Survey forms part of efforts to create jobs in West Cork crafts

Up to 200 craftworkers in West Cork are being surveyed by separate consultancy firms in a bid to determine why the area is such a magnet for creative people — and how best to create more jobs in the sector.

Potters, artists, furniture- makers, jewellers, and glass- workers in the region are among those answering questionnaires sent out by consultancy firms Indecon International Economic Consultants in Dublin and Willie Miller Urban Design in Glasgow.

As part of the process, a major think-in will take place in the West Cork town of Clonakilty tomorrow, as everyone from craftworkers to retailers, educators, and local development agencies, among others, discuss the issue in greater depth and outline the problems faced by the sector.