"I started making gents overcoats and uniforms for government and corporate clients. It was clear that things were beginning to change and there were more opportunities for work."

The uniforms side of things went well from '94 to '96 and then an opportunity presented itself that Declan couldn't refuse. A readymade workshop became available on the Grande Parade, the machines were all in place all that was needed was a willing tenant and so The clothes Doctor was born.

That was 12 years ago and the business is still going strong. He moved from the Grande Parade premises in five-years-ago to his current location in Academy Street, still in the heart of the city. "I work with independent retailers. I used to do a lot of work for Roches Stores but it's much more difficult and bureaucratic dealing with big multi-nationals".

He now focuses solely on alterations, whether it's a flashy frock that needs a personal touch or a sharp suit that doesn't quite fit.

"We can't compete now when it comes to making suits, there are people taking orders in Cork and having the suits made in China or Thailand for a fraction of our costs so I had to make a decision and I'm glad to say that there is still plenty of demand for alterations in Cork."

One of Declan's biggest problems in recent years has been finding qualified staff.

"The number of people who are able to do this job simply declined. It became really tough to find people with the right skills," he says.

In that respect, recent immigration proved a real boon.

"It was great for me that there were people from Eastern Europe coming in. They have good levels of skill which it seems is regarded as necessary and it certainly brought a great pool of qualified labour into Cork."

Declan still likes to do much of the work himself, which can lead to him working long hours but he has learned in recent times to take a step back too. With two boys at home in Glanmire Declan knows that all work and no play does not make for a happy life. He enjoys cycling too which he does whenever he can.

"I'm lucky that I do something I really enjoy for a living," he says. With his solid reputation and loyal customer base, long may it continue.

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