Economy and Jobs

There's a lot of doom and gloom these days, but despite the difficult times, many Irish companies are still working hard to sell goods and services all around the world.  Luckily, our exporters have the support and backing of the European Union, the world's largest trading bloc. Not only does this keep us competing strongly in international markets, but it keeps more Irish people working.

A strong Ireland is good for the EU. That's why the EU is investing in Ireland to make sure that businesses stay afloat, jobs are kept and our workforce remains skilled and ready for the future. 

Working towards recovery

It's no secret these are tough economic times, but the EU is working hard to help our economy. We will benefit directly from the €200 billion being invested by the EU into European economies, for example. This funding is part of a European Recovery Plan, which is designed to boost demand, promote growth and save jobs.

Saving small businesses

Many of our small and medium businesses are struggling to survive at the moment. Cash flow is a major problem. It's not easy for them, but they are getting priority attention for EU funding, so they can stay afloat and continue to employ Irish workers.

As part of the Eurozone, we benefit from our membership of a strong economic union, with a strong Euro and low interest rates.

As an EU member, we are represented at the bargaining table when it comes to global trade deals. For a small country, we get a big say.

We're all striving to beat this recession and Europe is helping us. The European Social Fund (ESF) provides Ireland with money to fight unemployment, give our workforce the skills and training it needs, and invest in growing industries. Between 2007 and 2013, Ireland will receive €375 million in ESF funding.

To fight our way out of economic crisis, we need to create and protect jobs. The EU is committed to that goal and continued EU funding will help drive our economy and safeguard jobs. Specifically, the EU will:

• Give more funding to ensure Irish workers remain trained and skilled
• Target support to our small and medium businesses to help them survive
• Prioritise the economy and jobs over the next six months, during Sweden's EU presidency
• Continue to promote equality in the workplace, especially regarding equal pay and
• rights for women

Watch a short video on the economy and jobs
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European Social Fund in Ireland
European Regional Development Fund
European job mobility portal
The Swedish presidency of the EU
Gender equality in the EU