport had expired, so she had no documents. Baia was worried about being deported, so when she heard that IOM could help irregular migrants, she was relieved. IOM helped to have her Georgian ID card sent over, and helped her to apply for a travel document. She felt safe applying to IOM, knowing that she was doing things legally.

After her return, Baia settled into Georgia quickly. She remarked that even her friends were surprised that she did not want to go back to Ireland. Baia regrets being away for so long because she did not see her children for eight years.

Baia contacted IOM Tbilisi within three weeks to apply for the reintegration grant. She knew immediately that she wanted to begin her knitting business again, but her machine had become old and neglected. Baia used the grant to purchase a new knitting machine, which she received after a few days. She now has a workshop in her home, and can often spend an entire day working on one garment. It can take her 5-8 hours if she works steadily and concentrates.

At the moment she needs assistance and another machine, but cannot yet afford it. The materials are becoming more expensive, driving up her costs and reducing profit. However, before she left Georgia, she was extremely well known for her clothing. Since her return, the word is slowly spreading and she is getting clients through word of mouth. The work is still inconsistent, but she hopes that her clients will increase.

Baia advises other Georgians to stay in Georgia if they can. But she also feels that Ireland is a good place for migrants. She felt that her experience in Ireland made her more confident and more independent.