The Economy

The multinational sector is a significant employer, with 36 firms employing over 10,400 people, with 6,460 (62%) of these working in only three companies. The majority of firms are in the hi-tech and manufacturing sectors.

The majority of multinationals are located in the environs of Limerick City with just four located in the West of the County.

Limerick has traditionally been recognized as a County with a very strong agricultural base. Nevertheless, in line with national and international trends, employment in these sectors is declining as more jobs are created in the industry and services sector.

County Limerick is part of the Golden Vale and is noted as a grassland and dairying area. Approx. 10% of the National Quota for milk is held by County Limerick farmers.

Between 1991 and 2002 the number of active farms nationally fell by 17%. The number of farms in County Limerick fell by 16%. Local Estimates on a pro-rata basis show this trend is continuing and will continue into the future.

The value of goods and services on which VAT was charged in Limerick City and County in 2000 was €710m.

Tourism infrastructure in the County is weak. In 2002, 388,000 overseas visitors holidayed in Limerick City and County. In 1999, there were more than 450,000 visits to Limerick. However 963,000 overseas visitors came to the Shannon Region with revenue of €306m.

The main visitor attractions in County Limerick are the Foynes Flying Boat Museum, Curraghchase Forest Park, Desmond Castle, Newcastle West and Adare Heritage Center.