The effects of cutting the 12.5% corporation tax rate could be dramatic for foreign direct investment and multinationals operating in Ireland, according to the authors of a survey on the multinational sector operating in Ireland.
Researchers with National Irish Bank and the Irish Management Institute surveyed 114 multinational chief executives who employ around 54,000 people here.
Those business leaders stressed the crucial importance of retaining the 12.5% corporation tax rate.
Respondents also indicated that Ireland's cost base remains significantly higher than comparable locations, despite recent falls in pay and prices.
The research also showed that poor management in Irish companies is costing them up to 15% of their productivity and profits.
Almost half of the multinationals in Ireland expect to increase their exports during the next 12 months, the survey reveals.
Almost half expect to maintain employment, 26% expect to increase employment, with 22% forecasting a decrease in jobs in their enterprise.
The authors of the report also noted that exports would provide an engine of growth for the economy over the next two to three years.
