The Taoiseach says he expects 50,000 jobs to be created next year and that more Irish people will return home than leave.
Speaking at the Government's latest update on its action plan for jobs, Enda Kenny said 1,000 jobs a week are being added to the economy this year.
Tánaiste Joan Burton described the fact that unemployment has dropped below 9% as "a landmark moment" for the national recovery.
Ministers for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton said two thirds of all new jobs are created by start ups.
At the briefing, the 24 finalists of the Ireland's Best Young Entrepreneur were unveiled, including two Irish people who are living abroad but hoping to return to Ireland.
