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There are 755,570 people living in poverty in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2016
Question 3(a)
There are 755,570 people living in poverty in Ireland. This is a rise of 55,000 since 2011, over 23,000 of these are children. (Social Justice Ireland, November 2015... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:There are 755,570 people living in poverty in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2016
Step 1
Define poverty.
Answer
Poverty can be defined as a condition in which an individual or community lacks the financial resources and essentials for a minimum standard of living. This generally encompasses inadequate access to food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, and education. Poverty is not solely defined by income but involves various socio-economic factors that ultimately restrict individuals from fully participating in society.
Step 2
relative poverty
Answer
Relative poverty refers to a standard of living that is markedly lower than that of the majority of people in a given society. It is essentially the lack of financial resources compared to others, leading to social exclusion. For example, an individual earning below a certain percentage of the average income may be considered to be living in relative poverty, as they cannot afford what is deemed a socially acceptable standard of living.
Step 3
the poverty line
Answer
The poverty line is an established income threshold used to classify individuals or families as being in poverty. It is often calculated based on the minimum income necessary to meet basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. For instance, if a household's income falls below the poverty line, they are considered to be living in poverty, unable to secure their basic requirements.
Step 4
the cycle of poverty.
Answer
The cycle of poverty refers to a complex set of factors — social, economic, and political — that perpetuate poverty across generations. For instance, children born into poverty often face barriers such as lack of access to quality education and healthcare, which diminishes their chances of economic mobility. This cycle continues when these children grow up, struggle to secure stable jobs, and may end up having children that also experience poverty.
Step 5
Discuss the social and economic reasons why poverty continues to exist in today's society.
Answer
Several social and economic factors contribute to the persistence of poverty today.
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Social Issues: One major factor is the increase in single-parent families, which often face financial hardships. Additionally, social problems such as domestic violence, mental health issues, and substance abuse further exacerbate poverty.
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Economic Factors: High rates of unemployment and underemployment prevent individuals from earning sufficient income. Factors like rising costs of living, particularly with housing and education, create additional barriers. Moreover, policies that neglect those in poverty significantly impact their ability to escape such conditions. Overall, these intertwined issues create a persistent cycle in which poverty continues to thrive.
Step 6
Name and give details of one voluntary organisation which works to alleviate poverty in Ireland.
Answer
One notable voluntary organization in Ireland that works to alleviate poverty is the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. This organization provides a wide range of services, including financial assistance, food support, and educational programs aimed at helping those in need. They are well-known for their community outreach efforts and strive to empower individuals by providing not just immediate assistance but also opportunities for long-term self-sufficiency.