‘Exports to grow by 7%’

IRISH exports should grow by another 7% this year, helping to boost employment levels in foreign-owned multinational companies based here, according to economist Dr Ronnie O’Toole.

The National Irish Bank chief economist said the performance of goods exports from Ireland has remained strong since the start of this year and new export orders for goods remain “very strong”.

He added that services exports — which account for nearly half of Ireland’s total exports — grew by more than 10% last year and should continue to lead future growth.