Just 28 cobblers left to mend the nation’s shoes – The Irish Times

The Fading Craft of Shoe Repair: Saving a Dying Tradition

The skilled hands of cobblers, once a common sight in Irish towns and cities, are becoming increasingly rare. Michael Rossiter, a seasoned shoe repair expert with 50 years of experience, paints a stark picture: “The cold hard facts are that there are only an estimated 28 cobblers left in the country.” He runs Rossiter Shoe Repairs and Pedorthics in kilkenny, making him the sole cobbler in his city and county.

Rossiter’s journey began at the tender age of eight, learning the art of shoe repair alongside his father, Matthew, in their shop in Tullow, Co Carlow. Little did young Michael imagine that he would one day become the last cobbler in his area, witnessing a similar decline in neighboring counties like Carlow, Tipperary, and Waterford.

“I started learning about repairing shoes from the age of eight in my father’s shop, and it turned out to become my passion in life,” he shares, his voice tinged with both love for his craft and concern for its future.

With just ten cobblers remaining in Dublin and the rest of the country lacking dedicated shoe repair businesses,the situation is undeniably bleak. Rossiter laments, “It’s very disappointing that the government powers do not seem interested in the very critically vital role cobblers play in everyday life.” This sentiment is echoed in the lack of any mention of cobbling on the CAO form for postsecondary courses. “We are not even given the status of being called a trade. There isn’t even an apprenticeship course that people can enrol in,” he stresses, highlighting the absence of formal recognition and its impact on attracting new talent to the craft.

Rossiter’s two sons show no interest in taking over the family business. “And why would they?” he asks rhetorically. “As they wouldn’t be qualified in a recognised trade?” The absence of formal recognition makes it incredibly arduous for the trade to attract new blood, leaving existing cobblers like Rossiter burdened with the responsibility of preserving a dying tradition.

Keeping Dublin’s Footwear Alive: A Family Legacy of Shoe Repair

The rhythmic tap-tap-tap of hammers on leather fills the air as cobblers in Dublin diligently preserve the art of shoe repair. But as the industry faces an uphill battle against fast fashion and dwindling apprenticeships, these skilled artisans are fighting to keep a centuries-old legacy alive.

Rossiter, a third-generation cobbler, worries about the future of his craft.”We are a dying skillset,” he laments. He sees a grim paradox. People opt for mass-produced shoes, unaware that their fleeting lifespan leads to more expensive repairs down the line.”People buy cheap shoes lasting just two or three months, only to discover they are more expensive to fix,” he explains, highlighting the cyclical nature of this disposable trend.

This reliance on fast fashion creates a shrinking economy for cobblers, a predicament Rossiter sees as a reflection of a wider societal issue. “There’s so much talk about a circular economy, but there is none in this business,” he emphasizes. He urges both consumers and the government to recognize the value of their work and invest in preserving this essential craft.

“We’re busier than ever because so many with our skills have retired or passed away,” Rossiter admits,”but we simply don’t have time to train anyone who might be interested in joining us.”

He calls for government intervention and structured training programs to ensure the survival of this invaluable skill. Rossiter believes that cobblers, like other traditional craftspeople like thatchers and dry stone wall builders, deserve recognition on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

His words are echoed by Mark Jackman, owner of Isaac Jackman’s shoe repairs in Donnybrook. he acknowledges the growing demand for repairs but laments the lack of younger generations entering the field. “Diversification has been key to my survival,” Jackman states. He, like Rossiter, worries about the future of the craft as existing cobblers inevitably retire, leaving the legacy to fade.

Amidst these challenges, Rossiter finds moments of lightheartedness. “A man brought in a stuffed crocodile to us a few weeks ago with a broken paw,” he recalls with a chuckle, “and we managed to sew it up.”

Hats off to Dublin’s cobblers who continue to stitch together not just shoes but also the fabric of this city’s rich cultural heritage.

Cobblers mark Jackman and ‘Archie’ Sakele at work. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

Dublin’s cobblers are a unique breed, masters of their craft who keep the city’s footwear alive and kicking. Among them is Mark Jackman, who carries on a family tradition spanning generations. His workshop is a testament to the enduring art of shoe repair, a world frequently enough overlooked in our age of disposable fashion.

