Business sentiment remains largely positive despite tight labour market, survey shows

Elsewhere, smaller firms in the Republic were boosted as incoming Taoiseach Simon Harris pledged to provide support to assist with rising business costs

The International Business Report published by professional services firm Grant Thornton showed 41% Irish medium sized businesses surveyed expected to recruit this year amid record low unemployment and wage demands fuelled by inflation and a cost-of-living crisis.

Employers in the Republic reported an overall optimistic economic outlook as energy bills decline, but some said the stubbornly tight labour market has prevented expansion.

The International Business Report published by professional services firm Grant Thornton showed 41% Irish medium sized businesses surveyed expected to recruit this year amid record low unemployment and wage demands fuelled by inflation and a cost-of-living crisis.