Diving for Pearls in Govan is bringing together people with migrant histories for a multi-media project exploring the impact of the shipbuilding industry on the population of Govan. 

Inspired by Elvis Costello and Clive Langer’s song Shipbuilding, the project title is taken from the line "With all the will in the world, diving for dear life when we could be diving for pearls." The lyrics discuss the contradiction of the Falklands War bringing back prosperity to traditional shipbuilding areas, whilst also sending off the sons of these areas to fight, and potentially, lose their lives.

The project will explore oral history: the stories, shared experiences and common ground behind migrants from places such as the shipbuilding city of Gdansk; descendents of those who came to Glasgow from Ireland and the Highlands; and refugees and asylum seekers who have come to Govan fleeing wars that are arguably, as the song has it, "the result of shipbuilding".

One side of the project will focus on contemporary history, the period of rising unemployment and poverty in Govan directly caused by the closing of many shipyards in the seventies and eighties. On another hand looking at the history of the Highland clearances and the Irish potato famine and those who fled to Glasgow to seek food and work.

Commenting on the award Angela Gardener said: "We are so pleased and excited to have received the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund and we’re looking forward to getting started on what will be a fun and fascinating voyage through local and national history."

Colin McLean, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland said: "The diverse communities in Govan have played an important role in defining its character and ship building industry. The Heritage Lottery Fund has been delighted to be able to support it and we are keen to hear from other groups from different cultures and communities who would like to develop their own heritage project."

Notes to editors

About the GCIN
Govan and Craigton Integration Network was established in 2001, initially to assist newly arrived asylum seekers. Over the years, the network developed into a multi-agency forum to coordinate services and to build bonds and links within and between communities.

About the GCINGovan and Craigton Integration Network was established in 2001, initially to assist newly arrived asylum seekers. Over the years, the network developed into a multi-agency forum to coordinate services and to build bonds and links within and between communities.
Today, GCIN is a registered charity, still facilitating the forum but also directly providing rights-based integration services. Working out of the Pearce Institute in central Govan, and a community flat in Cardonald, GCIN runs community drop-ins, arts projects, advice services, English classes, a destitute food project, cross-cultural community events, VoiceOver Interpreting, and much more.

Further information

Emma at GCIN on 0141 445 3718, emma@gcin.org.uk.