Figures show what can be achieved - Record export growth

THE difference between optimism and wishful thinking is the difference between achievement and disappointment. It is also the difference between building on solid foundations or on sand. 

In an ever colder, increasingly demanding world, this contrast becomes more apparent by the day — as does the gap between realism and fantasy in economic planning.

The announcement yesterday that goods exports jumped by 20% — €18.4b — to €111bn last year suggests that the growing confidence, and reality, of our economic recovery justifies optimism and is built on a solid foundation. These figures, unimaginable just a few years ago, pushed the trade surplus up to a record €44bn, the largest surplus on record and the first positive rise since 2010.