Ireland

Ireland, with a population of over 4 million, gained its independence from the UK in the first quarter of the twentieth century. Since then Ireland has transformed herself into one of the great success stories of modern Europe.

The Irish economy doubled in size over the 1990s, while the Scottish economy was flatlining. During this period Ireland had the fastest growth rate of any OECD country. Per capita GDP is now 10 per cent above that of the four big European economies and the second highest in the EU, behind tiny Luxembourg.

As a consequence the average Irish citizen is now wealthier than the average Scot and has a longer life expectancy. Ireland was ranked as the best country in the world to live in according to a quality of life survey carried out by the Economist Intelligence Unit.

And it is not just the Irish economy that has been booming. Ireland’s population is also booming and is predicted to increase to over 5 million people over the next twenty years. In contrast the Scottish population is declining and expected to fall below 5 million over the same period.

Independent membership of the EU has given Ireland access to the biggest single market in the world, and the country has succeeded in attracting ever growing numbers of tourists, as well as businesses. Ireland quickly established direct air links to all ten of the European Union's newest members – a combined market of over 70 million people. In contrast Scotland has only four direct links to the new EU members.

Independence has given Ireland the freedom to compete with others on a level playing field, and win. It has enabled the Irish people and economy to flourish. Independence is the best thing that ever happened to Ireland. It could be the best thing that ever happens to Scotland too.