The Bank of Ireland has predicted that 2004 will be better than previous years for the Irish economy.
In its latest economic outlook, the bank predicted a growth rate of 4.5% for this year, driven by lower inflation and strong employment levels.
Its chief economist, Dan McLaughlin, said: "All of the evidence from the past few months suggests that the worst is over for the economy.
"We’re beginning to see business and consumer confidence picking up, so in 2004, I expect the Irish economy to perform a lot better than it has done in previous years."