“We have people bringing in the most unusual things to be repaired,” jackman says, a twinkle in his eye. “A man brought in a stuffed crocodile a few weeks ago with a broken paw. This taxidermy animal had been in the family for years and years, so we managed to sew him up. A couple of weeks later, he brought him back in because the other paw broke when they were putting him into a glass case. You never know what’s going to come through our door.”

Jackam’s passion for shoe repair is deeply rooted in his family history. He learned the trade from his father, Trevor, who passed down the knowledge received from his own father, Seán.Seán once ran 22 cobbler shops throughout dublin under the name C & D Shoes. This legacy of shoemaking expertise has been passed down through the Jackman family for years.

today, Jackman’s uncle, Isaac, owns shops in Charlemont Street, Dublin, and Donnybrook, with a couple of depots still operating. the family’s commitment to preserving this traditional craft continues to thrive.

Jackman describes a constant stream of shoes crossing his workbench. The rhythmic clack of a hammer on leather, the deftness of a needle threading a delicate patch, the satisfying scent of beeswax and polish – these are the sounds and smells of a shoe repair shop, a world often overlooked in our disposable fashion culture. In Dublin, Jackman’s Shoe Repairs stands as a testament to the enduring art of restoring beloved footwear.

Latvian ‘Archie’ Sakele has travelled the world repairing footwear

The surprising Strength of Shoe Repair

Amidst the whirlwind of fast fashion and ever-expanding global markets, there’s a quiet resurgence occurring in a humble craft: shoe repair. Cobblers, the skilled artisans who bring life back into worn-out footwear, are busier than ever, proving that time-honored skills remain relevant in a constantly changing world.

Jackman, a passionate cobbler, runs a busy workshop overflowing with shoes of every imaginable style. “We have thousands – vintage brogues, modern sneakers, you name it. People sometimes think shoe repair is old-fashioned, but it’s essential. Shoes are an investment, and with proper care, they can last for years,” he explains, his hands expertly handling leather and stitching.

Jackman’s dedication to his craft reflects a deeper respect for quality and sustainability. Yet, even amidst the success, he faces a unique challenge: mountains of unclaimed shoes. “We can’t just throw them away or give them away,” Jackman reveals, highlighting the complexities of legal regulations surrounding abandoned footwear. “It would be wonderful to receive some support or acknowledgment from the government for the vital work we do,” he laments.

To keep up with the demand, Jackman has teamed up with Arturas ‘Archie’ Sakele, a Latvian craftsman whose expertise spans the globe. “archie has been a godsend,” Jackman confesses. “We’re so busy, and his skills are invaluable.”

Jackman’s experience resonates with Isaac, his uncle, who shares his concerns about the industry’s challenges. “Like so many others, we’ve had to diversify to stay afloat,” Isaac observes, echoing the wider trend of artisans adapting to survive in a competitive landscape. He laments the lack of government support and a collective voice for cobblers: “We lack representatives to fight for our corner, unlike in the UK and other countries. I’ve tried to raise awareness among politicians, but it’s been difficult,” he expresses, his voice tinged with frustration.

isaac vividly recalls a past government initiative – the Fás scheme – that aimed to revive traditional cobbling apprenticeships. Sadly, it proved short-lived. “Enterprise Ireland hasn’t introduced any similar programs since,” he sighs. His words are punctuated by a story that underscores the fading awareness of the craft. “A young man in his twenties walked into the shop on Charlemont Street asking what I did, as he had never heard of a cobbler before. It was like I came from another planet,” he recounts, the anecdote highlighting the urgent need for a revival of thankfulness for traditional skills.

>The⁣ challenges ‌extend beyond the lack of skilled labor. Brexit has dealt a⁤ blow to the industry, as ⁢many cobblers relied on materials sourced from the UK. Now, they face sourcing materials from Italy, ​where minimum order quantities⁣ often reach €10,000.

‌”The industry has struggled as Brexit ⁢as most of our materials came from the ⁤UK,but now I have to source them from Italy⁤ and they only ⁤want to take big orders worth €10,000,” Isaac‍ explains. ​

However, amidst ‍these difficulties, there is a glimmer of hope. Cobblers⁤ are stepping up ⁤to fill the void⁣ left by the decline of shoe repairs and bespoke footwear.‍ With shoe factories ​closing and genuine leather shoemaking becoming rare, many ‍cobblers ​are expanding their services to include repairs ‌and alterations for a wider range of footwear, even encompassing designer and athletic shoes.

“As cobblers are closing down we are now servicing many counties​ around the country,” ⁣Isaac notes, illustrating‌ the growing demand for their expertise.

