An overwhelming majority of Irish chief executives are confident about the economy and the prospects for their own businesses.
More than nine out of 10 CEOs regard the outlook for the economy as favourable in the year ahead, up from 86pc last year and in stark contrast from only 3pc in 2009, according to the latest PwC survey.
A similar proportion are confident about the prospects for their own business, up from 77pc last year.
Nearly three-quarters anticipate growth in net profits.
Increasing the workforce and capital investment are at a 10-year high.
Jobs Minister Richard Bruton welcomed the new survey, saying it shows businesses are confident about the future.