The Irish economy continues to show signs of improvement and positive growth in economic activity and the continuing reduction in the number of people unemployed are both to be welcomed. According to the latest figures from the Department of Finance, GDP is expected to grow by 2.1% in 2014 and a further 2.7% in 2015, signaling the return of a far more stable macroeconomic environment than has been evident in recent years. In addition, unemployment continues on a downward trajectory, falling to below 12% from a peak of 15%, according to the latest available CSO data.