The future of cobbling, while uncertain, seems ⁤tied‍ to the ability of ⁤these artisans ⁣to adapt and innovate. By embracing new technologies, expanding their ⁣skillsets, and connecting ​with a ⁢new generation of customers, cobblers can ensure that the time-honored tradition of‌ shoe repair continues to ​thrive in the years to come.

The familiar click-clack ‍of a shoe repair hammer echoes through cobblers’ ⁤shops⁤ across Ireland, but ​beneath the rhythmic clang, a sense of unease hangs in the air. ‍For generations, cobblers have meticulously⁤ mended shoes, breathing new life into worn leather ⁣and‍ threadbare soles. This ‌”circular‌ economy” approach to footwear‌ predates modern sustainability trends. Though, the industry faces a crisis, struggling to keep pace⁣ with changing consumer habits ⁣and stagnant government support.

One cobbler, ⁤who wishes to ​remain anonymous, describes the situation‌ as “dire,” expressing frustration⁢ at the lack of recognition for​ their craft. He highlights the EU’s Right ⁢to Repair legislation, which compels manufacturers to offer⁣ affordable repair options for ⁤their products. “There doesn’t seem to be any interest in sticking to the EU’s guidance⁣ on the right⁣ to repair by⁤ Irish legislation,” he ⁣laments. “This is not just a crisis;‍ we are basically dead in the water,” he declares, painting a bleak picture of the industry’s future.

⁤Ross O’Rourke, a skilled cobbler working in Cork city, finds himself busier than ⁤ever.”We are ‌seen as ‌a knick-knacky ‌trade,⁣ but‍ we need⁢ to be able⁤ to get a qualification in it and there ⁣is none. We‌ really need backing from the ‍Government,” ‍he⁣ emphasizes.‍ He shares a heart-wrenching anecdote: “In the last⁣ two to three years four ⁤cobblers shops have closed. To prove ⁤that, I had a woman from Clare in ‌here​ the other day as she​ couldn’t find⁤ anywhere⁤ to mend​ her shoes where ⁣she lives.” His passion​ for his craft shines through, but a sense of urgency underscores his words: ” I ‌love what I do and I’m ​not ever going‌ to leave‍ it, but‍ we ​are a ​trade that⁢ really needs recognition.”​

the ‌Department of Higher Education, while acknowledging the importance of apprenticeships, maintains that new ​programs are developed on a demand-led basis, requiring a collaborative effort between industry,‌ educational institutions, and the National Apprenticeship‍ Office.

‌This predicament⁤ raises ‌crucial questions about the ⁢future​ of ​traditional

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What Government Initiatives Exist to Support the Cobbing Trade in Ireland?

Here is a summarized and structured version of the text, focusing on the key points and challenges faced by cobblers.

The Enduring Craft of Cobblers: Facing Challenges, Embracing Opportunities

The rhythmic tapping of a hammer, the deft stitching of leather, and the meticulous attention to detail – these are the hallmarks of the cobbler’s craft. An enduring profession, cobbling has existed for centuries, serving a vital purpose by extending the life of our cherished footwear. Yet, in today’s fast-paced world, where disposability reigns supreme, this traditional trade faces a series of challenges.Cobblers, frequently enough viewed as unsung heroes, play a crucial role in a circular economy, a concept now widely celebrated in sustainability circles. They provide a lifeline to worn-out shoes, keeping them out of landfills and offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to constant replacement. unfortunately,the appreciation for this invaluable service seems to be waning.

“The industry is in a dire straits,” laments an anonymous cobbler, echoing a sentiment shared by many in the profession.

Changing consumer habits present a formidable obstacle. The allure of buying new shoes frequently enough outweighs the convenience and cost-effectiveness of repair. The lack of recognition and support from government and wider society further compounds the challenges.

“There needs to be more government backing,” states Ross O’Rourke, a skilled cobbler who finds himself busier than ever. “It’s disheartening to see other shops closing down.”

The decline of traditional apprenticeship programs has created a critical shortage of skilled labor, threatening the future of cobbling. Isaac, the uncle of a cobbler named Jackman, vividly recalls the shortcomings of the Fás apprenticeship scheme, lamenting its ineffectiveness and the lack of awareness about the cobbling trade: “very few people are even aware that apprenticeships are available…”

Brexit has also cast a shadow over the industry, disrupting supply chains and increasing costs. “Many cobblers rely on materials sourced from the UK,” explains Jackman, who has had to diversify his business to survive. “We’re seeing increased costs and minimum order quantities when sourcing from Italy.”

