"There is a wonderful range of Irish fashion designs "Franchising in Ireland" and on show here, from fashion, jewellery, millinery, accessories and furniture and by purchasing in an Irish owned boutique people are supporting and contributing to the Irish economy. "Project 51 has brought an international concept to Ireland by establishing a boutique to showcase Irish design, providing the designers an opportunity to showcase their unique designs to the public. "As part of the small business sector, Irish designers, play a crucial role in creating and sustaining wealth and jobs in the Irish economy.

Terri McInerney, Retail Director at Project51 said: "It was fantastic to have the opportunity to show Minister Perry the 22 designers working in Project51 – independent small business growing together." Minister Perry continued, "Irish designers are an important part of the SME sector and form an important fabric of many rural and local economies in Ireland and overseas. All the Irish designers showcasing at Project51 are committed to providing their customers with the very best in Irish design and are also working towards increasing the profile of Irish design internationally.

"By choosing to support local designers, people will be supporting a local business and can play their part in ensuring that we sustain the existing jobs in the Irish design sector and provide opportunities for creating further employment into the future." Project51 welcomes designers from all over Ireland.