The latest annual PWC Pulse Survey of Irish-based chief executives shows that confidence in their own businesses and in the economy in general is at a ten-year high.

92 percent of the respondents expressed confidence in the Irish economy - while 82 precent said that they are confident about the prospects for their businesses.

Of the 230 business leaders surveyed, 60 percent said they intend to increase employment - while planned capital investment is at its highest level in a decade.

73 percent of chief executives are concerned about skill shortages and plan to create 4,500 jobs to bridge this gap.

There are still some issues which are causing concerns - including increased competition, currency fluctuations, high tax rates and cyber crime.

But more than 80 percent of them said that their biggest concern is the prospect of political instability in Ireland.

Feargal O’ Rourke, Managing Partner with PWC Ireland spoke to Vincent Wall on Breakfast Business, and discussed these concerns.

He says that the data doesn't specify if particular parties are causing anxiety - the worries relate to a broader sense of uncertainty as Ireland heads into election season.

"They are looking at the possibility of combinations getting into government that just haven't been there before," said Mr. O'Rourke.

He continues: "I know myself talking to chief executives, it is the fear of the unknown - not understanding what various parties might bring to the table if they are sitting around in Merrion street in six months time."