Author: Sam Allcock

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has suggested that Ireland could reap significant benefits if the UK successfully negotiates a favourable economic deal with the United States. Speaking at the conclusion of his St Patrick’s visit to the US, Mr Martin acknowledged that while discussions between UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump are still in their infancy, any positive outcome for the UK economy would likely have a ripple effect that benefits Ireland. The Irish leader was responding to questions about whether Ireland should play a role in shaping the terms of a potential UK-US trade deal, particularly…

In a surprising turn of events, the UK economic growth experienced an unexpected contraction in January, shrinking by 0.1%. This development has cast a shadow over the government’s economic strategy ahead of the highly anticipated Spring Statement later this month. The decline was primarily driven by a downturn in the manufacturing sector, which has raised questions about the country’s ability to sustain long-term growth. Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces mounting pressure as she navigates self-imposed fiscal rules on taxation and public spending. While economists had predicted modest growth of 0.1% following December’s 0.4% expansion, the reality painted a more concerning picture.…