- Ireland's economy is predicted to return to growth in 2011, with GDP expected to increase by 2.25%. Exports continue to perform robustly and consumption and investment levels are stabilizing. - Ireland has seen significant transformation since 1995, with GDP per capita increasing 100% and exports growing from €35b to €156b. However, debt as a percentage of GDP also increased from 88% to 97% over this period. - The government is introducing a four-year deficit reduction plan and Ireland's debt ratio is expected to remain manageable and in line with the EU average. Competitiveness is improving as property costs, salaries, and the cost of living decline compared to a decade ago.