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Describe the role played by small businesses in the design / manufacture of clothing in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 (c) - 2007
Question 2 (c)
Describe the role played by small businesses in the design / manufacture of clothing in Ireland. Explain why there has been a major decrease in the number of people... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe the role played by small businesses in the design / manufacture of clothing in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 (c) - 2007
Step 1
Describe the role played by small businesses in the design / manufacture of clothing in Ireland.
Answer
Small businesses play a crucial role in the design and manufacture of clothing in Ireland for several reasons:
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Employment Opportunities: They offer a range of jobs, both skilled and unskilled, catering to different levels of expertise. This is particularly important in areas where larger industries may not provide sufficient employment opportunities.
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Specialization: Small businesses often focus on niche markets, allowing them to offer specialized products such as knitwear, lace, crochet, and more. This specialization helps sustain traditional methods and craftsmanship in the clothing sector.
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Support for the Local Economy: They contribute to the local economy by sourcing materials and labor locally, which helps to maintain the community's economic health and supports local artisans.
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Cottage Industry Survival: Designers like Paul Costelloe have championed the survival of the cottage industry, which focuses on small-scale production methods.
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Innovation: Small businesses often bring innovation into the industry, creating unique designs and products that can stand out in the marketplace.
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Influential Figures: Notable entrepreneurs, such as Philip Treacy, have made significant contributions to the industry, particularly in the area of accessories. Their unique contributions help elevate Ireland's reputation in the global fashion industry.
Step 2
Explain why there has been a major decrease in the number of people employed in the clothing and textile industry since the 1990s.
Answer
There has been a significant decline in employment in the clothing and textile industry for several key reasons:
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Labor Intensive Nature: The clothing industry is highly labor-intensive and cannot compete with low-cost manufacturers from Eastern Europe and other regions, leading to job losses in Ireland.
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Training and Development: Training staff is time-consuming. Many companies have struggled to adapt to developing modular production methods that are essential for efficient operation in a competitive market.
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Automation and Technology: Many businesses have shifted to more automated processes, which require fewer skilled laborers, leading to a reduction in traditional job roles.
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Consumer Demand Patterns: The frequency of clothing production has been reduced to twice a year. The inconsistent and seasonal nature of consumer demand means that factories can often have excess stock, leading to underemployment.
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Costly Retention: Companies face increased operational costs, which can result in layoffs or reduced hiring as businesses aim to remain profitable in a challenging economy.