The new study which was carried out by Abrivia Recruitment and the Trinity Business School - also found that 84% of firms plan to hire more staff this year.

These statistics are according to a survey of staff workers in over 7,000 firms across the country. 

The Abrivia Salary Survey highlights the views of a multinational multisectoral cohort. All firms that were surveyed are expected to be giving raises of up to 5% in 2017. 

The strongest jobs growth is expected to be in the Marketing, Sales and ICT sectors

51% of firms find the tax rate to be an impediment to the recruitment of international talent. This rises to 88% of firms in the field of Accountancy.

80% of employees and 50% of employers said they were supportive of a 6 hour work day initiative, similar to the one being trailed in Sweden. 

Ultimately, the Abrivia Salary Survey has highlighted an Irish economy that is generally looking to make modest gains over the next year in terms of income but is still under pressure due to external conditions.

The Managing Director at Abrivia Recruitment Donal O'Brien said the survey shows that the Irish economy is in a good state.