Government report identifies risks to Irish recovery

The possibility of a British exit from the EU and the rise of the Islamic State group have been identified as risks to Ireland's recovery in a report published by the Government.

The 2015 National Risk Assessment is part of a process by the Government to ensure continued economic recovery.

This is only the second year it has been published, and it identifies potential risks to the nation under five categories: economic, environmental, geo-political, social, and technological.

Among those identified are the UK's relationship with Europe, and the rise of Islamic State in the Middle East, which has added to a high level of volatility in the region.

The Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, said the report was part of his Government's commitment to avoiding "the boom and bust cycle" of Irish society.

"We do not pretend that Government can anticipate every risk, but by being open to considering the full range of issues that could impact Ireland’s economic and social development, we can ensure that we have a real and mature discussion about the challenges that Ireland faces and how these should be addressed," he said.