The latest batch of statistics derived from the 2002 census show that Dublin is by far the most prosperous region in the country as measured by disposable income while twelve counties mainly in the south east and western regions lag well behind the national average.
The statistics which are based on 2001 figures, give a measure of "regional GDP" and show that Dublin residents had the highest disposable income per person at €18,620 compared to a disposable income of €13,147 for a person living in Co Laois.
On a regional basis Dublin again tops the list with an average disposable income 16.7 per cent higher than the national average while incomes in the border midland and west region are 9.6 per cent behind the average.
The calculations use the methodology used to calculate the national GDP and GNP figures and include incomes, State benefits and assumed values for property holdings. However these figures are somewhat distorted by the influence of multi national companies in some counties which drives a wedge between the level of wealth calculated by incomes and values added by production. Using the value added method, the south west ranks second in prosperity due the influence of the pharmaceutical sector around Cork city.
Only two other counties - Kildare (+5 per cent) and Limerick (2.5 per cent) - have above average incomes while counties Galway, Sligo and Louth are around the average. Twelve counties including Kerry, Mayo, Kilkenny and Wexford are below 90 per cent of the national average.