Economical aspects

This year Ireland will become the first Eurozone country to exit a bailout programme from the EU support. Ireland is facing its current economic challenges in co-operation with its funding partners in the European Union and the International Monetary Fund. In 2008, partly due to the open nature of its economy Ireland began to feel the effects of the global economic downturn. This led to a period of recession and a sharp contraction in economic output. In 2011, Ireland’s economy returned to growth.

Beef and dairying are by far the most important sectors of the agricultural industry. The main crops are barley, wheat, potatoes and mushrooms. The Agri-Food industry makes a significant contribution to the Irish economy.
 

Sources: BBC and Embassy of Ireland