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Two measurements, consistent poverty and at risk of poverty, are used by the Central Statistics Office to measure poverty in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2011
Question 3(a)
Two measurements, consistent poverty and at risk of poverty, are used by the Central Statistics Office to measure poverty in Ireland. Recent data on poverty in Irela... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Two measurements, consistent poverty and at risk of poverty, are used by the Central Statistics Office to measure poverty in Ireland - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2011
Step 1
Explain the term at risk of poverty (relative poverty).
Answer
The term 'at risk of poverty' refers to a condition where an individual's or household's standard of living is significantly lower than the average or minimum threshold set within society. When individuals are deemed to be at risk of poverty, it implies that they experience deprivation related to their income and cannot afford essential goods and services. This relative measure focuses on income inequality, where being 'at risk' means falling below a certain income level, which might inhibit social participation, access to education, and overall quality of life.
Step 2
Discuss four reasons why 14.4% of people in Ireland in 2008 were reported as being at risk of poverty.
Answer
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Economic Recession: The global economic downturn led to job losses and reduced income, pushing many families into poverty.
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High Unemployment Rates: With job opportunities dwindling, many individuals struggled to secure employment, resulting in loss of income and increased risk of poverty.
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Low Educational Attainment: Many individuals lacking in education found it challenging to secure jobs that pay living wages, exacerbating their financial insecurity.
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Family Structure: Many single-parent households struggled financially, often due to having only one income to support the family, which increases the risk of poverty.
Step 3
Identify two social groups most at risk of consistent poverty and state the effects of poverty on the groups named.
Answer
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Travellers and Other Minority Groups: This group often faces systemic issues like discrimination, limiting their access to education and employment.
- Effects: Higher rates of unemployment, limited access to healthcare, and social exclusion.
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Homeless People: Individuals without stable housing experience heightened vulnerability to poverty-related issues.
- Effects: Increased health problems, lack of access to clean living conditions, and barriers to social services.