Economy continues to defy the doubters and naysayers

As we approach Christmas and the end of another year, it is certainly justifiable to look back on the performance of the Irish economy with a certain degree of satisfaction, writes Jim Power.

This year turned out to be another one of solid growth for the economy, with almost all economic indicators evolving in a very positive manner.

Data released last week show that in the first nine months of the year GDP was 7.4% ahead of the same period in 2016; consumer spending expanded by 2.1%, and exports of goods and services expanded by 5.2%.