Surge in firms hiring new staff

The number of companies increasing staff levels has reached the highest level for five years, according to a survey by cross-border enterprise body InterTrade Ireland.

According to the Newry-based body’s quarterly business monitor, the first three months of 2014 saw as many as 80% of companies on the island of Ireland continue to report stable employment levels. It said the actual number of firms saying they increased employment during the period reached its highest since 2009.

InterTrade Ireland strategy and policy director Aidan Gough said: “Last quarter, more businesses than ever were reporting growth. It is reassuring to see that this is now beginning to translate into more businesses looking to recruit.