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The 1990s has seen significant changes in the employment opportunities available in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2007
Question 3(a)
The 1990s has seen significant changes in the employment opportunities available in Ireland. (i) Discuss how patterns of work and work availability have been affect... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The 1990s has seen significant changes in the employment opportunities available in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2007
Step 1
Discuss how patterns of work and work availability have been affected by developing technology
Answer
Developing technology has had a profound impact on employment patterns. Specifically, it has led to:
- Increased Automation: Many manual jobs have been replaced by machines. This has reduced the need for unskilled labor and increased the demand for skilled technical workers.
- Shift to Tech Roles: There is a growing requirement for roles in programming and IT, moving away from traditional industries.
- Job Flexibility: Technology has enabled remote working and flexible hours, changing how and where we work.
Step 2
Discuss how patterns of work and work availability have been affected by the decline in primary and secondary industries and the growth in service industries
Answer
The decline in primary and secondary industries has led to significant changes:
- Reduced Employment: Many jobs in agriculture and manufacturing have disappeared due to globalization and efficiency improvements.
- Growth of Service Sectors: There has been a notable rise in employment in service sectors such as tourism, healthcare, and IT. These industries often provide more stable job opportunities and have diversified the economy.
- Shift in Skill Requirements: Jobs available now often require higher education or specialized training, emphasizing the need for continuous learning.
Step 3
Discuss how patterns of work and work availability have been affected by increased educational requirements
Answer
Increased educational requirements have transformed the job market in the following ways:
- Higher Standards: Many roles now necessitate a third-level qualification, pushing individuals to attain higher education.
- Competitiveness: With more people qualifying for roles that previously required less education, competition for jobs has intensified.
- Career Advancement: Additional qualifications can lead to career progression, reflected in higher salaries and improved workplace conditions.
Step 4
Explain how improved working conditions have allowed women to participate more fully in the workforce
Answer
Improved working conditions have facilitated greater female participation in various ways:
- Flexible Work Options: Features such as telecommuting and flexible hours help women balance work and family responsibilities.
- Parental Leave: The availability of parental leave enables both parents to share caregiving duties, encouraging women to return to work.
- Workplace Policies: Introduction of policies like equal pay and anti-discrimination laws creates a more supportive environment, promoting women's professional growth.
Step 5
Write an informative note on the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act (1996)
Answer
The Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act (1996) is legislative protection aimed at safeguarding young workers. Key points include:
- Age Restrictions: Children under 14 are prohibited from working, and those aged 14-16 have restricted hours and types of work.
- Working Hours: Young workers are allowed limited hours. For example, 14-15-year-olds can work a maximum of 35 hours per week, while 16-year-olds can work up to 40 hours.
- Breaks and Safety: Young employees must receive supervised breaks and cannot work late, with strict guidelines around the kinds of work they can perform to ensure their safety.