Most firms hiring rather than letting people go

Most Irish companies are now hiring new staff rather than letting people go, according to a new study.

The latest edition of the Irish business sentiment survey, jointly published by KBC Bank Ireland and Chartered Accountants Ireland, shows the first positive jobs balance since the end of 2007. It found companies are beginning to feel more confident about the economy.

The survey — which was conducted last month — represents the second successive quarter where more firms reported growth than declines in business volumes.