A Short History of the CAZ

The Cork Autonomous Zone (CAZ) started running early in 2002. It hosted campaigning groups, facilitated art, music, etc. It was originally located in a small lane off Camden Quay before deciding to move. Noisy neighbours made the space unsuitable to continue but also the building was to be knocked, making way for apartments.

In July 2005 a new space was found at 61 Barrack Street, sharing the space with the workers cooperative, Barracka Books.

Since settling into this space, an independent committee has formed to keep the CAZ running, delegates from each group that use the CAZ are asked to participate. Most nights are booked and some Sundays with various campaigning meetings, film nights, life drawing and workshops.

The CAZ decided to let go of the upstairs space as it was not ideal, consisting of 3 small rooms. This meant that a lot of the remaining space was taken up with the bookshop. In September 2007, the CAZ and Barracka Books decided to scale back the size of the bookshop to allow the creation of a cafe, library and internet space. Opening times will be from 1pm-6pm (Monday-Friday) and from 12pm-5pm on Saturday. It is hoped that Sunday opening hours will be arranged soon. Volunteers are asked to offer one afternoon a month to maintain the opening hours of the CAZ. Ideas for workshops are always welcome.