Ireland's disadvantaged position was recognised in 1988 when all of Ireland was designated as an 'Objective One' region, which meant that average incomes were at or below 75% of the EU average.
Aithníodh an staid míbhuntáiste ach a bhi Éirinn i 1988 nuair a tugadh réigiún 'Cuspóir a hAon' ar an tir iomlán, rud a chiall go raibh meáníoncaim faoi bhun 75% den mheán san AE aíci.