Ireland's economy grew during the pandemic years due to multinational activity, Eurostat figures show

In 2021, growth was particularly high in the south of Ireland where many tech, pharma and manufacturing multinationals including Apple and Pfizer are located.

Last year, it emerged that Apple will expand operations at its base in Cork. Pic: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Ireland’s economy powered ahead during the pandemic years as multinational activity grew, Eurostat figures confirm.

The statistics office found that Ireland recorded the highest increase in Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, in the EU compared with pre-pandemic levels in 2019.