Secondary Economic Activity

Secondary Activity Overview

  • Definition:

    • Secondary Activity refers to the process of producing finished goods from raw materials.

  • Importance:

    • This sector significantly impacts the economy and employment levels.

Factors Influencing Secondary Economic Activity

  • Skilled Workforce:

    • The Greater Dublin Area (GDA) has a large pool of skilled workers, particularly in STEM fields.

    • Graduates from local colleges contribute to the workforce, including institutions like:

    • University College Dublin (UCD)

    • Dublin City College (DCC)

    • Workers from other regions often migrate to Dublin for employment opportunities.

  • Transportation Hubs:

    • Dublin's infrastructure includes major transport routes (roads and rail) extending from the city, facilitating access to markets.

    • Examples of major transportation routes include:

    • South Circular Road

    • M50 Motorway

    • This allows manufacturers to tap into a wider market effectively.

  • Market Size:

    • The GDA constitutes 40% of Ireland's total production capacity, offering a substantial market for manufactured goods.

  • Inspiration Hubs:

    • Dublin also hosts several inspiration hubs that foster innovation and development in secondary economic activities.

Impact of Transportation on Trade

  • Dublin Airport:

    • A critical infrastructure that imports raw materials and exports finished goods.

    • The airport connects to various international destinations, which is vital for local businesses.

    • Particularly important for the business community and the export of:

    • Small, high-value goods.

Conclusion

  • Overall, the combination of a skilled workforce, efficient transportation networks, and a large market base contribute to the robust secondary economic activities within the Greater Dublin Area.