In 1967, three years of a half-decent salary could buy you a 4bed in Foxrock, one of the most exclusive areas in Dublin. 3 years of the average salary today (45k) would still leave you 10k short to buy a dilapidated 2bed, 1 hour further from the city in the middle of nowhere.

With a straight face they'll tell you being ethnically cleansed in your own country and having the social fabric torn to shreds is worth it for the economic benefits.