Dublin is the driver of the Irish economy and accounts for over 40 percent of our economic activity. The city’s prosperity is inextricably linked to Irelands long term success in appealing to international business and as a gateway to the EU.
Our research explores how the core issues of the economy and governance and leadership will contribute to Dublin’s future prosperity.
When it comes to prosperity, having an attractive business environment is seen by our respondents as the single most important prosperity indicator in terms of what the city should focus on, with 40 percent citing it as their most important choice.
However, like any city, Dublin’s prosperity is not guaranteed. The agglomeration effect, where businesses and professionals cluster together driven by a strong talent pool, employer demand and urban appeal is effectively a virtuous circle.
So whilst economic performance is fundamental to continued prosperity, issues such as liveability, strategic planning, leadership and accountability will play an increasingly important role.
With this in mind, many other cities are investing more and faster in the components of prosperity to ensure higher levels of future proofing. They also often have different models of city government with more visible leadership, local accountability and greater revenue raising powers.
All the while, changing geopolitics is reshaping where large global business may choose to locate. Given the relatively high mobility of the talent that much of the city depends on, Dublin’s future prosperity is not a given.
