The Irish must be doing something right these days.
I know a number of Irish immigrants, mostly legal, though not all.
Quite a few have returned to Ireland where they see better future financial prospects than here in the States. These are all educated folks, people working in tech and financial services.
Oh to be sure. Ireland is an expanding power now...their economy is absolutely booming. Partly the result of a high birth rate, partly the result of low costs, partly generous European grants (they do SOME good) and partly a burgeoning enterprise spirit. So yes, I would agree, things are getting much better out there.