Euro offers silver lining as competitiveness dives

THE further loss of competitiveness by this economy delivered in a new international survey is a further reminder we have problems beyond bankrupt banks and national finances that are close to being out of control.

The World Competitiveness Yearbook 2010, published by Swiss business school Institute for Management Development, ranks Ireland at 21 — down from last year’s placing of 19.

The list delivered a blow to US pride, with America for the first time toppled from the top slot by two Asian countries, Singapore and Hong Kong.