The lack of implementation of the EU’s Right to Repair legislation in Ireland adds another layer of frustration. This legislation, designed to make it easier and more affordable for consumers to repair their goods, could have provided a much-needed boost for the cobbling industry.

Despite these challenges, there are glimmers of hope. Cobblers are adapting by expanding their services, offering repairs and alterations for a broader range of footwear, including designer and athletic wear. They are also embracing social media and online platforms to connect with a wider audience and promote their craft.

The path forward requires a collective effort. Governments need to provide tangible support, including financial incentives and the establishment of robust apprenticeship programs. Consumers need to embrace the value of repair and resist the allure of disposability. And cobblers themselves need to continue to innovate and adapt, showcasing the enduring relevance of their skilled trade.As Jackmen aptly puts it, “We need support to keep the tradition alive.” The future of cobbling hinges on a shared commitment to preserving this invaluable craft for generations to come.

The Future of Shoe Repair: Adapting for Success

The world of shoe repair is facing a pivotal moment. While traditional values of craftsmanship endure, the industry must adapt to a rapidly changing landscape to ensure its long-term survival. The good news? Opportunities abound for cobblers who are willing to embrace innovation, connect with a new generation of customers, and advocate for their trade.

“Embracing new technologies and expanding skillsets to keep up with changing consumer habits and industry demands,” emphasizes the importance of staying relevant in a tech-driven world.

This means exploring new techniques, incorporating modern tools, and staying abreast of the latest trends in footwear and repair methods.

Moreover, shoe repair must evolve to resonate with a younger demographic. This generation places a high value on sustainability and the enduring quality of handcrafted goods. Positioning shoe repair as a vital part of a circular economy, where repairing extends the life of products and reduces waste, is key to attracting this audience.

Beyond individual adaptation,a collective effort is crucial for the future of shoe repair. Cobblers need to unite and advocate for their profession. This includes championing government recognition of cobbling as a skilled trade, pushing for the implementation of the EU’s Right to repair legislation, and establishing apprenticeship programs to nurture the next generation of artisans.

“Cobblers should work together to establish a dedicated representative body that can champion their cause and secure their future,”

a strong, unified voice can raise awareness, influence policy, and secure a brighter future for the craft of shoe repair.

Why are cobblers facing challenges attracting apprentices despite increasing demand for skilled labor?

Structured Summary:

Industry Background:

• Cobblers play a crucial role in a circular economy by repairing shoes, extending their life, and reducing landfill waste.
• Gratitude for this customary craft is waning.

Challenges Faced by cobblers:

1. Changing Consumer Habits:

– Many prefer buying new shoes over repairing them.

– The convenience and perceived affordability of buying new footwear drive this trend.

1. Lack of Recognition and Government Support:

– Cobblers feel unsupported by the government and wider society.

– Insufficient recognition of the profession contributes to its struggles.

1. Skill Shortage and Lack of Apprenticeships:

– The decline of traditional apprenticeship programs has led to a shortage of skilled cobblers.

– Lack of awareness about existing apprenticeship opportunities exacerbates the problem.

1. Post-Brexit Disruptions:

– Brexit has disrupted supply chains,increasing costs and minimum order quantities for materials sourced from the EU.

1. Non-implementation of EU’s Right to Repair Legislation:

– Ireland’s lack of implementation of the EU’s Right to Repair legislation hinders cobblers’ efforts to make repairs more accessible and affordable.

Possible Solutions and initiatives:

• Embrace New Technologies Leading to Expand Skillsets:

– Cobblers can adapt and innovate to stay relevant by leveraging new technologies and connecting with new generations of customers.

• Industry-Government-Collaboration for New Apprenticeship Programs:

– A collaborative effort between industry, educational institutions, and the National Apprenticeship Office coudl result in new, demand-led apprenticeship programs.

Current state:

• While the future of cobbling remains uncertain, the continued demand for their expertise indicates a glimmer of hope.
• Cobblers are stepping up to fill the void left by the decline of shoe repairs and custom footwear, venturing into repairing and altering a wider range of footwear.

Call to Action:

• Policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the wider public should recognize and support the cobbling trade, which plays a meaningful role in both economic and environmental sustainability.