The fourth annual progress report on the implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) provides a generally candid review of achievements and obstacles in implementation during 2006. The current report incorporates to a limited extent IMF staff recommendations from the previous Joint...

This Joint Staff Advisory Note discusses the Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (I-PRSP) for Liberia. The I-PRSP traces the roots of conflict to Liberia’s exclusion and marginalization of much of the population, and lays out a broad vision and program for July 2006–June 2008....

Ireland’s strong policy implementation and market conditions have improved macroeconomic indicators to show positive signs. However, an uncertain medium-term outlook could hamper the prospects. Bank supported recovery through timely action on lingering financial sector issues has been...

This paper discusses Ireland’s Eleventh Review Under the Extended Arrangement. Policy implementation remains on track but recent weak GDP data point to a slower growth recovery. Real GDP declined in the first quarter, reflecting a fall in exports and weak domestic demand. Nonetheless,...