2.9% 4% 6% 8% 5. Population pyramid for the Republic of Ireland, 2022
Birth Rate In 2021, Ireland had one of the highest birth rates in the European Union, with 12 births per 1,000 people. Ireland has experienced what is described as a ‘baby boom’ in recent years. There is access to good healthcare and low infant mortality (the number of deaths of infants under one-year-old per thousand live births).
Death Rate In 2021, Ireland had one of the lowest death rates in the European Union, with 6.3 deaths per 1,000 people. People are living longer due to good healthcare, high standards of living and better care for the elderly. Life expectancy (how long a person is expected to live) in Ireland is 81.
The Future for Ireland’s Population
Ireland’s population is projected to rise to 5.2 million by 2030. The largest increase is predicted to occur in Dublin and the mid-east of the country. This important information helps the government to plan for the growing need for housing, for employment and for essential facilities such as schools and hospitals.
10% Female
1. What was Ireland’s population before the Great Famine? 2. Describe the impact the Great Famine had on the Irish population. 3. Describe Ireland’s current birth and death rates.
4. Ireland’s population is projected to increase in the future. Explain two ways that this will impact on services.